Jimmy Jam Reflects on Mariah Carey and Janet Jackson’s ‘Control’ at Pre-Grammys Gala
At the 2026 MusiCares Gala in Los Angeles, legendary songwriter Jimmy Jam shared insights into his illustrious career and its personal milestones. The gala, held on January 30, honored the iconic Mariah Carey and featured numerous star-studded performances.
Reflecting on Legacy and Relationships
During an interview with PauseRewind reporter Courtney Tezeno, Jam discussed the significance of legacy in his life. He recounted a memorable conversation with the late Michael Jackson. Jackson once asked him, “How do you want to be remembered?” Jam replied, “I want to be remembered as a nice guy.” This sentiment resonated with Jackson, who later described Jam as “the nicest guy” during discussions about their collaboration on the ‘History’ album.
According to Jam, his career, especially his 53-year partnership with Terry Lewis, has always been rooted in respect and collaboration. He emphasized, “Whether it’s a hit or not, hopefully it’s a great experience working together.”
Honoring Mariah Carey and Musical Influence
The gala paid tribute to Carey with performances from a variety of artists, including:
- Jennifer Hudson
- Kesha
- Adam Lambert
- Billy Porter
- Charlie Puth
- Foo Fighters
- John Legend
- Maggie Rogers
- Taylor Momsen
- Teddy Swims
- Jermaine Dupri
These artists showcased Carey’s legendary catalog, which Jam praised for its complexity and depth. He called her “a meticulous songwriter” and noted her intentionality in crafting melodies that shift the emotional landscape of a song.
Nostalgia and Janet Jackson’s ‘Control’
The gala also marked the 40th anniversary of Janet Jackson’s seminal album ‘Control.’ Jam reflected on how he introduced a young Jackson to Minneapolis as she embraced her independence. He highlighted the personal nature of the album’s themes, stating, “She was literally learning what she was writing about.”
As for the performances that evening, Jam expressed particular enthusiasm for Charlie Puth, stating, “I’m a big Charlie Puth fan. I hear he’s going to do a little something something, so I’m really excited about that.”
The 2026 MusiCares Gala served as a remarkable celebration of music, legacy, and the enduring impact of iconic artists like Mariah Carey and Janet Jackson, as reflected upon by Jimmy Jam. For more updates on entertainment news, visit Filmogaz.com.
