Janet Jackson Reflects on Fame, Says Becoming an Icon Was Never the Goal
Renowned American singer Janet Jackson delivered a heartfelt message as she accepted the Icon Award at the 51st annual American Music Awards held at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, reflecting on her family’s deep-rooted passion for music and distancing herself from the pursuit of fame.
Despite her legendary status and decades-long influence in the music industry, Jackson humbly told the audience she doesn’t see herself as an icon.
“I don’t consider myself to be an icon,” she said. “My family, myself — our dreams were never to be famous. We weren’t raised like that. We always had a special love for music, dancing, and singing. Fame came as a result of hard work and dedication.”
Janet, a key figure in one of America’s most famous musical families, used the moment to reflect on the Jackson legacy. She emphasized that her late brother, Michael Jackson — the “King of Pop” — and other family members shared the same values.
“The Jackson family is an American family of musicians and entertainers from Gary, Indiana. Many of the siblings were successful musicians, notably the brothers that formed the Jackson 5. Several of them also had successful solo careers, including Michael and myself,” she said.
Jackson, known for hits like That’s The Way Love Goes, was honored at the star-studded event not just for her chart-topping music but also for her lasting impact on pop culture and her role as a trailblazer for artists across generations.