Picking up where disco left off, the ‘80s were a time of unprecedented experimentation, with singers and producers weaving strands of funk, soul, and pop into bold new patterns while also incorporating futuristic electronic elements. Changing the very idea of rhythm ‘n' blues, albums like Janet Jackson's Control in 1986 utilized synthesizers and drum machines for a sound that was smooth yet aggressive, just like the lyrics themselves. But there was still a core of impeccable pop songwriting, with artists like Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston perfecting the form and giving it staying power for decades to come.