Happy 20th Anniversary to ‘janet.’

Posted on May 21, 2013 by BuddahDesmond611

Like a moth to a flame/Burned by the fire/My love is blind/Can’t you see my desire?/That’s the way love goes. ~ Janet Jackson, “That’s The Way Love Goes,” janet. (1993)

May 18, 2013 marked 20 years since the release of Janet Jackson’s fifth studio album, janet. janet. was a departure in sound and style when compared to Control (1986) and Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989). The album unveiled a different side of Jackson—her sensual side. Songs from her aforementioned efforts like “Funny How Times Flies (When You’re Having Fun)” and “Someday Is Tonight” provided mere glimpses of what would later be uncovered with janet.

janet. stands as a declaration of Jackson taking even greater control of the direction of her music and career, composing and co-producing (with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis) the majority of the music on the album. If it wasn’t clear before, janet. proved Jackson to be a distinctive, innovative, and monumental force that had come out quite far from the shadow of her family’s fame. With the removal of her last name, she (continued) to command respect on her own merits. At the time of the album’s release, Jackson was well on her way to carving her own niche—one that continues to inspire and influence fans and artists alike to this very day.

Jackson’s albums are musical snapshots of specific periods in her life. janet. represents Jackson’s exploration of her softer, sensual side and the confidence which comes from embracing all facets of ourselves and honoring who we truly are (inside and out). It’s genuine. It’s real. It doesn’t comes off as contrived or pretentious. You feel Ms. Jackson opening up in ways never heard before (“Anytime, Anyplace,” “The Body That Loves You,” “If,” “You Want This,” and “Throb”). Aside from sensuality and intimacy, janet. delved deeply into relationships, the ups and downs of love (“Because Of Love,” “Where Are You Now,” “Again,” and “This Time” featuring Kathleen Battle), and the impact of racism and sexism (“New Agenda” featuring Chuck D of Public Enemy).

Vocally, Jackson delivered some of her most confident, sweet, sexy, and soulful vocals yet. The songs, expertly paced, run the gamut from R&B/Soul, Funk, Pop, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Opera, and Rock. janet. is an album that you can play straight through, uninterrupted. Even at 75+ minutes, it never gets tiring or boring. After 20 years, it’s safe to say janet. has aged quite well.

Jackson, Jam, and Lewis easily produced one of the best and most eclectic albums of the 90s (or ever in my book). janet. has sold over 7 millions copies in the States and over 20 million copies worldwide. It remains one of her best-selling albums and one of the best selling R&B albums of the SoundScan era. The album produced 6 Top Ten singles on the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles charts, “That’s The Way Love Goes” (#1 Pop/#1 R&B), “If” (#4 Pop/#3 R&B), “Again” (#1 Pop/#7 R&B), “Because Of Love” (#10 Pop/#9 R&B), “Anytime, Anyplace” (#2 Pop/#1 R&B), and “You Want This” (#8 Pop/#9 R&B).

Musically, thematically, and visually, janet. took Jackson to even greater creative heights and laid the blueprint that many artists would follow soon after. (Jackson would blow critics, fans, and artists minds alike again in 1997 with the release of The Velvet Rope).

Happy 20th anniversary to janet. We thank you (again), Ms. Jackson, for this masterpiece.

Five Inspirational Jams that Lift Me Up

Posted on March 20, 2013 by BuddahDesmond611

Music has always been a constant in my life. During the ups and downs (and all that lies between), music has served as an extension of my moods and emotions. Speaking to me in ways almost like nothing else, the sweet sound of music has inspired me—giving the push I needed to go on. Here’s a list of five inspirational jams that never cease to keep me lifted.

Sounds of Blackness – “I’m Going All the Way” from Africa to America; The Journey of the Drum (1994)

“Now I know better/It’s time to move on/My determination/Is what keeps me strong/Oh I believe in myself/Like never before/Faith is the key/To unlock the door/Whatever it takes to make it/I’m going all the way/I may be down sometimes/But I won’t be down always…”

Africa to America; The Journey of the Drum by Sounds of Blackness, is a moving album with inspiring songs of history, faith, love, and soul. With Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis at the helm, they created inspirational/gospel music without boundaries. Songs like the pulsing, rhythmic single “I’m Going All The Way” proved that inspirational/gospel could be relevant and contemporary without forsaking its message. Fueled by Ann Nesby’s rousing lead vocal, the song channels the reality that life may not always go the way we want it to. But no matter what comes our way, we must go forward. We cannot give up or give on…”We must hold on to [our goals].” We must go all the way.

Mary Mary – “Go Get It” from Go Get It (2012)

“You were made to live a good life and that’s what I believe/So hit the floor say a prayer start working you got to do something/It’s alright to crawl before you walk it’s alright to walk before you run/But if you wanna get what you never got gotta do something that you never done/Go get it, Go Get it, Go get it, Go get it, Go get it/
Go get yo blessing…”

As soon as I heard “Go Get It” on Mary Mary’s We reality series, I was immediately moved by the urgency of its music, vocals, and message. Without a doubt, it’s one of Mary Mary’s best songs. Produced by longtime producer Warryn Campbell, the song tells us that we can’t achieve anything if we do not go after it. We can’t sit around and wait for our lives to change. If we want something we have to make it happen. Count it on faith, if you play your part—the blessings will follow. Whether you’re a Christian believer or not, the message is undeniable.

Whitney Houston – “Step By Step” from The Preacher’s Wife (1996)
“And this old road is rough and ruined/So many dangers along the way/So many burdens might fall upon me/So many troubles that I have to face/Oh, but I won’t let my spirit fail me/Oh, I won’t let my spirit go/Until I get to my destination/I’m gonna take it slowly cuz I’m making it mine/Step By Step (you know I’m taking it), bit by bit (bit by bit, come move),
stone by stone (yeah), brick by brick (brick by brick by brick by brick mmm…).”

“Step By Step” was the second single released from The Preacher’s Wife soundtrack. The album found Houston returning back to her roots. Primarily a Gospel album, The Preacher’s Wife also contained R&B/Soul and Pop tunes of love and inspiration. “Step By Step” is a funky, uptempo tune written by the iconic Annie Lennox. Musically and vocally stellar, the song encourages us to remain faithful, steadfast, and committed while on our journey. We can’t let anything detract or or get to us. We’ve got to keep moving.

Janet Jackson – “Strong Enough” from The Velvet Rope (1997)
“I know that it’s not been easy/Trying to make it in this crazy world/People ’round you try to stop you/Stomp you saying that you don’t belong/…You must remember that/You were born with blood of kings and queens/And can’t be stopped/Stay stronger my brother you can’t be stopped/No, you can’t be stopped/Don’t ever let nobody tell you you ain’t strong enough/Strong enough, don’t let nobody tell you you ain’t/Strong enough, don’t let nobody tell you…”

“Can’t Be Stopped” is the hidden bonus track on Janet Jackson’s critically-acclaimed, artistic triumph, The Velvet Rope. The song is a lush, uplifting jam featuring Ms. Jackson’s assured, layered vocals, socially conscious lyrics, and a soulful sound reminiscent of Marvin Gaye’s “Inner City Blues.” In this life, we may come up against forces designed to try to keep us complacent, down, and out. If we give in, the negative forces will win. But if we proceed and persist, we will be successful. We will be victorious. We will be unstoppable.

Vesta Williams – “Better Days” from Seven (2013)

“Today it didn’t rain/The sun came out again/The cloudy days seem to be over/It’s like I found a four-leaf clover/And changed misfortunes of mine/Troubles on my heart/Things falling apart/The fight in me was slowly dying/But never did I give up trying/To find my moment to shine/Better days are coming my way/Heaven smiles and I’m still okay/Better times will be yours and mine/And I think it’s going to be just fine…”

“Better Days” is Vesta’s most recent single from her final studio album Seven. The smoothed out groove of the music (straddling the line between R&B/Soul and Contemporary Jazz) and Vesta’s emotive, yet somewhat restrained vocal performance makes this a welcomed addition to any fan’s music collection. Released in the fall of 2012, I was drawn to its message of perseverance and faith through it all. No matter how dark or how long the days get, we must trust and believe that better days are not too far behind. But we must it through the bad days before we can enjoy the fruits of better days.

80’s Albums That Changed My Life (Part 1)

Posted on February 28, 2013 by BuddahDesmond611

There’s something about the music of my childhood that continues to influence, shape, and inspire me. As a child who grew up during the 80s and 90s, I have to admit that the music touched me in ways much deeper than a lot today’s music. Artists seemed to be more motivated by making music that moved them and that meant something. They weren’t so much moved by formulas and record sales. The motivation was their love of music and using their art in innovative ways to share their universal experiences with the world.

For the next few months, I’d like to share some of the albums that changed my life. The first series of posts will focus on albums from the 80s. Maybe some of these albums will be favorites of yours too.

Cherrelle – High Priority (1985)

Cherrelle teamed up again with the legendary producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis on High Priority, the follow-up to her successful debut album Fragile (1984). Their undeniable chemistry, just like with the SOS Band, Janet Jackson, New Edition, Mariah Carey, and Yolanda Adams (to name a few), would generate another bona fide smash in High Priority. Cherrelle gets down on funky tunes like “You Look Good To Me” (#26 R&B) and “Oh No It’s U Again” (#5 Dance), the sexy mid-tempo groove “Will You Satisfy?,” and the infectious, pulsating “Artificial Heart” (#18 R&B/#5 Dance). Other notable tunes include the old-school ballad “Where Do I Run To?” (which Cherrelle co-wrote) and the mega-hit, classic duet with Alexander O’Neal “Saturday Love” (#2 R&B/#26 Pop/#13 Dance). High Priority is memorable not only for its catchy tunes, top-notch production, and Minneapolis-inspired sound, but also because of Cherrelle’s spirited, distinctive performance. Her sassy yet sweet musical persona is one that fans simply couldn’t resist. High Priority is easily one of the best R&B albums of the 80s.

Vesta Williams – Vesta 4 U (1988)

If you didn’t know it when you heard her debut album Vesta (1986), then you knew with Vesta 4 U that Vesta could SANG! Vesta 4 U showcased a powerhouse singer-songwriter who could tackle anything, bluesy numbers like “Best I Ever Had,” funky uptempo tracks like “Here Say” and “How You Feel,” sensual slow jams like “Hunger,” and power ballads like “Running Into Memories” and “Make It With You.” She had the type of voice that made you feel everything she was singing. That’s one of many reasons why she resonated so well with fans, especially on her classic, signature ballads like “Congratulations” and “Sweet Sweet Love.” With its endearing vignettes and interludes, Vesta 4 U also highlighted Vesta’s commendable dramatic and comedic acting chops. She was an all-around entertainer. Vesta 4 U would prove to be one of her most successful albums, with 4 R&B hits “Sweet Sweet Love” (#4 R&B), “Congratulations” (#5 R&B/#55 Pop), “4U” (#9 R&B), and “How You Feel” (#70 R&B). Vesta 4 U is arguably one of the best R&B albums of the 80s and one the best albums of Vesta’s career.

Janet Jackson – Control (1986)

Singer, songwriter, dancer, actress, and producer Janet Jackson stepped completely out of her family’s shadow and became one of the most influential (and successful) entertainers in music history with her third studio album Control. A breakthrough personally, musically, and artistically, Control served as a testament of Ms. Jackson’s independence, perseverance amidst personal struggles, pride, and self-actualization. With its ingenious mix of R&B/Soul, funk, hip-hop, pop, and dance music and its innovative use of digital instrumentation, Jackson, Jimmy Jam, and Terry Lewis ushered in “the sound” of contemporary R&B music in the 80s and laid the groundwork for what would become New Jack Swing (and later Hip Hop Soul). A major crossover success, Control went on to sell over five million copies in the States and over 14 million copies worldwide. The album produced several enduring hits, “What Have You Done For Me Lately” (#1 R&B/#4 Pop/#2 Dance), “Nasty” (#1 R&B/#3 Pop/#2 Dance), “When I Think Of You” (#3 R&B/#1 Pop/#1 Dance), “Control” (#1 R&B/#5 Pop/#1 Dance), “Let’s Wait Awhile” (#1 R&B/#2 Pop) and “The Pleasure Principle” (#1 R&B/#14 Pop), and made Jackson the first female artist to chart six top 40 hits from one album on the Billboard 100. Control has been regarded as one of the best albums of all-time.

Michael Jackson – Bad (1987)

Fans and critics alike were waiting anxiously to see how Michael Jackson would follow-up such a monster, game-changing, mega-selling album like Thriller (1982). Well, Jackson didn’t disappoint with Bad, his seventh studio album. Coming with a harder edge in sound, style, and image, Bad was another artistic triumph. Teaming again with the iconic Quincy Jones, Jackson delivered an innovative set of tunes which, like Thriller, effortlessly blended R&B/Soul, rock, funk, and pop. Jackson took even more creative control over the direction of his music, writing nine of the album’s 11 tunes and serving as the album’s co-producer. Sonically and visually, Jackson solidified himself as one of the most extraordinary, creative, and visionary forces in the entertainment industry. Bad produced several hit singles, “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” w/ Siedah Garrett (#1 R&B/#1 Pop) “Bad”(#1 R&B/ #1 Pop/#1 Dance), “The Way You Make Me Feel” (#1 R&B/#1 Pop/#1 Dance), “Dirty Diana” (#8 R&B/#1 Pop), “Man In The Mirror” (#1 Pop), “Another Part Of Me” (#1 R&B/#11 Pop), and “Smooth Criminal” (#2 R&B/#7 Pop/#10 Dance). Jackson became the first artist to garner five No. 1 singles from one album on the Billboard 100. Going on to sell over eight million copies in the States and over 30 millions copies worldwide, Bad has been cast on numerous lists as one of the best albums ever released.

Phyllis Hyman – Living All Alone (1986)

It would be three years between the release of Goddess of Love (1983), Phyllis Hyman’s sixth studio album (and final album for Arista Records), and her seventh studio album Living All Alone (her first release on Philadelphia International Records–PIR). Hyman joined forces with legendary Philly Soul producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff for what many consider one of her finest albums. Full of soulful contemporary R&B and jazz-oriented torch songs, Hyman provides a passionate soundtrack to love, loss, hope, faith, and resilience. While somewhat melancholy and somber in tone, Living All Alone–like much of her music–paints a realistic, relatable picture of life, love, and relationships. You couldn’t turn on urban adult contemporary radio between 1986-1987 without hearing “You Just Don’t Know,” “Ain’t You Had Enough Love” (#29 R&B), and her signature tunes “Old Friend” (#14 R&B), and “Living All Alone” (#12 R&B). Hyman’s vocal performances are stellar and serve as further proof of her status as one of the most revered vocalists and performers of all-time. After 27 years, Living All Alone remains a contemporary R&B/soul mainstay.

Whitney Houston – Whitney Houston (1985)

Whitney Houston’s self-titled debut album was a monumental, global crossover success. It was a success I’m sure, even in 1985-1986, that was uncommon for a black female artist–especially in the early stages of her career. Houston broke barriers and paved the way for many singers, like Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Toni Braxton, Deborah Cox, Brandy, Monica, and Melanie Fiona. Whitney Houston was the world’s introduction to “The Voice.” Houston’s voice was rich, sensual, angelic, soulful, melismatic, and powerful. An instrument of such effortless control, wonder, and emotive, interpretive skills, her voice put her in a class all her own. She delighted on uptempo dance tracks like “How Will I Know (#1 R&B/#1 Pop/#3 Dance)” and “Thinking About You” (#10 R&B) sexy, soulful grooves like “You Give Good Love” (#1 R&B/#3 Pop), inspirational tunes like “Greatest Love Of All” (#2 R&B/#1 Pop) and spine-tingling ballads like “All At Once,” and “Saving All My Love For You” (#1 R&B/#1 Pop). Whitney Houston went on to become one of the most successful debut albums by a female artist in history. Spending 14 weeks at No. 1 (Billboard 200) and spawning three consecutive No. 1 singles (Billboard Hot 100) — “Saving All My Love For You,” “How Will I Know,” and “Greatest Love Of All,” Whitney Houston was the first debut album and first album by a female artist to accomplish such a feat. Selling over 13 million copies in the States and over 25 million copies worldwide, Whitney Houston is regarded as one of the best albums of all-time.

Jody Watley – Larger Than Life (1989)

Jody Watley has always been a trendsetter, whether it be in fashion, dance, music, or videos. Never one to rest on her laurels, Watley continuously challenges herself and strives to take her artistic vision and expression to new heights. Larger Than Life, the follow-up to her solo debut album Jody Watley (1987), proved to be no exception. Reuniting with producer Andre Cymone, Watley co-wrote and produced 11 of the album’s 12 tunes. Larger Than Life incorporates a hypnotic blend of R&B/Soul, dance, funk, Latin, pop, and hip-hop music. Watley serves up her A-game with sassy, funky, aggressive (almost industrial-sounding) tracks like “Once You Leave,” “What ‘Cha Gonna Do For Me,” “L.O.V.E.R.” and “Real Love” (#1 R&B/#2 Pop/#1 Dance), New Jack Swing tracks like “Friends” Featuring Eric B. & Rakim (#3 R&B/#9 Pop/#7 Dance), and passionate, sparse ballads like “Everything” (#3 R&B/#4 Pop/#11 AC), “Only You,” and the beautiful, Latin-tinged “Precious Love” (#51 R&B/#87 Pop). Watley’s influential single “Friends” is most notable for being the “first multi-format crossover hit to introduce and pair the custom and specialized 16 bar verse with a rapper and singer in Pop music in 1989” (Jody Watley’s Bio). And Watley’s video for “Real Love,” directed by David Fincher, received seven MTV Music Video Award nominations, making it then one of the most nominated videos in history. Larger Than Life went gold in the States and sold over four million copies worldwide. Larger Than Life is one of Watley’s top albums and is one of the best albums from the late 80s.

Day 48: Black Music Month – Janet Jackson

Posted on June 20, 2012 by BuddahDesmond611

Just as Marvin Gaye did with “What’s Going On,” Janet Jackson’s “Rhythm Nation” (the song and accompanying album Rhythm Nation 1814) proved that music could still be hit-worthy and entertaining yet socially conscious, relevant, soulful and funky. Happy Black Music Month!!! 🙂

Check out my previous post, All 4 Janet.

All 4 Janet.

Posted on June 16, 2009 by BuddahDesmond611

I’m finally sharing some of my artwork online. And what better way to start by showing a picture of Janet Jackson that drew almost 12 years ago. She’s one of my favorite people to draw. And it’s more than obvious at this point that she’s one of my all-time favorite entertainers. Growing up, I was inspired by and adored her music, style, and presence. I must say though, I miss seeing her on the scene.

It seems like Discipline was released so long ago – though it was only last February. It debuted at No. 1, “Feedback” became her first top 20 pop hit since 2001’s “Someone to Call My Lover,” and then like that—it was all over. Yeah, there was the tour (the show was EXCELLENT!!), but you know what happened with that…. Aside from the Superbowl Incident (I still say she was blacklisted in lieu of this), issues in the Jackson family (not going there), and record labels who have no idea how to promote her (anymore)—her musical career seems to be at a crossroads.

She’s accomplished more in the last 27 years than most artists will in their entire careers. She’s done it all. She set the tone. And you can see that with many of today’s hottest female entertainers. The influence is unmistakable. But her music just hasn’t “hit” the way it used to. I don’t think it’s because the music is bad. Have their been some sub par moments over the course of the last three albums? Yes. But lackluster production, poor marketing, no radio airplay, and minimal label support have all played major roles in the downward spiral of Janet’s musical career.

Now, the lady is BAD!!! Always will be. She can grace the stage—not say, sing, or do a thing—and the audience will go wild. Nothing can take away her talent or the history she’s made. But it’s time to hit ’em hard. Hit ’em with something they’d least expect. Or go back with Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. The chemistry they have in the studio is magical. And last I heard, they were talking of going into the studio to work on the next album. Great news if it comes into fruition. Cause one thing’s for sure—I won’t be unhappy if JD isn’t producing on the next album. No offense—I love his work. But it’s just not for Janet. It may work for Mariah and Usher (to name a few)—but not for Janet.

All the greats have periods where they hit that brick wall or their music slumps. And most usually return to the top spot better than ever. It’s usually when everyone has counted them out—at the least expected moment—when their prominence is solidified again. Whatever happens—Janet’s got my support. I’ll be rocking with Janet for life!

Check me out on Twitter!

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Now playing: Janet – Can’t B Good
via FoxyTunes

Janet & The 18 Year Old Daughter Rumors

Posted on October 26, 2005 by BuddahDesmond611

The media must have nothing better to do than mess with the Jackson clan. Need I say anything more. This time, it’s not Michael, it’s not Latoya, or Jermaine in the news….It’s Janet. Rumors have surfaced yet again about her supposedly having a daughter from a previous marriage. Young DeBarge, 28, recently announced during an interview on the radio that Janet has an 18 year old daughter who’s been staying with Rebbie, her oldest sister. Janet was married to one of Young’s older brothers, James DeBarge for a hot minute back in the 80s. According to Young, “James and the Jackson family kept everything real close, real tight.” Someone please tell me why is this anybody’s business all of a sudden?

This is not the first time these rumors have surfaced. I remember these rumors surfacing in the early 90’s when LaToya was airing out all of her’s family’s dirty laundry with her infamous autobiography. (She also acknowledged that Michael had been spending too much time with little boys–but this is another topic altogether.) If Janet and James had a baby and wanted to keep it a secret, it’s their business. Now if the supposed daughter is just finding out that Janet and James are her real parents, then this sheds a different light on the situation. I couldn’t imagine how detrimental this kind of info would be after living a certain kind of life for 18 years or more. It could rock your world. But it wouldn’t be the first time or last time that something like this has happened. Drama like this happens everyday. It would be crazy to think that the Jackson’s and the DeBarge’s are the only families on this planet keeping secrets. Doesn’t make it right, but please let’s be realistic.

The supposed daughter is 18. She’s grown. Let her and her family deal with this the best way they know how. Damn, can the Jackson’s have any kind of peace??!!

And let us not forget that Young DeBarge (who released/rehashed this info) is an aspiring singer who just finished recording an album. Can I say publicity?

Regardless of whether Janet has children or not, I’m still going to buy her next record. So there! And after news like this, shit, it better be good!

Buddah Desmond

Author of Prevail: Poems on Life, Love, and Politics

Category Archives: Janet Jackson