What was rumored on Monday is now fact: Janet Jackson will receive the inaugural Ultimate Icon: Music Dance Visual Award at the 15th annual BET Awards on June 28. Jackson last appeared on the BET Awards in 2009 when she paid tribute to her brother Michael. He had died three days earlier on June 25.
Janet Jackson Releases New Song ‘No Sleeep’: Listen
Tapped to perform a special dance tribute in Jackson’s honor are Ciara, Jason Derulo and Tinashe. The tribute will also include Jackson’s new single, “No Sleeep.” Debuting Monday on the singer’s Twitter account and website, the Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis-produced song reached the top spot on the Billboard Trending 140. It’s the lead single from Jackson’s first studio album in seven years. The yet-untitled project is due this fall through Jackson’s Rhythm Nation Records/BMG. The singer will kick off the 37-date first leg of her Unbreakable world tour on Aug. 31 in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Hosted by Anthony Anderson and Tracee Ellis Ross, the BET Awards will air live June 28 from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. Previously announced performers include Kendrick Lamar, Chris Brown and Nicki Minaj. Also receiving special awards that evening: Smokey Robinson for lifetime achievement and syndicated radio personality Tom Joyner for his humanitarian work.