Rihanna received the first-ever Icon Award at the 2013 American Music Awards on Sunday. Following an introduction from Bill Maher, the 25-year-old pop star performed her No. 1 single, “Diamonds.”
Jay Z appeared via a videotaped message to congratulate his protégé. “Between me and you, can you believe this shit? Unbelievable,” he said.
RiRi’s mother Monica Fenty then presented her daughter with the award. “I know the journey and your career has not always been an easy one, but tonight I applaud and admire you for being so strong and so positive and so humble and so focused,” she said.
During the acceptance speech, Rihanna thanked L.A. Reid, her family, her glam team, and her fans. “Right now, I can’t believe that at 25 years old, I’m holding an Icon Award,” she said. “That is weird to even say out loud.”
She also won the award for Favorite Soul/R&B Female Artist.
Watch the iconic moment below:
(photos via Kevin Winter/Getty Images North America)
