Janet Jackson

After taking several years off following the massive success of Control and Rhythm Nation 1814, Ms. Jackson came back strong on her fourth solo album. Interspersed with breathy monologues, Janet shows a more mature side -- less dance pop and more R&B -- and features the chart-topping single "That's the Way Love Goes."

As princess of America's black royal family, everything Janet Jackson does is important.
Whether proclaiming herself in charge of her life, as she did on Control (1986), or
commander in chief of a rhythm army dancing to fight society's problems (Rhythm Nation
1814, from 1989), she's influential. And when she announces her sexual maturity, as she
does on her new album, Janet., it's a cultural moment. Start the clock: Janet Jac... More >

At least the money that went into this obscenely expensive record comes back as physical luxury: the difference between hearing it on a cheap box and a booming system is the difference between daydreaming about sex and having somebody's crack in your face. Which is only one way it's more pornographic than obscene. And which doesn't make it Jam & Lewis's. This achievement is Janet's, period--those who disagree should send me the name of that hot number in the S.O.S. Band they couldn't wait to boff. Better nose than Michael, better navel than Madonna, better sex than either. (Grade - A-)