The “Rhythm Nation” icon may be enjoying a fresh wave of attention thanks to her 2001 hit “Someone to Call My Lover” going viral on TikTok, but at the American Music Awards, Janet Jackson received an honor far beyond chart resurgence — the prestigious Icon Award.
Since its inception in 2013, the AMAs’ Icon Award has been sparingly given, recognizing only those artists whose work has made a profound and lasting impact on global pop music. Janet now stands among a legendary group of recipients including Rihanna and Lionel Richie, cementing her place in music history. Actress Tasha Smith introduced her with warmth and respect.
Janet’s acceptance speech was heartfelt and humble. “I am so, so honored — so grateful,” she said. “I mean no disrespect in any way, but I don’t consider myself an icon.” She reflected on her family’s journey, emphasizing that their dream was never about fame. “We weren’t always like that. We always had a special love for music, dancing, and singing — and fame was just the result of hard work and dedication.”
Jackson also touched on the uniquely American nature of her family’s story, calling it “truly an American story.” She expressed hope that her journey would inspire others and artists alike, showing what can be achieved through passion and perseverance.
Later in the show, after being introduced by Jennifer Lopez, Janet took the stage and delivered a stellar performance of “Someone to Call My Lover” alongside “All For You.” This marked her first televised live performance in seven years, her previous being at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards. The performance was widely celebrated as a triumphant return to the spotlight, showcasing her timeless talent and stage presence.
Janet Jackson’s career, however, has not been without its challenges. One of the most infamous moments came in 2004 during the Super Bowl halftime show when Justin Timberlake accidentally tore a piece of Janet’s costume, exposing her breast. The incident, widely labeled a “wardrobe malfunction,” triggered an unprecedented backlash against Janet, despite Timberlake facing little public criticism. Many viewed the episode as a calculated publicity stunt, but the fallout hit Janet the hardest.
Following the Super Bowl controversy, Janet and her music were effectively blacklisted by CBS’s parent company Viacom, along with its subsidiaries MTV and Infinity Broadcasting. This industry blacklist significantly impacted her career trajectory and visibility for years afterward.
Compounding her struggles, allegations against her late brother, Michael Jackson, involving child sex abuse, cast an additional shadow over her public image and family legacy. These allegations further complicated Janet’s efforts to maintain her career momentum amid intense media scrutiny.
Despite these setbacks, Janet Jackson has remained a resilient and influential figure in the music industry. Her contributions to pop, R&B, and dance music are widely acknowledged, and her influence resonates through generations of artists and fans alike.
Her Icon Award at the 2025 AMAs not only celebrates her vast achievements and enduring legacy but also signals a renewed recognition of her artistry and impact. It’s a moment of vindication and celebration, shining a spotlight on a career that has shaped music and culture for decades.
Janet’s ability to overcome adversity while continuing to inspire and innovate highlights her unique place in the pantheon of music legends. As she steps back into the public eye with this well-deserved honor and captivating performance, it’s clear that her legacy is not only intact but flourishing.
The AMAs ceremony provided a powerful reminder of Janet Jackson’s significance — not just as a performer but as a symbol of perseverance, artistry, and the transformative power of music. Her story is one of triumph, passion, and an unwavering dedication to her craft, earning her a rightful place among music’s true icons.
