Janet Jackson: The Best/Number Ones – My Album Review
So last week one of the CD’s I picked up was Janet Jackson’s: The Best, her latest greatest hits LP replacing “Design of Decade 1986/1996″ and covering all her hits from the “Control” album all the way up to 2008′s “Discipline”. The CD also includes new single “Make Me” which was dubbed as “A Gift for the Fans”.
I love the CD which is no surprise considering I have all the songs already, but what makes this one different is that you have all the classic songs over two discs rather than having to chop and change over 6 or 7 albums. Also some of the earlier songs sound exceptionally crisp which I love, no guess some remastering was done to bring it up to par with the newer tracks.
What I love about this greatest hits has to be the varation of song styles and topics that span through the 2 discs, something which I find can only be rivaled by possibly Madonna. Both artists have re-invented themselves throughout the years and manged to have careers that spans over 2 decades. Moving more towards my point, its listening to the CD from start to finish that makes you realise how creative Janet as an artist is before even looking at her music videos. I truly think the real artistry of perfecting your craft was left in the 80s as star’s these days seem to be hooked on talking about the same things and then at last resort sampling something that was more than likely conceived in the 80s.
You have people talking about, money, cars, and sex, or to pin point it more to female artists, going to the club, getting a man, keeping your man, leaving your man and then telling all your girls about it, but what else?, where’s the substance?. Then of course you have a real artist like Janet who writes their own songs, and yes maybe covers some of those topics but also talks about the more important things in life racism, spousal abuse, children, getting a education, depression, empowering women, taking control of your life, the death of loved ones and several other things. So what astound’s me is when people come to the assumption that all Janet talks about is sex? bullsh*t. Buy the cd’s, buy this cd, listen to the messages, then talk otherwise. Cut it, keep it, seal it, get your facts in order.
Track List
DISC 1
1. What Have You Done for Me Lately
2. Nasty
3. When I Think of You
4. Control
5. Let’s Wait Awhile (Single Remix Version)
6. The Pleasure Principle
7. Diamonds (Herb Alpert with Janet Jackson)
8. Miss You Much
9. Rhythm Nation
10. Escapade
11. Alright 7” (Video Version with Rap)
12. Come Back to Me
13. Black Cat (Video Mix/Short Solo Single Version)
14. Love Will Never Do (Without You)
15. The Best Things in Life Are Free (Luther Vandross and Janet Jackson with BBD and Ralph Tresvant)
16. That’s the Way Love Goes
DISC 2
1. If
2. Again
3. Because of Love
4. Any Time, Any Place
5. Scream (Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson)
6. Runaway
7. Got ’Til It’s Gone featuring Q-Tip and Joni Mitchell
8. Together Again
9. I Get Lonely featuring BLACKstreet
10. Go Deep
11. What’s It Gonna Be?! (Busta Rhymes featuring Janet Jackson)
12. Doesn’t Really Matter
13. All for You (Video Single Mix)
14. Someone to Call My Lover
15. All Nite (Don’t Stop)
16. Call on Me featuring Nelly
17. Feedback
18. Make Me (New Single)
This CD highlights music history and shows you what true artistry and originality is. Be sure to get yours, Number Ones/The Best in stores now.
All we need now is a DVD version to complete the package.
*EDIT*
Outrage Over Adam Lambert Dropped For Chris Brown On Good Morning America
American television network ABC have decided to drop American Idol finalist Adam Lambert from an interview and performance on there morning show “Good Morning America” ( the US version of GMTV). While the network state he was dropped because they find him unpredictable, however the question remains are they supporting an underlying stigma over gay men in america?. Check out the fox news report below:
ABC has booked Rihanna-beater Chris Brown for an interview and a performance on “Good Morning America” — right after the network canceled guy-kisser Adam Lambert.
Brown will do a taped tell-all with Robin Roberts, followed by a performance of songs from his new album. But TV insiders say the appearance, slated to air the week after next, has outraged feminists and gay activists who wonder why a convicted girlfriend abuser is more palatable to the network than an openly gay man who broke no laws with his raunchy performance on the “American Music Awards.”
An ABC source said, “The network is giving a mixed message — that it doesn’t trust someone who shocked with an unpredictable show and a gay kiss, but then it is happy to go ahead with Chris Brown, who was convicted of felony assault.”
ABC News has insisted that Lambert’s sexual orientation did not play a role in its decision to pull the plug on his “GMA” appearance this week.
ABC insiders said they ruled the “American Idol” star’s sexed-up shenanigans on Sunday’s awards show — which included him groping a female dancer, kissing a male musician and shoving a male dancer’s face into his crotch — were inappropriate for morning TV. One said, “He was not canceled over a gay kiss. He showed himself to be unpredictable on live TV.” [SOURCE]
Personally I think this whole thing has been blown out of proportion, what Adam did in his performance was nothing to be shocked about at all, one he is openly gay, two female artists have done stuff like that for ages and no one blinks an eye they just cheer it on, i.e. Madonna sharing a lesbian kiss with Britney and Christina just to name one.
I think people should give him a break he’s a performer and he was doing his job, If Lady Gaga, Madonna, or Britney did anything like that what he did no one would care, just because he’s gay or male doesn’t give anyone a reason to judge him differently. Equality for all.
Case Closed.
IMG|SOURCE: Google
Janet Jackson Readies European Tour For 2010
Pop & RnB Goddess Janet Jackson has revealed in an interview with the The Times newspaper (UK) that she is planning a European tour in 2010. It has been over 9 years since Janet has embarked on a European leg, the last time was for “The Velvet Rope” tour in 1998. Her last tour “Rock Witchu” for 2008′s LP “Discipline” was planned to be worldwide but was cancelled due to her coming down with Vertigo, an illness which could be detrimental for a performer who dances around as much as she does.
As mega Janet fan I’m sure you know I’m screaming right now, really and truly this is what Janet needs I think f*ck the US they dont even know good music anymore, all their wrapped up in is whose shaking there coochie in a video. Tut!.
Funny enough I’m not too surprised shes taking it over here I’ve noticed a lot of US artists are starting to promote overseas more than their home country, and to be honest it’s better, expand your market, improve your fan base and reach out to people who arent lucky enough to visit your shows in the states.
It’s been way too long since Janet’s rocked this side of the pond we all await her return, That’s the way love goes.
Cheryl Cole: 3 Words – Music Video Premiere
Cheryl Cole’s new video “3 Words Ft Wil.i.am” off her debut LP “3 Words” has premiered. While I wasnt too keen on the song before I must admit the video had my eyes glued and waiting to find out what was gonna happen next. Anyway here’s the fashion inspired clip below:
Directed By: Vincent Haycock
Cheryl Cole: Official 2010 Calender Pictures
Loving the shots from Cheryl’s 2010 calendar, I’m sure I will be picking myself up a copy I think the styling is really nice, however I’m sure they never pushed the fashion further because they wanted to appeal to a larger audience. All I know is Cheryl look’s great in these pic’s I wouldn’t be surprised if they make a Barbie after her next.
IMG|SOURCE: MX
Andreea Raicu Covers Elle Romania December 2009
The beautiful Andreea Raicu covers ELLE Romania for their December issue. I’m loving this cover, the styling is super chic and elegant very on trend while Andreea looks stunning. Personally I feel the cover represents a very sincere and clean message which is perfect to sell to the women who support ELLE magazine. Andreea looks as if she’s healthy in mind body and soul. I loves it!!
IMG|SOURCE: TFS
Vanessa Paradis Covers Elle France November 2009
French singer Vanessa Paradis covers french ELLE this month, I’m not particularly feeling the cover but I love the leather pant she’s wearing and how her legs are posed. I know it’s a bit sick but yeah, I had to post it lol.
IMG|SOURCE: TFS
Michaela Kocianova For Elle Denmark – December 2009
Michaela Kocianova is featured on the cover and in an editorial for Denmark’s Elle. Literally I wasted no time in posting this shoot I loved it from the get-go. I love the styling and Michaela’s hair looks absolutely amazing. Another great shoot from somewhere other than the UK, again I ask why can’t our own version of this mag produce this quality. Come On Guys!
IMG|SOURCE: MX
Erin O’Connor For Harper’s Bazaar, Korea – December 2009
Erin O’Connor is featured on the cover and in a fashion spread for Harper’s Bazaar Korea, In a spread dubbed Viva London. Erin looks great and I love the super chic styling, very relaxed and true to Erin’s signature style. I didn’t post all the shots but I did post the ones which I found cool.
IMG|SOURCE: MX
Maggie Cheung For Harper’s Bazaar, China – December 2009
Maggie Cheung coves and features in fashion spread for Harper’s Bazaar, China. While I do not know much about Maggie I thought the dress she is wearing looks FAB which is why I decided to post her cover shot.
IMG|SOURCE: MX
Kristina Brkic Covers Elle Croatia December 2009
Kristina Brkic is featured on the cover ELLE Croatia December issue, shot by Mladen Saric the cover looks great I love the layering of different textures which makes the image so fun and true to a real Elle girl.
Acqua: Zuzana Gregorova By Thierry Le Gouès For Numero Italy
*EDIT*: NUDITY UNDER THE CUT
Check out these sizzling new pictures of Zuzana Gregorova by Thierry Le Gouès for Numero Italy, the pictures look great however I didnt post them all but I did post the ones which were my fave’s. Zuzana looks hot and I looove the first shot, so much energy and the sex appeal is literally oozing.
IMG|SOURCE: ThierryLeGouès
Betsey Johnson By Elias Wessel At The Plaza
This fun shoot is for Betsy Johnson’s Spring Collection, shot by Elias Wessel at the Plaza Hotel New York, he continues to create some of the most interesting fashion stories in the industry very similar to Tim Walker. I love the last shot so much, I dunno why but it’s so child vs adult in the styling it reminds me of Alice in Wonderland.
IMG|SOURCE: FGR
Train Stop Fridays: All World: The Greatest Hits – LL Cool J (1996) Album
This week the train stops at hip hop royalty LL Cool J’s greatest hits album “All World”. Released in 1996 it is the only album thus yet to contain his hits ranging from his debut album at Def Jam ”Radio” to his 1995 album “Mr. Smith” and has been certified platinum by the RIAA. LL is one of few rappers of his era to have a career thats has spanned over two decades. A staple in Hip Hop history LL is the one who fused love ballads with rap songs creating hits such “I Need Love”, “Around the Way Girl” and “Hey Lover”.
*EDIT* :For those who don’t know LL Cool J stands for Ladies Love Cool James
Track List
1.I Can’t Live Without My Radio
2.Rock the Bells
3.I’m Bad
4.I Need Love **
5.Going Back to Cali
6.Jack The Ripper
7.Jingling Baby (Remixed But Still Jingling)
8.Big Ole Butt
9.The Boomin’ System**
10.Around The Way Girl**
11.Mama Said Knock You Out
12.Back Seat
13.I Need a Beat
14.Doin It**
15.Loungin (Who Do Ya Luv)**
16.Hey Lover**
(BOLD) = Standout Tracks
** = My Fav’s
The Late Daul Kim For Vogue Korea
The late Daul Kim is featured in these shots for Vogue Korea. As of yet I haven’t done a R.I.P post to her, but to be honest I didnt know much of her till she died so I felt it would be hypocritcal. Knowing that I love these shots but I didnt post all from the shoot as I didnt like the styling in some.
Photography By: Tyen
IMG|SOURCE: TFS
Kim Noorda Covers Cover Magazine December 09/January 10
I’m not sure yet as too who to give cover credit to but as soon as I know I will give an *EDIT* and update it.
I love the cover theres not too much going on it’s very simple and once again I’m getting a mid 80s vibe, also I LOVE the Chanel No5 studs. I need them in my life asap!!.
IMG|SOURCE: TFS
Vogue Nippon: Up To You – Beauty Spread
These photos are from a hair and beauty spread in Vogue Nippon’s December issue, I didnt have much reason for posting them apart from the fact I love the hair very 80s esq and as you know by now I’m infatuated with that era.
Hair Styling: Didier Mange
Photography By: Daniel Jackson
Jakob Wiechmann For Huge Magazine By Satoshi Saikusa
Jakob Wiechmann appears on the cover and in a fashion spread for Huge Magazine in Japan. Shot by Satoshi Saikusa literally, I love the styling its practically eveything I could possibly want from mens fashion and in my wardrobe right now, most of all its black!! I Loves it!!
Styling: Tsuyoshi Noguchi
Photography By: Satoshi Saikusa
IMG|SOURCE: TFS
A Letter From Madonna
Hopefully I got to see many of you on my Sticky & Sweet travels. While I’m happy to have more time to breathe and sleep, I miss my touring family. Sometimes I have to remember that I won’t be seeing them for afternoon rehearsal and the big show. It was great visiting countries that I’d never been to before and of course returning to lots of my favorite places.
I’ve just finished a script for a film that I hope to make next year. Its working title is W.E. It’s two love stories intertwined together. One is about the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and the other is a fictional story of a woman searching for love. That’s all I am going to reveal at the moment. Stay tuned for further info on this.
I am just back from Malawi and Brazil. Was so exciting to see the results of many of the projects that are underway in Malawi and to see first hand the improvement in the lives of the children that we have all grown to love like family. I’m especially looking forward to watching the building of the Girls Academy which hopefully will give a new meaning to girl power and produce the future leaders of Malawi. Thanks to all of you who contributed n the matching donation program, and feel free to keep helping in any way you can. You will be hearing more about the programs in Brazil in the near future, I look forward to sharing that endeavor with you all.
Earlier this month I got to work with one of my favorite photographers, Steven Klein. We did a photo shoot for the next Dolce & Gabbana women’s campaign – it’s always an adventure when I work with Steven.
Lastly, thanks to everyone for helping CELEBRATION reach No. 1 in so many countries. It’s a wonderful reminder that my fans continue to celebrate music – old and new – and I can continue to inspire people to dance and dream. To quote the great Stevie Wonder from “Sir Duke”, “Music is a world within itself. It’s a language we all understand. You can feel it all over.”
Blessings to all of you
Love Madonna. [SOURCE]
Aww, I miss Madonna as well, I’m still listening to her greatest hits CD, while I wait for the tour DVD and a new album to come out
Hurry and Justify My Love Madge 
Rihanna: Rated R – My Album Review
Ok so one of the CD’s I picked up this week was Rihanna’s “Rated R”, no it wasn’t a spur of the moment thing either I’ve been dying to get my hands on the physical copy for ages now, so come the 23rd I flew to the shop and got myself a copy.
What I can’t seem to understand is why everyone keeps putting RiRi down and making negative comments about the CD of which I think is her best work yet. The LP includes an infectious mix of Rock, Pop and RnB with a Hip Hop twinge. From first listen’s I instantly garnered favourites such as “Rudeboy”, “MadHouse”,”Te Amo”, “The Last Song”, and “The Wait is Ova” but it was still a thing whereas I could listen to the whole set with maybe one exception of “Firebomb” without skipping.
It’s funny really because I wanted to do this review on Monday but I felt I should wait to allow any personal hype to die down a bit so I could make a rational decision. Yet only listening to the CD more I’ve gathered even more favourite’s “G4L (Gangsta 4 Life)”, “Rockstar 101″, “Cold Case Love” and ”Hard”. Saying that Ive nearly named 80% of the tracks.
It’s no secret that Riri has gone particularly Bad Ass, Bad Bitch, dont f*ck with me type of attitude on this project which I love and think only adds more to the character and authenticity of the work. None to the fact she is listed as a co-writer on a majority of the songs also. I just really think it’s her best work yet and can’t wait to see what she come’s up with next.
The music video’s have no excuse to be anything other than HAUTE!!
Track Listing
1. Mad House
2. Wait Your Turn
3. Hard (ft. Young Jeezy)
4. Stupid In Love
5. ROCKSTAR 101 (ft. Slash)
6. Russian Roulette
7. Fire Bomb
8. Rude Boy (Favorite)
9. Photographs (ft. will.i.am)
10. G4L
11. Te Amo
12. Cold Case Love
13. The Last Song
(BOLD) = Standout Tracks
Britney Spears Back With New Album in May
It was confirmed today that Britney Spears will be back with a new album by May of next year, recording starts in January and the album is set to a urban affair ala 2007′s “Blackout”.
Mostly what’s going through my mind is, YES about time I loved Blackout so much and to this day I believe its Brit’s best work, funny considering the situation at the time, however also I’m just wondering if perhaps we may get a resurgence of the Britney we once knew who tore up music video’s like “Slave 4 U”, “Boys” and “Toxic”. As of lately I haven’t seen anything which has really wowed me. I just want the best for Brit really I used to love being able to watch a performance and know Brit was gonna dance her ass off, a Janet Jackson/Madonna inspiration If I ever saw one.
*EDIT*: Wouldn’t it be cool if Britney and Ciara collaborated on a track, better yet a music video.
IMG|SOURCE: Google
Janet Jackson and Lady Gaga Confirmed To Perform on X-Factor
Janet Jackson & Lady Gaga are both confirmed to perform on the X-Factor next week (Dec 6th). Janet is set perform something off her new greatest hits possibly new single ”Make Me” or a Medley while Gaga will perform “Bad Romance” off her latest EP “The Fame Monster”.
What a show stopper it’s set to be, Can’t wait!!!
IMG|SOURCE: Andre DeVeaux Via Getty
Happy Thanksgiving To My US Fans
I just wanted to wish all my US fan’s a Happy Thanksgiving, we dont celebrate that over here in the UK but I know you do in the USA. I hope you all enjoy your dinner’s and use this time to connect with your family and people you haven’t seen or spoken to in a long time.
Lifes too short, make the most of it.
Happy Thanksgiving!
x
…and dont spend too much on Black Friday lol.
