Mariah Carey accepts BMI Icon honor

Mariah Carey is already an icon in many of her fans eyes, but her status as a major pop star was confirmed again Friay when she accepted the Icon Award at the BMI Urban Music Awards.

Carey arrived to the ceremony in Beverly Hills late, notes The Associated Press. So while those in attendance waited, her colleagues spoke about her work and influence. Former American Idol Fantasia Barrino performed Hero and Eric Benet was on hand to sing One Sweet Day. By the time Barrino finished Hero, Carrey was in the front row and the two hugged after Barrino finished the song.

BMIs Del Bryant said that Carrey is an unparalleled musical superstar and the greatest singer in history. Clearly, he approved of her new job as American Idol judge.

Who knows more about musical artistry and song selection than Mariah Carey? Bryant asked.

Sorry, Randy, didn't see you there, he joked, turning to her longtime collaborator, Randy Jackson.

As USA Today noted, Carrey, who has 18 No. 1 singles in her career, did not mention her new Idol job during her speech.

She thanked BMI and the performers for doing something so beautiful with the songs I wrote.

I'm so humbled by this moment because a lot of people still don't know I write my own songs, she added.

Other awards announced were most-played song of the year, which went to Nicki Minaj, and songwriters of the year, which went to Lil Wayne and Drake.

BMI announced that Carrey would receive the Icon Award in July.