🎵 On this day: June 23 – Janet Jackson’s “That’s the Way Love Goes” Hits Six Weeks at #1
On June 23, 1993, Janet Jackson’s “That’s the Way Love Goes” was enjoying its sixth consecutive week at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. This landmark achievement solidified Jackson’s status not just as a pop star, but as a cultural icon. The song’s hypnotic groove and sultry vocals marked a shift in her musical style, embracing intimacy and vulnerability over the high-energy choreography that characterized her earlier work.
🌟 Artist Highlight: Janet Jackson
By the early ’90s, Janet Jackson had already made her mark in the music industry. Following her groundbreaking album, Rhythm Nation 1814, she returned with a more mature sound in her self-titled album, janet. Released in May 1993, this album introduced a softer, more sensual side of Jackson, culminating in the success of “That’s the Way Love Goes.” Produced by the legendary duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, the track exemplified a new era for Janet, one that focused on personal expression and emotional depth.
📅 What Happened
On this day, “That’s the Way Love Goes” was not just a hit; it was a takeover. The song became Jackson’s longest-running #1 single at the time, showcasing the growing influence of R&B in mainstream pop music. The track’s success was significant, as it not only captured listeners’ hearts but also won a Grammy for Best R&B Song, further establishing Janet Jackson as a leading figure in the industry.
💡 Why It Matters
“That’s the Way Love Goes” is more than just a memorable song; it serves as a blueprint for R&B and pop music in the ’90s. Its fusion of smooth rhythms and understated delivery influenced a generation of artists, including Aaliyah, TLC, and later stars like Beyoncé and SZA. Jackson’s co-writing and co-producing of the track marked a significant milestone in female artistic control, showcasing her ability to evolve while maintaining her artistic integrity. This control allowed her to shape her musical destiny, proving that an artist could grow without alienating their fan base.
🎧 Suggested Listening
Let Janet guide your vibe today:
- “That’s the Way Love Goes”
- “Again” – a heartbreaking ballad from the same album
- “Doesn’t Really Matter” – another chart-topper, 2000s style
🤔 Did You Know?
- Janet used samples from James Brown in the song, including “Papa Don’t Take No Mess.”
- The album janet. debuted at #1 and sold over 14 million copies worldwide.
- The music video for “That’s the Way Love Goes” features a young Jennifer Lopez as a backup dancer.