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Kevin Mazur/Getty Images For The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Over the weekend, HBO aired its special documenting this year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony, where Janet Jackson was one of the honorees. At the ceremony, Janet called for the Hall to induct “more women,” and now some of the females who’ve followed in her footsteps are reflecting on her enduring legacy.
Ciara, Teyana Taylor and Janelle Monáe spoke to The Wall Street Journal about the impact that Janet’s music and career have had on them. Monáe, who inducted Janet into the Hall, lauded the veteran singer for taking “control” of her sound.
“Janet made it clear that we, as female artists, can and should craft our own sound and control our self-image,” Monáe told Wall Street Journal. “When I listen to her outstanding, award-winning catalogue, it reminds me daily that being carefree is as important as being socially conscious.”
She continued, “Knowing that Janet exists provides me the freedom to be exactly who I am.”
Taylor sang Jackson’s praises for the star’s commitment to owning her sexuality.
“Her influence has been so strong on me, because I admire her sexuality, passion and ability to command a room,” the K.T.S.E. vocalist said. “She’s the reason why I love this.”
Ciara, who considers Janet to be like a sister, says Jackson’s induction is an historic achievement.
“To see it finally happen [is] amazing and a special moment in music history, obviously for her, but also for us female artists,” Ciara said. “I think that’s very special and I think it’s very necessary for us to continue to break through as women.”
Jackson’s induction in the Hall of Fame was a long time coming. Her brothers group, The Jackson 5, were inducted in 1997; Michael Jackson was subsequently inducted as a solo artist in 2001.
ciara enduring inductee jacksons Janelle janet legacy monae Reflect taylor teyana
