The Velvet Rope is the sixth studio album by American singer
Janet Jackson. The album was released on October 7, 1997 through
Virgin Records America. Following the release of her first greatest hits compilation
Design of a Decade: 1986–1996, Jackson's recording contract with Virgin was up for renewal, making her the subject of a high-profile bidding war among parties including
Sony Music,
The Walt Disney Company, and
Time Warner. She ultimately chose to renew her contract with Virgin for an unprecedented $80 million, making her the world's highest paid musical act for the second time in her career. She unveiled a new image, flaunting vibrant red hair, multiple tattoos, and acquiring facial and body piercings. She also abandoned her surname, releasing material solely under her first name.