Janet Jackson vs. Usher – The Boombox Battle
Janet Jackson swept the poll last week and won the Boombox Battle. With more than 82 percent, Janet's opponent, Tinashe, couldn't do anything to make a comeback.
The title track off her latest No. 1 album of the same name was produced by longtime collaborators Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. And while it is a love song, it’s not necessarily for a lover. Instead, this track is dedicated to the fans who have been by her side since the beginning.
“Faithful love that I will always keep first / My heart will never be hurt / Family that walks through fire for me / So I don’t get burnt / Fans and friends chime in / To a love that’s true blue / I dedicate myself to you,” she sings.
While Janet's track pays homage to her fans, Usher directs our attentions to something else. His latest song, "Chains," is a strong and heavy tune that sheds light on racism, gun violence and police brutality. Teaming up with Nas and Bibi Bourelly, the powerful instrumental, emotional lyrics and dark visuals add more drama to the song and can't make you turn away.
"Moment of silence / American school and we in church too (Don't shoot) / Shooting, shooting, shooting, we the prey / Always shoot (Prey) / I'mma be trill, you should be trill too / You don't even gotta talk we just shoot / And I feel so tired of being insecure / Just give it up / Don't give a f--- / Light it on fire," Usher and Bibi sing together.
Who will win this week? Will Janet's tribute to her fans take the third consecutive win? Or will Usher's powerful yet inspiring tune bring in the votes? Only you can decide. Go vote for your favorite song in the poll below. Remember, you can vote once per hour until the poll closes on Tues., Oct. 27 at 10 a.m. ET.
Listen to Janet Jackson's "Unbreakable"
Listen to Usher's "Chains" feat. Nas and Bibi Bourelly
Rules of The Boombox Battle
Two artists and their respective songs compete against each other each week. The triumphant artist goes on to compete in the next The Boombox Battle. If an artist wins The Boombox Battle four times consecutively, their song will be honored in The Boombox Battle Hall of Fame.