Black Cat

Janet Jackson

About Black Cat

"Black Cat" is a song by American singer Janet Jackson, released as the sixth single from her fourth studio album, Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989). The song was written by Jackson, who produced it with Jellybean Johnson. In a departure from her standard of industrial-based dance-pop, "Black Cat" is a hard rock song with arena rock influences. Its lyrics speak of substance abuse and gang violence. It was the final song recorded for the album, after Jackson composed its main riff when desiring a rock song to complete the record. "Black Cat" was well received among critics, who praised Jackson's "maximum advantage" vocals and her seamless foray into the hard rock genre. It was a commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 as well as the top 10 on the charts in South Africa, Canada, Norway, and Australia, among other countries, while peaking at number 15 in the United Kingdom. It was certified gold in the United States and Australia. Its music video, directed by Wayne Isham, was filmed during Jackson's Rhythm Nation World Tour 1990. It used an "in-concert" theme, splicing Jackson with images of a black panther. Jackson performed "Black Cat" at the 1990 MTV Video Music Awards, in a "fiery rendition" of the song in which she conveyed "feline" choreography, and also on the Rhythm Nation World Tour 1990, which drew media attention for its usage of illusionary magic, concluding with Jackson forced into a cage before transformed into a live panther. 


Year:
1995
4:48
82 
#1

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One, two, three, four
All the lonely nights I spend alone
Never 'round to love me
You're always gone
'Cause you're hangin' out

Breakin' the rules
Oh the man has come
Lookin' for you

You're a rebel now
Don't give a damn
Always carrying on
With the gang

I'm tryin' to tell ya boy
It's a mistake
You won't realize
'Til it's too late

Don't understand
Why you insist
On ways of living such a dangerous life
Time after time you stay away
And I just know that you're telling me lies

Black cat nine lives
Short days long nights
Livin' on the edge
Not afraid to die
Heart beat real strong
But not for long
Better watch your step
Or you're gonna die

You're so together boy
But just at a glance
You'll do anything
If given the chance

Scheming, plannin' lies
To get what you need
So full of promises
That you never keep

Don't you tell yourself
That it's okay
Sick and tired of
All of your games

And you want me to stay
(Aww) Better change
Makes no sense to me
Your crazy ways

Don't understand
Why you insist
On ways of living such a dangerous life
Time after time you stay away
And I just know that you're telling me lies

Not afraid to die

Black cat
Black cat
Short days long nights
Livin' on the edge
Don't understand
Why you insist
On ways of living such a dangerous life
Time after time you stay away
And I just know that you're telling me lies

Black cat nine lives
Short days long nights
Livin' on the edge
Not afraid to die
Heart beat real strong
But not for long
Better watch your step
Or you're gonna die

Black cat nine lives
Short days long nights
Livin' on the edge
Not afraid to die
Heart beat real strong
But not for long
Better watch your step
Or you're gonna die

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!


Janet Jackson

Janet Damita Jo Jackson (born May 16, 1966) is an American recording artist and actress. Known for a series of sonically innovative, socially conscious and sexually provocative records, as well as elaborate stage shows, television and film roles, she has been a prominent figure in popular culture since the early 1970s. The youngest child of the Jackson family, she began her career appearing on the variety television series The Jacksons in 1976 and went on to appear in other television shows throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, including Good Times and Fame. more »

8 fans

Written by: Janet Jackson

Lyrics © JANET JACKSON DBA BLACK ICE

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


13 facts about this song

Album
"Black Cat" is a song from Janet Jackson's fourth studio album, "Rhythm Nation 1814," which was released in 1989.
Genre
Unlike many of Janet Jackson's songs, "Black Cat" is a hard rock song, demonstrating her versatility as an artist.
Chart Performance
The song was a commercial hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, making it the sixth single from the album to reach the top five.
Writing and Production
Notably, "Black Cat" was written and produced solely by Janet Jackson, proving her prowess as a songwriter and producer.
Recognition
In 1991, "Black Cat" earned Janet a Grammy Award nomination for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance, a category typically dominated by white artists.
Unique Sound
With its distinct blend of rock, pop, and dance, "Black Cat" significantly deviates from Jackson's usual sound, emphasizing her ability to successfully experiment with different genres.
Live Performances
Jackson often performs "Black Cat" in concerts, where it’s accompanied by pyrotechnics, showcasing her dedication to putting on a exhilarating live show.
Multi-Platinum Status
The song gained multi-platinum status in the United States, demonstrating its enormous success.
Cover Versions
Over the years, "Black Cat" has been covered by several artists, highlighting its enduring appeal and influence.
Video Release
The music video for "Black Cat" was directed by Wayne Isham, famous for his work with artists like Bon Jovi and Metallica.
Non-Musical References
The song is referenced in a comic book named "Spider-Man/Black Cat: The Evil that Men Do", highlighting its cultural impact.
Global success
"Black Cat" was also a commercial success worldwide, peaking within the top ten in the charts in many countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom.
Critical Acclaim
The song received favorable reviews from music critics, with many praising its edgy sound and Janet's powerful vocal delivery.

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    Black Cat

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1990

    Billboard #1


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