The Ultimate Guide to the 2017 Radio Disney Music Awards: Celebrating Five Years of Music & Magic!

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, stars, and celebration! The 2017 Radio Disney Music Awards (RDMA) burst onto screens on April 30th, marking its spectacular fifth anniversary. This highly anticipated event, a true highlight in the family entertainment calendar, gathered a constellation of music’s brightest young stars and seasoned icons under one roof. While the star-studded ceremony was held live on April 29th, fans across the nation eagerly tuned into the Disney Channel the following evening, April 30th, at 7 p.m. ET, for the special broadcast. From electrifying live performances to heartwarming award presentations and dazzling red carpet fashion, the 2017 RDMA delivered a show packed with memorable moments for every music enthusiast.

The Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles served as the vibrant backdrop for this milestone event, welcoming a host of beloved celebrities who arrived in their finest, ready to celebrate the power of music. As the premier music awards show designed specifically for families and young fans, the RDMA has consistently provided a platform for both emerging talents and established artists to shine. The fifth anniversary promised, and delivered, an even grander spectacle, solidifying its place as a significant annual tradition that celebrates the sounds and stars shaping today’s youth culture.

A Star-Studded Lineup: Unforgettable Performances & Tributes

The 2017 Radio Disney Music Awards showcased an incredible array of musical talent, featuring performances that captivated audiences of all ages. The stage came alive with a diverse mix of sounds, from rising pop sensations to celebrated singer-songwriters, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy. The energy was palpable as each artist delivered their unique sound, creating a dynamic and engaging experience that epitomized the spirit of Radio Disney.

Electrifying Live Performances from Today’s Hottest Artists

Among the much-anticipated performers were two distinctive voices that have recently taken the music world by storm. The incredibly talented Alessia Cara, then 20, graced the RDMA stage, bringing her soulful voice and relatable lyrics to life. Known for her introspective and empowering anthems like “Scars to Your Beautiful” and “Here,” Alessia’s performance was undoubtedly a highlight, resonating deeply with fans who admire her authenticity and raw talent. Her presence underscored her rapid ascent in the music industry, establishing her as a formidable force and a role model for young listeners.

Joining her was the prodigious Grace VanderWaal, then just 13 years old, who charmed audiences with her ukulele and distinctive vocal style. Having captivated millions as the winner of America’s Got Talent, Grace brought her unique blend of folk-pop and heartfelt songwriting to the RDMA stage. Her performance was a testament to her extraordinary talent at such a young age, showcasing the magic that made her a household name. Grace’s inclusion in the lineup further emphasized the RDMA’s commitment to highlighting diverse talents and providing a spotlight for exceptional young artists.

A Legendary Tribute: Honoring the Pop Princess, Britney Spears

Perhaps one of the most talked-about segments of the evening was the spectacular tribute medley to the one and only Pop Princess, Britney Spears. Three phenomenal artists—Hailee Steinfeld, 20, Sofia Carson, 24, and Kelsea Ballerini, 23—united their voices to perform a medley of Britney’s greatest hits. This special segment was a vibrant celebration of Spears’s enduring legacy and her monumental impact on pop music and youth culture for over two decades. Each performer brought their unique flair to the iconic songs, creating a powerful and nostalgic journey through Britney’s incredible career.

Hailee Steinfeld, known for her acting prowess and blossoming music career, brought her confident stage presence. Sofia Carson, a Disney Channel darling, added her signature elegance and vocal flair. Country music sensation Kelsea Ballerini injected a fresh perspective into the pop classics. Together, they honored Britney Spears with a performance that was not only a showstopper but also a heartfelt acknowledgment of her status as a true icon. The medley reminded everyone of Britney’s timeless influence and the joy her music continues to bring to generations of fans. It was a moment of pure pop magic that fans will remember for years to come.

Radio Disney Awards Show 2016 — See Pics

Celebrating Excellence: The 2017 RDMA Award Winners

Beyond the incredible performances, the Radio Disney Music Awards is, at its heart, a celebration of musical achievement and positive influence. The 2017 ceremony proudly recognized several deserving stars who have not only excelled in their craft but have also used their platforms to inspire and make a difference. These awards are particularly meaningful as they reflect the voices and preferences of young fans, making each win a genuine testament to an artist’s connection with their audience.

Nick Jonas: Honored with the Hero Award

One of the evening’s most poignant moments was the presentation of the Hero Award to multi-talented artist Nick Jonas, then 24. This special honor recognized his outstanding contributions to charitable work and his commitment to using his fame for good. Nick, who rose to global stardom as part of the Jonas Brothers and later forged a highly successful solo career, has consistently demonstrated a philanthropic spirit. His dedication to various causes, including diabetes awareness and research—a personal cause for him—has made a significant impact and inspired countless fans to get involved in their communities.

The Hero Award celebrates individuals who embody compassion, courage, and selflessness, qualities that Nick Jonas has exemplified throughout his career. His acceptance speech was a powerful reminder of the importance of giving back and harnessing one’s platform to advocate for positive change. His journey from a teen idol to a respected artist and humanitarian serves as an inspiring example for young people everywhere, proving that success in entertainment can go hand-in-hand with meaningful social contributions.

Britney Spears: The Inaugural Icon Award Recipient

Another monumental moment came with the presentation of the first-ever Icon Award to the legendary Britney Spears, then 35. This groundbreaking award was created specifically to honor an artist whose career has had a profound and undeniable influence on music and popular culture. And who better to be its inaugural recipient than Britney Spears? Her impact on the music industry is immeasurable; she redefined pop music in the late 90s and early 2000s, becoming a global phenomenon and inspiring a generation of artists and fans.

From her iconic music videos to her electrifying live performances and catchy, groundbreaking songs, Britney has consistently pushed boundaries and set trends. Her influence extends far beyond music, shaping fashion, dance, and cultural discourse. The Icon Award was a well-deserved recognition of her unparalleled career, her enduring relevance, and her status as a true legend. Her music, characterized by empowering anthems and infectious beats, continues to resonate with millions worldwide. Receiving this award from a platform like Radio Disney further cemented her status as an artist who transcends generations, beloved by both those who grew up with her music and new fans discovering her timeless hits.

The Glamour of the Red Carpet: Fashion-Forward Statements

The Radio Disney Music Awards red carpet is always a spectacle of youthful exuberance and cutting-edge style, and the 2017 event was no exception. Stars arrived in dazzling ensembles, making bold fashion statements that perfectly encapsulated the fun, vibrant energy of the show. Unlike some more formal awards ceremonies, the RDMA red carpet encourages playful, colorful, and fashion-forward looks, allowing celebrities to express their individuality with creative flair.

This year, attendees truly turned up the heat with their sartorial choices. While exact details from every star might fade, the general trend was clear: embrace color, unique silhouettes, and elements of playful glamour. Last year, Hailee Steinfeld delighted fans with a cute frock featuring a patterned hemline, but for the 2017 event, she (and many others) definitely took it up a notch. We saw an array of cute and glamorous dresses, often featuring intricate details, unexpected textures, and eye-catching embellishments. The atmosphere encourages stars to take risks with their fashion, leading to truly memorable and inspiring displays.

From vibrant neons to soft pastels, structured pieces to flowing gowns, the red carpet was a kaleidoscope of fashion. Many stars opted for modern, youthful designs that highlighted their personalities. The event serves as a fantastic platform for young fashionistas to showcase their evolving styles, often setting trends that resonate with their vast fan bases. The RDMA red carpet isn’t just about clothes; it’s about celebrating self-expression and the exciting intersection of music, youth culture, and style.

Don’t Miss a Moment: How to Relive the 2017 RDMA Magic

Even though the 2017 Radio Disney Music Awards aired on April 30th, the excitement and magic of the show live on. For those who eagerly awaited the broadcast, or for anyone wanting to relive the incredible performances and memorable moments, the official broadcast provided a comprehensive view of all the action. The anticipation leading up to the 7 p.m. ET broadcast on the Disney Channel was immense, as fans were eager to see their favorite stars accept awards, perform live, and walk the iconic red carpet.

For viewers who had a television provider, the online platform WatchDisneyChannel.Go.Com offered a convenient way to stream the RDMA’s live. This digital access allowed even more fans to participate in the celebration, ensuring that no one missed out on the fifth-anniversary spectacular. The ability to watch online added another layer of accessibility, making the event a truly inclusive experience for its global audience. The RDMA has always been about connecting with its young audience, and providing multiple viewing options reinforced this commitment.

The Legacy of the Radio Disney Music Awards

The 2017 Radio Disney Music Awards, celebrating its fifth anniversary, was more than just an awards show; it was a testament to the enduring power of music and its profound impact on young lives. Over the years, the RDMA has grown into a significant event, not only for recognizing established artists but also for nurturing new talent and providing a vibrant, family-friendly environment for celebration. It reinforces the idea that music is a universal language, capable of inspiring, uniting, and empowering individuals of all ages.

The show’s consistent focus on positive messages, community involvement (as exemplified by the Hero Award), and genuine musical talent has solidified its place as a beloved annual tradition. As the curtains closed on the 2017 ceremony, it left behind a trail of incredible performances, inspiring speeches, and unforgettable memories, promising many more years of music, magic, and star-studded celebrations from the Radio Disney Music Awards. It continues to be a crucial platform where today’s youth connect with the music and artists that resonate most deeply with them, shaping the soundtrack of their lives.

HollywoodLifers, what was your favorite moment from the 2017 Radio Disney Music Awards? Share your thoughts and excitement in the comments below!