Why Janet Jackson Should Be Remembered as A True Musician

Source: Wikipedia

When the Superbowl was approaching earlier this year, some of the media took it upon themselves to remember Janet Jackson’s notorious 2004 half-time show wardrobe malfunction. Since then, this incident as well as Janet’s last three albums (Damita Jo, 20 Y.O., and  Disclipine)  seems to have made Janet’s sexuality more memorable than anything else.  However, there are many reasons that Janet should be remembered as a true musician.

1. She has paved the way for many musicians of today.

Janet’s “Pleasure Principle” music video inspired R&B singer Cassie’s “Me & U” music video.

Janet’s chair dance from the music video for “Miss You Much” influenced Britney Spears’ “Stronger” music video.

Janet’s music videos for “Love Will Never Do Without You” and “That’s The Way Love Goes” influenced Ciara’s “Body Party” music video.

 The angry feeling evoked in Janet’s song “Black Cat” can be heard in Christina Aguilera’s song “Fighter“.

2.  Her 1997 album The Velvet Rope showed that you can be sexy, socially conscious, and emotionally vulnerable as a woman.

“Rope Burn” is a sexy song that involves sadomasochism.

“Free X-One” is a song that supports those who are gay and bi-sexual.

“What About” is a explicit, angry song that discusses being physically abused in a relationship.

“Special” is a hopeful song that Janet channeled her depression into.

3. Collectively, her songs have an innovative and eclectic sound.

“Rhythm Nation” from the album Rhythm Nation 1814- combines new jack swing with funk.

“Funky Big Band” from the album Janet- combines jazz with hip-hop beats.

“Velvet Rope” from the album The Velvet Rope– combines violin with dance beats.

“Trust A Try‘ from the album All For You- combines orchestra, hip-hop beats, and rock.

4. She has been and is an amazing live performer with an electrifying stage presence and an angelic voice.

Janet live at the Grammy’s in 1987– “What Have You Done For Me Lately” and “Nasty”

Janet live at the MTV VMA’s in 1993– “That’s The Way Love Goes” and “If”

Janet live at The Velvet Rope Tour in 1997–  “Let’s Wait a While” and “Again”

Janet live in 1997/98 (Velvet Rope era)– “I Get Lonely”

Janet live at MTV Icon in 2001– “All For You”

Bonus: She has shown that sometimes alternate versions of songs are just as good or better than the original.

Black Cat (Guitar Mix)– this song features Vernon Reid of the band Living Colour on guitar.

Together Again (Deeper Mix)– a slower R&B version of the song.