love will never do (without you)
by janet jackson
janet jackson's 1989 masterpiece, janet jackson's rhythm nation 1814 had an astonishing seven top-five singles on the billboard 100 chart. one of her best songs, on the album and in her catalog, is this one, with her trademark industrial beats and powerful harmonies. what makes this song a classic, however, is not just that it's a catchy pop song, but rather that it has an amazing video. music videos used to be more important that the song itself, and a good video could turn a dud into a hit. this clip, directed by the legendary herb ritts, and featuring ms. jackson clad only in a black halter top and jeans, with an upswept hairdo, and two relative unknowns at the time (antonio sabato, jr. and djimon hounsou) captures the playful essence of the song. most videos from this time are beyond outdated, but this one stands the test of time, even as it approaches its (gasp) 18th birthday.
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