The biggest losers on the night were Nashville-based Kings of Leon, who led the field with five nominations but came away empty-handed.

New Yorker Lady Gaga, renowned as much for her extravagant outfits as for her electro-dance-pop, was the only other act to garner five nominations. She won the best new act category.

U.S. singer Katy Perry, hosting the awards for the second year in a row, had promised a show inspired by the "Cabaret" film with Liza Minnelli, set in 1930s Berlin, and did not disappoint.

She appeared on stage in a bowler hat, bow tie, bodice and thigh-high boots, and performed a routine on chairs with eight cabaret dancers as glitter rained down on the stage.

Colombian pop star Shakira showed up in a glittery mini dress, black knee-length boots and long, blond locks to perform her hit "Did It Again," while British chart-topper Leona Lewis wore a flowing black gown for her rendition of "Happy."

There was a video tribute to the late king of pop Michael Jackson during the show.