2012 American Music Awards: Color them red and black

Singer Taylor Swift performs during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. / Kevin Winter/Getty

Red and black was the color scheme of the night at the 40th annual American Music Awards ceremony in Los Angeles.

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AMAs 2012: Show highlights

Multiple award winner Justin Bieber wore a red and black outfit as he gave a stripped down, acoustic performance of "As Long As You Love Me,"' sitting down as someone played the guitar. He transitioned to the dance-heavy "Beauty and a Beat," where Nicki Minaj joined him onstage, grinding with the teen for a few seconds.

Bieber's mentor, Usher, opened the show dressed in black leather pants, a black T-shirt and red high tops. His medley was performed amid smoke curls with green lasers in the background.

Swift began her performance in a light dress while dancers wore mostly black. But then she changed into a red corset and black skirt, matching their dark mood. She even danced and sang on the floor as lights flickered throughout the performance.