Janet Jackson undeniably seized the reins of the 2025 American Music Awards, dominating the evening with her iconic prowess. As the opening notes of her Grammy-winning anthem "Control" reverberated through the venue, setting the stage ablaze for her mesmerizing AMAs performance, the atmosphere electric with anticipation. Transitioning seamlessly, Jackson belted out a soulful rendition of "Someone to Call My Lover," a tune that had recently resurfaced in pop culture's collective consciousness thanks to its viral TikTok fame.
Adorned in a chic white puffy jacket and a pair of timeless jeans, Jackson captivated the AMAs audience with her first number, before seamlessly shifting into a powerhouse performance of her timeless classic "All for You." Throughout her set, Jackson radiated an aura of command, dancing alongside her backup dancers with the quintessential Jackson flair.
Following her stellar performance, Tasha Smith heaped accolades upon Jackson, recognizing her immense contributions to the industry as she presented her with the prestigious AMAs Icon Award. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Jackson expressed her profound gratitude while humbly noting, "I am so, so honored and deeply grateful. I mean no disrespect, but I don't consider myself an icon." The audience, however, responded with a chorus of playful boos. "My family and I, our dream was never fame; we were never nurtured with that mindset. Our hearts have always beaten in tune with music, dancing, and singing. Fame was merely a byproduct of relentless hard work and unwavering dedication," she continued.
Jackson's acceptance speech also overflowed with love for her family, stating, "My story, my family's story, is a true American narrative, something that could only unfold in this incredible country. My earnest hope is that I have served as an inspiration for others and artists to pursue their dreams and achieve success." She added, "To my family, my unwavering supporters since day one, and of course, to my fans, it's because of you and God's grace that I stand before you today. I love you all immensely. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the AMAs for this esteemed honor. Lastly, I urge you to keep God at the forefront of your life, for that is where he desires to be."
Jennifer Lopez wore two hats on Monday night, embodying both the host and a standout performer at the AMAs. Alongside Lopez, Benson Boone, Blake Shelton, Gloria Estefan, Gwen Stefani, Lainey Wilson, and Reneé Rapp also took the stage to entertain the crowds. Jackson's TV performance at the 2025 AMAs marked her triumphant return after a seven-year hiatus, and she was rightfully honored with the Icon Award. Prior to this, the singer of "That's the Way Love Goes" received the Billboard Music Awards Icon Award in 2018, where she treated the audience to a medley of "Nasty," "If," and "Throb."
Rod Stewart was another notable honoree at the ceremony, being feted with the lifetime achievement award. The 2025 AMAs marked Stewart's triumphant return to the stage after a two-decade absence, his last appearance dating back to 2004. As the nominations rolled in, Kendrick Lamar led the pack with 10 nods, closely trailed by Post Malone, Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, and Shaboozey.
The AMAs, a creation of Dick Clark Productions, is owned by Penske Media Corporation, the parent company of The Hollywood Reporter, through a joint venture subsidiary between Penske Media and Eldridge. Don't miss the star-studded arrivals and the comprehensive list of winners from a night filled with musical magic.
