Janet Jackson's 1989 hit album, Rhythm Nation, is best defined as pop music with a message. The album begins with a pledge of unity: "We are like-minded individuals, sharing a common vision, pushing toward a world rid of color-lines." Okay, so the lyrics may be a bit cheesy, but if anything, Rhythm Nation is an upbeat blend of jazz-funk and spirited hip-hop that captures the artist's earlier, more innocent work.
The album's 12 songs are interspersed with various spoken interludes - a style that was revisited in Janet's 1997 Velvet Rope album. Although the first three songs feature themes on social injustice and bigotry, songs such as "Escapade," "Miss You Much," and "Alright" offer a more light-hearted mix by taking on a carefree girl-next-door type of approach.
It is therefore appropriate that once the more serious songs calling for social change and acceptance are over with, Janet busts out with, "Get the point? Good, now let's dance." Indeed, no Janet Jackson experience would be complete without pumping up the dance numbers, and the whole idea of this album was, after all, the use of music and dance to bring about one united nation - a Rhythm Nation, if you will.
One highlight of this collection is that the songs explore a variety of themes - from prejudice to relationships to friendship. Although these themes fall under the umbrella of harmony among individuals, it is comforting to know that not all '80s music was bubble gum pop, and that it is possible to communicate the significance of hard-hitting social problems through such a tacky decade's popular music.
The album's final three songs, including "Lonely" and "Someday Is Tonight," provide a glimpse into the sultry style of music that would be seen in the artist's later releases. Though these sexier pieces offer a prelude to Jackson's later work, they are still tame compared to sordid songs like "Rope Burn" on Velvet Rope.
Many of the songs on Rhythm Nation still retain their flair after over a decade of newer, less utopian pop music. This album is a perfect balance between sugar-coated pop music and hardcore hip-hop. It's no Britney, but it's no DMX, either - it's distinctly Janet.
Though the Jackson family has been riddled with scandal and controversy over the years, many would argue that their legacy lies more in their incredible song and dance talents. This early album certainly reflects that talent, while addressing deep-rooted social and racial issues that remain all-too-prevalent today.
