Control: The Remixes cover

Control: The Remixes

Janet Jackson · 1987

56 min · 8 tracks · contemporary R&B

Electrifying dance beats meet silky R&B melodies in a vibrant reimagining of Jackson's classic hits.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Control (The video mix) Start here — This track exemplifies the electric energy and innovative production style that defined Jackson's sound during this era, making it a staple in clubs.
  • →
    The Pleasure Principle (long vocal remix) — This remix enhances the original's sultry vibe with extended instrumental sections that highlight Jackson's vocal prowess and rhythmic complexity.
  • →
    Nasty (Cool Summer mix, Part 1) — The Cool Summer mix amplifies the original's bold attitude, transforming it into a dancefloor anthem with infectious grooves and catchy hooks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

57 /100
Foothills
Higher than 48% of albums we've rated

The remixes elevate Jackson's hits with fresh arrangements while maintaining a cohesive dance vibe.

What we noticed

  • The album features remixes that extend the original tracks, often adding new instrumental sections and altering the arrangement to enhance danceability.
  • Several tracks incorporate additional vocal layers or effects, creating a more dynamic sound compared to their original versions.
  • The sequencing maintains a consistent tempo throughout, with transitions between tracks designed to keep the energy high for dance settings.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dance floor energy throughout
  • extended grooves for movement
  • commanding vocals driving rhythms
  • wave-like pacing for engagement

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer concise, standalone tracks
  • seek instant gratification beats

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album capitalized on the success of Control, enhancing her recognition in pop and dance music.
Themes
club-ready anthems· electric dance floors· sultry summer nights
Career context
Released on January 1, 1987, Control: The Remixes arrived shortly after Janet Jackson's breakthrough album Control, which had established her as a pop and R&B icon. This remix album capitalized on the momentum of her newfound fame, showcasing her ability to transform popular tracks into club-ready anthems while solidifying her partnership with producer Shep Pettibone.
Stylistic neighbors
Tinashe· Aaliyah· Beyoncé

Tracklist

  • 1 Control (The video mix) Start here 6:02
  • 2 When I Think of You (dance remix) 6:25
  • 3 The Pleasure Principle (long vocal remix) (The Shep Pettibone mix) 7:23
  • 4 Nasty (Cool Summer mix, Part 1) 7:57
  • 5 What Have You Done for Me Lately (extended mix) 7:00
  • 6 Nasty (Cool Summer mix, Part 2) 10:09
  • 7 Let’s Wait Awhile (remix) 4:30
  • 8 The Pleasure Principle (dub edit) (The Shep Pettibone mix) 6:58

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata