Janet Jackson is a music icon whose career spans over 40 years. She has undoubtedly set the standard for pop stars today. Her lyricism and sounds are innovative. But her video treatments of her songs were also groundbreaking. This is something that will be explored in. Janet, the new, two-part documentary series that premieres tonight (January 28) and tomorrow on Lifetime and A&E.
Before its release, Glamour takes a look at the history of the legend’s music videos. Although Jackson’s entire career has been covered, not all videos are featured here. However, the 10 videos below demonstrate Jackson’s incredible artistry.
“Dream Street” (1984)
Despite releasing her self-titled debut album in 1982, Janet Jackson’s very first music video, “Dream Street,” didn’t come until two years later. It is the title track of her sophomore album. It reflects the bright-eyed ambitions of Janet Jackson as told by the youngest Jackson family member in third person narration.
The video for the song’s lyrics is as simple and charming as the song itself. The singer is a down-and out waitress in the video. Her Hollywood dreams led her to a dance audition with Debbie Allen. Of course, she nabs the part—a predictable outcome made possible by their TV show Famestarring the two women.
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“The Pleasure Principle” (1987)
Regarded as one of the most memorable music videos in the history of pop music, “The Pleasure Principle” was released as the sixth single from Jackson’s third studio album Control. Although the song was released in 1986, the music video didn’t premiere on MTV until a year later.
Choreographed by Barry Lather, “The Pleasure Principle” shows the singer completely solo in a lightly furnished warehouse dancing to her heart’s desire while casually rocking a T-shirt and pair of jeans. Its simple yet captivating premise showed how charismatic Jackson is on her own and has been emulated by other notable stars since, including Britney Spears, Teyana Taylor, and Dua Lipa. Normani also nailed the hell out of Jackson’s moves during a tribute to the singer at the 2018 BMI Awards.
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“Rhythm Nation” (1989)
Jackson has collaborated with songwriting duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis for decades, and “Rhythm Nation” is one of their most notable hits. The video coincided with the 1989 release of the singer’s fourth album, Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814. Directed and directed by Dominic SenaGone in 60 Seconds, SwordfishIt is filled with militant imagery, from black unisex uniforms, topped with black caps, to the tight, synchronized nature of the dance routines.
Source: Glamour
