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Janet Jackson Shines at 2025 AMAs: “I Don’t Consider Myself an Icon” — But the World Does

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Janet Jackson reminded the world why she’s a legend at the 2025 American Music Awards, where she was honored with the prestigious ICON Award — even if she humbly insists she doesn’t see herself that way.

The five-time Grammy winner and trailblazing artist took the stage in Las Vegas on Monday, May 26, in her signature effortlessly cool style: baggy jeans, a crisp white tee, and a puffer jacket. As the crowd roared, she launched into a nostalgic performance of her 2001 fan favorite “Someone to Call My Lover,” before turning up the energy with a dynamic rendition of “All for You,” complete with a fiery guitar solo and a high-energy dance break.

It marked her first televised live performance since 2018 — and it was nothing short of electric.

Actress and director Tasha Smith presented Jackson with the ICON Award, calling her a “force of nature who shaped generations through sound, style, and strength.”

Fighting back emotion, Jackson, 59, began her acceptance speech with warmth and humility. “I love you so much,” she said, looking out at the crowd. “I am so, so honored. I am so grateful. But — I mean no disrespect — I don’t consider myself an icon.”

She continued with heartfelt candor: “My family, myself, our dream wasn’t to be famous. We weren’t raised like that. We just loved music, dancing, and singing. Fame was just a result of hard work and dedication. Our story — my story — is an American story. This could’ve only happened in America.”

Reflecting on her journey, Jackson expressed hope that her career has helped inspire others to chase their dreams. “I pray that I’ve been an inspiration for other artists to follow their own path,” she said. “Because of you and God, I’m standing here.”

She closed her speech with a message of faith and gratitude. “Thank you to the AMAs for this incredible honor, to my team, and to every fan who stood by me. And last but not least, keep God in every part of your life — that’s where He wants to be. I love you so much.”

Earlier this month, upon learning she would receive the award, Jackson shared her excitement on Instagram: “Thank you so much, AMAs!! It’s an honor. We look forward to being on your stage again. See you in Vegas!”

The ICON Award celebrates artists whose music has made an undeniable cultural and global impact — past recipients include Rihanna and Lionel Richie. But this year, the spotlight was all on Janet, a true pioneer whose influence transcends generations.

As if this week weren’t big enough, Jackson is also in the midst of her Las Vegas residency, JANET JACKSON: LAS VEGAS, with six shows running through May 31 at Resorts World.

The 2025 American Music Awards aired live from Fontainebleau Las Vegas on CBS and Paramount+, with Jennifer Lopez returning to host the event’s 50th anniversary celebration.

But no moment was more unforgettable than seeing Janet Jackson — graceful, grounded, and glowing — accept an award she may not claim for herself, but that the world knows she’s earned a hundred times over.

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From Lekzy’s “A Fool in April” to Parrot Mouth’s “Laugh it Off”: Albert Bondah’s Rise as a Creative Force in the comedy industry

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In Ghana’s creative arts space, talent alone is not enough. What keeps the industry moving are people who can adapt, solve problems on the spot, and hold a production together when things get uncertain. That is where a true utility player stands out. And in recent times, Albert Bondah has proven exactly why that role matters, especially with his work on “Laugh It Off” by Parrot Mouth.

Fresh off the momentum of successfully steering Lekzy De Comic’s “A Fool in April”, Albert stepped into “Laugh It Off” with both confidence and pressure. The expectations were higher this time. The audience anticipated a seamless experience. The team itself included seasoned practitioners, many with years more experience. It was not just another show. It was a test of leadership, adaptability, and execution under pressure.

And the challenges came early.

From coordinating a diverse team to managing creative differences, Laugh It Off demanded more than technical know-how. There were moments when plans had to change on short notice. Timing had to be adjusted. Resources had to be stretched. At certain points, the weight of leading experienced hands could have easily unsettled the process. But this is where Albert’s strength as a utility player became clear.

Instead of resisting the pressure, he leaned into it. Drawing from his journey across theatre, comedy, and production, Albert approached each challenge with a calm, solution-driven mindset. His experience from past productions, especially handling unpredictable situations like adverse weather in earlier shows, helped him stay grounded.

On Laugh It Off, he knew when to step in, when to delegate, and when to simply let creativity flow. More importantly, he listened. Working with experienced professionals taught him the value of collaboration at a deeper level. He understood that leadership in creative spaces is not about control, but about direction.

By blending his own ideas with the input of others, he created an environment where everyone could contribute effectively. The result was a show that felt cohesive, engaging, and well-executed.

There were lessons too. Laugh It Off reinforced the importance of preparation, but also the need to stay flexible. It highlighted the value of clear communication within a team. And above all, it showed that experience is not just about how long you have worked, but how well you can apply what you know in real time. Albert brought all of that to bear.

From his early days as a student producer at Cape FM to working across major productions in Ghana’s creative arts industry, he has built a reputation for reliability and versatility. But with Laugh It Off, he did more than just contribute; he led, adapted, and delivered under pressure.

Albert Bondah- Comedy Promoter

This is what makes him a creative utility player. He is not confined to one role. He understands the full scope of production. He can move between responsibilities without losing focus on the bigger picture. And when it matters most, he shows up with solutions, not excuses.

As the curtains closed on “Laugh It Off”, one thing became clear: the success of the show was not accidental. It was the result of experience, meeting preparation, and preparation meeting preparation.

For brands, producers, and creatives looking to execute high-quality productions, Albert Bondah represents something valuable: a dependable force behind the scenes who ensures that ideas do not just stay ideas but come to life, even in the face of challenges. In an industry that thrives on unpredictability, that kind of consistency is rare. And it is exactly why Albert continues to stand out.

 

Written by: Lord Kofi Amoabeng [Creative Writer & Digital Media Marketer]

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Haruna Rashid Yussif vrs Africa University of Communication and Business; SRC Presidential Aspirant Challenges Election Outcome

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Tension is rising within the Africa University of Communication and Business (AUCB) following a dispute involving SRC presidential aspirant Haruna Rashid Yussif, who has raised concerns over the conduct and outcome of the recent Student Representative Council (SRC) elections.

Haruna Rasfid Yussif, a prominent contender in the race, is reportedly contesting aspects of the electoral process, questioning both transparency and fairness. His grievances are believed to stem from irregularities observed before and during the voting process, which he argues may have influenced the final results.

According to emerging reports, sections of his campaign team have also expressed dissatisfaction, calling for a thorough review of the election procedures. While full official details remain limited, discussions circulating within student circles suggest that the matter could escalate if not addressed by university authorities.

The SRC election, a key democratic exercise within the institution, is expected to reflect the voice and choice of the student body. However, controversies such as this risk undermining confidence in the process, particularly among candidates and their supporters.

Observers note that disputes of this nature are not uncommon in student politics, but the response from university management will be critical in determining how the situation unfolds. Calls for dialogue, transparency, and possible redress mechanisms are already gaining traction.

As of now, the leadership of the Africa University of Communication and Business has yet to issue a comprehensive public statement addressing the concerns raised by Haruna Rashid Yussif.

The coming days are expected to be decisive as stakeholders await clarity, accountability, and a resolution that preserves the integrity of student governance on campus.

The silence from authorities at the Africa University of Communication and Business is only adding to the pressure. Students across campus are beginning to ask tough questions about accountability, fairness, and whether the SRC election truly reflected the will of the people.

Student politics may often mirror national dynamics, but this situation is fast escalating beyond routine disagreement. If not addressed swiftly, it risks eroding trust in the very system meant to represent student voices.

For now, all eyes are on the university’s leadership. Will they step in to investigate and restore confidence, or allow the controversy to deepen?

One thing is clear: this isn’t just about an election anymore. It’s about credibility.

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Nigeria mourns the death of Nollywood actor Solomon Akiyesi

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Nigeria is mourns the death of Nollywood actor Solomon Akiyesi, whose passing was confirmed on Monday.

The President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Abubakar Yakubu, disclosed that the actor died in his sleep on Sunday in Abuja.

According to Yakubu, Akiyesi “slept and did not wake up.” He added that the late actor’s body has been placed in a morgue in the capital as the guild awaits further information from his family. The exact cause of death has not yet been made public.

Akiyesi, who began acting in the late 1990s, appeared in more than 100 movies and became known for roles in Marry Who You Love, Deadly Affair, and Desperate Ladies. Tributes have continued to pour in on social media, with colleagues and fans celebrating his impact on Nigeria’s film industry.

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