Whether you’ve been a fan since she was Penny on “Good Times,” or you’re new to the party, Janet Jackson is an icon. Her music is literally the soundtrack to our lives. As she prepares to head out on a new summer tour with Nelly, we’re celebrating Janet—Ms. Jackson if you’re Nasty—by highlighting our favorite jams.
Control
If you were a young woman in the ‘80s, nothing empowered you like Janet taking “Control.”
Rhythm Nation
When you hear that “5, 4, 3, 2, 1” countdown you instantly know you’re about to start dancing, because it’s physically impossible not to.
Together Again
“Together Again” is a song about loss, but it’s a celebration of life, not a sad ballad. She gives us permission to grieve, while also allowing us to dance and remember the good times.
Miss You Much
The icon followed up the phenomenal success of “Control” with “Miss You Much.”. It had that signature Janet dance groove, but also signaled that we were getting a more mature artist.
All for You
She made a comeback with “All for You,” which showcased her club bangers era.
Scream
We’d waited years for Michael and Janet to team up and the legendary siblings didn’t disappoint with this exploration of their various public pressures.
Let’s Wait Awhile
It may sound crazy, but this one is an underrated gem. It’s a really well produced pop ballad. And in retrospect, it provides a fascinating contrast to the oversexualized ‘80s.
IF
One of the greatest ideas the superstar ever gave us, was allowing women to feel empowered in their sexuality. With “IF” she told women everywhere that not only is it acceptable to vocalize what you want, it’s your God given right.
Again
For everyone who thinks Taylor Swift invented the soul crushing, heartbreak ballad, it was actually Janet.
Nasty
The way Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis dropped that beat told us that R&B would never be the same. And she’s been Ms. Jackson ever since.
Escapade
If you could bottle up the anticipation, excitement and adventure of a vacation in a song, it would be “Escapade.”
Any Time, Any Place
Janet has a song for every occasion, and this is definitely the grown folks date night jam.
That’s the Way Love Goes
The way she’s constantly evolving as an artist is what makes her a legend that still sells out stadiums. Though she completely changed up her sound for “janet,” it still had her signature R&B style, which is one of the many reasons we will always love her.
Alright
No matter what era she’s in, there’s a joy in Janet’s tracks that draws fans in. Her music makes listeners smile, a quality that should never be underestimated.
What Have You Done for Me Lately
The theme of independence that runs through “Control” really hits home as our hero let women everywhere know they don’t have to settle for scraps.
The Pleasure Principle
If you don’t know all the choreography from “The Pleasure” video, you’re not living life the right way.
Straight From 
Sign up for our free daily newsletter.
