The 2001 hit returns to the spotlight with a viral resurgence and a fresh look behind the scenes.

Janet Jackson’s breezy 2001 single “Someone to Call My Lover” is enjoying a remarkable renaissance in 2025, thanks to a new Vevo Footnotes episode and a wave of renewed fan interest. The track, originally from her seventh studio album All For You, has seen a significant surge in daily streams, reintroducing it to a new generation of listeners.

A Blend of Nostalgia and Innovation

“Someone to Call My Lover” stands out for its unique fusion of classic samples and contemporary R&B flair. The song features a looped guitar riff from America’s 1972 hit “Ventura Highway” and an interpolated melody from Erik Satie’s “Gymnopédie No.1,” reimagined in a 4/4 time signature. Jackson’s inspiration for the latter came from a childhood memory of hearing the piece in a television commercial, a tune that lingered with her for years until she rediscovered it in a Ralph Lauren store.

Collaborating with longtime producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Jackson crafted a track that encapsulates the yearning for companionship. The lyrics convey a desire for a meaningful connection, a theme that resonates with many. Jackson once described the song as being about “the next person you want to be with and call yours.”

Behind the Scenes: Vevo Footnotes

The recent Vevo Footnotes episode offers fans an intimate look at the creation of “Someone to Call My Lover.” Jackson shares anecdotes about the song’s development, including how she first sang the melody over the phone to Jimmy Jam, prompting him to invite her to Minneapolis to record the track. The episode also highlights the song’s recent viral resurgence, which has led to its inclusion in the encore section of her 2024 tour—a notable addition, given that Jackson rarely performed the song between 2002 and 2017.

A Triumphant Return to the Stage

In a testament to the song’s enduring appeal, Jackson performed “Someone to Call My Lover” during her first televised performance in seven years at the 2025 American Music Awards. Dressed in a denim ensemble and accompanied by a live band and dancers, she delivered a dynamic medley that also included “All for You.” The performance coincided with Jackson receiving the AMA Icon Award, recognising her decades-long influence on pop and R&B music.

Legacy and Continued Influence

“Someone to Call My Lover” remains a standout in Janet Jackson’s illustrious career, blending nostalgic elements with timeless themes of love and longing. Its recent resurgence underscores the song’s lasting impact and Jackson’s ability to connect with audiences across generations. As fans old and new rediscover this classic track, its place in the pantheon of early 2000s R&B is firmly cemented.