Ghanaian-American singer Amaarae has stirred fresh conversation in pop music circles after naming American singer and actress Janet Jackson as the real King of Pop ahead of her brother, Michael Jackson.
Amaarae made the remark while praising Janet’s artistry and the lasting influence of her 1997 album, The Velvet Rope.
Amaarae praises Janet Jackson’s artistry
Speaking on the impact of The Velvet Rope during a conversation with Pitchfork, Amaarae described Janet Jackson’s catalogue as exceptional.
She said every Janet Jackson album stands out, but singled out The Velvet Rope as her best body of work.
According to her, the album’s emotional honesty, bold sound and experimental direction make it one of the most important pop projects ever released.
“Every Janet Jackson’s album is fantastic. But The Velvet Rope is the best,” Amaarae said.
Why Amaarae prefers Janet over Michael Jackson
Amaarae said Janet’s ability to combine vulnerability, sensuality, aggression and experimentation places her in a special category.
She added that if she had been fully conscious when the album was released in 1997, she would have played it repeatedly.
“If I was conscious in 1997 when the album dropped, I would have played it nonstop. It’s so vulnerable, sexy, aggressive and experimental,” she said.
Amaarae then made the bold declaration that Janet, not Michael Jackson, deserves the King of Pop title.
“Janet, to me, is the real king of pop. No shade to Michael Jackson,” she added.
Amaarae says comment not meant to disrespect Michael Jackson
The singer clarified that her opinion was not an attack on Michael Jackson, who is widely recognised globally as the King of Pop.
She stressed that her admiration for Janet Jackson is based on the strength of Janet’s albums, creative identity and influence on pop and alternative music.
Amaarae’s comment has since attracted attention because of Michael Jackson’s long-held status in global music history and Janet’s own legacy as one of the most influential female performers of all time.
Janet Jackson’s The Velvet Rope returns to spotlight
Released in 1997, The Velvet Rope remains one of Janet Jackson’s most acclaimed albums.
The project explored themes of love, sexuality, pain, identity and emotional freedom, and has continued to influence younger artistes across pop, R&B and alternative music.
Amaarae’s praise adds to renewed appreciation for Janet’s role in shaping the sound and image of modern pop music.
