C+C and Natalie Cole Score Big in American Music Awards

Techno-pop troupe C+C Music Factory won five of the six trophies for which it was nominated, and Natalie Cole’s collection of her late father’s biggest hits, “Unforgettable,” was named favorite adult contemporary album at Monday night’s 19th annual American Music Awards.

C+C was the clear crowd favorite. The group, a conglomeration of writers, producers and performers, was honored in the pop category for favorite group and favorite new artist and swept the dance music category by winning favorite artist and favorite new artist. Their single “Gonna Make you Sweat” was named favorite dance single.

Their only loss was in the pop album race, won by Michael Bolton’s “Time, Love and Tenderness.” Bolton was also named favorite pop male artist.

“Unforgettable,” which pairs Cole’s voice with that of her legendary father, the late Nat “King” Cole, was nominated for four Grammys.

Garth Brooks was named favorite country artist and favorite single for “The Thunder Rolls,” and his “No Fences” was selected as favorite album. He was forced to cancel his scheduled performance at the three-hour televised show from the Shrine Auditorium because of the illness of his pregnant wife.

Luther Vandross’ album, “Power of Love,” was named favorite in the soul-rhythm category, and in the biggest upset of the night he beat out Prince for favorite soul-rhythm artist.

Paula Abdul was named favorite female pop artist, Mariah Carey was voted favorite female soul-rhythm artist, and Reba McEntire was tabbed favorite female country artist.

In the heavy metal category, Guns ‘N Roses was named favorite group; Firehouse was named favorite new artist and Metallica’s self-titled album was favorite album.

Hammer, who took five awards last year, won for favorite rap artist and was the main MC of the show. Naughty by Nature was named favorite new artist and B.J. Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince won favorite album for “Homebase.”

Favorite new soul artist was Boyz II Men, while Trisha Yearwood won the honor in the country category. The group Alabama continued its domination, taking top honors for favorite country band for the 10th consecutive year.