This was truly a definitive album both for Janet as an artist and for the 1990s. As we entered a new decade, the reality of war, poverty, child neglect and systemic and structural violence were undeniable. Janet had the courage and fortitude to tackle those issues while shifting the pop culture lens to one of increased collaboration and awareness. Of course, Janet couldn't leave us without a nasty groove to move to. The videos, choreography, production and messaging were all seamless. This was the album that propelled her to the level of a true ICON!
I was ten years old when this album dropped and I remember my mom and I taking a late night NYC train ride into the city to Sam Goody to pick up my copy. I was beyond GASSSED (excited) to receive my first cassette tape! This album helped to mold a great deal of my character and interest in youth development and being of service to others as an adult. Here I am over 30 years later in the field of education as a Policy Analyst affecting positive social change...Janet's role in that is obvious. Thank you Janet for the incomparable legacy you've gifted the world with!