Janet Jackson turns sixty today!
Known to many as the Icon. Others refer to her as the Blueprint. A few less kind observers label her “Ms. Jackson,” and longtime fans still call her Michael’s little sister. Yet Janet possesses a presence strong enough to command attention from everyone. The youngest of the Jackson siblings marked six decades and gave us a behind-the-scenes glimpse into her celebration, which featured Johnny Gill, Tasha Smith, and LaurieAnn Gibson.
Fresh after her landmark album Rhythm Nation was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame on May 11, Janet gathered her close friends, along with big sister LaToya, to toast this new milestone. For most of her life, Janet has kept audiences captivated. First, she served as the sassy foil to her brothers Michael, Jackie, Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, and Tito. Later, she stepped forward, reclaiming her own agency and rising as a pop icon in her own right. She has inspired generations of performers and helped shape entire musical genres.
Without her talent, work ethic, and authentic style, artists like Beyoncé, Victoria Monet, Teyana Taylor, Britney Spears, and others would not have had a person to look up to. Janet’s sound, though frequently copied, has never been matched. Her sex appeal, flawless precision and intricately choreographed routines remain the foundation for music videos, stage performances, and award shows today.
Despite numerous attempts to shake up her legacy and impact, Janet remains a beloved pioneer in music and still draws massive crowds. Last year, she attracted stars to Las Vegas for back-to-back residencies in May and September at the famed Resorts World venue. The shows outpaced her 2019 residency, which earned an impressive $13 million. Still THAT GIRL.
Whether selling out venues, collecting well-deserved plaques and awards, or simply being cherished by those closest to her, Janet remains a humble legend.
“I’m so grateful for the outpouring of love today,” she said in a birthday post. “You’ve made my 60th feel incredibly special. Every single post, tribute, and wish warms my heart. I thank God for every extra day of life and for placing each of you in it. Wishing you all returned blessings & I look forward to seeing you soon. I love you. ♥️ J”
And we love you right back, Janet! Happy 60th Birthday!
