Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson has never been shy about telling folks what she wants. From declaring her independence to asserting her sexuality, Jackson’s six multiplatinum albums have always been full of personal and, at times, provocative proclamations. Her latest effort, produced with the help of longtime collaborators Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and executive-produced by Jackson’s boyfriend of five years, Jermaine Dupri, is no exception. A paean to the music that’s influenced her, 20 Years Old (Virgin) is a mix of feel-good harmonies, bass-heavy dance tracks, and the occasional ode to doing the do. According to Jackson, sex is “a part of love, a part of God,” and her appetite, by her own admission, is absolutely voracious. Luckily for her (and, no doubt, Dupri), she’s finally found someone who’s able to keep up.