Ghanaian-American singer Amaarae has sparked debate after declaring that Janet Jackson, not her late brother Michael Jackson, deserves the title of “King of Pop.”
The ‘Sad Girls Love Money’ singer made the remark during an interview with Pitchfork while discussing the influence of Janet Jackson’s 1997 album, “The Velvet Rope,” which she described as her favourite project by the music icon.
Amaarae praised the album for its emotional depth and experimental sound, saying it combined vulnerability, sexuality and aggression in a way that stood out from other pop records of its era.
According to the singer, if she had been old enough when the album was released in 1997, she would have played it continuously because of its impact and creativity.
Despite her comments, Amaarae clarified that her statement was not intended as criticism of Michael Jackson, widely regarded as the “King of Pop,” saying, “No shade to Michael Jackson.”
