Janet Jackson Honoured with Icon Award at 2025 AMAs After Electrifying Return to the Stage

Las Vegas, NV — Music royalty descended upon the Fontainebleau Las Vegas this weekend as Janet Jackson took centre stage at the 2025 American Music Awards, making her first televised performance in seven years. The five-time Grammy winner did not disappoint—reminding audiences worldwide that her crown remains firmly in place.

Dressed in a sleek ensemble and backed by a dynamic dance crew, Jackson performed fan favourites “Someone to Call My Lover” and “All For You”, tapping into her early-2000s catalogue that has recently surged in popularity thanks to a viral TikTok revival. With flawless choreography and pitch-perfect vocals, it was a performance that drew standing ovations and near-universal praise—both in the room and online.

But the performance was only the beginning. Shortly afterward, Janet was presented with the AMAs’ prestigious Icon Award, a career-honouring accolade that places her among music greats like Lionel Richie and Rihanna.

In true Janet fashion, she accepted the award with humility and grace, telling the crowd:

“I don’t consider myself an icon. Fame came as a result of hard work and dedication. I just hope I’ve inspired others to follow their dreams.”

Let’s be honest—“icon” barely scratches the surface. Janet Jackson’s influence stretches across decades. From her record-shattering “Rhythm Nation 1814” album—which still stands as the only album to generate seven Top 5 singles—to her genre-defining visuals and dance innovations, she helped shape modern pop and R&B as we know it.

She has earned 11 American Music Awards, five Grammy Awards, and a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Songs like “Nasty”, “What Have You Done For Me Lately”, and “Together Again” remain touchstones for generations of artists.

Yet her path hasn’t always been easy. In 2004, a controversial moment during the Super Bowl halftime show nearly derailed her career. While Justin Timberlake eventually offered a late apology, Janet bore the brunt of the public fallout. Still, she remained steadfast, supported by loyal fans and especially by Black women, who never wavered in their advocacy for her.

Now 59 years old and showing no signs of slowing down, Jackson is currently in the midst of a Las Vegas residency at Resorts World Theatre, where she’s performing three more sold-out shows this week alone. Each performance is a testament to her staying power, discipline, and undeniable star quality.

Social media lit up following her AMA appearance, with industry veterans and young artists alike praising Jackson’s return to form. Clips of the performance racked up millions of views within hours, reigniting appreciation for a performer whose work ethic and artistry remain unmatched.

As the entertainment world continues to evolve, Janet Jackson’s AMA moment was a timely and powerful reminder: you can’t talk about pop without mentioning Janet. And if you’ve somehow forgotten, she’s here to remind you—gracefully, powerfully, and with choreography tight enough to make you reconsider everything you thought you knew about longevity in music.