Janet Jackson

Nominations:. USA Releases. Wins:. On the animated series Family Guy, Peter is obsessed and portrayed as one of the ultimate KISS fans in the episode "Road to Europe". Here's a list of the total of wins she achieved and some of the nominations:. (See accompanying image). Along with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, she was nominated for Producer of the Year at the 1990 Grammy's for her work on the Rhythm Nation 1814 album. The German KISS logo has S's that resemble backward Z's, and all the band's albums and German merchandise use it.

Janet remains the only artist to be nominated in the Pop, R&B, Dance, Rock and Rap singles charts simultaneously at the Grammy Awards. The KISS logo had to be redesigned for the German market because of the similarity of its two S's to the symbol of the SS, Adolf Hitler's paramilitary troops, which it is illegal to display in Germany. This below shows the number of hits Janet Jackson has scored since her debut nearly 23 years ago:. Peter Criss left the band again in late 2003, and was replaced with Eric Singer, who along with Tommy Thayer performed during KISS' 2004 "Rock The Nation" Tour, with 80's hair band Poison as the opening act. Another album is planned, possibly for 2005, with longtime boyfriend, Jermaine Dupri as an executive producer. In 2003, KISS released "KISS SYMPHONY" with Gene Simmons,Paul Stanley, Peter Criss and Tommy Thayer, backed by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. She impersonated Condoleezza Rice flashing her breast to the 9/11 commission to divert attention from the war in Iraq. The tour was mildly successful, but the band continued to dominate the rock world.

She hosted Saturday Night Live and was heavily praised in her ability to make light of her 'wardrobe malfunction'. In 1998, the band released "Psycho Circus", and departed on the ensuing 3-D tour, with a circus as the opening act. To fight back against her critics in 2004 Jackson also began doing television talk show promotions, a first for her. In 1997, the original band reunited after 17 years apart, and launched their wildly successful reunion tour. See also: Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime controversy. KISS has four official book releases:. Despite all of that, Jackson has managed to survive the incident and that of the troubles her older brother Michael is facing due to his child molestation case by showing the perserverance that has made her a superstar. KISS starred in a made for NBC television movie KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park (1978).

To make things worse, Jackson was told by representatives and family members of entertainment legend Lena Horne that she was cut out of the role to play the legendary singer-actress due to the controversy. On New Years' Eve 1975, Blue Öyster Cult opened for KISS at Nassau Coliseum, two years to the day after KISS opened for them. Many people directly blamed Jackson for this new wave of censorship. On a similar note, only three of KISS' albums are without reference to unrepentant libido:. Some performers were penalized for things they had gotten away with previously. While both albums are arguably quite good, the world was not ready to consider KISS outside of its "3-minute song about lusting for women" reputation. Programs that once pushed the envelope began eliminating even mildly coarse language from their broadcasts. As an example, compare the ethereal arpeggios of Pink Floyd's "Comfortably Numb" with KISS' "Under The Rose".

The FCC tightened up restrictions on lewd content on television and the entertainment industry suffered a major backlash. Ezrin's production on Music from The Elder is clearly similar to his work on Pink Floyd's The Wall, released two years earlier. As a result, CBS cancelled its invitation to Jackson to perform at the 2004 Grammy Awards ceremony. The first two were concept albums, with the former being less conspicuously so. The FCC has announced an investigation. Destroyer (1976), Music from the Elder (1981) and Revenge (1992) were produced by Bob Ezrin. CBS, the NFL, and MTV, which produced the halftime show, disclaimed all responsibility under a hailstorm of controversy. The result was Destroyer, KISS' most commercially successful album, which included the hits "Beth", "Detroit Rock City," and "Shout It Out Loud.".

Jackson apologized at first, calling it an accident and claiming that Timberlake was supposed to pull away the bustier and leave the red-lace bra intact, however, she later said to an interviewer for Genre magazine that she wishes she hadn't apologized at all. Following it, the group decided to expand their musical horizons and make a more venturesome album. Timberlake called the incident a "wardrobe malfunction". The album was a huge success. During the halftime show of Super Bowl XXXVIII on February 1, 2004, Janet Jackson performed with Justin Timberlake to an audience of more than 100 million people. During this live performance, her top was torn open by Timberlake, exposing Jackson's right breast; the nipple was partially covered by a starburst-shaped decoration held in place by a piercing. In 1975, they released the live album Alive!, a lion's share recorded at Detroit's Cobo Hall. Eventually garnering Platinum status in the U.S., total sales of the record have reached three million copies in total worldwide. The album included two important songs in the group's career; "C'mon And Love Me," their first big radio hit, and "Rock And Roll All Nite," which became their first hit single.

Though, she didn't go on tour for Damita Jo, Jackson performed two songs on "Good Morning, America"; an additional two songs on her appearance from Saturday Night Live, danced and performed on Jay Leno's "Tonight Show" and also at the BET Awards. Trading in the rawer sound of KISS and Hotter Than Hell for a more clean, produced sound with Dressed To Kill. Jackson received nominations as Best Female R&B singer at the Source Music Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and BET Awards. In 1975, having achieved recognition, but no big hit single, Casablanca Records head Neil Bogart stepped in to produce their next album. Jackson received an American Music Award nomination for Favorite R&B/Soul Artist though soul singer Alicia Keys took the trophy (and whom Jackson presented when Keys did her duet with Usher at the AMA's), and in December 7th, NARAS announced the 2004 Grammy nominations, though Janet was banned from attending the award show last year (see, Super Bowl controversy below), she earned two nominations for Damita Jo, one for Contemporary R&B Album the Year, and another for her single I Want You in the Best Female R&B Vocal Performance category. The album did less well than their debut, reaching just #100 on the Billboard album chart. Even though Damita Jo didn't live up to her past album sales, it didn't bother members of the recording company and some award shows to recognize the singer. Topping at #87 in the charts, the album did feature a few chestnuts in the group's career; "Strutter," "Deuce," "Cold Gin," and the closer "Black Diamond." The follow-up, Hotter Than Hell featured a Japanese influenced cover, an attempt to make people think the group were well-known worldwide.

The third, "All Nite (Don't Stop)", failed to appear on the charts. At the time, no one really knew what to make of the group's look. "Just A Little While" was followed by the more urban single, "I Want You", though with similar lukewarm success. The cover of their debut, KISS, showed the group in their makeup, mimicking the cover of the Beatles' With the Beatles album. MTV and VH1 declined to show the video. The group released their first two albums in 1974, both produced by Kenny Kerner and Ritchie Wise, (KISS and Hotter Than Hell). However, likely due in part to the Super Bowl controversy (see below), it was not as commerially successful as her previous efforts; it failed to hit the Billboard Top 40 on the pop charts, the first Jackson single to do so since the early-'80s. Their next show, February 6, 1974 was in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.

Its first single, Just A Little While, was marketed to mainstream and adult contemporary radio in early spring 2004. a girl with Purple and Green Hair, who is credited on his solo album. Janet's eighth studio release, Damita Jo, was released in March 2004. This is always where Gene encountered his first groupie... During this period, Jackson was romantically linked to seemingly everyone from longtime friend, R&B singer and New Edition member Johnny Gill, rapper Q-Tip, actor Matthew McConaughey and Timberlake. Eventually, the rumors were squashed when it was confirmed Jackson's new man was hip-hop record producer and music mogul Jermaine Dupri. KISS' first Canadian tour started on February 5, 1974 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. However controversy was caused when Jackson's fans protested her collaboration with Beenie Man whose album's lyrics very blatantly promoted the violent attack on and killing of homosexuals. The first ever KISS performance was in 1973 to an audience of 10 at the Popcorn Club (renamed Coventry shortly afterwards) in New York City.

Jackson returned to the studio to feature on former *N Sync singer Justin Timberlake's song (And She Said) Take Me Now, and Beenie Man's "Feel It Boy". Ace designed the infamous lightening bolt logo, and the rest is KISStory. A sell-out tour had its European leg of the concert was cancelled in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks; extra dates were added around the USA, and the Japanese leg continued, causing some to think that low tickets ales in Europe rather than the risk of flying caused the European cancellation. Paul has also stated that the band name is not an acronym (the original name of the band was Wicked Lester, 1969-1972). The second single Someone To Call My Lover hit the Top 5 of the Pop charts. Simmons states that Paul Stanley suggested the name on the spur of the moment while they were stopped at a traffic light. The title track became Janet's second biggest hit to date, reaching #1 for 7 weeks. The band's name was rumored to stand for "Knights In Satan's Service" or "Knights In Service of Satan" but this is an urban legend - propagated in the 1970s by Minnesota-based evangelists the Peters Brothers - which Gene Simmons has denied in his book.

The album sold over 600,000 copies her first week, an improvement on previous performances, and the highest 1st week of sales for one of her albums. Other lead guitarists between 1982 and 1996 (when the original four members reunited):. The album was much more upbeat than The Velvet Rope with songs dealing about romance, sex and the single life. 1982 saw Ace Frehley officially leave the band to pursue a somewhat successful solo career. In 2001, All For You, was released. Other drummers between 1980 and 1996 and 2001 and 2004. In search of a new sound she added hip-hop producer Rockwilder as part of her new production team, excluding now former husband Rene Elizondo. 1980 saw Peter Criss's departure for 3 'commercial flop' solo albums.

Jackson worked on her next album, her fourth with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. They felt that the feminine look did not work for them. Their divorce wouldn't be finalized until the end of 2003. Originally inspired by the New York Dolls, The Harlots of 42nd Street, and other New York glam scene bands. Elizondo revealed the secret a year after Jackson filed for legal separation. Sean Delaney was the group's first road manager and creative director. While the film was out, news had spread that the singer and her husband Rene Elizondo had split up after nine years. Doc McGhee is the current manager.

The single, Doesn't Really Matter became her first #1 of the new millennium making her the first artist to have a number one single in the '80s, '90s and 2000s. William 'Gui' Aucoin was the original manager 1973-1981. Jackson did not receive much praise for her acting, though the movie went on to be a bankable success. Ace The Space), lead guitar/vocals; and Peter Criss (The Catman), drums/vocals. Portraying Professor Denise Gaines, she falls in love with Sherman Klump (Murphy) and learns to deal with Klump's difficulty and outrageous family (to which Murphy played most of the characters). The original members of KISS (and their made-up personas) are Paul Stanley (The Starchild), rhythm guitar/vocals; Gene Simmons (The Demon), bass/vocals; Ace Frehley (The Spaceman a.k.a. Seven years after her last film, 34-year-old Jackson returned to the box office with the release of the Eddie Murphy vehicle, Nutty Professor II: The Klumps in 2000. KISS put it back on in 1996 for their Alive Worldwide Reunion Tour.

. They had to remove the makeup to be a viable band of the oblivious 1980s (platform shoes died with disco). After the success of the "Janet" album, Jackson re-negotiated her deal with Virgin Records for a reported $80 million in 1996, making her the highest paid recording artist of all time. The band first appeared without their make-up in 1983 on a MTV news special. Also included were two new recordings: "Runaway", which reached #3 on the Pop charts and #6 on the R&B charts; and "Twenty Foreplay" which reached #36. Until 1983 the band never appeared in public without their make-up (which disguised their real identities). Titled 'Design Of A Decade 1986/1996', the album featured all of Jackson's hits from her "Control" and "Rhythm Nation 1814" albums. The band is known for its elaborate stage shows, loud music, and extravagant costumes.

Also in 1995, A&M Records released Jackson's first greatest hits album. Although "heavy metal" did not exist when the band was formed in 1972 it can be said that they invented a big part of the sound and style which now belong to heavy metal. The video would later win the Jacksons a Grammy for Best Short Form Music Video. KISS was born out of the ashes of Wicked Lester. The video for this single became the most expensive video ever, costing around $7 million. KISS is a New York City-based heavy metal band that became famous in the mid 1970s. In 1995, Janet Jackson recorded the duet "Scream" with her brother Michael, which reached the Top Five on the Pop and R&B charts. Gold (2005).

The album was supported by a world tour that ran for two years. Gold: 1974-1982 - Sound+Vision (W/Dvd) (2004; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace, Eric C, Vinnie V) —. "janet." spawned six top ten singles, two of which hit the top spot. 20th Century Masters: Millennium Collection 2 (2004; Gene, Paul, Eric C, Vinnie V, Mark, Bruce, Eric S). The album went #1 in 22 other countries. 20th Century Masters: Millennium Collection 1 (2004; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace, Eric C). It also became the fastest selling album at that time, selling 350,000 copies in the US in its first week, and 950,000 worldwide. Alive IV - Kiss Symphony (2003; Gene, Paul, Peter, Tommy).

The album becomes the first by a female artist to enter the Billboard Top 200 albums charts at #1 during the Soundscan era. The Very Best of Kiss (2002; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace, Eric C., Vinnie, Bruce, Eric S.). janet becomes a big worldwide success. Psycho Circus Live (1999; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace) — 'Import Only'. The album was a departure from Jackson's earlier images; the baby Jackson had grown up. Psycho Circus (1998; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace). Elizondo's hands make an important contribution to the album cover where he covered the singer's breasts while Jackson looked seductively through just jeans on. Carnival of Souls (1997; Gene, Paul, Bruce, Eric S.).

The couple had married in secret to avoid press speculation, and Elizondo is said to have co-written many of the tracks on janet. although Jackson and longtime producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis have said that he only gave Jackson "ideas for a particular song". Greatest Kiss (1997; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace). In retrospect, the album was almost like a love letter to her new husband and long-time friend Rene Elizondo. You Wanted the Best, You Got the Best (1996; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace). It is often referred to by fans as her "sex album". MTV Unplugged (1996; Gene, Paul, Bruce, Eric S., Peter, Ace). janet. was released in 1993. Kiss My Ass (1994; Gene, Paul, Bruce, Eric S., various artists).

Jackson found better success with the movie as a singer and songwriter rather than an actor when her ballad, "Again", although not on the soundtrack album and only featured on Jackson's janet. album, gave her both Golden Globe and Oscar award nominations for Best Original Song. Alive III (1993; Gene, Paul, Bruce, Eric S.). Despite the reviews, the movie eventually entered #1 in the box office. Revenge (1992; Gene, Paul, Bruce, Eric S.). She earned the "Worst New Star" award at the 1993 Golden Raspberry Awards, though she did win two MTV Movie Awards (Best Female Performance and Most Desirable Female). Hot in the Shade (1989; Gene, Paul, Eric C., Bruce). However her performance was not well received. Smashes, Thrashes, and Hits (1988; Gene, Paul, Eric C., Bruce) — Greatest Hits compilation with 2 new songs and Eric Carr's vocal on Beth.

Playing opposite Tupac Shakur, Jackson played Justice, a young African-American poet and hairdresser. Crazy Nights (1987; Gene, Paul, Eric C., Bruce). In 1993, Jackson turned her attention to acting again and took a part in John Singleton's "Poetic Justice". Asylum (1985; Gene, Paul, Eric C., Bruce). Throughout 1992, Jackson continued to record; her duet "The Best Things In Life Are Free" with Luther Vandross (from the movie, Mo' Money) became a #1 R&B hit for the duo, and was nominated for a Grammy award for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group. Animalize (1984; Gene, Paul, Eric C., Mark). It was, at the time, the biggest recording deal in music history. Lick It Up (1983; Gene, Paul, Eric C., Vinnie) — first album cover without face paint.

With a number of labels competing for her, Jackson chose Virgin Records for a reported $50 million on March 11, 1991. Creatures of the Night (1982; Gene, Paul, Eric C., Vinnie). By 1991, Jackson's contract with A&M had run out. Killers (1982; Gene, Paul, Ace, Eric C.) — unavailable in North America. A massive world tour followed in 1990, The Rhythm Nation World Tour became the biggest and most successful debut tour by any artist in history, it was seen by over 2 million people worldwide, the tour ran a full nine months and performed over 120 shows. Tickets to the Tokyo Dome concert sold out in 7 minutes, a record in Japan. (Music from) the Elder (1981; Gene, Paul, Ace, Eric C.). "Black Cat" took #1 place on the Mainstream Rock Singles chart. Unmasked (1980; Gene, Paul, Ace, Anton Fig).

She also set a record by becoming the first and only artist ever to score 7 Top 5 hits from one album. The Best of Solo Albums (1980; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace) — 'Import only' 3 tracks each from each solo album. The single Miss You Much also became the longest running #1 single of 1989. Dynasty (1979; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace, Anton Fig). She won a total 14 Billboard Music Awards, including Top Selling Album of 1990, 5 Soul Train Awards, a Grammy for the "Rhythm Nation" mini-movie, 2 NAACP Image Awards, 3 MTV Video Music Awards, and 5 American Music Awards. Ace Frehley (1978; Ace). "Rhythm Nation 1814" went to sell even more than its predecessor overall reaching 12 million. Peter Criss (1978; Peter).

The album hit #1 on Pop and R&B charts spawning four US number ones and a further three Top 5 hits. Gene Simmons (1978; Gene). As well as the more challenging themes, there was a much harder edge than what was on "Control". Paul Stanley (1978; Paul). The album opened with a suite of songs about drugs, homelessness, education and prejudice. Double Platinum (1978; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace). Much of her inspiration on Rhythm Nation she said drew from socially conscious artists such as Marvin Gaye, U2, Tracey Chapman, Bob Dylan. The Originals II (1978; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace) — 'Japanese only' set of the second 3 studio albums.

Jackson explained that "Control was about my life; Rhythm Nation is about what's going on in the world around us". Alive II (1977; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace). The result was Rhythm Nation 1814. Love Gun (1977; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace). By then, A&M Records associates wanted the 23-year-old singer to do a sequel to the hugely-successful "Control" album yet Jackson wanted to do something else. Rock and Roll Over (1976; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace). The release date was pushed back several times as Jackson, along with Jam and Lewis, struggled to commit their ideas to record. Destroyer (1976; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace).

Jackson did not release another album until 1989. The Originals (1976; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace) — a set of the first 3 studio albums. The single "Diamonds" would hit #5 on the Pop charts and #1 on the R&B charts, while "Making Love in the Rain" (on which she sang backing vocals), reached #7 R&B and #35 Pop. Alive! (1975; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace). A&M Records co-founder Herb Alpert recorded three songs with Jackson and singer Lisa Keith in 1987 for his next album, although only two would make the cut. Dressed to Kill (1975; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace). "When I Think Of You" made Janet the youngest artist (at 19) to hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles chart since Stevie Wonder. Hotter than Hell (1974; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace).

The album sold over ten million copies worlwide, won 6 Billboard Awards including Top Selling Pop Singles Artist and Top Selling Black Singles Artist, 3 Soul Train Awards (Including Album Of The Year), 3 MTV Video Music Awards, 4 American Music Awards, and was nominated for 3 Grammy Awards, including Album Of The Year. Kiss (1974; Gene, Paul, Peter, Ace). "Nasty", "Control", "The Pleasure Principle" and "Let's Wait Awhile" all went #1 on the R&B Singles chart. The Early Years. Five singles went to the Top 5 of the Pop charts, with Jackson achieving her first #1 pop single with "When I Think Of You". Behind The Mask. Six of the nine tracks were released as singles. KISSTORY II.

The first single, "What Have you Done For Me Lately" gained massive radio airplay would go on to #4 on the Billboard Top 100, and #1 on the R&B Singles chart. KISSTORY. Upon its release, the album went to number one on both the pop (#1 for 2 weeks) and R&B charts (#1 for 6 weeks). Psycho Circus — songs explicitly referencing Rock music or KISS itself. The lyrics of the title track Control echo her frustrations and her early marriage:. Carnival of Souls: The Final Sessions — introspective and serious songs. In many respects the album Control tried to show that she was in charge of making professional and personal decisions and she alone was accountable for the end results. Music from The Elder — concept album about a youth's journey into heroism.

Her next album, Control explored themes of gaining independence, and self-assertion. Tommy Thayer, 2002- (new Spaceman). He famously told the two producers to not have his daughter sounding like Jackson family rival Prince. Bruce Kulick, 1985-1996 (no character). In a 1993 interview with Rolling Stone Magazine, Jackson said the move, and the recruitment of producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis met with much resitance from her family, especially her manager-father. John, 1983-1984 (no character). After the limited success of her first two albums Janet's management thought a move towards a far more funk and R&B sound would impove her career. Mark St.

After the marriage was annulled and after years of dealing with the tensed atmosphere of being a member of a world-famous family, Janet was searching for her own place. Vinnie Vincent, 1982-1983 (The Egyptian Warrior). The marriage was annulled in March 1985, with DeBarge's drug habit often cited as the reason. Eric Singer, 1991-1996, 2001-2003, 2004 - (new Catman). Around the same time, she fell in love and eloped with James DeBarge, member of the Motown family group DeBarge. Eric Carr, 1981-1991 (The Fox, 1981-1982) (died of cancer on November 24, 1991, the same day as Freddie Mercury). Critics began to demean Jackson's career as a pop star over before it actually began.

The album only peaked at #147 on the Billboard pop album charts when it was released that July (though it reached #19 on the R&B chart) and the album overall only sold half of what her self-titled debut sold. In 1984, Janet, now eighteen, released her sophomore effort titled Dream Street. It marked a musical progression from her debut, with more funky, up-tempo production by brother Marlon and famed disco producer Giorgio Moroder, who had established himself as a hit producer thanks to his work with disco legend Donna Summer. Despite the modest success, Jackson was dealt with an obstacle for having to compete with brother Michael for pop music prominence after his success with his "Off the Wall" and "Thriller" albums. Billboard Magazine gave Janet the distinction as being the tenth biggest-selling R&B artist at the end of 1982 while the debut album was given the distinction of being the tenth biggest-selling R&B album of 1983.

The CD sold over a quarter million copies in the US. The album held 3 Top 20 Billboard R&B singles "Young Love" (#6), "Say You Do" (#15) and "Come Give Your Love To Me" (#17). Two of the singles - "Young Love" and "Come Give Your Love to Me" went as high as #64 and #58 on the Billboard pop charts respectively. Produced by soul singers Angela Winbush, Rene Moore and Leon Slyvers of the famed Slyvers family music group, the album reached #6 on the Billboard R&B album charts, and spent 45 weeks in the Top 50 and hit #63 on the Billboard Pop albums chart. Nonetheless, at the age of sixteen, she released her debut album simply called Janet Jackson though the teenager protested that her last name shouldn't be on the cover.

Although she was asked by her father Joseph to start a singing career, Janet was uncomfortable with being in the recording studio feeling she wasn't as talented vocally as her brothers, particularly brother Michael, who was becoming a pop superstar thanks to his albums, Off The Wall and Thriller. In 1981, Janet and her two older sisters LaToya and Rebbie had wanted to start their own musical group, but disagreements between the older sisters forced the group to disband before ever making a record. She would participate in her family's other recordings, particularly with sister LaToya and brother Michael. Her first-ever recording was a duet with baby brother Randy on a song titled "A Love Song for Kids" in 1978.

Nonetheless, she agreed to participate in music just to help her family out. Janet always had an interest in music, writing her first song at the age of nine, but she never aspired herself to be a professional singer. She left the show in 1985 and closed the door of her TV career. But she would soon find herself back in the TV field by 1984 after her father ordered the 18-year-old to take the role of Cleo Hewitt in "Fame".

She would leave the show in 1982 after her music career began to take off. With her love interest played by Todd Bridges, who played Willis on the show, Janet, now 15, officially became a teen idol. In 1981, she landed a recurring role on another family sitcom, "Diff'rent Strokes" playing Charlene Duprey. Jackson continued her acting career appearing briefly in a short-lived sitcom titled "A New Kind of Family", which was cancelled in early 1980.

Her dramatic and comedic acting talent helped land her a role as a starring member by the end of the 1977-78 season and she would remain in the show until it cancelled for good in 1979. Casting her as an abused child named Penny, Janet easily stole the show from the show's biggest star, Jimmie "J.J." Walker was the apple of Penny's eye every time she saw him. 11-year-old Jackson's talent was spotted by legendary TV producer Norman Lear, who was looking for someone to help gain back ratings in one of his groundbreaking shows, the family sitcom, "Good Times". The show lasted only two seasons and was cancelled in 1977.

Debuting on June 16, 1976, "The Jacksons" debuted and the Jacksons became the first African-American family to have a variety show on TV. By 1976, Janet and the family's Vegas act had gotten the attention of CBS' Fred Silverman who was desperately trying to find a new variety act after Sonny & Cher had ended while ABC had the competing Osmonds family show featuring Donny and Marie. Jackson quickly became the star of the show emulating and imitating various icons such as Cher and Mae West, in particular. In April 1974, seven-year-old Janet Jackson made her public debut performance at a Las Vegas nightclub, with nearly all nine members of the Jackson family (Rebbie didn't join until a few months later at a different city).

After the successes of his multitalented sons began to dwindle due to a changing musical scene, Joseph decided to do his best to prolong the Jackson legacy in entertainment. However, her father would not have it, as he saw the major potential early on in Janet. At seven years of age, Janet had dreams of being a horse jockey after a growing a profound infatuation with horses. Janet was all but five years old by this point.

By the time the J5 had achieved success, the entire family moved out of Gary into the more sunnier atmosphere of Southern California eventually settling in a gated mansion they named Hayvenhurst in 1971. At the end of 1968, the group had signed to Motown Records and by the end of the following year, the group recorded their first of four history-making #1 singles, "I Want You Back". By the time she was 2, Janet's older brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael had already begun to perform onstage at nightclubs and theaters as the Jackson 5. She was considered the one who "kept the glue within the family" during the earlier years.

She quit the job as soon as she became a devout Jehovah's Witness in 1965. For a time before Janet was born, Katherine also held down a job working as a store clerk for Sears. While Joe was stern and gregarious, mother Katherine seemed angelic. Joseph was also a tough disciplanarian whose teachings and lessons he instilled on his children would later be questioned by those who have written books about him since.

They never got as far as the biggest nightclub in Gary. Sometimes nicknamed "Papa Joe" or known as simply Joe, Joseph worked hard labor as a crane operator in Gary's steel mills. Before Janet was born, Joe was seeking his own music career forming the R&B/blues band, the Falcons. She was born the last of nine children in Gary, Indiana to parents Joseph and Katherine. Rising out of the shadows of her family to attain worldwide fame and most importantly breaking away from the distinction of just being Michael's baby sister.

Born into a family of show-business icons, she has gone on to become an icon herself. Janet Damita Jo Jackson (born May 16, 1966 in Gary, Indiana) is an African-American R&B, soul and pop singer and sister of pop legend Michael Jackson. Janet's #1 smash single "Again" was nominated for Best Original Song at the 1994 Academy Awards. Janet remains the only Jackson family member to be nominated for an Academy Award.

"When I Think Of You" hit #3 on the R&B charts. However, the other five singles ("What Have You Done For Me Lately", "Nasty", "Control", "Let's Wait Awhile", and "The Pleasure Principle") all hit #1 on the R&B Charts. Janet's breakthrough album, Control, had one single - "When I Think Of You" hit #1 on the Billboard pop charts. Janet made history when her #1 single, "All For You", was simultaneously added on every national radio and records station throughout the United States.

The singles were "Miss You Much" (#1 Pop and #1 R&B), "Rhythm Nation"(#2 Pop and #1 R&B), "Escapade" (#1 Pop and #1 R&B), "Alright" (#4 Pop and #2 R&B), "Come Back To Me" (#2 Pop and #2 R&B), "Black Cat" (#1 Pop and #10 R&B), and "Love Will Never Do (Without You)" (#1 Pop and #3 R&B). Janet Jackson is the only artist to place seven consecutive Top Five singles on the Billboard Hot 100 from one album, Rhythm Nation 1814. Janet Jackson shares the record for most consecutive #1 albums with 5 (Control, Rhythm Nation 1814, Janet., The Velvet Rope, and All For You/. Janet holds the record for longest weeks spent at #1 on the R&B charts for her 1994 single, "Any Time, Any Place".

The Rhythm Nation 1814 Tour ran for nine months and was sold out for every concert. Janet's 1990 Rhythm Nation tour is the most successful debut tour by any male or female artist. Janet's first nickname was "Dunk" given to her by brother Michael. Brother Michael claims in his "Home Movies" documentary in 2003 that Janet emulated his choreography from his "Captain EO" short movie into her "Rhythm Nation" music video which she choreographed with Anthony Thomas four years later.

Janet's nickname used to be "Mama Yoke" as she explained during the song "Free Xone" on her The Velvet Rope album in 1997. Janet became the first artist to score a #1 hit simultaneously on the Billboard Hot 100 and Mainstream Rock singles chart with "Black Cat" in 1990. Janet wore a key earring throughout her tenure as a rising pop superstar in the 80s. (Pretty Young Thing)", in 1983.

Janet sung background vocals on brother Michael's Top 10 hit, "P.Y.T. Janet's first musical recording was a duet with brother Randy on the b-side to his modest charted hit single, "How Can I Be Sure" on a song titled "A Love Song for Kids", in 1978 when she was only twelve. Janet's first biography was released in 1977 as a joint bio about her and brother Randy. "Best Contemporary R&B Album (Damita Jo)" (2004).

"Best R&B Female Vocal Performance (I Want You)" (2004). "Best Pop Vocal Album (All For You)" (2001). "Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group (What's It Gonna Be?!)" (1999). "Best Female R&B Vocal Performance (I Get Lonely)" (1998).

"Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals (Scream)" (1995). "Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group (The Best Things in Life are Free)" (1992). "Best Female Rock Vocal Performance (Black Cat)" (1990). "Best Female Pop Vocal Performance (Miss You Much)" (1989).

"Best Female R&B Vocal Performance (Miss You Much)" (1989). "Best Female R&B Vocal Performance (Control)" (1986). "Album of the Year (Control)" (1986). "Best Dance Recording (All For You)" (2001).

"Best Short-Form Music Video (Got 'til It's Gone)" (1997). "Best Short-Form Music Video (Scream)" (1995). "Best R&B Song (That's The Way Love Goes)" (1993). "Best Long-Form Music Video (Rhythm Nation)" (1989).

"All Nite (Don't Stop)" (2004) #90 R&B. "I Want You" (2004) #57 Pop, #18 R&B. "Just a Little While" (2004) #45 Pop. "Feel It Boy" (w/Beenie Man) (2002) #28 Pop, #14 Rap.

"Son of a Gun" (w/Carly Simon and w/or without Missy Elliot) (2001) #28 Pop, #26 R&B. "Someone To Call My Lover" (2001) #3 Pop, #11 R&B. "All For You" (2001) #1 Pop (7 wks), #1 R&B. "Doesn't Really Matter" (2000) #1 Pop, #3 R&B.

"Girlfriend/Boyfriend" (w/Blackstreet) (1999) #47 Pop, #19 R&B. "What's It Gonna Be?!" (w/Busta Rhymes) (1999) #3 Pop, #1 R&B, #1 Rap. "Luv Me, Luv Me" (w/Shaggy) (1998) #76 Pop, #64 R&B. "Every Time" (1998) #125 Pop.

"I Get Lonely" (w/or without Blackstreet) (1998) #3 Pop, #1 R&B. "Together Again" (1997) #1 Pop, #8 R&B. "Runaway" (1995) #3 Pop, #6 R&B. "Scream" (w/Michael Jackson) (1995) #5 Pop, #2 R&B.

"You Want This" (1994) #8 Pop, #9 R&B. "Any Time, Any Place" (1994) #2 Pop, #1 R&B(10wks). "Because of Love" (1994) #10 Pop, #9 R&B. "Again" (1993) #1 Pop, #7 R&B.

"If" (1993) #4 Pop, #3 R&B. "That's The Way Love Goes" (1993) #1 Pop (8 wks), #1 R&B. "The Best Things in Life Are Free" (w/Luther Vandross) (1992) #10 Pop, #1 R&B. "Love Will Never Do (Without You)" (1990) #1 Pop, #3 R&B.

"Black Cat" (1990) #1 Pop, #10 R&B, #1 Rock. "Come Back to Me" (1990) #2 Pop, #2 R&B. "Alright" (1990) #4 Pop, #2 R&B. "Escapade" (1990) #1 Pop, #1 R&B.

"Rhythm Nation" (1989) #2 Pop, #1 R&B. "Miss You Much" (1989) #1 Pop, #1 R&B. "Making Love in the Rain" (w/Herb Alpert and Lisa Keith; uncredited) (1987) #35 Pop, #7 R&B. "Diamonds" (w/Herb Alpert; uncredited) (1987) #5 Pop, #1 R&B.

"The Pleasure Principle" (1987) #14 Pop, #1 R&B. "Let's Wait Awhile" (1987) #2 Pop, #1 R&B. "Control" (1986) #5 Pop, #1 R&B. "When I Think of You" (1986) #1 Pop, #3 R&B.

"Nasty" (1986) #3 Pop, #1 R&B. "What Have You Done For Me Lately" (1986) #4 Pop, #1 R&B. "Fast Girls" (1984) #40 R&B. "Don't Stand Another Chance" (1984) #101 Pop, #9 R&B.

"Come Give Your Love to Me" (1983) #58 Pop, #17 R&B. "Young Love" (1982) #64 Pop, #6 R&B. "Say You Do" (1982) #15 R&B. 2004 "Damita Jo" #2 US, #32 UK, Worldwide sales: 4 million.

2001 "All For You" #1 US, #2 UK, Worldwide sales: 6.6 million. 1997 "The Velvet Rope" #1 US, #6 UK, Worldwide sales: 8 million. 1995 "Design of a Decade 1986/1996" #3 US, #2 UK, Worldwide sales: 8 million. 1993 "Janet." #1 US, #1 UK, Worlwide sales: 19 million.

1989 "Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814" #1 US, #4 UK, Worldwide sales: 15 million. 1986 "Control" #1 US, #8 UK, - Worldwide sales: 15 million. 1984 "Dream Street" #147 US - Worldwide sales - 1.2 million. 1982 "Janet Jackson" #63 US - Worldwide sales - 1 million.