Today marks the 35th anniversary of Janet Jackson's breakthrough 3rd studio album Control. It is often regarded as one of the best albums of the 1980s and contemporary music. The National Association of Recording Merchandisers and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame have it listed as one of the 200 Definitive Albums of All Time. Worldwide it has sold more than 10 million copies.
Janet linked up with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis which produced a sound featuring a fusion of rhythm and blues, funk, disco and synthesized percussion that established them on the forefront of contemporary R&B. Control was one of the albums notable for pushing forward the style that would eventually be known as new jack swing.
"What Have You Done For Me Lately" served as the first single. The lyrics were fitted for Jackson regarding her recent divorce from James DeBarge a year earlier. The entire album would contain autobiographical themes for Jackson. Reflecting on relationships, the splitting of her business affairs from her father, and her famous Jackson family. Over time many critics have praised the album as a personal testament of self-actualization. Many female artists have used Control as a template to model their own careers.
The 2nd single "Nasty" introduced us to her signature line "my first name ain't baby, it's Janet - Miss Jackson if you're nasty."
The choreography in the videos for her first four singles was all done by Paula Abdul. This choreography in the height of the music video era help propel her career and would lead to her signing with Virgin Records.
The 5th single "Let's Wait Awhile" was praised for its themes of sexual abstinence during a time when the world was facing the AIDS crisis.
"Pleasure Principle", the 6th single, was the only song not written or produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. It was done by Monte Moir who was also the keyboardist for the group The Time. It is hailed as one of her most iconic videos; featuring her dancing in a loft in just a pair of jeans and a T-shirt.
The 7th and final single released was "Funny How Time Flies (When You're Having Fun)". It would become a staple on slow jam formats. It was noted for its resemblance to her brother's 1982 hit "The Lady In My Life". Janet even includes a couple lines from that song in the middle of this one.
Control was the album that saw Janet Jackson step out and become one of the preeminent female artists of pop music.
Let us know your favorite track from the album as it turns 35. You can certainly find all of these on our All-Star playlist. Subscribe below.
