Janet Jackson to receive Ultimate Icon Award

Janet Jackson has been selected by BET to receive their inaugural Ultimate Icon: Music Dance Visual Award which will be given at the 15th annual BET Awards, Sunday, July 28.

Ciara, Jason Derulo and Tinashe have been tapped to perform a special dance tribute to Jackson which is scheduled to include her brand new single No Sleeep from her upcoming album, Unbreakable.

Stephen G. Hill, BET's President of Programming, said 'This is Janet Jackson, people! We are excited beyond belief to present her with our inaugural Ultimate Icon: Music Dance Visual Award and we are thrilled that she chose the BET Awards as the first step on her new road. An inspiration to many other artists, 'Ms. Jackson' ('cause I'm nasty) blends music, dance and visuals in unique and groundbreaking ways and we look forward to celebrating her storied history.as well as giving The BET Awards audience a peek into her Unbreakable future.'

Usher, Jodeci, Common and Mary J. Blige are among the veteran artists nominated for this years awards. Usher is up for Male R&B/Pop Artists, Collaboration and Video of the Year (both for New Flame by Chris Brown featuring Usher & Rick Ross). Common is up for Male Hip-Hop Artist and, once again, Collaboration and Video of the Year (Glory by Common & John Legend).

Jodeci is up for Best Group while Mary J. Blige is up for the Centric Award for Stay With Me by Sam Smith featuring Mary J. Blige.