Garth Brooks, Eagles Win Big at American Music Awards Event

Country star Garth Brooks was named artist of the year Monday night at the American Music Awards, then left his trophy on the podium at the Shrine Auditorium out of respect for the other nominees.

Brooks and the reunited Eagles were the evening’s top winners, each receiving three awards. Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men and Pearl Jam were multiple winners as well.

Saying there was no disrespect intended, Brooks told the audience he didn’t believe in the concept of an artist of the year, “so I’m going to leave it here.” He then walked away.

Brooks said backstage that people he spoke to in record stores “credited Hootie & the Blowfish for turning [record sales] around. I thought that’s who should have gotten it.”

Hootie & the Blowfish, who had the smash debut album “Cracked Rear View,” also were nominated for the award, along with Boyz II Men, Green Day and TLC.

Brooks won favorite male country artist for the fifth year in a row, and favorite country album for “Hits.”

The Eagles won favorite pop rock album for “Hell Freezes Over,” favorite adult contemporary artist and favorite pop group trophies.

“Well, I am glad I showed up tonight,” said the group’s sole representative, Timothy B. Schmit. Other group members were out of town, he said.

Michael Jackson was named the top pop-rock male artist over Elton John and Seal. Carey claimed the favorite soul-R&B; female artist and favorite pop-rock female artist, while Boyz II Men captured the soul-R&B; album honor with “II” and the favorite soul-R&B; group.

Pearl Jam won for the favorite heavy metal-hard rock act and favorite alternative group. Alabama was once again the top country group, winning a 19th American Music Award. Reba McEntire was named the top female country artist, her 13th American Music Award, while Coolio took the favorite rap-hip hop artist.

Shania Twain won the favorite new country artist and Hootie & the Blowfish was named favorite pop-rock new artist. Brandy was named favorite new soul-R&B; artist and Luther Vandross was the top male soul-R&B; artist. “The Lion King” was named favorite soundtrack.

Country music’s Tammy Wynette received the special Award of Merit, an honor for outstanding contributions to American musical entertainment.