All Over the Billboard Awards
December 9, 2004

Brian McKnight was on red carpet duty for "Extra" at the 2004 Billboard Music Awards, and though the night was a little cold, the scene was red hot.

And of all the hot stars on hand, none scorched the carpet like Britney Spears, who made her first public appearance with hubby Kevin Federline and the latest addition to the family, a tiny chihuahua. "This is a bit-bid, it's my little baby!" Britney told Brian.

And Brit wasn't the only one causing a carpet commotion, as the crowd screamed for Nick Lachey. So does he ever get tired of the girls screaming? "If you do, you have problems," said Nick. "That should never get old."

But Sheryl Crow and cyclist Lance Armstrong had a different take on the topic: "We don't have many red carpets at the Tour de France," Lance confirmed. "But man, they have some cameras," added Sheryl.

Cameras are nothing new for gorgeous Gwen Stefani, who’s double-dealing with a new album and a new movie. So is there anything else she could possibly do? "I spread myself real thin," she laughed. "I'm like peanut butter on a sandwich, right now!"

And inside, only one name mattered: Usher! Music’s top dog took home 11awards, including Album and Artist of the Year. "I knew it would be big, but I didn't know eleven, I really didn't see that!" Usher admitted.

The night’s other big winner was Usher’s own boo, Alicia Keys, who nabbed seven awards, including Female Artist of the Year. "Exciting!" she said to Brian about the night. "So exciting! I mean, between the Billboards and the Grammy nominations, it's been really, really great!"

And while Usher and Alicia may have the hardware, it was Stevie Wonder who stole the show, and the Century Award for Creative Achievement.

But though it was a party on stage, behind the scenes everyone's thoughts and prayers were with Dick Clark, who suffered a mild stroke, Wednesday. "Dick Clark, my heart goes out to you, we love you and we hope you get well soon," said Usher.

And Stevie chimed in to, "encourage all of us to say a very special prayer every night until he is fully recovered."

All in all, it was one hot night in the desert!