Janet Jackson: Dancing Queen
Image by FFP (2023).
By R.J.F.
The dance moves that have slayed for decades.
When a musical artist has a long career, there are different eras of their greatness. Some eras are better than others, which is quite common. When I think of Janet Jackson’s era of greatness, I think of the music she made in the late 80s to early 90s. During this time, she was able to step out of the shadow of her brothers, namely Michael, to carve her own path in the music industry. Her music videos have produced some iconic dance routines, some of which are still emulated to this day, thus proving that Janet Jackson might be the Queen of Dance.
“The Pleasure Principle”
Album: Control
Year: 1986
Janet really broke out of her shell with this video. Wearing skin tight black jeans and a crop top, it was a much more sexy look for the pop start than she had worn before. This video is solely focused on Janet as she dances her way around a warehouse. When I watch this video, all I can think about is her stamina and, obviously, her precise and complicated routine.
This dance routine has been recreated in tribute performances for Janet. One that stands out was done by Mya at the 2001 MTV VMA’s, where Janet was being honored with the Icon Award. The routine has also been used in other tributes by Ciara and Normani, in more recent years. This music video has effectively impacted younger artists as they look to Janet as a dance inspiration.
“Rhythm Nation”
Album: Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814
Year: 1989
Talk about a video that blew people away! When this video first premiered, there was a behind the scenes component that MTV also aired. I remember watching the behind the scenes footage and being in awe of just how much work went into creating the choreography. Not only that, but the black and white concept seemed to amp up the look and feel.
People have been infatuated with this video’s dance routine ever since its release. In fact, on an episode of the show Lip Sync Battle, Joseph Gordon-Levitt used “Rhythm Nation” as his choice for the competition. Although he looked silly with a faux ponytail and bright lipstick, he rocked the routine and surprised everyone with his precise choreography, just like Janet did in the original music video.
“Love Will Never Do Without You”
Album: Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814
Year: 1989
Janet is utterly stunning and glowing in this music video. This one was different for her because her previous videos were all about her dance moves. This song doesn’t really lend itself to a heavy dance number, so the video focuses on her as a singer and burgeoning sex symbol as she canoodles in the desert with male super model Antonio Sabato, Jr.
The video was released in 1990, and a year later, Michael released his video for the song “In the Closet” which had a very similar concept. Supposedly, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. The similarities between the two videos are undeniable, so I can only gather that her older brother saw something interesting in the video concept.
Performers all over the world have been inspired by Janet Jackson’s music videos. Whether it’s a drag queen lip syncing for their life, a kid performing in a high school talent show, or a mega star like Beyonce delivering hardcore choreography, the impact that Janet has had over the decades can’t be dismissed or denied.
“Mrs. Jackson if you’re nasty.”
