MTV To Honor Janet Jackson

NEW YORK (AP) â€” MTV is launching a new tribute special, and its first subject will be Janet Jackson. <br><br>The 34-year-old singer will be named as the inaugural mtvICON, an honor for artists who have

Friday, January 12th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

NEW YORK (AP) â€” MTV is launching a new tribute special, and its first subject will be Janet Jackson.

The 34-year-old singer will be named as the inaugural mtvICON, an honor for artists who have made a significant contribution to music.

``With MTV turning 20 this year, it is both the perfect time for us to honor an artist who has influenced the music industry and pop culture,'' Van Toffler, MTV's president, said this week. ``Janet has and continues to change and inspire new music trends worldwide.''

The special will be taped March 10 in Los Angeles. Other artists will perform the singer's music; Jackson will perform the finale.

``It's an honor to have other artists celebrate my music and I look forward to a wonderful night of performances,'' Jackson said.

Jackson was given the Award of Merit for lifetime achievement at Monday's American Music Awards.