Rihanna Says AMA Performance Will Be 'A Challenge'

'We're actually opening up the show, which is a lot of pressure,' she tells MTV News about performing on Sunday.
By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Sway Calloway

Rihanna
Photo: Matt Harper/ MTV News

Rihanna is set to prove she's the only girl in the world when she takes the stage at the American Music Awards on Sunday. The Loud singer will be the show's opening act and says that despite some recent big awards-show performances, à la this month's MTV Europe Music Awards, this one will be even more epic.

"We're actually performing at the AMAs. We're actually opening up the show, which is a lot of pressure," she told MTV News about the performance. "But I love a challenge and I can't wait."

Rihanna hinted to us that she might be singing the Loud track "Cheers (Drink to That)," but didn't confirm the selection. She did, however, admit to being nervous about all of the airtime she's been given.

"They gave me nine minutes to do whatever I want and I can't wait," she shared. "That's a long time on an awards show, but it's going to be exciting. I can't wait. I can't wait to do it. I really can't."

The executives behind the AMAs are equally thrilled about Rih's upcoming performance. "We could not be more excited to officially announce one of pop music's biggest stars to open the celebration at the AMAs," AMA producer Larry Klein said in a statement. "Be sure to tune in so you don't miss this surely memorable moment."

In addition to being the show's opener, Rihanna is also nominated for Favorite Female Artist along with Alicia Keys and Sade. Other big performers include Justin Bieber, Katy Perry, Ke$ha, Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, the Backstreet Boys, New Kids on the Block and Christina Aguilera, who'll perform a number from her upcoming movie, "Burlesque."

Whose AMA performance are you most excited to see? Tell us in the comments!

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• Rihanna

Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1652721/20101119/rihanna.jhtml

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