Runaway (Janet Jackson song)
"Runaway" is a song by American singer-songwriter Janet Jackson from her first greatest hits album, Design of a Decade: 1986–1996 (1995). Written and produced by Jackson and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis as one of the two original songs on the album, it was made available commercially as the lead single on August 29, 1995, by A&M Records in the United States. Originally written for a possible duet with her brother Michael Jackson, it is a pop and dance song with influences of Middle Eastern music, including church bells and sitars in the composition. It lyrically talks about traveling around the world. The song received positive reviews from music critics, who appreciated its production and compared it to works by Prince, as well as with Janet Jackson's past singles.
"Runaway" was originally created for a possible duet with Jackson's brother Michael (pictured in 1988).
Jackson performing the track on 2008's Rock Witchu Tour; it became the fourth highest debut of all time on the Billboard Hot 100.
Jackson performing the song during a concert from The Velvet Rope Tour in Milan, Italy, on May 5, 1998.
Janet Damita Jo Jackson is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and dancer. She is noted for her innovative, socially conscious and sexually provocative records, as well as elaborate stage shows. Her sound and choreography became a catalyst in the growth of MTV, enabling her to rise to prominence while breaking gender and racial barriers in the process. Lyrical content which focused on social issues and lived experiences set her reputation as a role model for youth.
Jackson in 2015
Jackson (bottom row) in a 1977 CBS photo on the set of The Jacksons
Janet Jackson in 1986.
Jackson performing on one of the dates of her 1993–95 Janet World Tour