The other day Janelle Monáe unfortunately faced backlash for some slightly dark humor content as they posted a video recreating Michael Jackson’s infamous balcony baby incident (in case you didn’t know we were Say anything, then you already have some serious problems) pop culture history study). They didn’t address some fans’ controversial reactions to it, but they did seem to quietly remove it from the page, so we’re assuming they regret their decision to at least share the clip. It’s a rather strange way to pay homage to the King of Pop, but then again, maybe it’s also meant to highlight the controversy in his career. Still, it doesn’t look like it will be a hot topic of debate anymore.
Additionally, this is especially curious because Janelle Monáe is a huge fan of Michael, especially his sister Jenny Jackson. “We gather around the world to use your music as our soundtrack,” they said of the Rhythm Nation icon as they inducted her into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, calling her “the legendary queen of black girl magic.” “We applaud your commitment to excellence [and] We celebrate the memories you have given us and we hope we can tuck them away for the next life. History is incomplete without you, Janet.
Janelle Monae appears to have taken down controversial Michael Jackson video
Meanwhile, Janelle Monáe recently commented on how they cast their film roles, and their explanation was bizarre. “Really, I love getting to know the characters and feeling everything I do,” they told The Guardian. “I literally had to feel it in my pubic hair—they had to vibrate. When I got the script for The Glass Onion, my armpit hair definitely tingled.”
As for Michael Jackson, Janelle Monáe’s bizarre reprise isn’t the only dubious “homage” to him by artistic collaborators that has caught the attention of fans recently. Janet Jackson herself caused a commotion when she chose to pose for a meet and greet with someone dressed as her brother. While many people see this as disrespectful behavior, it’s only natural that Janet sees it all the time. So maybe she can look at it from a more appreciative and respectful perspective than our internet-influenced perspective.
About the author
Gabriel Bras Nevares is HotNewHipHop’s music and pop culture news writer. He started as a weekend writer in 2022 and has gained a wealth of knowledge in hip-hop news and publishing since joining the team full-time. Whether reporting regularly or giving occasional interviews and album reviews, he continues to seek out the most relevant news for his audience and find the best new albums in the genre. What excites him most is finding pop culture stories of interest and a deeper passion for the hip-hop art form and its contemporary work. Specifically, Gabriel loves the fringes of rap music: experimental, boundary-pushing, original alternatives to mainstream music. While he is proud to be a native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, he is also knowledgeable about the archipelago’s local scene and the latest happenings in reggaeton, salsa, indie and other music scenes. Prior to joining HotNewHipHop, Gabriel produced multiple short documentaries, artist interviews, venue spotlights, and audio podcasts about various genres and musical figures. While attending George Washington University, hardcore punk and go-go music defined much of his coverage.
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