Janet Jackson “Rhythm Nation” 1814 Still relevant 30 years later

“Rhythm Nation” is the second single from Janet Jackson’s fourth studio album, Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989). It was written and produced by Jackson in collaboration with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. The song was born out of Jackson’s response to various tragedies in the media, and she wanted to convey a socially conscious message within upbeat dance music. In the United States, it reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Dance Club Songs charts. It also achieved success on several international charts. The song received accolades such as BMI Pop Awards, a Billboard Award, and a Grammy nomination. It has been featured on Janet Jackson’s greatest hits collections and has left a lasting impact on artists, choreographers, and performers.

The accompanying music video for “Rhythm Nation” was directed by Dominic Sena and choreographed by Jackson and Anthony Thomas. It was part of the Rhythm Nation 1814 film and depicted rapid choreography in a post-apocalyptic warehouse setting. Jackson and her dancers wore unisex military attire, and the video was filmed in black and white to convey the song’s theme of racial harmony. Despite initial resistance from Jackson’s record label, the video became a significant project and received accolades such as MTV Video Music Awards and a Grammy Award.

“Rhythm Nation” has influenced various artists, including Sleigh Bells, Jamie Lidell, and Kylie Minogue. Many artists have referenced its music video, including Lady Gaga, Peter Andre, OK Go, Mickey Avalon, Usher, Keri Hilson, Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Cheryl Cole, Rihanna, Ciara, and more. Choreographers like Darrin Henson and Travis Payne have been inspired by the song, and actors such as Kate Hudson, Michael K. Williams, and Elizabeth Mathis have studied its music video. The song has been covered by Pink, Crystal Kay, and Girls’ Generation, and has been performed on television shows like Glee, The X Factor USA, and Britain’s Got Talent.

Concept

The concept of “Rhythm Nation” arose from Jackson’s desire to address socially conscious issues in response to tragic events in the media. She wanted to create music that would resonate with her teenage audience and spread a positive message. The song’s lyrics promote racial unity, leadership through dance, and the rejection of bigotry and geographic boundaries. The song features a distinctive guitar riff and a moderate funk tempo in the key of E minor. It received positive reviews from critics who praised its theme and described it as an uplifting dance anthem.

Critics lauded the song’s socially conscious message, with Rolling Stone hailing it as the album’s essential moment. The New York Times referred to it as a militantly utopian dance-floor exhortation, and The Sun Sentinel praised its upbeat funk-pop sound. “Rhythm Nation” was commended for its production, catchy chorus, and its ability to appeal to both Jackson’s fans and critics. It was seen as a powerful and compassionate call to action, advocating for racial harmony, unity, and social justice. The song was ranked as the best Janet Jackson song of all time by Entertainment Weekly in 2016.

Commercially, “Rhythm Nation” performed well, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving success on various international charts. It was certified Gold by the RIAA. The song made a significant impact and showcased Jackson’s ability to create music that combined meaningful lyrics with infectious dance rhythms.