Music Video Review: Janet Jackson’s "Make Me"

By our guest blogger, Gabrielle Corrado

Lest there were any doubts, rest assured--at 43 years-old, Janet Jackson has still got it. The singer’s newest video, "Make Me," showcases the megawatt smile, killer dance moves, and confident swagger that have kept her loyal fans captivated for decades.

The video, shot entirely in flattering black-and-white, perfectly captures the upbeat, infectious enthusiasm of "Make Me," her recently released single. While Janet has publicly struggled with her weight in the past, there is absolutely no evidence of this to be seen in the video--instead, she looks downright svelte in her corseted, bold-shouldered jacket. Moreover, she looks genuinely happy, proudly displaying her famous dimpled smile for the duration of the video as she effortlessly grooves to the catchy tune.

In what is perhaps a subtle nod to her deceased brother Michael, some aspects of the video are definitely reminiscent of Michael’s 1995 "Scream" video, with Janet’s own modern touches mixed in. Aside from stating the obvious similarity in the black-and-white film used in both videos, the costuming also brings Michael to mind-- the single fingerless glove, the military jackets worn by her dancers, and the strong-shouldered jackets (recently made popular again by French fashion house Balmain) that Jackson herself sports in the video.

Though the video lacks any sort of plot, I think that I actually prefer Janet’s videos this way. Unlike some of her younger contemporaries who surround themselves with busy, far-fetched plotlines and ridiculous costuming in their music videos, "Make Me" is an honest representation of Janet doing what she does best--dancing and entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Jackson look so at ease in her video and the catchy song will most definitely be on all of my holiday party play lists.

View the video for "Make Me" below. Thoughts?