What makes Let's Wait Awhile by Janet Jackson notable?

'Let's Wait Awhile' became a significant hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Its themes of sexual restraint resonated with audiences during a time when conversations around relationships and intimacy were evolving, marking Jackson as a voice of a new generation. In 1987, Janet Jackson was on the rise following her commercial breakthrough with 'Control' (1986). 'Let's Wait Awhile' was released as part of a remix album, showcasing her growing influence in the contemporary R&B and pop landscape while further establishing her identity as a solo artist.

How many songs are on Let's Wait Awhile?

Let's Wait Awhile has 3 tracks, running approximately 22 minutes.

Let's Wait Awhile

Janet Jackson · 1987

22 min · 3 tracks · contemporary R&B

A sultry blend of polished R&B rhythms and pop-infused melodies that explores themes of love and restraint.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Let's Wait Awhile (remix) — This track encapsulates Jackson's signature sound, combining smooth vocals with a message about patience in relationships, making it an anthem for self-control and emotional maturity.
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Nasty (Cool Summer mix part 1) — The upbeat tempo and confident lyrics of this remix highlight Jackson's assertive persona, solidifying her position as a pioneer for female empowerment in music during the late '80s.
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Nasty (Cool Summer mix part 2) — Expanding on its predecessor, this extended mix elevates the danceable energy of 'Nasty', showcasing Jackson's ability to blend catchy hooks with a bold message about self-respect.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases polished R&B with strong production but lacks the depth of a full album experience.

What we noticed

The title track features a slow, steady tempo with lush instrumentation that emphasizes Jackson's smooth vocal delivery.
The remix of 'Nasty' is split into two parts, each maintaining a consistent groove but varying in arrangement and intensity.
The first track is nearly six minutes long, allowing for extended instrumental sections that enhance the sultry mood.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — The single followed 'Control', solidifying her rising influence and commercial success.
Themes: emotional maturity· patience in relationships· female empowerment anthems
Career context: In 1987, Janet Jackson was on the rise following her commercial breakthrough with 'Control' (1986). 'Let's Wait Awhile' was released as part of a remix album, showcasing her growing influence in the contemporary R&B and pop landscape while further establishing her identity as a solo artist.
Stylistic neighbors: Tinashe· Aaliyah· Beyoncé

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Let's Wait Awhile (remix)

The narrative shifts from longing to expressing hope for future connection reveals deeper emotional stakes in the relationship.

This transition conveys a nuanced understanding of desire, emphasizing the importance of waiting for the right moment rather than rushing into intimacy.