Fergie Joins Black Eyed Peas, Accepts AMA for "Rock That Body"

The iconic Black Eyed Peas lineup, featuring Fergie alongside will.i.am, apl.de.ap, and Taboo, made a long-awaited reunion on Monday, May 25, 2026. The group gathered at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas to accept the Best Throwback Song Award at the 52nd American Music Awards, celebrating their 2010 smash hit, "Rock That Body."

This momentous occasion marked Fergie's first public appearance with her former bandmates since her departure in 2018, and her first television appearance in four years. The energy in the arena was palpable as the classic quartet took the stage, a clear signal that their enduring impact on music continues to resonate with fans.

"Rock That Body," a track from their fifth studio album, *The E.N.D.* released in 2009, was honored in one of the twelve new categories introduced by the American Music Awards this year. The song, which dropped internationally in early 2010 before hitting the U.S. charts in May of that year, previously peaked at number nine on the US Billboard Hot 100. Its resurgence in 2025, fueled by viral dance trends on social media platforms, played a significant role in its renewed popularity and subsequent AMA nomination.

Fergie, born Stacy Ann Ferguson on March 27, 1975, has a storied career that predates her time with the Black Eyed Peas. She began as a child actress on "Kids Incorporated" from 1984 to 1989 and even voiced Sally Brown in "Peanuts" cartoons. Before becoming the lead vocalist for the Black Eyed Peas in 2002, she co-founded the girl group Wild Orchid.

Her tenure with the Black Eyed Peas, spanning from 2002 to 2018, defined the group's most commercially successful era. During this period, the band sold over 80 million albums worldwide and achieved three Billboard Hot 100 number-one hits: "Boom Boom Pow," "I Gotta Feeling," and "Imma Be." Her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence became synonymous with the group's global appeal.

In 2018, Fergie officially stepped away from the Black Eyed Peas to focus on her solo career and motherhood. will.i.am, born William James Adams Jr., later confirmed that her decision was driven by a desire to be a "great mom" to her son, Axl. will.i.am, a co-founder and frontman of the Black Eyed Peas since 1992, is also recognized for his solo work, philanthropy through the i.am Angel Foundation, and his coaching roles on "The Voice" franchises. Following Fergie's departure, the Black Eyed Peas continued as a trio, releasing new music like their 2020 album *Translation*, with J. Rey Soul joining as a touring member. Founding member apl.de.ap, born Allan Pineda Lindo, a Filipino-American rapper and producer, has also engaged in philanthropic efforts with the Apl.de.Ap Foundation International. Taboo, born Jaime Luis Gomez, who joined the group in 1995, is a Mexican-American rapper, musician, and DJ, also known for his solo ventures and the Peapod Foundation.

The seeds for this highly anticipated reunion were sown months prior. In December 2025, the classic four-person lineup privately gathered to celebrate their 50th birthdays. Fergie shared intimate photos from what she described as a "special night" that was "filled with so much love ♥️♥️," hinting at a thawing of past separations. The public anticipation for the American Music Awards nomination began building in April 2026, when the Black Eyed Peas posted a montage of TikToks featuring "Rock That Body" on Instagram, expressing their honor to be nominated and noting how a song from "all those years ago, still making an impact today."

At the 52nd American Music Awards, hosted by Queen Latifah, "Rock That Body" emerged victorious over other beloved throwback tracks, including 4 Non Blondes' "What's Up?" and the Goo Goo Dolls' "Iris." Upon accepting the accolade, Fergie was visibly emotional, receiving a heartfelt standing ovation from the audience. Beaming, she exclaimed, "Rock That Body, we did it," and declared, "Black Eyed Peas, Rock That Body, American Music Awards 2026, let's go!" She also extended her gratitude to the fans who voted and humorously acknowledged those who created the viral TikTok and Instagram videos that reignited the track's popularity.

This reunion not only brought a moment of nostalgia for fans but also reaffirmed the enduring legacy of the Black Eyed Peas' classic lineup. Their ability to connect with new generations through social media trends, combined with their consistent chart success during Fergie's tenure, underscores their significant place in both pop and hip-hop history. The recognition at the AMAs for a song released over a decade ago speaks volumes about the timeless appeal of their music.

The return of Fergie to the stage with her former bandmates serves as a powerful reminder of the chemistry and talent that defined one of the most successful groups of the 21st century. It was a celebration of their shared history and a testament to the lasting power of their hits, leaving fans to celebrate a moment many thought might never happen again.