One Direction, who are officially on hiatus, also picked up best video for the space-themed “Drag Me Down”.
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She thanked her fans too adding: “For people to be so kind to me is wonderful, I was not expecting this one at all”.
The singer scored four wins at the ceremony on Wednesday evening, including British album of the year for her comeback record 25.
While Adele might have paved the way in the winners’ category, taking home a whopping four trophies, it was undoubtedly Rihanna’s raunchy performance and seductive dance moves that stole the show at London’s O2 Arena on Wednesday night. Adele became more emotional as the ceremony continued, bursting into tears after accepting the global success prize – which recognises success overseas.
The Female Solo Artist award was the first of the night, so when Adele accepted it, she voiced support for Kesha. Kesha is fighting a legal battle against music producer Dr. Luke, who she says has sexually abused her and will not release her from her contractual agreement.
Another Canadian singer, Justin Bieber, gives a fiery show before winning the award for best global male singer.
Singer Annie Lennox and actor Gary Oldman paid homage to David Bowie, who died last month aged 69, before a musical tribute by New Zealand singer Lorde and Bowie’s touring band. Rihanna shook up London’s 02 Arena with a rendition of her new song Work with a special appearance by Drake.
The awards have come under fire for not representing non-white artists, just as the Oscars ceremony has.
James Bay was named British Male Solo Artist, while Coldplay won British Group. Black British singer Laura Mvula said she would not attend the event, citing the lack of diver- sity. Bieber performed an acoustic version of his song “Love Yourself” with James Bay before running onto the main stage to perform his hit “Sorry” with a troupe of backing dancers.
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It started off okay as Coldplay were asked whether they were still excited to get awards, and front man Chris Martin made a quip about their manager being a child.
