A Soulful Ode to the Timeless Dance of Love
In the spring of 1993, Janet Jackson released a song that would become an enduring anthem for the complexities and beauty of love: “That’s the Way Love Goes.” This track, the lead single from her fifth studio album, Janet., quickly ascended to the pinnacle of musical achievement, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It remained there for an impressive eight weeks, marking it as one of the defining hits of the year and further solidifying Janet’s status as a formidable force in the music industry.
The story behind “That’s the Way Love Goes” is as captivating as its melody. Following her monumental success with Rhythm Nation 1814, Janet sought to evolve her sound and explore more intimate themes. Collaborating once again with the legendary production duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, she ventured into a more sensual, laid-back groove that resonated deeply with listeners. This creative decision was not merely a shift in musical style but a reflection of Janet’s personal growth and artistic maturation.
At its core, “That’s the Way Love Goes” is a celebration of love’s gentle ebbs and flows. The song’s lyrics encapsulate the tender and sometimes unpredictable nature of romantic relationships. With lines that speak to the warmth and comfort found in a lover’s embrace, Janet weaves a narrative that is both universal and deeply personal. Her soft, sultry vocals glide over a smooth R&B beat, creating an atmosphere that feels like a warm embrace on a cool evening.
The song’s production is nothing short of masterful, featuring a sample from James Brown’s “Papa Don’t Take No Mess,” which provides a rich, soulful backdrop. This clever use of sampling not only pays homage to musical greats but also grounds the track in a timeless groove that transcends eras. The lush instrumentation and understated rhythm section enhance Janet’s vocal delivery, allowing her emotive storytelling to take center stage.
For many listeners, especially those who lived through the vibrant musical landscape of the early ’90s, “That’s the Way Love Goes” evokes a profound sense of nostalgia. It recalls memories of warm summer nights, intimate gatherings with friends, and moments spent dancing freely without care. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners back to those cherished times while still feeling fresh and relevant today.
Beyond its commercial success, “That’s the Way Love Goes” represents a pivotal moment in Janet Jackson’s career. It showcased her ability to seamlessly blend different musical genres and set the stage for future explorations into even more diverse sounds. The track also highlighted Janet’s unique talent for conveying emotion through music—a quality that has endeared her to fans across generations.
In revisiting this classic hit, one can’t help but reflect on the timelessness of love itself—its capacity to inspire art that resonates across ages. As we listen to Janet’s soothing voice guiding us through love’s winding path, we’re reminded that while relationships may change and evolve, certain feelings remain constant. Indeed, that’s just the way love goes.