Janet Jackson To Get 'Up Close And Personal' On Tour

Say what you will about her recent music, but few people living today can put on a show like Janet Damita Jo Jackson. From stellar, innovative choreography to theatrics and nostalgia, witnessing a Janet show is almost an outer body experience for me some. However, as a fan, I can admit that this isn't 1995, and she is no longer on top of the world, sales-wise. While the past decade may not have been her best commercially, a few missteps have not shaken her ability to wow audiences and inspire her subordinates--yes, subordinates--as evidenced by the rave reviews after her headlining performance at last years Essence Music Festival. Ater a widely publicized haircut, the American Idol performance, and stunning private concert for a global investment firm last fall at Radio City Music Hall, a newly slim and more confident Janet has announced dates for her "Number Ones, Up Close and Personal World Tour," celebrating 35 number one records. Yes, 35.
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In the wake of that performance at Radio City, she mentioned the difference in the crowd's energy in a smaller venue and said that she appreciated being able to actually see fans' faces and interact with them more. As a result, this time Janet's going the intimate route. Think: fewer stadiums, domes, and arenas and more halls and theaters. Even I can concede that sales may have a hand in this decision, but that won't stop me from supporting Saint Damita Jo. Judge me not, but I saw her "Rock With U Tour" three times. Yes, it was that good.