Janet Jackson will be bestowed with the Icon Award at the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs). The prestigious honor celebrates her remarkable career that has influenced generations of artists across multiple genres.
“Thank you so much, AMAs!! It’s an honor. We look forward to being on your stage again. See you in Vegas!” As well as being honored with the prize in recognition of her “undeniable cultural and global influence,” Janet will be taking to the stage at the ceremony on May 26 – in what marks her first TV performance in seven years. The highly anticipated performance is expected to feature a medley of her greatest hits spanning her illustrious career.
The ‘Rhythm Nation’ hitmaker follows in the footsteps of the likes of Rihanna and Lionel Richie. Previous Icon Award recipients also include other legendary performers who have made indelible marks on music history, placing Jackson among music royalty who have received this distinguished recognition.
The 2025 AMAs take place at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Las Vegas and will be hosted by Jennifer Lopez. This marks an exciting venue choice for the ceremony, as the luxury resort has quickly become a premier entertainment destination on the Las Vegas Strip.
Kendrick Lamar dominated the nominations with 10. The rapper’s impressive nomination count reflects his continued artistic growth and influence in contemporary music, with critics praising his latest work as boundary-pushing and culturally significant.
The rap megastar’s 2024 LP ‘GNX’ is in contention for Album of the Year, and his Drake diss song ‘Not Like Us’ is up for Song of the Year, another blow to his rival. K Dot will also challenge the likes of Chappell Roan, Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter, and Taylor Swift for Artist of the Year. The competitive field represents a diverse cross-section of today’s music landscape, spanning multiple genres and artistic approaches.
The ‘Scream’ hitmaker extended her residency at Resorts World Las Vegas, with upcoming dates on May 21, 24, 25, 28, 30 and 31. Her residency has received widespread critical acclaim, with reviewers praising her vocal prowess, elaborate choreography, and spectacular production values that showcase her extensive catalog of hits.
Janet kicked off her 10-night stint at Resorts World Las Vegas on December 30 and was due to wrap the run on February 15. The extension came after overwhelming demand for tickets, with the initial dates filling quickly, demonstrating Jackson’s enduring star power and appeal.
The Icon Award comes at a significant moment in Jackson’s career as she continues to cement her legacy as one of music’s most influential performers. With numerous groundbreaking achievements, including being a pioneering figure for women in music, Jackson’s impact on music and popular culture remains profound and far-reaching.
Music industry insiders suggest that Jackson may use the AMAs platform to announce new projects, possibly including a new album or tour. Her last studio album, “Unbreakable,” received critical acclaim upon its release, showcasing her continued artistic relevance.
The ceremony will feature an impressive lineup of performers alongside Jackson, though the full roster has yet to be announced. The AMAs traditionally showcase a mix of established legends and breakthrough artists, creating memorable cross-generational musical moments.
Jackson‘s performance is particularly significant given her historical relationship with the AMAs, where she has won multiple awards throughout her career. Her previous appearances at the ceremony have created iconic moments in awards show history, particularly during the height of her “Control” and “Rhythm Nation” eras.
Fashion observers are already speculating about what Jackson might wear for her appearance, as her iconic style has influenced fashion trends for decades. Known for her bold fashion choices and trend-setting looks, Jackson’s AMAs outfit is expected to generate significant buzz in the fashion world.
The 2025 AMAs broadcast is expected to draw substantial viewership, with Jackson’s segment likely to be one of the most-watched moments of the night as fans old and new tune in to witness this historic return to the television stage by one of music’s most beloved and influential figures.
This appearance at the AMAs continues Janet’s triumphant return to the spotlight, following her successful documentary “Janet Jackson” which provided an intimate look at her personal life and professional journey, receiving acclaim from both critics and audiences alike for its candid portrayal of the music icon.
