Music & Concerts
Janet Jackson announces new album, tour
A look back at Blade’s 2006 interview with music icon
Janet Jackson announced plans for a new album and world tour on Saturday. (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)
In a video message posted Saturday — her 49th birthday — Janet Jackson announced plans for a new album and world tour.
“I promised you’d hear it from my lips, and now you will,” she says in the video. “This year: new music; new world tour; a new movement. I’ve been listening. Let’s keep the conversation going.”
She added the hashtag #ConversationsInACafe, which some have speculated is the title of the upcoming album.
Jackson has long been an LGBT favorite, winning GLAAD awards and other accolades for her pro-LGBT themes and extensive work in HIV/AIDS philanthropy.
Back in 2006, Jackson sat down with the Blade for an exclusive interview in which she talked about her support for marriage equality and much more. While the world awaits new material, let’s revisit that 2006 interview.
Sept. 29, 2006:
We’re ‘So Excited’
Gay icon Janet Jackson talks about new album, same-sex marriage — and Madonna
By KEVIN NAFF
Without Janet Jackson, no one would be one-two stepping to Ciara or celebrating Beyonce’s B’Day. And Mouseketeer Justin Timberlake — who has shamelessly appropriated the Jackson family’s moves for years — would be dancing in theme park musical productions instead of bringing sexy back.
After inspiring a league of imitators during 20 years in the music business, Jackson releases her ninth studio album this week, “20 Y.O.,” a wonderfully self-referential return to the top of her game and a nod to the 20th anniversary of her groundbreaking 1986 album “Control.”
In the midst of a whirlwind media tour to promote the album, which has included a stop on Oprah’s couch and a “Today” show appearance, Jackson granted the Blade an exclusive interview this week in which she talked about the album, the MTV boycott of her videos, her gay fans and even Madonna.
Although Jackson has always said she writes songs about what’s happening in her life, there is no mention on “20 Y.O.” of the Super Bowl controversy or her brother Michael’s acquittal on child molestation charges.
“I got all of that out of my system,” she says in explaining the decision not to reflect on those events. “That’s not what I’m feeling right now. I wrote about [those controversies] but I didn’t choose to put it out there on the album.”
In 2004, for the first time since the 1980s, a Janet Jackson album failed to hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts. The commercially disappointing “Damita Jo” opened at No. 2 and went on to sell about one million copies. Despite the lackluster response to that album, Jackson says she’s not feeling pressure to hit No. 1 with “20 Y.O.”
“It’s more important for the record company than for me,” she says. “I just want to bring happiness to people. Of course you want it to be successful, but I really just want to bring a smile to people’s faces.”
One factor that will impact sales of the new album is video exposure. Although BET and VH1 have been playing the first two singles, “Call on Me” and “So Excited,” MTV appears to be boycotting all things Janet.
MTV, which named Jackson its inaugural “Icon” award winner in 2001, produced the infamous half-time show in which Jackson’s breast was exposed. But MTV’s anger over the incident apparently doesn’t extend to Timberlake, whose new single is in heavy rotation. Jackson says she’s heard that MTV has disrespected her fans, but she brushes off the snub.
“The fans get upset and talk about boycotting [MTV],” she says. “It is what it is, but I’m not losing sleep over it. I appreciate the love and support the fans have shown me.”
To reach those fans in the absence of MTV support, Jackson and her promotions team have waged an aggressive web promotion campaign that includes a revamped official website, janet-jackson.com, and a new MySpace site that includes an exclusive video diary. She teased fans earlier this year with the online-only release of a cover of Debbie Deb’s 1980s song “Lookout Weekend.”
Janet clearly recognizes that many of those fans she’s reaching out to are gay. She clarified that she has never been involved in a gay relationship herself, but that she has many gay friends, several of whom are dancers in her upcoming tour.
She says she doesn’t understand why so many people oppose same-sex marriage, “We’re all human and we all fall in love, so why should our sexual preference matter?”
There are no wild innovations or dramatic departures on “20 Y.O.,” but the album is chock full of hits. There is no dead weight on this record, as on “Damita Jo.”
This time out, with help from longtime beau and hit maker Jermaine Dupri and producers and co-writers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Jackson delivers a string of well-crafted tunes. “There’s something to be said for not saying anything,” she says in the introduction to the album. “I want to keep it light. I want to have fun.”
And fun is what she delivers, especially for dance music fans. The album opens with a series of five sure-fire club-banging hits, starting with the current single, “So Excited.” Despite lyrics like, “I’ll open my spot for you, anytime you want me to,” Jackson has ratcheted down the vulgarity this time out. She’s still freaky, but the 40-year-old Janet sounds more mature and confident than she has in the recent past.
Dirty Southern rapper Khia (of “My Neck, My Back” infamy) guests on “So Excited,” which is followed by four more fast-paced songs: “Show Me,” “Get It Out Me,” “Do It 2 Me” and “This Body,” featuring a rollicking guitar riff that recalls “Rhythm Nation” hit “Black Cat.”
In fact, the album is full of sly samples from Jackson’s extensive back catalogue. Listen carefully, and you’ll hear snippets from “Rhythm Nation,” “I Get Lonely” and other previous Jackson hits as she looks back on 20 years in music.
After the opening barrage of infectious beats, Jackson slows things to a mid-tempo groove with songs like “With U” and “Call on Me,” a duet with Nelly that hit No. 1on Billboard’s R&B/hip-hop chart.
The interludes that Jackson is known for interspersing on her albums are spare this time, with just three short breaks plus an intro and outro. The interludes succeed in preparing the listener for what’s to come and transitioning between the faster, mid-tempo and slower ballad tracks.
Jackson’s persona has always included the over-the-top diva as well as the vulnerable and shy side, which she successfully mines on “Take Care,” a whispering, smooth ballad.
Among the standouts — and there are many — “Do It 2 Me” and “Daybreak” really shine.
“Enjoy” is classic, upbeat Janet, reminiscent of “Runaway” and “Escapade.” She coos, “Livin’ every day like it’s my last/ I refuse to be stuck in the past/People acting like machines/cause they’re scared to live their dreams, no not me.”
Jackson says her gay fans have another treat yet to come. She promises a song called “Clap Your Hands” will be a big hit with the gay club crowd. The song isn’t on the version of “20 Y.O.” released this week, but is coming on a future re-release of the album, along with a possible duet with Mariah Carey, which Jackson says is still in the works.
Asked if she would ever consider a duet with longtime chart rival and fellow gay-favorite Madonna, Jackson says she hasn’t thought about it.
“No one’s ever asked me that,” she says, adding that she and Madonna have never actually met. “Isn’t that surprising?”
She declined to speculate about how many singles to expect from the album, saying, “it’s up to the market,” but did confirm that she will launch a world tour in March.
“I’m sure we’ll stop in Washington,” she says, adding that the show will include a mixture of new and old hits. “I don’t like going to a show where all they perform is the new album.”
After the tour, Jackson says she has no idea what’s next for her professionally, but she would like to pursue film roles.
“I’d like to have a family and I’m getting older,” she says. “I don’t know what’s next, I’m as much in the dark as you are.”
Music & Concerts
DJ Chanel Santini is bringing the heat and some gender-fluid diversity to XBIZ Miami
Pool party celebrates most charismatic personalities, creative artists in adult entertainment
Chanel Santini has crossed over to being a DJ, performing at clubs all over the country. Now known as Santini, they will be making music and hyping the pool party, DJ-ing at XBIZ, the conference for adult creators and digital players, in Miami.
Taking place on Monday to Wednesday, the event honors the most charismatic personalities and creative artists in entertainment.
“I am honestly so excited — getting to DJ in Miami Beach is literally a DJ’s dream!” Santini told the Los Angeles Blade.
“I thought it would be a good opportunity because I haven’t been around my industry peers in a long time. It’s a great event to network and show off the new me!” said Santini.
While Santini is unsure what music they will be playing, they want everyone to have a good time. “My goal is to ignite the dance floor and play great music that everyone will vibe to. My sound includes house music, bass house, tech house, and I always like to throw a little bit of hip-hop in my sets.”
Santini loves how DJ-ing brings people together.
“Music really ignites us all! It is so universal, no matter what language you speak. I think it’s the best high in the world when you play a banger track, and everybody on the dance floor screams loudly. You can’t describe that feeling until you’re up there on that stage.”
Santini describes DJs as the “modern rock stars” in today’s world.
“I always feel like such a superstar when I’m up on that stage. The best feeling is after my set when I have people come up to me and say, ‘Thank you for sharing that amazing music.’ That’s how you know that you’re a good DJ — I love when I get those types of compliments!”
While sometimes it’s hard to please everyone’s musical tastes, Santini endeavors to try! “You just have to go out there and give it your all and be the best DJ that you can be,” he noted.
Santini, who had previously identified as transgender, recently decided to transition back to being gender fluid.
“It’s definitely been a journey, but I’m definitely happier in my own skin now than I was. I don’t go by he/him pronouns. I don’t go by they/them either. I guess I just really don’t have a preference. Whatever you see me as is your opinion. I’ve learned over the years that I’m not trying to be one specific thing. I’m just Santini. I’m just me.”
Santini acknowledged they felt respected more when dressed as a woman.
“I think it’s just because femininity runs the world. When I started to de-transition, I felt like I had to just be a boy all the time. But I’ve realized over the years that I don’t need to stick to one specific thing. I am always gonna be feminine, and that’s OK.”
Recently, Santini has been embracing their feminine side more.
“I definitely feel more comfortable in female presentation, and more powerful when I’m on stage dressed as Chanel. I love DJ-ing in drag because there are so many straight male DJs in the world. It’s almost like a superhero when he puts on his cape! I think it makes me confident and stand out more as an artist.”
And because Santini loves makeup and fashion, they can incorporate that into their sets. “I’m not just bringing you good vibes and good music. I’m bringing you a show/ production!”
Santini is already working on big plans for the future.
“I’m opening up for a huge Pride block party in my hometown, Albuquerque, N.M., on June 12 and 13. It’s a two day festival and I’m super excited for this opportunity. I’m even hiring backup dancers and a choreographer.”
Santini plans to go “all out” for this show.
“It’s gonna be the biggest crowd that I’ve ever played for,” Santini enthused. “I’m putting my heart and soul into this performance, especially because it’s Pride in my hometown, and that means so much to me. I know the younger me would be so proud.”
Santini remembers going to Pride when they were younger and telling themself they couldn’t wait to be up on that stage.
“I’m truly living my dream right now, and I’m so excited for the future. The last 10 years of being in the adult entertainment business have been great and have given me major success. But I always knew that I didn’t want to be in this industry for long.”
Santini acknowledged that, in the recent past, it was a struggle.
“I’ve been trying to find myself and figure out what I wanna do next with my life. Now that I’ve found this passion for DJ-ing, it makes me want to go far in this business.”
In addition to being a DJ/artist, Santini is starting college next semester.
“I’m gonna get my degree in audio engineering,” Santini enthused. “I can’t wait to start producing my own tracks. I especially can’t wait till the day I’m headlining a major festival! I know with a little bit of patience and hard work that I can get there! I just have to continue believing in myself.”
Santini wanted to thank all of their fans for their support. “Truly, if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be able to fund my art in the way that I have. I’m truly grateful. And I’m excited for the future!”
Music & Concerts
Gaga, Cardi B, and more to grace D.C. stages this spring
Shake off your winter doldrums at a local concert
D.C. shakes off its winter blues this spring as the music scene pops off. We all know the big star is coming: Lady Gaga will perform at Capital One Arena on March 23. But plenty of other stars, big and small, will grace D.C. stages, including many LGBTQ and ally artists.
March
3/15, 9:30 Club, St. Lucia – Indie electronic music project known for its synth-pop sound, which blends ‘80s influences with electronic and indie rock elements.
3/31, Lincoln Theatre, Perfume Genius – Indie/pop singer/songwriter Mike Hadreas, also known as Perfume Genius, has toured with a full band, but he is stripping things back for this tour.
April
4/8, Capital One, Cardi B. Cardi B, from New York, unapologetic and proud, is the first solo female artist to win the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. This year, she’s on her Little Miss Drama Tour, in support of her second studio album, “Am I the Drama?”
4/13, Lincoln Theatre, The Naked Magicians. Australia’s The Naked Magicians are two performers who deliver live magic and laughs while wearing nothing but a top hat and a smile.
4/18, Capital One, Florence and the Machine. Longstanding indie rock back from Great Britain, much-loved for lead singer Florence’s powerful vocals. On their Everybody Scream Tour.
4/16, Capital One, Demi Lovato. Singer/songwriter from Texas, who came out as nonbinary, is traveling on her “It’s Not That Deep Tour.”
4/21, The Anthem, Calum Scott. Platinum-selling gay singer/songwriter Calum Scott released his latest project, Avenoir, last year. Scott rose to fame in 2015 after competing on Britain’s Got Talent, where he performed a cover of Robyn’s hit “Dancing on My Own“.
4/26, Atlantis, Caroline Kingsbury. American queer pop musician from Los Angeles. She released her debut album in 2021, and has two additional EPs. She’s played Lollapalooza 2025 and All Things Go 2025, as well as gone on a co-headlining U.S. tour with MARIS. Shock Treatment is her latest EP.
4/26, Anthem, Raye. This bisexual artist, known for her current chart-topping “”Where Is My Husband!” single, blends pop, jazz, R&B, and more.
4/30, Union Stage, Daya. This bisexual singer/songwriter is on her “Til Every Petal Drops Tour,” touring the album of the same name that was released last year.
May
5/1, The Anthem, Joost Klein. Eurovision comes to D.C. in Joost Klein: Originally a Youtuber, he was selected to represent the Netherlands at Eurovision in 2024 with his song “Europapa.” He released a new album on New Year’s Day.
5/1, Fillmore, MIKA. MIKA is on his Spinning Out Tour. Born in Beirut and raised in both Paris and London, MIKA sings in multiple languages and has co-hosted Eurovision.
5/7, 9:30 Club, COBRAH. Clara Christensen, is a Swedish singer, songwriter, record producer, and club queen, making electronic dance music.
5/19, Atlantis, Grace Ives. New York-born singer/songwriter, known for her high-energy synth/electronic, bedroom-pop-style music.
June
6/2, The Anthem, James Blake. English crooner got big from his self-titled debut album in 2011. He won two Grammys and just released his 7th album,Trying Times, in March.
Music & Concerts
Washington chorale kicks off Christmas with vibrant program
‘Thine Own Sweet Light’ concerts planned
The full Washington Master Chorale will return for its annual holiday concert tradition with “Thine Own Sweet Light” on Friday, Dec. 19 and Sunday, Dec. 21 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church (D.C.) and Church of the Epiphany (D.C.).
The concert will feature the rich sounds of the 50-voice, a cappella chorus performing lush, seasonal choral music inspired by the theme of light. Highlights include Edvard Grieg’s “Ave Maris Stella,” Eric Whitacre’s “Lux Aurumque,” and Christopher Hoh’s “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God of Hosts.” The program will also present a new work by Barcelona composer Josep Ollé i Sabaté, along with charming holiday folk songs and seasonal favorites.
For more details, visit the Washington Master Chorale website.
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