The American Music Award of Merit is given to artists who have made "truly exceptional contributions" to the music industry.
2020s
2010s 2019 : Not Awarded 2018: Not Awarded 2017 : Not Awarded 2016 : Sting 2015 : Not Awarded 2014: Not Awarded 2013 : Not Awarded 2012 : Not Awarded 2011 : Not Awarded 2010 : Not Awarded
2000s 2009 : Not Awarded 2008 : Annie Lennox 2007 : Not Awarded 2006 : Not Awarded 2005 : Not Awarded 2004 : Bon Jovi 2003 (November): Not Awarded 2003 (January): Alabama 2002 : Garth Brooks 2001 : Janet Jackson 2000 : Gloria Estefan
1990s 1999 : Billy Joel 1998 : Frank Sinatra 1997 : Little Richard 1996 : Tammy Wynette 1995 : Prince 1994: Whitney Houston 1993: Bill Graham 1992: James Brown 1991: Merle Haggard 1990: Neil Diamond
1980s 1989 : Willie Nelson 1988: The Beach Boys 1987: Elvis Presley 1986: Paul McCartney 1985: Loretta Lynn 1984 : Michael Jackson 1983: Kenny Rogers 1982: Stevie Wonder 1981: Chuck Berry 1980: Benny Goodman
1970s 1979: Perry Como 1978: Ella Fitzgerald 1977: Johnny Cash 1976 : Irving Berlin 1975 : Berry Gordy 1974: Bing Crosby