Janet (stylized as
janet.) is the fifth studio album by American recording artist
Janet Jackson, released on May 18, 1993, by
Virgin Records America. Prior to its release, Jackson was at the center of a high-profile bidding war over her recording contract. In 1991, her original label
A&M sought to renew her contract, while others, such as
Atlantic,
Capitol, and Virgin all vied to sign her. After meeting with Virgin owner
Richard Branson, she signed with the label for a $40 million contract, making her the world's then-highest paid musical act.