Album Info
| Artist: | Janet Jackson |
| Album: | The Velvet Rope |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | UK & Europe, 2019 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Interlude - Twisted Elegance | 0:41 |
| A2 | Velvet Rope | 4:55 |
| A3 | You | 4:42 |
| A4 | Got 'Til It's Gone | 4:01 |
| A5 | Interlude - Speaker Phone | 0:54 |
| A6 | My Need | 3:44 |
| B1 | Interlude - Fasten Your Seatbelts | 0:19 |
| B2 | Go Deep | 4:42 |
| B3 | Free Xone | 4:57 |
| B4 | Interlude - Memory | 0:04 |
| B5 | Together Again | 5:01 |
| B6 | Interlude - Online | 0:19 |
| C1 | Empty | 4:32 |
| C2 | Interlude - Full | 0:12 |
| C3 | What About | 4:24 |
| C4 | Every Time | 4:17 |
| C5 | Tonight's The Night | 5:07 |
| D1 | I Get Lonely | 5:17 |
| D2 | Rope Burn | 4:15 |
| D3 | Anything | 4:54 |
| D4 | Interlude - Sad | 0:10 |
| D5 | Special | 3:21 |
| D6 | Can't Be Stopped | 4:13 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
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- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Janet Jackson's "The Velvet Rope", released on October 7, 1997, stands as one of her most introspective and artistically ambitious works. This album marked a significant evolution in her career, both thematically and sonically, as it delved into deeply personal and socially relevant topics, all while showcasing her ability to innovate within the pop and R&B genres.
"The Velvet Rope" is a concept album that explores themes of self-worth, identity, and emotional vulnerability. Janet opens up about her struggles with depression and self-esteem, creating a body of work that feels raw and authentic. The album's title itself is a metaphor for exclusivity and the barriers we create, both externally and internally, to protect ourselves. Through its 22 tracks, Janet invites listeners to step beyond the velvet rope and into her world, where she confronts her fears and desires with unflinching honesty.
Musically, the album is a rich tapestry of sounds, blending elements of R&B, trip-hop, funk, and electronic music. The production, primarily handled by Janet alongside her longtime collaborators Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, is lush and innovative, pushing the boundaries of what pop music could be at the time. Tracks like "Got 'til It's Gone", which features a sample of Joni Mitchell's "Big Yellow Taxi", showcase Janet's ability to merge genres seamlessly, creating something entirely new and refreshing. The song's laid-back groove and introspective lyrics set the tone for the album's exploration of personal and societal issues.
One of the standout tracks, "Together Again", is a dance anthem with a poignant message. Written as a tribute to friends Janet lost to AIDS, the song is both uplifting and deeply emotional, celebrating the memories of loved ones while offering hope and solace. Its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide, making it one of her most successful singles.
Another highlight is "I Get Lonely", a sultry ballad that captures the ache of longing and isolation. Janet's vocal performance is both tender and powerful, conveying a depth of emotion that is truly captivating. The song's production, with its smooth R&B grooves and intricate arrangements, complements her voice perfectly, creating a track that is as timeless as it is moving.
"The Velvet Rope" also tackles issues of sexuality and empowerment, with songs like "Rope Burn" and "Free Xone" challenging societal norms and celebrating individuality. Janet's willingness to address these topics with such openness was groundbreaking at the time, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the music industry.
Critically, the album was met with widespread acclaim, with many praising its boldness and innovation. It earned Janet a Grammy Award for Best Music Video for "Got 'til It's Gone" and was included in numerous "best of" lists, cementing its legacy as a landmark album in her career. Its influence can still be felt today, as it paved the way for artists to explore personal and social issues in their music without fear of judgment.
"The Velvet Rope" is more than just an album; it's a statement of resilience and self-discovery. Janet Jackson's willingness to bare her soul and push the boundaries of her artistry resulted in a work that is as relevant and impactful today as it was over two decades ago. For fans and newcomers alike, "The Velvet Rope" remains a must-listen, a testament to the power of music to heal, inspire, and connect us all.
