American Music Awards: Rihanna Wins Best Soul/R&B Artist, Performs "Diamonds" & Accepts The First AMA "Icon Award" [VIDEO]

November 24, 2013GWL Staff

On Sunday night, 25-year-old Rihanna took home the award for "Best Female R&B/Soul Artist" (presented to her by Zoe Saldana & Marc Anthony) at the American Music Award inside the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles.

The Barbados beauty's victory was sweet, but it wasn't easy! Rihanna beat out some stiff competition like Ciara and Alicia Keys!

And of course, Rihanna had her bestie Melissa Forde sitting in the audience... showing support for Rih's big night.

The singer later took the stage to perform her 12th hit single "Diamond"... sending thrills to the audience with her sultry performance. Watch it below:

After her performance, Rihanna's mentor Jay-Z then commended her on having a successful music career (selling millions of albums with several number one singles) over the years along with RiRi's mother, Monica Fenty, presenting her with the "Icon Award."