After enduring months of heartache, Céline Dion finally has a reason to celebrate.

The 48-year-old singer received the coveted Icon Award at the Billboard Music Awards on Sunday, May 22 — and accepted the honor with a touching tribute to her late husband, René Angélil.

Before accepting her award, Céline — who lost René at age 73 to throat cancer in January — performed an emotional rendition of Queen’s hit song, “The Show Must Go On.”

celine dion rené angelil

Céline and René in February 2011.

She then returned to the stage where her 15-year-old son René-Charles Angélil made a surprise appearance to present his mother with her statuette. “I’m so sorry for crying… I want to be so strong for my family and my kids, and I didn’t expect that… I don’t want to cry in front of you, but you make me so happy, thank you,” Céline said while holding back tears.

RELATED: Céline Dion Returns to Las Vegas Stage With a Touching Tribute to Late Husband René Angélil — Watch the Clip!

“Thank you very much, this is such a tremendous honor. Music has been my passion since before I can almost remember. So many people have helped me get where I am today,” she continued.

celine dion getty images

Céline and her son René-Charles at the BBMAs on May 22.

“I want to thank the fans for traveling through music with me in good and bad times… my family, my mom, who wrote my first song, my children, René-Charles, Nelson and Eddy, and most importantly, my beloved husband, whom I know will continue to watch over me from up above. Thank you Billboard Music Awards for honoring me. René, this one is for you. The show must go on!” she concluded.

Céline is the fifth star to receive this coveted honor. Past recipients include Neil Diamond, Prince, Jennifer Lopez and Stevie Wonder.