Rihanna Wins the 'AMA Icon Award,' Performs 'Diamonds'
Rihanna was awarded with the first-ever "AMA Icon Award" at the American Music Awards, and the statue was presented by the person who knows her best: her mom.
After a televised message from her mentor, Jay-Z, Bill Maher brought out Rihanna's mother, Monica Fenty, to present her daughter with the "AMA Icon Award." "The journey of your career has not always been an easy one, but tonight I applaud and honor you for being so strong," Rih’s mother told her.
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As all in attendance rose to their feet, Rihanna embraced her mother and thanked those who've joined her on her journey: "So many people I have to thank for keeping me sane: my friends, my family, my fans. I love you so much. You have no idea. You keep me driven. You keep this thing special."
"I can't believe that at 25 years-old I'm holding an Icon award. If you know me, then you know that I love you. I am grateful. I'm only as good as my team, so I love you so much," Rihanna closed her speech.
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Before accepting the "AMA Icon Award," Rihanna, who won the award for Favorite Female Artist - Soul/R&B, performed one of her 12 Billboard 200 Hot 100 No 1s, "Diamonds," before a full orchestra.
Earlier this month, Rihanna exceeded 10 million albums sold in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
