Janet Jackson fondly recalls the origins of her musical journey, reminiscing about a rainy afternoon in 1975 when, at just nine years old, she found solace in the family’s recording studio in Encino, California. While her older brothers recovered from an exhaustive world tour, Janet seized the opportunity to craft her own song, which she named Fantasy. “I laid down the drum track, I did the background vocals, I sang and I played everything on it,” she recounts.
The surprise came the next day when her creation blared through the Jackson household. “I was so embarrassed. The studio door was open and Mike was listening to it,” she laughs, referring to her brother Michael Jackson. The incident marked a pivotal moment, as her father, Joe Jackson, recognized her talent and directed her towards a music career despite her initial resistance.
Nearly five decades later, Janet Jackson stands as one of the most influential recording artists of all time. Her illustrious career has spanned era-defining albums like “Control” and “Janet,” selling over 100 million records worldwide and earning her accolades such as MTV Icon and groundbreaking Grammy nominations. Reflecting on her achievements, she acknowledges the groundbreaking nature of her Grammy nomination for best producer in 1990: “That was jaw-dropping for me,” she remarks. “You think it should have happened a long time ago.”
Speaking backstage at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, where she is preparing for her 73rd show of the “Together Again” tour, Janet opens up about her life and career. The tour, a celebration of her extensive repertoire, showcases her evolution from R&B grooves like “Nasty” and “Rhythm Nation” to seductive slow jams such as “That’s The Way Love Goes” and “Any Time, Any Place,” all accompanied by her signature choreography.
Known for her commanding stage presence, Janet reveals a different side in person: shy and softly-spoken, admitting, “I don’t like talking. And I don’t like interviews. I don’t think I’m very good at them.” However, her demeanor belies the confidence and resilience that have defined her career.
Motherhood has also played a transformative role in Janet’s life. Her son, Eissa, now seven years old, accompanies her on tour, a role that she cherishes deeply. “Being a mum is the most beautiful thing,” she says with evident joy. “I love every single minute of it.”
Janet’s journey into music wasn’t without challenges. Despite early setbacks with her initial albums in her teens and a brief, tumultuous marriage to soul singer James DeBarge, she found her stride with the groundbreaking album “Control.” Rejecting industry norms, she collaborated with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis to create a bold new sound that showcased her independence and assertiveness.
Her subsequent albums, from the sensual “Janet” to the introspective “The Velvet Rope,” continued to push boundaries and challenge societal norms. Addressing issues like sexism and social justice through her music, Janet aimed to provoke thought while keeping audiences engaged with infectious grooves and memorable melodies.
As she continues to tour and connect with audiences worldwide, Janet remains grateful for the enduring support of her fans. With upcoming dates in the UK starting in Birmingham on September 27, followed by shows in London, Manchester, and Glasgow, Janet Jackson’s “Together Again” tour promises to be a celebration of her legacy and influence on music and culture.
