This week’s From The Vault celebrates the careers of two of Pop-Culture’s biggest phenomenons: brother and sister Michael and Janet Jackson.
With the 25th of June (yesterday) marking the 2 year anniversary of the Legend’s passing, That Grape Juice once again tribute him and his unmatchable talent.
And since little sister is touring Europe at the moment and will be coming very soon to our hometown of London, what better time than the present to reflect on the output of two of music’s great stars. What better way to do that than with their 1995 epic duet, ‘Scream’.
Released as the first single from Michael’s ‘HIStory’ album and produced by Janet’s longtime producers Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, the track serves as an open letter to the press following MJ’s 1993 legal drama. Janet’s participation was her way of supporting her big bro’.
The high-octane cut sees Mike and Jan flaunt a more aggressive tone, which in tandem compliments their controversial lyrics (“Just stop pressuring me, stop f*cking with me”).
A dream collaboration on paper, the blissful reality was rendered ever better with the help of ‘Scream’s award-winning video.
At the time the most expensive music visual ever made, the futuristic black & white clip is a classic for many a reason, although it’s the iconic dance-break that generates the most praise to this day.
The world had been waiting for a joint performance of the track for years, but instead had to settle for a virtual showing in 2009 when Janet tributed her brother at the VMA’s. An amazing performance to say the least, yet still heart-wrenching knowing that we’ll never get to see them set the stage a ablaze together.
Many a fan have expressed desire for Janet to return to the creative force that are Jimmy & Terry. A sentiment we co-sign; they are after all the ones who’ll provide songs in the vein of this one (i.e. stellar production + non-standard lyrics), as well as the wealth of hits she amassed under their guidance.
As for Michael, this piece of art right here is one of the many reasons he will NEVER be replaced. Even though this vid saw the light of the day more than 15 years ago, it is aesthetically leaps and bounds better than most of what is out today.
MJ may be gone, but his art and legacy live on! Forever and a day.