Long ago, in a far-away time, she was Michael Jackson’s little sister.
But now, after six Grammy Awards and eleven American Music Awards, she’s Janet Jackson – world-famous, trail-blazing pop star.
And on November 4, she will be honored with this year’s Global Icon Award at MTV’s European Music Awards in Bilbao, Spain.
According to Variety, Jackson will not only accept the honor but also perform a medley of her greatest hits that will include her recent release, “Made for Now.”
The new track, a collaboration with Daddy Yankee, premiered at the top of the charts and the official music video has garnered over 45 million views on YouTube.
The EMA’s announced the news via Twitter writing, "Legendary singer, dancer, actress, activist and 2018 #MTVEMAGLOBAL ICON! @janetjackson is forever the Queen!!"
“Janet is without question one of the world’s biggest stars,” said Bruce Gillmer, global head of music and talent, Viacom and co-brand head, MTV International. “Her incredible artistry has opened doors for countless others while leaving an indelible impact on pop culture – well over three decades and counting. We’re thrilled to honor her as this year’s MTV Global Icon.”
In addition to her Grammy and AMA Awards, the influential artist has also been honored with 9 MTV Music Awards, A Golden Globe, and an Oscar nomination (for the original song “Again” in Poetic Justice). Earlier this year, she received the Icon Award at this year’s Billboard Music Awards.
Since releasing her groundbreaking albums Control and Rhythm Nation 1814 in the 1980s, the innovative, influential artist has sold over 160 million albums worldwide.
Past recipients of the Global Icon Award include Whitney Houston, Queen, Green Day, U2 and Paul McCartney.
Damita Jo took to Instagram to share her excitement about the honor:
