Olivia Rodrigo, HER and The Weeknd all took top honors at the revamped Apple Music Awards, which have expanded to encompass global musical role models. Rodrigo was named breakthrough artist of the year, his Acid was named Album of the Year and its single “Driver’s License” was Song of the Year.

The streaming service crowned her Songwriter of the Year and The Weeknd was named Global Artist of the Year, a step up from last year’s category which was just Artist. of the year. “I am very honored and blessed to receive this recognition,” HER said in a statement. “As a young black and Filipina artist, and a woman who is on stage giving it her all, there is no doubt that representation matters.”

The Weeknd thanked Apple for the honor and support “not only for my work, but for great music from newer artists where it’s so important that creators be found and supported.” The Apple Music Awards, now in its third year, also introduced a new award category recognizing artists from five countries and regions – Africa, France, Germany, Japan and Russia – who have had the greatest cultural impact and on the charts in their respective countries. countries and regions.

The winners are Aya Nakamura for the French region, OFFICIAL HIGE DANDism for Japan, RIN for Germany, Scriptonite for Russia and Wizkid for Africa.

“We’re thrilled to honor artists who shape culture and connect with fans around the world on Apple Music,” said Oliver Schusser, vice president of Apple Music and Beats. “This year we are also recognizing more regional artists, showing the world the impact of extraordinarily talented musicians who are making waves globally.”

The service said winners are chosen through a process that reflects both Apple Music’s editorial perspective and what customers around the world listen to most. Last year, rapper Lil Baby was named Apple Artist of the Year, Taylor Swift was named Songwriter of the Year, and Megan Thee Stallion was honored with Breakthrough Artist of the Year.