As I’ve said before, the first half of 2001 was amazing in my then 7-year-old world. Look at everybody who dropped albums during the spring and early summer—Destiny’s Child, System of a Down, Aaliyah, Missy Elliott, Ludacris and the list continues.
Jennifer Lopez was one of those artists with her sophomore effort, J.LO, which birthed one of my favorite songs of hers—the lead single “Love Don’t Cost a Thing.” Technically, the song was released in late 2000, but for all intents and purposes, we’re saying 2001.
Whimsical, light, and airy, the beat and chorus were infectious, crafting a carefree Y2K anthem that immediately takes you back to a golden era of pop music.
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The song’s release marked a massive moment in J.Lo’s career trajectory:
- International Success: It landed in the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 (peaking at #3) and secured her very first #1 single on the UK Official Singles Chart.
- History-Making Album: The success of the single catapulted the J.LO album to the #1 spot on the Billboard 200, coinciding with her movie The Wedding Planner topping the box office—making her the first woman to have a #1 film and album in the same week.
Of course, no discussion of “Love Don’t Cost a Thing” is complete without mentioning its legendary music video, directed by Paul Hunter.
Set against a sun-drenched Miami backdrop, the video sees J.Lo receiving lavish gifts—jewels, designer coats, and luxury cars—from an absentee partner. In a moment of pure Y2K cinematic triumph, she strips away the materialistic tokens one by one as she makes her way to the beach, culminating in an legendary dance break right at the shore.
Decades later, pressing play on “Love Don’t Cost a Thing” remains an instant portal to the breezy, carefree energy of 2001 pop culture.
Featured Photo: Epic Records
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