Country stars shone brightly at the 40th annual American Music Awards, held last night (Nov. 18) at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles.

With his trademark smile and a bounce in his step, Luke Bryan picked up his first-ever American Music Award during the ceremonies, for favorite male country artist.

Meanwhile, other stars also won big. Taylor Swift scored her fifth consecutive award for favorite female country artist to mark 11 career wins, and Lady Antebellum maintained its status as favorite country band, duo or group for a third straight year. Favorite country album went to Blown Away by Carrie Underwood, who has earned the honor with each of her previous albums.

On the AMA stage, Carrie gave the television debut of her new single, “Two Black Cadillacs,” while Taylor performed the Red track “I Knew You Were Trouble.” Occasional country chanteuse Kelly Clarkson stuck to a medley of her pop hits, including “Miss Independent” and “Stronger.”