Janet Jackson has once again proven her timeless appeal and ability to stay relevant in the ever-evolving music industry. During the latest leg of her Together Again Tour, she surprised fans by incorporating Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” into her performance. This unexpected blend of old-school and contemporary hip-hop has created a buzz among fans and music enthusiasts alike.
The tour kicked off in Palm Springs, California, at the Acrisure Arena, with Nelly opening the show. The highlight of the night was undoubtedly Janet’s performance of her classic hit “Nasty,” which she spiced up with the instrumental of Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” The crowd went wild as Janet, dressed in a plaid outfit, danced energetically with her backup dancers to the beat of Kendrick’s track.
The viral clip from the concert shows Janet seamlessly integrating the modern hip-hop sound into her iconic 1986 hit, “Nasty.” The song originally peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, and this fresh twist has given it a new lease on life. Fans were quick to share their excitement on social media, with one tweeting, “Kendrick introduced a whole new generation to Janet. Of course she gon ride for him!”
The collaboration, though indirect, has sparked conversations about the potential for future projects between the two artists. Kendrick Lamar has previously sampled Janet Jackson’s “Any Time, Any Place” on his track “Poetic Justice,” which reached No. 26 on the Hot 100 in 2013. This latest nod to Kendrick’s work has only fueled speculation about a possible direct collaboration in the future.
Janet’s decision to incorporate “Not Like Us” into her tour setlist is a testament to the song’s impact on pop culture. Released just a month ago, the track has already become a staple in hip-hop and has even made its way into unexpected places. A Houston meteorologist recently incorporated lyrics from the song into his weather report, showcasing its widespread influence.
The Together Again Tour is set to continue throughout the summer, with stops in major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Chicago, and New York, among others. The tour will wrap up on July 30 in Phoenix, Arizona. Fans are eagerly anticipating each show, wondering what other surprises Janet might have in store.
The inclusion of “Not Like Us” in Janet’s performance has not only delighted fans but also highlighted the enduring relevance of both artists. Kendrick Lamar’s ability to resonate with a new generation and Janet Jackson’s timeless appeal have created a perfect blend of old and new, bridging the gap between different eras of music.
As the tour progresses, fans can expect more electrifying performances and possibly even more unexpected musical mashups. Janet Jackson’s ability to adapt and innovate continues to solidify her status as a music icon, while Kendrick Lamar’s influence on contemporary music remains undeniable.
In the world of music, where trends come and go, Janet Jackson and Kendrick Lamar have managed to create a moment that transcends time. Their indirect collaboration on the Together Again Tour is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create unforgettable experiences.
As fans eagerly await the next leg of the tour, one thing is certain: Janet Jackson’s performances will continue to captivate audiences, and Kendrick Lamar’s influence will remain a driving force in the music industry. The combination of their talents has created a buzz that shows no signs of slowing down, making this tour one of the most talked-about events of the year.