The impending 30th anniversary of September 1989’s Rhythm Nation 1814 (12x platinum worldwide) by Janet Jackson, featuring the hit singles "Miss You Much", "Rhythm Nation", and "Escapade", will be properly recognized with a first-time 2xLP standard-black upgrade that restores the album’s previously missing interludes and unedited tracks.
Although label executives wanted material similar to her previous album, Control (1986), Jackson insisted on creating a concept album addressing social issues. Collaborating with songwriters and record producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, she drew inspiration from various tragedies reported through news media, exploring racism, poverty, and substance abuse, in addition to themes of romance. Although its primary concept was met with mixed reactions, its composition received critical acclaim. Jackson came to be considered a role model for youth because of her socially conscious lyrics.