Jackson And Powell Combine Forces

As Janet Jackson prepares to kick off the North American leg of her Velvet Rope tour with a concert in Washington, D.C., she is teaming up with Retired General Colin Powell to promote his nationwide mentoring program, called "America's Promise."

Jackson has agreed to contribute her time, her star power, and a portion of her ticket sales to his program, geared to keep city kids on the right track. "I want to urge the fans, my fans, to be a part of "America's Promise" by being mentors," says Jackson.

The four-star general's program is already helping 15 million youths at risk, and with Janet Jackson on board should be able to reach many more. Her Velvet Rope album has already sold 4 million copies worldwide, and even the general is wowed by the performers magnetism. "It's exciting to be with Janet and to see the adulation and attention she gets," says Powell.

The first time Jackson saw Powell was at the Essence Awards, but she was too embarrassed to introduce herself. Now the general listens to her albums, gives her a lift to appearances, and has the best seats in the house for her Washington concert.