Janet Jackson Honored Before Killing the Stage at 2018 Billboard Music Awards (VIDEOS)

Last night was all about Janet Jackson, Ms. Jackson if you’re nasty, as the hit maker was honored with the Icon Award in Las Vegas during the 2018 Billboard Music Awards. Her accompanying stage show was the divas first televised performance in over nine months.

Jackson was introduced by pop superstar Bruno Mars, whose music and style has clearly been influenced by the living legend. He was also sure to acknowledge Jackson as “the first black woman to ever receive the Billboard Icon Award.”

“I’m deeply humbled and grateful for this award,” Jackson shared during her acceptance speech. “I believe that for all the challenges, all of our challenges, we live a great moment in history. It’s a moment that at long last women have made it clear that we will not be controlled, manipulated or abused.”

Iconic in their own right, hip hop legends Salt-N-Pepa also took the stage, performing hits like “Let’s Talk About Sex,” and “Whatta Man,” alongside fellow girl group, En Vogue.

everyone else is doing it wrong. bring the 90s back. #BBMAs #saltnpepa #envogue #90s 🎤 pic.twitter.com/qvQOgu1cA4

— JACQUELINE (@JackieNYC28) May 21, 2018

Check out EBONY’s exclusive red carpet coverage, featuring looks from Jennifer Lopez, John Legend, DJ Khaled, Ciara, Khalid, French Montana, Tyra Banks and more.