Bet You Didn't Realize How Much Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation Has Inspired Pop Stars Today

This month marks the 25th anniversary of Janet Jackson's groundbreaking Rhythm Nation 1814. It was the fourth studio album from Janet, who had only recently separated herself professionally from her father, Joe Jackson. It also served as a carefully crafted concept album that focused on socially conscious lyrics and explored the way that racism, poverty, and substance abuse were reported within the media. Despite its 1989 release, many of the songs on Rhythm Nation 1814 are still just as important and inspiring today — and Janet's influence on the world of pop and R&B music is undeniable.

From the all-black outfits to the meticulously controlled dance sequences, elements of Janet's Rhythm Nation 1814 music videos have influenced performers like Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, and more — and in honor of the epic 25th anniversary of the album's release, we're highlighting the styles, moves, and overall badass attitude that Janet has inspired in others over the years. Keep reading to see them all now.

Janet Jackson, "Rhythm Nation"

Janet Jackson, "Rhythm Nation"

Beyoncé, "Single Ladies"

Beyoncé, "Single Ladies"

Janet Jackson, "Rhythm Nation"

Janet Jackson, "Rhythm Nation"

Beyoncé, "Run the World (Girls)"

Beyoncé, "Run the World (Girls)"

Janet Jackson, "Rhythm Nation"

Janet Jackson, "Rhythm Nation"

Keri Hilson, "Pretty Girl Rock"

Keri Hilson, "Pretty Girl Rock"

Beyoncé, "Ring the Alarm"
MTV

Beyoncé, "Ring the Alarm"

Janet Jackson, "Rhythm Nation"

Janet Jackson, "Rhythm Nation"

Lady Gaga, "Alejandro"

Lady Gaga, "Alejandro"

Janet Jackson, "Love Will Never Do Without You"

Janet Jackson, "Love Will Never Do Without You"

Beyoncé and Jay Z, "Drunk in Love"

Beyoncé and Jay Z, "Drunk in Love"

Janet Jackson, "Escapade"

Janet Jackson, "Escapade"

Janet Jackson, "Escapade"

Janet Jackson, "Escapade"

Britney Spears, "Circus"

Britney Spears, "Circus"

Janet Jackson, "Miss You Much"

Janet Jackson, "Miss You Much"

Britney Spears, "(You Drive Me) Crazy"

Britney Spears, "(You Drive Me) Crazy"

Janet Jackson, "Miss You Much"

Janet Jackson, "Miss You Much"

Britney Spears, "Stronger"

Britney Spears, "Stronger"

Britney Spears, "Me Against the Music"

Britney Spears, "Me Against the Music"

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Watch the "Rhythm Nation" Video