Janet Jackson to Receive ICON Award at the 2025 American Music Awards
Janet Jackson is set to make headlines once again as she receives the prestigious ICON Award at the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs). This legendary entertainer, with a career spanning over four decades, will not only be honored in Las Vegas but will also perform live on television for the first time in seven years.
A Historic Achievement for Janet Jackson
The announcement of Janet Jackson's ICON Award has fans and music lovers buzzing with excitement. The AMAs will air live from the Fontainebleau Las Vegas on Memorial Day, May 26. Hosted by Jennifer Lopez, the night promises unforgettable moments in music history. Jackson will become the third recipient of the AMAs' ICON Award, joining a select group that includes Lionel Richie and Rihanna. She has previously won 11 AMAs, five Grammys, a Golden Globe, and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
To learn more about her trailblazing journey and what this honor means, Rolling Stone has an in-depth feature on Janet Jackson's ICON Award and her career milestones.
Returning to the Stage: A Highly Anticipated Performance
This year’s AMAs will be even more special as Janet Jackson returns to perform for the first time on TV since 2018. The performance will coincide with the latest leg of her Las Vegas residency at Resorts World Las Vegas, a testament to her lasting influence on the industry. Janet’s previous TV appearance was a celebrated moment, where she addressed powerful social movements and inspired viewers with her words.
Fans can expect a phenomenal show, as Janet has a history of delivering memorable performances. The official American Music Awards announcement describes this year's event as the world's largest fan-voted award show, emphasizing Janet Jackson's widespread appeal and enduring legacy.
Chart Success and Cultural Influence
Janet Jackson’s influence goes far beyond her awards. She is one of only four artists with a No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 in the 1980s, ’90s, ’00s, and ’10s. Her songs, both classic and new, continue to resonate with audiences. Recently, her single “Someone to Call My Lover” returned to the charts after a TikTok resurgence, showing her music's timeless appeal.
Her breakthrough album, Control, was the first by a woman to yield five top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100. The follow-up, Rhythm Nation 1814, remains the only album with seven top-five Hot 100 singles. For more on her record-breaking success, read The Hollywood Reporter’s summary of her career and upcoming performance.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 American Music Awards
As anticipation builds, millions of fans look forward to Janet Jackson’s much-awaited performance and recognition. The ceremony will air live nationally, with fan voting deciding many winners. Kendrick Lamar leads with ten nominations, and Jennifer Lopez is set to host.
Janet Jackson's legacy as an icon is well established, but the 2025 AMAs will serve as yet another milestone in her illustrious career. Be sure to tune in and witness history as one of music's greatest stars is honored once again.