The recipient of this year’s Global Icon Award at MTV’s European Music Awards is none other than Janet Jackson.
The news was confirmed via the show’s official Twitter account — “Legendary singer, dancer, actress, activist and 2018 #MTVEMAGLOBAL ICON! @janetjackson is forever the Queen!!,” they wrote.
“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.”
“It was only a matter of time before she received the award,” MTV said. “Her music has been loved around the world since the 1980s when she first began releasing groundbreaking albums like Control and Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814. She’s now one of the best-selling artists of all time. Seven of her albums are certified platinum and she’s sold over 160 million records.”
This isn’t Jackson’s first Icon Award. She also received the award at this year’s Billboard Music Awards.
The iconic songstress will take the EMA stage for the first time to perform a medley of her hits, including her latest hit, “Made for Now” which, according to Variety, debuted top of the iTunes charts with the video generating nearly 45 million views.
The 2018 MTV EMAs will take place at the Bilbao Exhibition Centre in Spain. The November 4 show will be hosted by Hailee Steinfeld.
Legendary singer, dancer, actress, activist and 2018 #MTVEMA GLOBAL ICON! ✨ @JanetJackson is forever the Queen!! 👑
➡️ https://t.co/4xAO4LlvAr pic.twitter.com/E6jQ7a24v1— MTV EMA (@mtvema) October 17, 2018
