“He Doesn’t Know I’m Alive” from Control (1986)

When most people think of Jackson’s “Control” album, they probably think of sass and feminism. Well, not on this little-known album cut, “He Doesn’t Know I’m Alive.” It’s the worst song on the album, but it’s still a cute showcase of Ms. Jackson’s more vulnerable side. Her high notes are to be appreciated, too. —Vincent Anthony

“Funny How Time Flies (When You’re Having Fun)” from Control (1986)

Janet’s voice exudes a sexiness here that may seem at odds with the message of the previous track “Let’s Wait Awhile,” but if anything it reinforces that song’s message. Time running away makes her want to see her lover again, not rush into things. —Reece Davis

“Lonely” from Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989)

The echoing thunderstorm opening and the Spanish lines “Todos necesitamos / Un amigo en la soledad” set the mood immediately for this anthem about the importance of friendship to battle solitude and isolation. —Mario M.

“Living in A World (They Didn’t Make)” from Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989)

The only disappointing aspect of Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814, is the fact that the social themes used on that album are still so painfully relevant. On this track, placed towards the end of the album, Janet mournfully lists all of the present-day issues of the world; all while pointing out that the people most impacted, and influenced by its evils, are the children. A trope we sadly still see today with all of the black and brown children felled in the era of #BlackLivesMatter. —Jordan Listenbee

“Someday Is Tonight” from Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989)

The wicked sister of “Let’s Wait Awhile” from “Control,” “Someday is Tonight” is effectively the answer to that song. Echoing the sensuality only previously shown on “Funny How Time Flies,” Ms. Janet turns it up a notch for this quiet storm serenade. It’s quite an effective transition to the “janet.” era that followed. If you listen to the albums back-to-back (skipping the outro), “Someday is Tonight” would be followed by Jackson proclaiming, “We had the kind of night where morning comes too soon.” —Vincent Anthony

Check out our full “Janet Jackson: The Deep Cuts” playlist here.

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It’s almost become a rite of passage for a diva to delve into dance-pop at some point in her career. With “Heaven’s What I Feel,” the lead single from her mononymous album “gloria!” (1998), pioneering Latin pop icon Gloria Estefan fully committed to crafting dancefloor anthems. “Heaven’s What I Feel,” with its Spanish, French, and club mixes, became a decent hit for a then-40-year-old Estefan. Boasting soaring vocals, a glossily produced pop take on the House genre, and some fittingly dramatic lyrics of forbidden love, “Heaven’s What I Feel” is prime gay club material from a beloved diva.

Watch the “Heaven’s What I Feel” video, stream it in English or Spanish, or buy the “gloria!” album.

In celebration of summer, the staff at THE 97 has compiled a playlist containing some of our favorite summer songs, from then and now. Each day we will reveal one song, rotating daily between past and present with pairings from 1998 and 2023, for a total of 97 days/songs. Since we love nostalgia, we’re celebrating summer songs from 1998 as they turn 25, alongside new songs that we feel deserve some shine. Pairings could be thematic, sonic, or based connections between the artists.

Check out our full “THE SUMMER 97 (1998 x 2023)” playlist here

The post 97 Words: “Heaven’s What I Feel” by Gloria Estefan appeared first on THE 97.

Pop-stars crossing the pond, male-bashing anthems, pop girls uniting in the name of girl power… is the 1990s or the 2020s? Make no mistake, it’s the era of TikTok-friendly 2-minute songs with lax choreography and verses that are somehow infectious as hell. Without ever raising their voices, English pop singer PinkPantheress and Bronx-born rapper Ice Spice manage to inspire girls to twerk and boys to be big mad on “Boy’s a liar, Pt. 2.” Peaking at #3 on the Hot 100, this fun fusion of Pantheress’ bubblegum pop with Spice’s gruff rap raised both artists’ profiles in a big way.

Watch the “Boy’s a liar, Pt. 2” video, stream it, or buy Ice Spice’s EP on vinyl.

In celebration of summer, the staff at THE 97 has compiled a playlist containing some of our favorite summer songs, from then and now. Each day we will reveal one song, rotating daily between past and present with pairings from 1998 and 2023, for a total of 97 days/songs. Since we love nostalgia, we’re celebrating summer songs from 1998 as they turn 25, alongside new songs that we feel deserve some shine. Pairings could be thematic, sonic, or based connections between the artists.

Check out our full “THE SUMMER 97 (1998 x 2023)” playlist here

The post 97 Words: “Boy’s a liar, Pt. 2” by PinkPantheress & Ice Spice appeared first on THE 97.

Presenting the 2023 valedictorian of the Janet Jackson School of Spoken Word Intros and Interludes: Chlöe Bailey. The ever-fearless, never-fucks-given Ms. Bailey opens what should’ve been her lead single, “Body Do,” with a loaded, messy question: “Do you ever wonder.. who else is FUCKIN’ your man?” As if this, infectious 2-minute-long bop doesn’t gag the girls enough as is, that opener really seals the deal. The frenetic yet impeccably produced banger plays with the question at hand. Chloe’s answer? “I can trust you as far as I can throw you, but I’ma trust what that body do.” Period.

Watch the visualizer, stream it, or grab some Chloe x Halle vinyl.

In celebration of summer, the staff at THE 97 has compiled a playlist containing some of our favorite summer songs, from then and now. Each day we will reveal one song, rotating daily between past and present with pairings from 1998 and 2023, for a total of 97 days/songs. Since we love nostalgia, we’re celebrating summer songs from 1998 as they turn 25, alongside new songs that we feel deserve some shine. Pairings could be thematic, sonic, or based connections between the artists.

Check out our full “THE SUMMER 97 (1998 x 2023)” playlist here

The post 97 Words: “Body Do” by Chlöe appeared first on THE 97.

Who can resist a good, nasty metaphor? Janelle Monáe takes a plunge into the sea of allegory on “Water Slide,” the very unserious, very unsubtle third single from “The Age of Pleasure.” With lemons on her areoles and bare ass cheeks abound, Monáe’s “Age of Pleasure” is a water park in the very metaphorical sense: it’s very hot, very wet, and very fun. Opening with the line, “If I could fuck me right here right now, I would do that,” the song is a tantalizing tease and, with its Island-inspired beat, is beach and pool party perfection.

Watch the unmissable “Water Slide” video, stream it, or buy “The Age of Pleasure.”

In celebration of summer, the staff at THE 97 has compiled a playlist containing some of our favorite summer songs, from then and now. Each day we will reveal one song, rotating daily between past and present with pairings from 1998 and 2023, for a total of 97 days/songs. Since we love nostalgia, we’re celebrating summer songs from 1998 as they turn 25, alongside new songs that we feel deserve some shine. Pairings could be thematic, sonic, or based connections between the artists.

Check out our full “THE SUMMER 97 (1998 x 2023)” playlist here

The post 97 Words: “Water Slide” by Janelle Monáe. appeared first on THE 97.

On July 28th, the superstar singer-songwriter, inaugural American Idol, and daytime talk queen kicked off her first, long-awaited Las Vegas residency, “Chemistry: An Intimate Night With Kelly Clarkson” at Planet Hollywood’s Bakkt Theater. Across the ten-night run, Clarkson promises fans each night will be different, rotating certain songs in the setlist to perform a variety of fan-favorite deep cuts.

With ten studio albums under her belt, Clarkson has a vast catalog to choose from — and enough hits to fill a setlist. So, it’s commendable that she has committed to offering some variety in the hits, and non-hits, she chooses to perform. She also is rotating the songs from her new album “chemistry” but my commentary will be focused on her back catalog.

In celebration of that, I decided to keep this running playlist of Kelly Clarkson deep cuts that she performs throughout the residency, of course, with some commentary. When it’s over, I’ll add on what I wished she would have performed. Until then, I’ll be monitoring the setlist from New York, wishing I was there to experience Ms. Brianne the Chemist in person.

Night One: July 28th

“Broken & Beautiful” from “UglyDolls” (2019)

This P!nk-penned bit of bouncy, dance-pop is as adorable as Moxy, the lead UglyDoll voiced by Clarkson in the film. Generally, In comparison to P!nk’s, Clarkson’s music is fairly family-friendly, but “Broken & Beautiful” is essentially the extra-squeaky-clean-version of “Fuckin’ Perfect.” While it’s cool to hear her sing this very P!nk-sounding composition, it’s certainly not the most remarkable song she’s ever done. Nevertheless, she surely killed those vocals live. Watch it live.

“Meaning of Life” from “Meaning of Life” (2017)

With soaring, soulful vocals and dramatic lyrics and production to match, “Meaning of Life” is a highlight from Clarkson’s 2017, R&B-leaning album of the same name. While she won American Idol by singing mostly R&B classics, throughout most of her career she found success with pop/rock sound. The album found putting her powerful pipes to use in the name of soul, and “Meaning of Life” is the perfect song to showcase that. Watch it live.

“Tightrope” from “Piece By Piece” (2015)

This gorgeous piano ballad is classic Clarkson and a highlight from its album, “Piece by Piece.” With a haunting melody and impeccably delivered vocals, its further stripped-down “tour version” only amplifies its beauty. Clarkson doesn’t co-write every song she sings, but when she does, it’s sure to deliver an emotional gut punch (or a healthy dose of attitude) – and “Tightrope,” which she penned with frequent collaborator Greg Kurstin, is no exception. Frankly, it should be a setlist staple.

i am so glad i was there the night kelly clarkson sang tightrope pic.twitter.com/0mLZ92I0wj

— Film School Dropout (@SheisChuckie) July 29, 2023

Night Two: July 29th

“Medicine” from “Meaning of Life” (2017)

If every song on “Meaning of Life” had a muse, then the “Medicine” muse would certainly be Mariah Carey. Echoing “Emotions”-era Carey, the high-energy, high-note laden uptempo is a fan-favorite for good reason. Clarkson delivers a no holds barred showcase of her vocal range and versatility. If anyone ever needed a reminder of why she won a singing competition… look no further. Infectiously fun, it’s such an energizing setlist addition that there’s no way she won’t repeat it. Watch it live.

“The Trouble With Love Is” from “Thankful” (2003)

On her debut album, Clarkson experimented with pop/rock, and what’s known as blue-eyed soul. “The Trouble With Love Is,” perhaps most famous for its inclusion in “Love, Actually,” is the latter. The bluesy ballad, co-written by Clarkson, proved she could also originate a soulful track, too. Though it had moderate success in 2003, Clarkson has only performed it a handful of times in the last decade and hasn’t been a setlist staple since 2012. Watch it live.

“Can I Have a Kiss” from “My December” (2007)

Clarkson’s first post-break-up-opus received some much-deserved shine on night two with a performance of one of its highlights. “Can I Have a Kiss” is one of the more vulnerable, pretty songs from “My December.” Subtle yet guitar-driven, Clarkson’s soft, tender vocals and its warm melody make for a brand of pop/rock that only an artist of her caliber can deliver. I’d quite literally have had an out-of-body experience watching it performed live, in person, as I, unfortunately, missed 2007’s My December Tour (which was the last time she performed it (!!!)).

Kelly Clarkson bringing justice + attention to “My December” = World Peace
Kelly singing “Can I Have a Kiss” pic.twitter.com/oWKcHkArAP

— Zoe (@ClearClarkson) July 31, 2023

Night Three: August 2nd

“I Do Not Hook Up” from “All I Ever Wanted” (2009)

While sure, it peaked at #20 on the Hot 100 as the follow-up to “My Life Would Suck Without You,” this Kara DioGuardi and Katy Perry-penned pop confection is hardly one of Clarkson’s most memorable, beloved hits by the masses. Frankly, it doesn’t deserve to be… it is rather generic, but nevertheless, a spin of this very of-the-time pop anthem is always fun to sing a long to. Even better, surely, with Clarkson in front of you belting it out. Still, I don’t blame her for not performing it in nearly a decade. Watch it live.

“Dance With Me” from “Piece By Piece” (2015)

Another “Piece By Piece” deep cut, “Dance With Me” is as its title suggests: a fun, encouraging dance-pop number. Frequently performed during its parent album’s tour, the song definitely translates well live, improving what is an energized but uneventful album track. Watch it live.

“Someone” from “Piece By Piece” (2015)

For what seems to be becoming the “Piece By Piece” tour part two, night three of the “chemistry” residency sees a much-deserved performance of another deep cut from Clarkson’s seventh studio album. She surprised fans with the first-ever live performance of this gorgeous, underrated album track. The emotive ballad is quintessential Clarkson, and it’s a wonder she’s never performed it before last night.

Kelly’s first time performing Someone @kellyclarkson #KellyClarkson #piecebypiece pic.twitter.com/j0QKGDJwQS

— Jeremy Davis (@JeremyD7) August 3, 2023

Night Four: August 4th

“Gone” from “Breakaway” (2004)

Essentially a time capsule in song form, “Gone” has all the best elements of any angsty pop/rock track from the early 00s. Clarkson is ferocious with her impeccably staccato delivery that embodies the impatience she sings about. If feisty had a theme song, it would be “Gone.” Performing it for the first time since 2012, no doubt her divorce put some extra fire behind her while performing it in 2023. See for yourself.

“Just Missed the Train” from “Thankful” (2003)

While her debut only really yielded one smash single and didn’t forge any inventive new ground, it sure has some stellar tracks. “Just Missed the Train” is definitely one of those. Originally sung by child actress turned singer Danielle Brisebois in 1994, Clarkson’s version is a beautifully breezy update that preserves that nostalgic 90s feel, with much better vocals. It actually would fit perfectly on “chemistry.”

Night Five: August 5th

“Low” from “Thankful” (2003)

The second single from Clarkson’s debut, “Low,” definitely underperformed in the US in the shadow of the very successful “Miss Independent.” That doesn’t mean it’s not a great song, though. This country-tinged pop/rock jam was the first signal of her eventual shift into the pop/rock lane for 2004’s “Breakaway.” Watch it live.

“Beautiful Disaster” from “Breakaway” (2004)

“I liked this song so much that I put it on two of my albums,” Clarkson told the crowd on Saturday night. She wanted it to be more stripped down, and got her way for its 2004 installment on the “Breakaway” album, which she performed for the Vegas crowd. Gorgeous as ever, with a voice that’s only gotten better, “Beautiful” is certainly the word, because when Clarkson takes the mic it’s never a “Disaster.”

Multiple Nights

“Whole Lotta Woman” from “Meaning of Life” (2017)

It’s a shame that this song was not a single or a hit, because it really should be Clarkson’s signature song. If there’s any song that embodies how fun, bubbly, sassy, soulful, talented, and hilarious she is, it’s “Whole Lotta Woman.” It won’t ever eclipse her biggest hits in notoriety or numbers, but “Whole Lotta Woman” has seemingly become her personal anthem, and hopefully, secured a permanent place on all future setlists. It’s one of her best songs.

“Invincible” from “Piece By Piece” (2015)*

While this motivational pop ballad is very much on-brand for both Clarkson and its writer, Sia, it marks the pair’s first collaboration, and… Clarkson singing Sia is exactly what you’d hope it to be. Except for a hit, that is. Surprisingly, the song failed to make waves when it was released as a single in 20154. Still, with vocals big enough to match its empowering message, Clarkson proves that her voice is certainly “Invincible.” Post-divorce, the song has likely taken on new meaning for her, earning what appears to be a steady spot on the setlist (so far).

*Performed July 28 and 29, only (so far).

Listen to “What Happened in Vegas? Kelly Clarkson Deep Cuts!”

on Apple Music, Spotify, or elsewhere.

Stock up on some Kelly Clarkson vinyl

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The sizzling classic “What’s It Gonna Be?!” sees the pairing of Rap titan Busta Rhymes and Empress of Pop Janet Jackson in an eclectic blend of Hip-Hop, Funk, and R&B. Lyrically, the track’s focus is driven by raw sexuality, a topic that Jackson’s pioneering influence helped normalize for women in pop music. Rhymes blends superbly well with Jackson’s sex kitten vocals, due to his frenetic energy and overall reputation as a stellar, intricate MC. The track, along with its world record-setting visual, became one of the most successful rap-sung collaborations in the latter half of the 1990s.

Watch the legendary “What’s It Gonna Be?!” video, stream it, or grab some Busta Rhymes or Janet Jackson vinyl.

In celebration of summer, the staff at THE 97 has compiled a playlist containing some of our favorite summer songs, from then and now. Each day we will reveal one song, rotating daily between past and present with pairings from 1998 and 2023, for a total of 97 days/songs. Since we love nostalgia, we’re celebrating summer songs from 1998 as they turn 25, alongside new songs that we feel deserve some shine. Pairings could be thematic, sonic, or based connections between the artists.

Check out our full “THE SUMMER 97 (1998 x 2023)” playlist here

The post 97 Words: “What’s It Gonna Be?!” by Busta Rhymes & Janet Jackson appeared first on THE 97.

Ambitious rising stars in pop often collide to combine their star power, yielding #BigEnergy. Newly solo seventh of K-pop’s biggest band BTS, Jung Kook, and one of the hottest new women in Hip-Hop, Latto, join forces on “Seven,” a sizzling, summer sex romp that is anything but subtle. In true boy-bander-gone-solo fashion, BTS’ youngest proves he’s all grown-up, putting all interested parties on notice: “Night after night, I’ll be fucking you right.” Latto, understanding the assignment, matches his vibe: “Come here baby, let me swallow your pride.” As addictive as, apparently, you-know-what… “Seven” is tailor-made to repeat.

Watch the “Seven” music video, stream it, or grab some Jung Kook merch!

In celebration of summer, the staff at THE 97 has compiled a playlist containing some of our favorite summer songs, from then and now. Each day we will reveal one song, rotating daily between past and present with pairings from 1998 and 2023, for a total of 97 days/songs. Since we love nostalgia, we’re celebrating summer songs from 1998 as they turn 25, alongside new songs that we feel deserve some shine. Pairings could be thematic, sonic, or based connections between the artists.

Check out our full “THE SUMMER 97 (1998 x 2023)” playlist here.

The post Review: “Seven” by Jung Kook & Latto appeared first on THE 97.

One hallmark of the marriage between R&B and Hip-Hop in the mid ’90s was when R&B women started flipping samples of classics on top of hard, Hip-Hop beats, lacing them with unmatched vocals and unforgettable melodies. Case in point, Monica’s “The First Night,” the second single from her sophomore album. Built on a sample of “Love Hangover” by Diana Ross, “The First Night” is the antithesis to The Boss’ submissive classic. Monica, instead, dominates in a man’s world — she’s found the cure. The remedy is her ability to set boundaries and own her sexuality. Monica doesn’t run.

Watch “The First Night” video, stream it, or purchase the single.

In celebration of summer, the staff at THE 97 has compiled a playlist containing some of our favorite summer songs, from then and now. Each day we will reveal one song, rotating daily between past and present with pairings from 1998 and 2023, for a total of 97 days/songs. Since we love nostalgia, we’re celebrating summer songs from 1998 as they turn 25, alongside new songs that we feel deserve some shine. Pairings could be thematic, sonic, or based connections between the artists.

Check out our full “THE SUMMER 97 (1998 x 2023)” playlist here.

The post 97 Words: “The First Night” by Monica appeared first on THE 97.

Honesty is a key element on any journey to personal liberation. For Sam Smith, their newfound unrestricted persona has an anthem in the disco-inspired single “I’m Not Here to Make Friends.” While its very queer, very sexualized music video received plenty of flack, some for reasons warranted (hideous fashions) and unwarranted (body and slut shaming), the song itself is an undeniable good time. Honest in the celebration of their queer identity, and honest in the song’s straightforward message (the title pretty much sums that up), on Smith’s most fun track to date, the truth sets them free.

Watch the “I’m Not Here to Make Friends” video, stream it, or order the “Gloria” album on vinyl.

In celebration of summer, the staff at THE 97 has compiled a playlist containing some of our favorite summer songs, from then and now. Each day we will reveal one song, rotating daily between past and present with pairings from 1998 and 2023, for a total of 97 days/songs. Since we love nostalgia, we’re celebrating summer songs from 1998 as they turn 25, alongside new songs that we feel deserve some shine. Pairings could be thematic, sonic, or based connections between the artists.

Check out our full “THE SUMMER 97 (1998 x 2023)” playlist here.

The post 97 Words: “I’m Not Here to Make Friends” by Sam Smith appeared first on THE 97.