Special Instructions hosted by Ella Hussle

Special Instructions is an archival project exploring the intersections of music, memory, and preservation. Inspired by an inherited cd collection from her late father, which host, DJ and librarian then expanded into the art of archiving, the craft of librarianship and collecting books. Special Instructions gives a platform for nostalgia but with a twist. The listening sessions are a combinations of all of these under one umbrella: Sound, memory, and literature. For the next session, join us as we take a closer listen to Janet Jackson’s Magnum Opus, The Velvet Rope.

Released on October 7, 1997, The Velvet Rope marked a turning point in Janet Jackson’s career; a bold and intimate unraveling of self. Grappling with depression, identity, and the weight of fame, Janet used this album to ask a deeper question: who truly has control over her body, her image, her voice—as a Black woman in the public eye? The “Velvet Rope” itself became a symbol of the layers she peeled back, exposing vulnerability and confronting her need for control and validation in a world that constantly tried to define her.

Blending R&B, trip-hop, funk, and electronic sounds, The Velvet Rope broke boundaries sonically and thematically. With songs like “Got 'Til It’s Gone” and “What About,” Janet wove vulnerability and power into one, confronting pain, pleasure, and autonomy. It wasn’t just an album, it was a declaration of control on her own terms, and a reminder of our collective desire to feel special, seen, and worthy.

Let’s pull back the Velvet Rope and get to learn about Janet through her own words on tracks that made this album the most vulnerable in her discography.

----

About the organizers and participants:

Ella Hussle is a dynamic DJ, producer, and event curator originally from Las Vegas and now based in Brooklyn. Her musical journey began in 2015, and she's quickly become known for her high-energy sets and sultry, diverse sound. Ella seamlessly blends genres like R&B, UK Street Soul, Funk, Jazz, Disco, and House, creating an eclectic vibe that’s all her own. Beyond her music, she’s built a reputation as a versatile artist who curates community listening sessions, often showcasing her vast CD collection and passion for music in all its forms. Ella is also exploring academia and librarianship, all while nurturing her love for collecting CDs and antiquated books. Her deep affinity for physical media and vintage ephemera enriches her musical identity,  reflecting the eras and influences that shape her sound. @EllaHussle @special.instructions

Head Hi is an organization dedicated to art, architecture, design and sound specializing in publications and cultural programming with an espresso bar located in Fort Greene, Brooklyn by the Navy Yard. We feature a curated selection of publications from around the globe. Working with local and international artists, designers, publishers, and organizations in various fields, Head Hi is a space for exploration and interaction that hosts talks, book launches, exhibitions, music, performances and other events. Head Hi Fi enhances the experience of sound in the space with its vintage Klipsch La Scala speakers. @headhi_ny