The music video of ‘No Sleeep’ (featuring J. Cole) is for the most part (thematically) in accordance with the song. But, this does not mean that it could not have been done better.
Janet looks self-confident, relaxed, happy, & rather nostalgic at times. The evocative concept (lighting, environment, etc.) undoubtedly adds to the song. Also, Janet knows how to play with the camera, how to gently shake her body in that characteristic way &, most importantly, all these come naturally from her. In other words, she does not seem to feign at all &, in my opinion, this is one of her secrets why she has not lost her (sexual) appeal still today.
I think this natural look suits Janet &, there is no doubt that it is more preferable than those pointless futuristic/robotic styles that she has previously adopted in her videos (‘What's It Gonna Be’, ‘Feedback’, for example).
But, I was completely taken aback at the end of her music video. The appearance of J. Cole came like a bolt out of the blue. It does not fit at all. It sounds like two different songs being played at the same time. Moreover, his vocals sound forced, unnatural while his general presence looks totally out of place.
It goes without saying that Janet deserves better featured artists in her songs. This is the reason why her music video (that was meant as her comeback in music) left me with a feeling of underachievement.
Furthermore, this explains why it is extremely difficult (but not infeasible) to insert rap vocals into an R&B song without, at least, ruining the song (& its theme). But, when it works well then the final result sounds coherent as well as beautiful leading to memorable guest (vocal) performances (‘Top of the World’ Brandy/Mase, ‘Hit the Freeway’ Toni Braxton/Loon, & so on).
