There was a lot of hype surrounding Janet Jackson’s performance Friday night at the Essence Music Festival. For many, the belief was that this may be the last time any of us would get to see Ms. Jackson give a show stocked full of her signature showmanship. Considered a lock to retire after the show, the Superdome was abuzz from the anticipation of what she would bring to the main stage.
Celebrities like Sherri Shephard, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Keith Sweat, and LisaRaye all piled into the Belvedere All Access Lounge, pining to get an up close and personal view of the musical icon’s set.
Out the gate, Janet dived into a dizzying infusion of some of her biggest hits. From “All For You” to “Doesn’t Really Matter” and “Alright,” Janet was electric, keeping the crowd on their feet with hit after satisfying hit.
From those early moments, it seemed like the entire night would be magical … that is, until Janet’s age started to show. Ten minutes in, the star seemed a bit winded, only resorting to giving a half effort on her choreography, while her dancers put in the real work. While her rabid fans loved every second, the more sane Janet appreciators were left to wonder if this was really her last stand.
During the first set intermission — as Janet departed to change clothes and possibly sucked on an oxygen mask — a confusing assortment of her acting clips were played on the monitors. From the infamous iron scene on “Good Times,” to her latest film work, fans were treated to an extended sizzle reel of Janet’s greatest acting hits. I use the term “treated” lightly as the reel lasted more than seven minutes. Was this really needed? For the fans, absolutely not, but maybe the presentation was built in to give Janet a bit of a breather.
This same pattern would continue throughout the night. The basic math equation for Janet’s show was simple: Half-hearted dancing + long intermission + lip syncing = an awkward experience. The only real redeeming moment was Janet visibly being moved during “Together Again,” where she dedicated the song to her brother Michael.
Outside of my heartstrings being tugged as the tears streamed down her face, the overall Janet experience left much to be desired. If this really was a last stand, then I can only shift my memories to happier times with Janet.
–dewayne rogers
Overall Grade: C+ (B- if you’re a die-hard Janet fan)
