At the end of 1989, beginning of 1990. Janet released Rhythm Nation. What amazed me was the choreography for the title track of this album, however the issues and messages about the state of the world raised by this album were just as important. Nowadays I'm more of an old school heavy rock/metal fan, but Rhythm Nation has a very special place in my heart which has never left.
The basic story is about two boys who are trying to gain a record deal with their music, although the odds are NOT stacked in their favor. One of the boys called Kickdrum decides to give up on that dream and chooses an alternative route to hitting the big time, by dealing drugs. However this cause of action comes at a very high price. Because his friend B.J. gets killed in a drive by shooting which then causes Kickdrum to get back on the correct path and NOT get involved in Drugs and crime.
On the run with nowhere to go, he comes across Janet and her friends dressed up in a military style uniform and is so inspired by them, that he joins them instead.
Although it's been 30 years since the release of Rhythm Nation, the issues raised by it are just as important now as they were back then. The main songs you should really listen to are "The knowledge"and "Rhythm Nation". The Album itself has some songs with messages worth listening to "State of the World" and "Living in a world (They didn't make)". To be totally honest with you, it's worth getting the Album, The video with this mini film and Janet Jackson: The Rhythm Nation Compilation video because it has some extra footage, which includes an example of how two girls were affected by the lyrics of "The Knowledge" who almost chose the wrong path by not staying at school. and then realized their mistake. (Be warned, this is a very emotional scene, which could leave you in tears)
As it's been 30 years since Rhythm Nation came out, I think would be a good time for it to be released on DVD/Blu-ray which includes the concert promoting this album. I can also speak from experience by talking to people on YouTube, some people are still affected by the issues and messages from Rhythm Nation, I happen to be one of them.
One of the most important messages that Janet says at the end of the Album and this video is.
"In complete darkness we are all the same, it is only our knowledge and wisdom that separates us. Don't let your eyes deceive you..."
It was true back in 1989/1990 and it's true 30 years later.
The basic story is about two boys who are trying to gain a record deal with their music, although the odds are NOT stacked in their favor. One of the boys called Kickdrum decides to give up on that dream and chooses an alternative route to hitting the big time, by dealing drugs. However this cause of action comes at a very high price. Because his friend B.J. gets killed in a drive by shooting which then causes Kickdrum to get back on the correct path and NOT get involved in Drugs and crime.
On the run with nowhere to go, he comes across Janet and her friends dressed up in a military style uniform and is so inspired by them, that he joins them instead.
Although it's been 30 years since the release of Rhythm Nation, the issues raised by it are just as important now as they were back then. The main songs you should really listen to are "The knowledge"and "Rhythm Nation". The Album itself has some songs with messages worth listening to "State of the World" and "Living in a world (They didn't make)". To be totally honest with you, it's worth getting the Album, The video with this mini film and Janet Jackson: The Rhythm Nation Compilation video because it has some extra footage, which includes an example of how two girls were affected by the lyrics of "The Knowledge" who almost chose the wrong path by not staying at school. and then realized their mistake. (Be warned, this is a very emotional scene, which could leave you in tears)
As it's been 30 years since Rhythm Nation came out, I think would be a good time for it to be released on DVD/Blu-ray which includes the concert promoting this album. I can also speak from experience by talking to people on YouTube, some people are still affected by the issues and messages from Rhythm Nation, I happen to be one of them.
One of the most important messages that Janet says at the end of the Album and this video is.
"In complete darkness we are all the same, it is only our knowledge and wisdom that separates us. Don't let your eyes deceive you..."
It was true back in 1989/1990 and it's true 30 years later.