AceShowbiz - In celebration of her upcoming 60th birthday on May 16, the Greatest Pop Stars podcast is dedicating an entire week to highlight the remarkable career of Janet Jackson. From May 11 to 15, each episode explores one of the defining years in Janet Jackson's career: 1986, 1990, 1993, 1998, and 2001. The series covers her albums, hit singles, groundbreaking videos, dance routines, tours, fashion, and her influence on social and political culture, showcasing why she remains an enduring icon in music history.

The week kicks off with a deep dive into the year 1986, the moment when Janet Jackson emerged as a commanding force in pop music. Host Andrew Unterberger is joined by Billboard’s esteemed executive editor of R&B/hip-hop, Gail Mitchell, to reflect on the breakthrough year that introduced her to the world as an artist truly in control. This transformation was powered by the creative genius of writer-producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and the then-emerging choreographer Paula Abdul. Together, they set Janet Jackson on a 15-year trajectory of chart dominance and cultural impact that redefined the pop star archetype.

Throughout the episode, several key questions about Janet Jackson's early rise are explored: Why did it take until her third album for her to fully connect with audiences as an artist? Could glimpses of her destined stardom be seen during her early television appearances? Did the album Control mark a turning point towards more autobiographical and statement-driven pop music? The podcast also delves into the surprising strategy behind releasing “The Pleasure Principle” as the sixth single and video from the album, and whether Sharon Bryant of Atlantic Starr regrets initially dismissing Jam and Lewis’ energetic style.

Listeners also get an insightful breakdown of iconic moments such as the memorable “Nasty” bridge, the significance of her distinctive earrings, and a reflection on whether Janet Jackson still commands the pop star presence she has rightfully earned — four decades after the release of Control.

Alongside the episode, a curated YouTube playlist highlights Janet Jackson's most unforgettable moments from 1986, giving fans a visual companion to the discussion. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned throughout the week for more in-depth conversations about her peak years, with the 1990 era scheduled for the following day.

For those who want to stay updated, the Greatest Pop Stars podcast releases new episodes every Thursday and is available on Apple Music, Spotify, and wherever podcasts are streamed.

Additionally, the article points readers toward a notable Billboard interview by Jem with The Revolution from a decade ago, conducted in the year of Prince’s passing.

As is customary with these podcast features, listeners are invited to support causes advocating for transgender rights, including the Transgender Law Center, Trans Lifeline, Destination Tomorrow, the Gender-Affirming Care Fundraising on GoFundMe, and the Human Rights Campaign’s local initiatives.

By revisiting the pivotal moments of Janet Jackson's 1986 breakthrough on the Greatest Pop Stars podcast, fans and newcomers alike gain a fresh appreciation for how she reshaped pop music and culture with her bold artistry and creative partnerships.