We are just hours away from the 2014 American Music Awards hosted by Latin Grammy-winning artist, Pitbull.

As the countdown begins for this year's live award show, which begins at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, let's take a look back at our choices for the top five AMA performances from past years.

Jennifer Lopez's 2013 Tribute Performance to Celia Cruz:

Jennifer Lopez rocked the AMA stage last year with her vibrant performance in tribute to the late and always great, Celia Cruz. Lopez performed a series of Cruz's greatest hits including, "Quimbara," "La Vida es un Carnaval" and "Bemba Colorá."

Last year, the New York Daily News reported that critics opposed AMA's decision to choose Lopez as the performer to honor Cruz. However, once Lopez hit the stage and delivered an electrifying four-minute show at the AMAs, she certainly proved her critics wrong.

Perhaps one of the biggest highlights of Lopez's Celia Cruz dedication was her final costume change where she broke into a salsa dance, ended with a backflip and continued singing.

Naturally, Lopez's performance was met with a standing ovation from the AMA crowd.

Michael Jackson's 1986 "We Are the World" Performance:

When the King of Pop took the AMA stage back in 1986 and performed one of his most beloved songs to date, "We are the World," he shook AMA the house down.

Jackson's moving performance was a collaboration with Elizabeth Taylor, Diana Ross, Bruce Springsteen, Lionel Richie and many others who were also featured on stage.

Jackson's 1986 "We Are the World" Performance is what one would call a truly star-studded affair.

Beyonce's 2008 "Single Ladies" Performance:

Beyonce's simple yet electrifying performance of her hit "Single Ladies," captivated the AMA audience and brought them to their feet as Queen Bey delivered the entire choreography as seen in her "Single Ladies" music video along with pitch-perfect vocals.

Right when the AMA crowd thought that Beyonce's performance was over, the self-proclaimed diva showcased the amazing musical skills of her band before ending in a striking pose while showing off her signature (at the time) high ponytail.

Backstreet Boys and New Kids on the Block 2010 Performance:

All eyes were glued to the Backstreet Boys and New Kids on the Block's first-ever mash-up performance that took place on the AMA stage back in 2010.

Both boy bands re-captivated the hearts of many longtime fans with their synchronized dance moves and melodic harmonies.

The groups performed remixes of their many hits including "Everybody" (BSB), "Hangin' Tough" (NKOTB), "I Want It That Way" (BSB), "Step By Step" (NKOTB), "The Right Stuff" (NKOTB) and "Larger Than Life" (BSB).

Celine Dion's 1995 "Power of Love" Performance

There is nothing quite like the powerful and captivating vocals of Celine Dion. The vocal powerhouse delivered a stunning performance with her hit ballad, "Power of Love" at the AMAs.

Unlike the complex choreography and shocking performances we often see at the AMAs, Dion's 1995 performance stood by the adage that "less is more."

With her vocals alone, Dion was able to deliver one of the best AMA performances.

To see who makes the cut next year at this 2014 AMA show, tune in to ABC tonight at 8 p.m. ET.

Related