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Opinion: Gen Z Just Discovered Janet Jackson — And the Reactions Are a Mixed Bag

A TikTok-fueled revival of ‘Someone to Call My Lover’ has teens dancing, questioning, and playlist-building. But for longtime fans, it’s sparking a bigger conversation: why does Janet still have to prove herself?

Although she wasn’t at fault, Jackson’s wardrobe malfunction during the 2004 Super Bowl nearly derailed her career, with the singer being targeted as a ‘Jezebel’ and accused of sexualizing the sports event. Jackson apologized but, partially due to the evolving music industry, wouldn’t regain the same album sales she had in her early years. She occasionally posts concert recaps and check-ins on TikTok, but they’re on brand for a celebrity that’s so private that she doesn’t even share pictures of her eight-year-old son.

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