Janet Jackson was on hand to receive the plaque when her hit album Rhythm Nation 1814 was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
After the plaque was handed over by music producer James Samuel “Jimmy Jam” Harris III, Jackson proceeded to make a heartfelt speech to mark the occasion.
“I’m so grateful and honoured that Rhythm Nation is being recognised tonight in this wonderful, wonderful way. It’s beautiful to relive the memories attached to this project that’s so, so precious to me, though I don’t see Rhythm Nation as a phenomenon that lives in the past, I believe it’s alive and well in 2026,” began Jackson.
“Rhythm Nation still resonates on a deep and profound level. It’s an ongoing force that fights bigotry and promotes understanding. It cannot be stopped. It’s simply too strong and too positive.”
Rhythm Nation is a movement of people of all ages and backgrounds seeking to give and receive love free of judgment. As we celebrate tonight, let’s remember that it transcends all borders, nationalities and faiths.”
“When you hear the music of Rhythm Nation, I hope you hear my heart’s desire when we first created this suit of songs. More than ever, my hope is that we might live in a world free of fear and despair. The prayer driving this Rhythm Nation remains the same, exactly the same, that peace prevail. Peace the world over, peace among nations, peace in our neighbourhoods, peace in our homes.”
“May the music of Rhythm Nation continue to bring us together in peace, and may that peace allow us to celebrate this precious gift of life that God has given us all praise due to God. I just want to thank the Grammy organisation for this wonderful honour. Thank you guys so much,” concluded Jackson.
