What does an R&B-pop icon have to offer at 58? Everything—if Janet Jackson’s Resorts World residency is anything to go by. The legendary performer kicked off the first leg in December and just wrapped the second stint before heading back in May. Spanning nearly two hours, the setlist is stacked with over 40 songs, seamlessly blending early career anthems like “Black Cat” and “Nasty” with deep cuts such as “Rock With U.” The production struck a perfect balance between Vegas spectacle and intimate evening, with state-of-the-art audio by L-Acoustics delivering Jackson’s voice directly to each fan. If this show proves anything, it’s that Jackson is still unmatched in her ability to command a stage.
She was joined by her longtime dance crew, The Kidz—a name she affectionately coined in the ‘90s. The current lineup includes choreographer Dario Boatner, Mariusz Maniek Kotarski and Guero Charles. While Jackson has typically performed with a larger ensemble, the streamlined approach didn’t lessen the energy. More dancers might have amplified the spectacle, but the intimate setup allowed her to strike the right balance between high-energy choreography and moments of genuine connection with the crowd. Her best dance breaks came during “Rock With U,” “All for You,” and, of course, the legendary “If” breakdown, executed with the same precision and intensity as her 1993 VMAs performance.
Vocally, this was one of Jackson’s strongest outings in years. With a slight pullback on the choreography, she delivered much of the setlist live, a choice that paid off tremendously. The L-Acoustics sound system heightened the experience—when she rose above the crowd on platforms during “That’s the Way Love Goes,” it felt as if she were singing directly above you, creating a rare intimacy within the 5,000-person capacity venue.
The production was deceptively simple but masterfully executed. At first glance, the stage setup appeared minimal, but as the show progressed, it became clear that every element was designed to enhance Jackson’s presence. The band, initially positioned behind towering LED panels, was gradually brought forward, increasing engagement with the audience. The spatial audio—delivered through 242 strategically placed speakers—allowed for a directional listening experience. When the guitarist ripped into a solo, the sound emanated from the left side of the stage rather than being blasted uniformly in standard stereo.
As the show neared its close, Jackson introduced a spoken word piece over an ethereal instrumental before segueing into an emotional tribute to her late father, Joe Jackson, and her brothers, Michael and Tito. She performed “Together Again” as images of her family appeared on the screen, delivering one of the evening’s most poignant moments.
With the second leg of her residency now complete, Jackson is set to return to Resorts World for another run this spring, with shows scheduled for May 21, 24, 25, 28, 30 and 31. If her latest performances are any indication, she’ll continue proving why she remains one of the greatest entertainers of all time.
