Ghanaian-American singer Amaarae has sparked widespread debate after describing Janet Jackson as the “real King of Pop,” a title long associated with her late brother, Michael Jackson.
The singer made the statement during an interview with Pitchfork, where she discussed Janet Jackson’s 1997 critically acclaimed album The Velvet Rope.
Amaarae praised the project for its boldness, emotional honesty, sensuality, and experimental sound, noting that it remains one of the most influential bodies of work in pop music history.
She said that if she had been old enough at the time of its release, she would have played the album repeatedly, describing it as deeply ahead of its time.
“Every Janet Jackson album is fantastic. But The Velvet Rope is the best. If I were conscious in 1997 when the album dropped, I would have played it nonstop. It’s so vulnerable, sexy, aggressive and experimental,” she said.
Amaarae then described Janet Jackson as, in her view, the “real King of Pop,” while stressing that her comment was not intended as a slight against Michael Jackson.
Her statement has since triggered mixed reactions online, with fans divided over the cultural and historical weight of the title. While some agreed with her praise of Janet Jackson’s artistry, others defended Michael Jackson’s global legacy as the original holder of the title.
Despite the debate, Amaarae’s comments have reignited conversations about influence, legacy, and the evolution of pop music across generations.
