The pop-diva is back with her 12th album

Speaking about the icons of the pop-music, the first name that emerges in mind is, for sure, Janet Jackson. Her new album, 20 Y.O.(20 Years Old) is a celebration of 20 years on the stage and a hint at how the pop-diva feels right now about her age. Having celebrated her 40th birthday in Los Angeles, with a lot of guest-stars, including Stevie Wonder, Janet is full of plans for the upcoming tour in support of 20 Y.O. Since the beginning of her career in 1986, with the breakthrough album Control, Janet Jackson still remains one of the best-selling pop-artists ever. In her life interview on the radio Janet described her new record as ‘different, a little reminiscent, yet new and fresh’. And it is absolutely true of this album, which is above any critics: Janet’s style of signing is still recognizable, her smooth sound still invigorates and the authentic energy it possesses proves once more that she is worthy to be called a pop-queen. The popularity of Janet Jackson is beyond doubt either – in June 2006 she appeared on the cover of the US Weekly and it became the best-selling issue ever, beating issues featuring Angelina Jolie and Jessica Simpson.

Combination of sensuality and driving energy

Janet Jackson has made a stake on sensuality with her miraculous breathing vocals, and again made the right choice. Her songs are full of passion and dance electro-beats, which are characteristic of her ingenious style. The first single on the 20 Y.O. is called So Excited, featuring Miami rapstress Khia. The track is a mix of dance beats with sensuous background vocals, as if especially designed to remind of Janet’s incredible dance moves. The leading single of the album is, for sure, Call on Me, featuring hip-hop star Nelly. This is a wonderful example of cooperation of two superstars and a great melodic R&B composition, a perfect highlight for any dance party. In the process of creating the album, Janet Jackson has worked with her long-time friends, professional producers Jimmy "Jam" Harris and Terry Lewis. One more person, who gave her a hand in making the album was Janet’s present boyfriend Jermaine "JD" Dupri, who is now considered to be the most successful R&B and pop producer. Having such supreme hitmakers in stock, it is no wonder that all the compositions on the album present a superb performance of professionalism and talent.

Moving forward and reflecting on the past

The dynamic power that characterizes all of Janet Jackson’s songs is something that makes you like her songs even if you only hear them once. They are revitalizing and relaxing at the same time, a combination never reached by any artist yet. This is how the album may be described on the whole – smoothly energizing and deeply sensuous. As the singer herself has stated, 20 Y.O. isn’t just about moving forward as an artist but reflecting on the past, how the aspirations and desires evolve with time. Having confirmed her status with an excellent sparkling new creation, Janet intends to keep on working. After completing her commitment with Virgin Records, the singer is willing to concentrate on touring and is planning to release a fitness book and a video. It seems that not only talent, but an immense desire for creativity moves her on. A singer, songwriter, producer, dancer, actress, Janet Jackson is generating that invisible vigor that is passed on to everything that she does, and especially her music, bright and astonishing.

02.10.2006