Rhythm Nation 1814

Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814 is the fourth studio album by American recording artist Janet Jackson. Released on September 12, 1989 by A&M; Records, Rhythm Nation 1814 is the second album of Jackson's career to be co-written and produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Jackson also shares production credits with long-term collaborator Jellybean Johnson and executive producer John McClain. Departing from themes of independence present in Jackso... more

Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814 is the fourth studio album by American recording artist Janet Jackson. Released on September 12, 1989 by A&M; Records, Rhythm Nation 1814 is the second album of Jackson's career to be co-written and produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Jackson also shares production credits with long-term collaborator Jellybean Johnson and executive producer John McClain. Departing from themes of independence present in Jackson's third studio album Control (1986), Rhythm Nation 1814 is a concept album based on social injustice. Though A&M; executives wanted an album similar to Control, Jackson insisted on addressing social issues. Jackson and her producers routinely watched television news reports—predominately from CNN—as a source of inspiration for the album's lyrics. Produced during the height of the new jack swing genre, the album incorporates contemporary R&B; with rap vocals, as well as the utilization of swung notes and industrial beats. Rhythm Nation 1814... less