With her own comeback album (her first in six years) due out June-time, Missy Elliott joins Lil Wayne 'Weezy' on the official remix to fellow rap legend Busta Rhymes' latest hit, "Why Stop Now", featuring Chris Brown.
Just in case you were wonderin' - she still got it.
Despite the singer's protestations that all was well with his marriage, his wife of three years and partner of six Ana Carolina Lago (pictured beside him above and below) announced on her oficial Facebook the legal end of their union. The dentist wrote:
"Vim esclarecer algumas dúvidas e boatos que estão circulando na rede são verdadeiros. Eu e o Michel Teló estamos legalmente divorciados."
Which translates as;
"I'd like to clarify some doubts and rumours that are doing the rounds on the web are true. Myself and Michel Teló are legally divorced."
The divorce was made official this Friday (10th), confirming months of rumours - vehemently denied by Teló - that their marriage was in dire straits due to Teló's constant touring and newfound international success with "Ai Se Eu Te Pego/If I Catch You". The couple met six years ago, when Ana was a fan of the Brazilian country-pop ensemble Tradição (fronted by Teló), and married three years later.
Teló is yet to officially confirm the news. His English-language debut - rumoured to include participations from the likes of Shakira and Pitbull, amongst un-name others - is expected sometime later this year.
You know that new Taio Cruz song with what sounds like Akon the chorus you've been hearing on the radio? It is in fact R.I.O. and former US soldier U-Jean's bouncy club-ready collabo "Turn This Club Around", which is already shaping up to be a huge hit all over Europe.
Signed to London Records/Universal, the song is out in the UK at the end of February and has already been playlisted by the likes of Capital and various other major radio stations, so far peaking at #36 on the UK Official Charts.
Jessie and The Toy Boys have revealed the music video for new single "Runaway", which they are offering for free download as well. The music video is inspired by the overturning of Proposition 8 (an American law banning gay marriage, for you international readers) and sends a beautiful message in support of gay marriage.
YASSSS. Rap legend Lil Kim's got another Paypal chart-topper with this latest effort, her long awaited comeback single "If You Love Me". The track features slight traces of auto-tune used to enhance the track's futuristic love ballad-for-the-streets tone.
"God blessed you, when He sent you to me" You better preach it Kimmy Blanco!
London electro-pop duo I Am A Camera put a new, slightly sinister spin on Lana Del Rey's current single "Born To Die". I'm not quite sure what to make of it - it's certainly not an improvement on the original, and the highlight is still her serene vocals. Still, the pounding drum beat and B-side horror movie vibe are an interesting take on the piece, which really picks up in the second half.
No, it's not Regina Spektor, it's singer-songwriter multi-instrumentalist St. Vincent! Who has nothing to do with Saint Saviour or Saint Etienne and does look a bit like she could be Spektor's kinswoman in some way. Anyway, here's the utterly non-cheery "Cheerleader" video clip, which features St Vincent as a living giant exhibited in a museum? I mean, I don't even...ok.
Mother of hair-whipping Willow and Bieber-collaboratin' Jaden, actress and occassional singer Jada Pinkett-Smith has stepped out with a new piano-lead track, "Burn". The piano-lead track showcases her love for husband Will Smith with a more than competent vocal performance.
Produced by ethnic-beat superstar Diplo, here's Usher's new single, "Climax". The track serves as the first single taken from his as-of-yet untitled new album out later this year.
The King's back for his throne bitches. All we need now is a Kelly Rowland featuring remix and I shall be DONE.
Another day, another "Lights" remix video conjured up from some rehashed and re-spliced footage of Ellie with her tambourine. The remixer of choice this time around is Fernando Garibay of Gaga-producin' fame.
For crying out loud, ENOUGH - WE WANT SOME ACTUAL NEW MUSIC ALREADY.
Trina repays the favour done ten years ago (!!!) when young Brianna Perry (then 'Lil Brianna') featured on her 2002 LP, "Diamond Princess", by featuring alongside Future on new cut "Hey Ho".
The track is taken from Brianna's new mixtape "Face Off", and it goes HARD. Both Trina and Brianna's swag are on point, and Future..well, he's unremarkable, but he does his thing too.
Mr Original Pop Idol, Will Young, has just premiered the music video for new single "Losing Myself", taken from his chart-topping comeback album "Echoes", recently certified Gold for shipments in excess of 100,000 (although I'm now informed it has actually been certified Platinum with sales in excess of 420,000). The track's official release date is March 18th and the classy, artsy accompanying visual can be seen below:
A digital promo of Madonna's latest smash hit "Give Me All Your Luvin'", featuring M.I.A. and Nicki Minaj, has been released, including the Radio Edit, Party Rock Remix (featuring new labelmates LMFAO) and multiple harder, club-orientated remixes.
It's been a mighty long time since Bad Boy's First Lady Cassandra Ventura - known as Cassie - scored her single chart hit, "Me & U". Since then we've had no end to leaks and pushbacks as Cassie turned a multitude of tricks in search for that elusive second chart hit.
Finally, after what seems like a decade, Cassie has revealed the music video for comeback single "King Of Hearts", which has simultaneously been released on iTunes and sent for radio adds this Valentine's Day. It's as generic as they come - disappointing considering how long Cassie's had to cook up something truly amazing. That said, it's a solid track and if her label give her the push she deserves - after such a ridiculously long period of nothingness - it might be able to do well enough to permit her a follow-up release.
Eugene McGuinness has apparently been around for a good few years now, but is yet to make the commercial impact needed to allow one to live off one's music. He is currently working on his third studio album, apparently for release via Domino (although his page has been removed from their site so he may have been dropped).
The track here spotlighted is "Shotgun". It's good, but as many have noted on YouTube, it's one of those songs that's already been done a billion times by various artists.
Here's hoping Eugene makes a tidy sum from this being used in some movie's ending credits or car commercial:
Watch the main (that is, non-mind-numbingly boring) performances from last night's 54th Grammy Awards ceremony, which drew in an audience in excess of 40 million. The huge ratings were most likely due to almost universal antecipation for the last-minute Whitney Houston tribute - from which confirmed performer Chaka Khan (for whom Whitney had once sang back-up) withdrew last minute. The highlight performance of the night was black Lady Gaga wannabe Nicki Minaj and her see how I'm controversial and offensive performance of new track Roman's Holiday; a highlight not so much from being fantastic, but for being the single truly engaging performance of the night (tribute excepted).
Check 'em below:
Bruno Mars:
Chris Brown:
Kelly Clarkson
Alicia Keys (Etta James Tribute)
Rihanna and Coldplay
Katy Perry
Adele
Jennifer Hudson
Nicki Minaj - The Exorcism of Roman/Roman's Holiday
As she plots her return to the top of the Billboard charts, early 00's R&B sensation and businesswoman Ashanti has been hard on her grind, making a string of public appearances and laying the groundwork for a full-on assault on mainstream media this coming year.
Back in the days when she making chart history and scoring hit after consecutive hit, Ashanti was often critizised for sub-par live vocals and became known as something of a "poor woman's Beyoncé".
Perhaps as part of a general plan to counter-attack this negative image, she took to the center of the court this past week during the Knicks vs Lakers game and sang the American national anthem "Star Spangled Banner" surprisingly well.
According to The Lava Lizard, Ashanti will be performing next at Good Morning America, as part of the Winter Series, this February 13th. Until then, check her out below as she shows off her greatly improved vocals:
Given yesterday's tragic events, I can't help but also post Whitney Houston's now definitive take on the American national anthem. Released as a charity single after the 9/11 attacks, it was certified Platinum and became Whitney's last release to make the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, charting at #6 - also making Whitney the first - and so far, last - artist to take the national anthem to the top of the charts.
Indomitable Gospel-Pop diva Whitney Houston has been confirmed dead by her publicist, Kristen Foster, who reported the news to the Associated Press. The exact time, location and reason of death have not yet been revealed. It is likely that years of drug addiction and other personal issues took a toll on "The Voice"'s health and caused unknown complications leading to her unfortunate, premature passing.
The most awarded female artist of all time, she amassed 2 Emmy Awards, 6 Grammy Awards, 30 Billboard Music Awards, 22 American Music Awards, among a total of 415 career awards (as of 2010), and established herself as one of the world's best-selling music artists of all time, with album and single sales exceeding the figure of 170 million. Houston was also the only artist to chart seven consecutive No. 1. Billboard Hot 100 hits and produced the best-selling Gospel album of all time, The Preacher's Wife Original Soundtrack, a deeply personal record for me - the first I ever owned and listened to, start to finish, over and over again. These are just some of the many records she holds, excepting the great success she enjoyed in various other fields - from modelling to acting, in which field she holds particular note and is guaranteed an unextinguishable place in history for opening the door - by her now classic role in "The Bodyguard" - for the following generation of black actresses to play female leads in major Hollywood productions.
I'm in absolute shock and still can't believe this. Just..wow. Absurd, shocking, so unexpected and undeserved - whatever you may say about the woman's personal troubles, her talent and charisma were incomparable and there was still SO SO SO much for her to share with the world. R.I.P.
Affectionately known as "Nippy" to her family, friends and fans, Whitney had been working on a new album and a number of film projects. She is survived by her young daughter, Bobbi Kristina, an aspiring singer herself, and her 78 year old mother, gospel legend Cissy Houston. Be sure to keep them and the rest of Whitney's extended family in your prayers during this time of inconsolable grief.
Rapper, social media mogul, record label and fashion line owner, dancer, producer, songwriter, etc etc, Soulja Boy sits down for very insightful interview below. Definitely worth a watch by fans and music industry types equally.
Surprisingly talented Popstress and "Selena Gomez & The Scene" frontwoman Selena Gomez has just announced on her official Facebook page: "Just to clear up my last instagram post, my band and I are going our separate ways for a while. This year is all about films and acting and I want my band to play music wherever with whoever. We will be back but, it will be a good while. I love them and I love you guys :)"
The prospect of no new music from Selena And The Scene for "a good while" (which translates to aeons in the world of Pop) is daunting to say the least, especially when they have provided us with such delicious Pop gems like the ones below :'(
One can only hope The Scene will be pushed by the label to put out their own album, with another vocalist, whilst Selena contributes a song or two to the soundtracks of whatever movies she puts out.
Thanks to ProphetBlog for posting this, because daaaaaaaaaang!
Brianna Perry, otherwise Brianna The Young Rich Bandit, first became known as a nine year old, featuring on rapper Trina's highly acclaimed "Diamond Princess" album. She spent a few years signed to Missy Elliot's Atlantic imprint, before moving to Poe Boy Entertainment and Atlantic Records . Traces of Missy's influence permeate her work but she's got a swag all her own too.
Her debut single is "Marilyn Monroe", produced by a certain Lamb - the man behind Beyoncé's "Countdown" and without THE in-demand hip-hop producer of 2012 (he had better be!). This girl has got bars for days: as Prophet quotes: "Yo it's suicide, they OD/I'm a knockout, KOD/Baby I'm the shit, toilet stopped up/And I don't stink, I'm a show stopper/ Pretty girl rock, call it Keri Hilson / Fontainebleau, we gon' do the Hilton/ Pretty girl Bri, bitch I'm worth a zillion."
Brianna's currently in the studio with Missy, Pharell Williams and Lamb working on her debut record. There's a new, yet veteran, girl on the block - and all others WILL deal.
Yesterday I posted the new track by pop singer Luigi Masi "Valentine", featuring up&comers The Elements. During the wee hours of this past morn, we sat down for a not-so-quick Skype, discussing everything from his music to sexuality and gender studies in Pop, fashion, nationality, crazy fans, former tour mates Sugababes and The Saturdays, his dad's money and a whole lot more beside.
Read what ensued below:
FOTP: Hey Luigi! what's up?
Luigi: Hey Fantini! I'm great thanks, just lounging around in bed sorting bits and bobs out. What a life I lead.
F: Haha. Bits and bobs sounds a bit suggestive, considering you've just come out the shower.
L: Haha you wish eh. My room is a complete mess. Not safe for anybody.
F: Moving on swiftly!
L: Yes let's. For the safety of your readers. And my reputation.
F: Your reputation precedes you. SO - new track, "Valentine", featuring The Elements. How did that collaboration come about?
L: Yes. Well, it's not the most exciting story to be honest. My label called me up like 3 weeks ago and were like "time to get writing no?" so they sent me some instrumentals. And one of them was from this new team, The Elements. Loved it. And so messed about with it et voila, Valentine came out. Just recorded it last week. And now it's out to my fans. The joys of modern recording.
F: Sweet stuff. Did you all go to the studio, or was it one of those virtual sessions with lots of emailing back-and-forth?
L: Yeah, they sent the rough instrumental and then I did my dodgy demo vocals on my phone haha. Sent that over and they messed around and switched up the backing to suit it bla bla. Then I went down to their studio to record vox. I've done virtual sessions, like through Skype before. Always jokes.
F: Haha, gotta have fun with whatever you do. You co-wrote the track as well?
L: Yes sir. They had a rough vibe going on, but I thought it was a bit cheesy so tossed half of it out and re-did the melodies and lyrics. I'm so picky with my lyrics. Honestly. I gotta be happy with every single line otherwise I won't sing it ha.
F: Are you the emotional, expressive kind? Do you shed tears as you create art to share with the world?
L: I don't really connect my personal life with my art. I keep them completely seperate. And I don't really do sad songs. So I've never really been touchy about anything. I definately do get a bit soppy though listening to some other artists, just not with my own stuff…
F: Artists such as?
L: The soppy stuff? Erm recently like, Dia Frampton, Christina Perri, Emile Sande, Lana del Rey.
F: No male artists?
L: I listen to a few male artists, but it seems only girls really do the kinda pop that I like to do myself.
F: It seems there's a general apathy towards men in Pop.
L: And yeah I guess, it's a bit of a touchy subject. I don't really care if it's a guy or girl to be honest, I just listen to the song. I'm not biased just because of who the artist is.
F: Everyone says that, but for every ten Pop girls doing it "right", it seems there's hardly one Pop guy doing it "right".
L: Well that's because for every ten pop guys doing it, only one actually does it right. Actually the stats are probably even lower. I consider myself as one of the 'right' ones haha.
F: Who else would you rank alongside yourself among those doing it "right"?
L: I can't even think of anyone really. I like Guy Sebastian and Stan Walker? Haha. That's like it really for guys who I listen to...
F: Sweet. When it comes to you yourself, it seems like you're Pop marmite: people either love you or hate you. What's the best bit of press or publicity you've had? Something that made you sit back and just feel awesome that it happened or was said about you?
L: Hahah thanks for putting it like that! I don't really read about myself or anything. I of course Googled myself back when I first started in 2008 but nowadays I [don't] really pay any attention to it. I just care what my fans think. Best moment I guess was when MTV playlisted the 'Strobelight' video even though it was never a single and just for clubs. But it was doing so well they put it on C-list hahah. Always a completely awesome moment seeing yourself on TV. Or the times my tracks were on the radio! Oh and when GloZell did a video about "Pick Up Line", that was pretty damn epic. Had friends texting me all OMG!
F: Fantastic stuff, for real. And on the other hand, what was the worst press you ever got (in your opinion)? Does it chill your tits when people start talking about your father and him financing all your music?
L: Yeah that rumour has got completely out of hand. Not quite sure where it sprung up from. If I was loaded I would sure as hell not be doing this (as much as I love it). I'd be off holidaying everywhere, flying first class everywhere, living it up in my multiple homes abroad, I'd probably have my own flat instead of still living at home and sharing a room with my bro! It's just stupid. The stupidest thing I've ever heard was I spent half a million working with Timbaland? Actually it was 'per track' making it sound like spent a few million. Some dumb chick spread that. First off I never worked with Timbaland. And second his rate isn't half a million per track ha. But yeah, some people are really stupid. They just jelly. I pay no mind really. As I said, I never discuss my personal life so I guess losers just fill in the blanks.
F: Oooh, burn! That said, studying where you've studied indicates you didn't exactly grow up in the hood fighting crackwhores for stale pieces of bread...
L: I can't go to good schools now without being accused? Haha. Nah my life is good. But those rumours and lies did affect me when I first started. I was never bullied at school or anything, never like even teased. So to suddently have random strangers online just spew abuse, it was a shock. It go so bad really that I went to Nepal for 2 months back in early 2010 just to learn to let go and ignore stuff like that. Now my only wish if for the negative people to get on with their own lifes and get the help they need, instead of trying to bring other people down. It's not healthy and makes me sad really.
F: True! Did you find enlightenment or whatever you were looking for in Nepal? Are you a spiritual guy?
L: I found a new energy within myself yes. A new outlook on life. I'm not overly spiritrual nah ha, but I can get deep.
F: Oooh. Speaking of Timbaland, you worked with his brother Sebastian on your new record, "His Name Is Luigi". You were also set to work with Richard X and Amelle from Sugababes. Did those collaborations pan out in the end, should fans look forward to hearing you and Amelle on a Richard X track?
L: Let's see. "His Name Is Luigi" was just a re-issue of my debut album really, putting on 2 newer tracks and all my club smashes. Yes I say smashes because they were. Haters gone hate, but I know you all went cray in the clubs when they came on. The charts don't lie. I wrote a song, this was years back now, in 2008 for Amelle and myself. It was called "Turn To The Left". I can still sing the chorus now, it was so very good. But we never recorded as her management didn't want her going in that direction, she ended up doing that Tinchy record instead. And I was meant to do a Richard X track, again in summer 2008, can't even remember what it was called. It was written by Hannah Robinson though. Was really dope.
F: Ha! Modest as ever.Would you still be interested in working with those two if given the chance in future?
L: Definitely, though I think Richard has like retired? Or something. He doesn't do music anymore really. And Amelle, I'm just so excited for her solo career! 'Rebel' is amazing and I'm sure everyone will love it. She's gonne kick ass.
F: He did Will Young's latest record...And yes, I have a great feeling about her solo stuff. Since you know the 'babes (well, one batch of them) personally, what's your take on all the Sugababes drama and line-up changes in the past few years? Have they strayed too far from what they were and cheapened their name? Or are they just 3 sexy girls having fun?
L: Oh there we go! I didn't even know Will Young had a new record ha. The drama was all overhyped. I got into the 'babes when Heidi joined. That was when I first heard of them, and they first smashed, so I have no idea who this other chick who was apparently in first is, and I have no idea what some peoples obsessions with her and that first group are. They flopped for a reason. They were bloody tragic. As soon as I saw Amelle taking over from Mutya I was like wahey, they can finally be superstars. And they were really on the path with 'About You Now'. I was SOOO HAPPYYY to have been invited to tour with them for that campaign's tour. Some of the best moments of my life happened then, so yeah.
Jade's a funny one though. I was at a show up north the day before the new new lineup was announced, and Jade was there! Performing her 'My Man' single as if nothing was happening. So hilarious thinking back to it. Then the next day, it was all casual like, "oh I'm actually a Sugababe now".
But she's amazing too. To be honest they just need to dump Heidi then they're sorted haha.
F: Haha, Christ Luigi!
L: Oh come on everybody's thinking it!
F: Did those best moments on the road include Keisha giving either of her band mates a good smack? Or smacking her lips, rolling her eyes, wiggling her finger in their face with her hand on her hips?
L: I don't know why eveyone hates on Keisha! Before I went on the road I was warned by a journalist about her. Made it sound like she was some Nazi SS officer. But she's so utterly sweet and lovely. I remember on the first day of the tour we bumped into each other in the corridor and she put out her hand and introduced herself and we chatted for a bit. Nothing but lovely memories of her. If anything it was Miss. Range you should be smacking. Didn't see her once on the tour, never spoke to her either. And when she did turn up it was separate from the other girls in her own car. Meowww.
F: Ouch! From what I've heard, she did seem to be a major mover in Keisha's departure from the group.
L: Yeah it was a bit awkward wasn't it. As Amelle and Heidi said they'd quit the group if their management didn't kick out Keisha. And then initally they stalled a bit and Amelle left. But then they 'saw sense' (I say that even though I don't really mean it, well I don't agree or disagree really, nothing to do with me) and reinstated her and kicked Keisha out. Then Jade was just so happening to look for new management at the time. Such good timing.
We might have had some awful replacement like that Vanessa Brown woman. My god imagine that.
F: HAHAHA. So you at least are a fan of revolving-door-babes. What is it about Mutya and Heidi that held them back?
L: Yeh I don't care. It's bloody pop music. Y U TAKE IT SO SERIOUSLY.
F: Pop music is serious business. Tell me who you stan for and I'll tell you who you are.
L: You mean during Sugababes 2.0? Yeah it was because Keisha wanted to go all sexy and international and world superstar. And they had Mutya on the team. Honestly. Can you imagine that? I'm sure she's lovely, actually I know she's wicked and kind, but really. That 'Easy' video would have had me running for my sheets. They had to grow and get Amelle.
And ha, I don't 'stan' for anyone. Way above that.
F: Haha, well of course, you're the one who gets stanned for.
L: Aww, I do have awesome fans yes that is true. Love them all so much!
F: Is it a bit creepy dealing with fans? Adult men posting how they love you on your Facebook page and things like that?
L: Err so far not really… I have normal fans? Ha. The strangest thing, and it's not even strange to be honest, is this guy who posts every few months on my Facebook or Twitter "WE SHOULD DATE". I'm flattered and everything but no, haha. So we'll see. Maybe I'll get a stalker in the next year or something.
F: Hahaha! Well, you can't fault his consistency.
L: Guess so. Reminds me of the awful time I tried to chat up Kesha.
F: CHRIST. How did that go? "Hey Quiche, you wanna freak in the morning a freak in the evening, a freak like Luigi?"
L: Ke-dollar sign-ha! Not Keisha. My god. Hahahaha.
F: Aaaah. Was there any actual sexual chemistry there? She looks a bit filthy at times. Peeing in sinks and all that.
L: Rofl she called me CUTE. And I asked [her] out to dinner, and she said she'd love to and would get back to me with her diary… Never heard back.
I did get quite upset.
F: Did you cry?
L: A tear or two. But she's such a babe. Love her I do.
F: You like em sleazy and crazy?
L: Haha she's not like that in real life! Well. She is. But she tidies up nicely too!
F: Haha. Alright, I'll take your word for it. Where did y'all meet? Was she urinating whilst you spoke? (I hear she's prone to do that..)
L: Oh dear, let's just change topic...
F: Let's. As a young man, just entering your 20s, is it harder dealing with attention from male fans than from girl fans?
L: It's a new world yeah. Attention is cute. Always flattered when the guys come up to me or ask me out or whatever, I mean, hey, who wouldn't be - someone's into you, wahey! So I don't mind at all really.
I say it like it happens all the time, haha, no like 5 times in my life total. Haha. But it's the thought that counts!
F: There's the general assumption that all guys in Pop MUST be secretly gay or bisexual, no matter how manly they might be. Why do you think that is?
L: To be honest, I don't want to go too deep into it, because I totally could as I had to do a term of gender studies (yawn) last semester. And I don't want to generalise or offend anyone. But I think it's down them, you know those actually sprouting crap like that, having to rationalise their own desires and what not. If they aren't completely secure in themselves, and so just think everyone else isn't as well.
F: You're on fire with these answers, haha. Do you categorically deny finding guys attractive at all? Not even a teensy weensy little bit?
L: Haha no. Of course I can tell a hot guy from a not hot one. Like girls can tell another hot girl from a fug one.
F: An Amelle from a Mutya, for example.
L: Indeed! Perfect example.
F: Who's your celebrity man crush then?
L: Oh are we assuming I have one then. Ermmm. I like Darren Criss. He's awesome. So talented.
F: He is! Sings like a mofo I think most people have one, nowadays. A man/boy crush or a lady/girl crush.
L: Yeh I'm sure. It's been kinda 'in' to have one the past few years.
F: I think it's just part of an overall shift in our generation's perception of things.
L: God we're getting deep here.
F: You like getting deep, you said so yourself. The deeper the better right? Hahah.
L: You're lucky you're talking to me during term term. I'm so academically turned on it's not funny.
F: Haha. I know the feeling - lectures just started. So where does a dapper boy like Luigi Masi like to shop? What's your favourite store and main fashion influences?
L: I'm so lame. I love America. And wish I went to an American high school or an international school haha. So all my stuff is like Abercrombie, Gant, love love American Eagle jeans, etc. I don't do high street stores here in the UK really. Like some of my friends looking like mannequins just escaping from Topman. Just not on really.I don't own a pair of khaki pants for the record. So I can talk.
F: Me neither. They're so...y'know, khaki.
L: Exactly. It's like urgh. What are you doing to yourself.
F: Are we talking about Mutya again? haha
L: I'm sure we could find a way to link every comment to Mutya somehow.
F: True. You mention America, somewhat nostalgically, in a male Marina and the Diamondsesque way perhaps. If you could choose, would your life take place in Glee, or on Friends?
L: Glee. I wouldn't be Darren/Blaine though. I'd rather be Sam.
F: Do you frequently burst into song during your average day?
L: Ha no. No no no. Far from it.
F: Which one's Sam?
L: The blond guy. Do you not watch it? Haha. Trouty mouth!
F: AH. Chord Overstreet?
L: Oh yeah that's his name ha. Yeah him. In the show I mean.
F: Ah yeah, he's got pipes.
L: Everyone does.
F: I mean, PIPES! You know. Like, Mariah has pipes. Britney does not. She has pipes, but not..pipes.
L: Oh. Sorry, it's like quarter past 3. Oh Mariah, what happened to her? She was meant to guest-star in Glee. Never happened.
F:: She probably had babies to birth. Look forward to her on X-Factor, if that's true. Talking of mixed raced pop stars, what are you? English, Brazilian, Italian?
L: I'm. Well. It gets confusing. So I just say I'm international. But. I was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil. My dad's side is half Italian/Brazilain and them my mum's side is half Danish/Swedish. And then I grew up here in London from when I was like 4 years old. I've had a Danish passport all my life though.
F: Who would you fight for in a war?
L: Nobody? Haha what?!
Oh, fight FOR.
F: Haha, what did you think I meant?
L: Yeah England, Denmark and Brazil.
Who would I fight. I was like whaaaattttt.
F: You can't fight for everybody though. Haha. To close off what's been an excellent chat, who would you most like to fight in the nude? Mud can be involved if you wish.
L: Hahaha, let's just close off the chat without answering that.
Mutya obviously.
F: Hahaha. "Oh dear" doesn't even begin to...yeah.
L: Yeh...
F: Just before we go - The Saturdays. You toured with them, were frenemies with them. Wanted to throw that out there now they're flopping and not really doing much. I believe you gave them some choice advice back in the day?
L: I don't really want to go into it to be honest. I was quite hurt. I really liked the girls. Especially Una and Vanessa. They were awesome. But yeah, they messed up when they released 'Work' and it's all been downhill since then. Oh well. Nothing to do with me!
F: Nothing to do with the charts either.
L: Haha. Yes quite.
F: They're all bloody gorgeous though.
L: And yes quite to that as well.
F: The friendship went sour because of "Work"? Or did you mean their career?
L: Both haha.
F: Hahah. Oh Luigi.
Finally - what can we look forward to from you in 2012. Any final words or notices for the fans?
L: Once I'm done with class, my label got me some really exciting sessions over in LA and Philly. Going to be such a jam. And then hopefully work out some release, like proper mainstream release finally for 2013. Will be releasing more surprise tracks throughout the year though. Can't keep them waiting on me forever!
F: True that!
So..Thank you for taking the time and for sharing a lil bit of your world with me. Look forward to watching your career as a singer and songwriter progress through the next year and for many more years to come.
L: Thank you for having an interest and the time! All the best x
Be sure to check out his official website LuigiMasi.com, "like" him on his official Facebook page and follow the self-styled King Masi on his official twitter @LuigiMasi for all the latest news and updates on him and his music.
In case you missed it, here's "Valentine" - Luigi's hot new track which has amassed over 50,000 plays and exploded his Twitter follower count in just under three days.
The One Direction boys are currently set for world domination, recently making their debut on American TV and lining up some top-notch promo appearing on iCarly (among various other high-profile gigs, no doubt). Written by Ira Wroldsen and Steve Robson, brand new track "I Should Have Kissed You" is the official B-side to new single "One Thing".
The upbeat rock-tinged track (it's actually a just lil bit akin to Jonas Brothers) is downloadable February 12th onward. Enjoy it below:
Singer-songwriter Autumn Rowe is best known for her skills penning radio smashes for Pop/R&B divas. Starting out in the New York circuit, where she fronted a neo-soul outfit as well as singing and writing with a diverse array of other artists (including hip-hop mogul Swizz Beatz), she signed with B-Room/Water Music Publishing. This lead to a joint deal including Steller Songs/Stargate Production/EMI UK, which in turn lead to Autumn writing the first three singles of Star Roc/Roc Nation/Sony artist Alexis Jordan - "Happiness" (#3 UK), "Good Girl" (#6 UK), and "Hush Hush" (#12 Netherlands).
Since then, Autumn has gone on to write "Collide" (by Leona Lewis, #4 UK) and "Swagger Jagger" (by Cher Lloyd, #1 UK), with several exciting projects and releasing coming up over the next year.
Check out her answers to my questions below:
FOTP: Hello Autumn, what's up?
Autumn: Hello! Happy New Year!
First of all, let me congratulate you on the Grammy nomination for Afrojack's remix of Leona Lewis "Collide", co-written by you. I think it's fair to say 2011 was a huge year for you - both "Collide" and "Swagger Jagger" by Cher Lloyd were big hits in the UK and other countries. How do you feel about all your success this year - vindicated, triumphant, relieved? Are you finally "there" or is this just the beginning?
Thank you so much! 2011 was a great year with lots of excitement! I feel totally blessed to have had such a fantastic 2011, at the same time...I absolutely feel like I'm just at the beginning of so many things I want to do.
Could you share a bit about your journey so far, from growing up in the Bronx, to deciding to pursue a career in music, to flying all around the world crafting #1 hits for A-list superstars?
Well, I'm from the south Bronx and I've always been a very focused hard working person. I started interning for record companies and making music contacts when I was in high school. I was also in 3 choirs (one the NYCHA choir, which Claude Kelly and Lil Eddie were members as well), a repertory company (City Kids), and started learning the art of studio recording all while juggling homework.
Growing up in the south Bronx was not easy. Where I'm from, it's do or die. Many people don't even make it out of the "hood", so I knew I had to work my butt off. I am very blessed to have a great mother, who was always very supportive and never doubted me.
You seem to me a very strong, straight forward New Yorker lady. Does that lead to some frustrations or misunderstandings when you're dealing with artists and executives from very different cultural backgrounds?
Funny you say that...my mouth sometimes gets me in trouble. Here's the deal, I keep it real. If you don't want to know what I think...then don't ask me because I'm going to be honest. I'm a true new yorker, and I don't sugarcoat things. We say it like it is. But most people really appreciate it and know exactly what they get in me. I care about the artists I work with and I care about the work i do. For the most part...honesty is appreciated all around the globe.
You're also an artist in your own right. How does working with so many other artists affect and influence your own music?
Well my best songs usually come...if I write them as if I'm writing them for myself, Alexis Jordan's "Happiness" was something I wrote from what I was going through at the moment and so was Leona Lewis' "Collide". I try to connect to the records as much as possible, and write things I would feel comfortable singing on stage myself.
I've heard currently working on your own "underground/soul/drum 'n' bassy" project. I know Benga's involved and you wanted to bring in Skream, DJ Zinc and some others too. What's going on with that and when will we get to hear it?
Yes I've slowly been working on a project which keeps taking lots of turns. I've done some tunes with Sam Frank, Rocky and Rufio, Benga....I also have some new music from Skream, Naughty Boy and othes I can't wait to tackle.
In addition to "Collide" I know you've written a few other songs for Leona's project - a co-write with her in Sweden, another in session with Jonas Quant. Can you tell us a bit about the music you two have worked on together and the general sound of her upcoming LP? Should fans expect a full-on dance record through and through?
It's hard for me to say too much until a project is out...because a lot of projects go through so many changes before we heaer the final product. But Jonas Quant is a genius, I really adore him. We had a good time and Leona is always great to be around.
You've also been busy working with Alexandra Burke on her sophomore record , which was been pushed back into 2012. The lead single is the awesomely titled "Elephant", is that one of yours?
I didn't write "Elephant", but I am very excited for Ms. Burke. She is one of my besties and I want to see her win. Her voice is fantastic and she works soooo hard.
One of your first big breakthroughs was writing Alexis Jordan's break-out hit "Happiness". Have you done anything with her for her new record?
HMM...let's see!
If you were to pick three artists to work with who you haven't worked with yet, who would you pick and why?
I want to work with Beyoncé...I love her work ethic, her voice and how she owns a record. Some records sell an artist, Beyoncé sells a record when she puts her voice on it and works the stage!
I would love to work with Harry Connick Jr...his voice is just classic. I've seen him live and he just lifts my spirit. It would be incredible to write a son with him and hear his captivating voice on it.
It's hard to just pick three...but my third would be Madonna. She's a total boss! She is one of the greatest song writers, who should be getting way more credit than she does for her skills. She is the ultimate woman to me and I would learn a lot just from being around her.
I know you converted to Christianity, I've seen you mention prayer in some interviews and things like that. How did that conversion happen and how does it influence you and what you do - is it hard balancing your personal convictions and a career in secular music? If someone approaches you and wants to make a song like "My Neck My Back" or something, do you turn it down?
Well I wouldn't necessarily say I converted to anything new. I've always had faith and believed in God. I pray eveyr day and I believe someone listens to my prayers. Honestly if someone wanted a "My Neck My Back" type of song, I doubt I'm high on their list of writers to call. I don't really get asked to do those type of sessions.
How do you find a balance between making music that is true to your and the artists' personal moment and music that is "hot", that connects with a wider audience? Do you have to take target demographics and radio formats and so on into account when you're in writing sessions?
Not really, I don't over think too much. Sometimes what makes a hit is it stands apart from everything else that's out there. I don't mind taking risks and trying things that you wouldn't think to put in a pop hit. If it doesn't work then it doesn't work, but if it does...then we now have something special. A lot of my songs don't sound like anything that I've heard on the radio, and I could jump to the conclusion it sucks or I could take a risk and say maybe this is my own sound...and I'm rolling with it. I've gone with the latter :)
Autumn, thank you so so much for your time. Any final words or things to look forward to from you in 2012?
Thank you so much for taking the time to interview me and I'm not one to talk too much, I rather be about it! So stay tuned for 2012...lots of love Autumn!
Thanks again Autumn!
Check out three of the smash hits penned by the lady herself below. You can also keep up to date with all her latest developments by following her on her official Twitter, @Autumnband, and tumbleblog, Autumn Rowe.
