R&B singer Chris Brown was the big winner at this year’s American Music Awards on Sunday, winning three prizes including artist of the year. However Kanye West, Rihanna and Alicia Keys were close behind him. But despite the fact that Brown took home three awards and the others snagged two each, it was West who stole the show with his acceptance speech and lack of modesty. Or we can just call it strange humor.

Kanye West won two awards at the 2008 American Music Awards: Favorite Rap/Hip Hop Album and Favorite Rap/Hip Hop Male Artist. He told the gathered stars at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles that: "It's our responsibility as musicians to keep pushing each other. We will be the new Beatles, the new Hendrix. I want to be Elvis." Good for him.

Chris Brown who received more prices than West did was much more modest. The 19-year-old singer was also named Favorite Male Artist in both the Pop/Rock and Soul/R'n'B categories, and admitted he was amazed to have won the prestigious accolades. As he collected his Artist of the Year prize, Chris said: "I was shocked. I'm so thankful and grateful. I thought Coldplay should have won the award, but I'll take it."

Brown's loved one, Rihanna, who made her appearance in chains and a leather corset to perform her love ballad, "Rehab," was named favorite female artist in both the pop/rock and soul/R&B categories. Alicia Keys was another double winner: Her CD, "As I Am," was both pop/rock and soul/R&B album winner. Other winners included Brad Paisley for favorite country artist, Taylor Swift for favorite female country act, and Rascal Flatts for favorite country favorite band, duo or group.