When I got the call a few weeks back that I was going to have the opportunity to interview Ciara, a few things went through my mind. I tried to process the information like a normal professional should, but honestly, its Ciara and I had what I liked to call an 'Acceptable freakout'. I mean, have you not watched her latest music video? What about her moving them 'goodies'? If not, you need to re-evaluate things, or get a smartphone. With her highly anticipated new self-titled album released on July 8th, Ciara is turning up the heat with sexier lyrics, amazing collaborations, and dance moves that would put Miley to shame. I sat down with the sexy songstress and chatted album changes, working with Nicki Minaj, and why having a dance battle with Chris Brown gets her all kinds of excited. Look at that seductive stare #tho.
The original album was titled 'One Woman Army', but was later changed to be a self-titled release. What brought about that decision?
"It was important for me to have a self-titled album because for the first time I'm ready to show who I am. I'm more confident as a performer, an artist, even as a woman for that matter. It's about having that level of authenticity, you know? In this industry you often find yourself getting caught up in what everyone else wants for you, but you forget to be yourself sometimes. This album is for my fans so that they can get to know the real me."
With huge collaborations on the album itself, Ciara gushed over her chance to work with legendary producer Michael Williams (aka Mike Will Made It). "Working with Mike was really fun, we're from the same town and vibe really well together. We both understand each other's creative core, almost like speaking the same language when it comes to our creative process. He was able to bring something fresh and exciting to the album. 'Body Part' for that reason alone was the standout single from the get go."
Sampling from a variety of genres and styles, her new album is diverse in every sense of the word:"I want to make music that is accessible to everyone. Granted that isn't always possible, but I wanted my album to sample from as many places as I could. I love being cultural, really connecting to what people are listening to... It inspires me and they way I approach my own writing."
With a sexuality about her new work that had not been present before, she felt it was necessary to be really expressive... Even bringing Nicki Minaj to lay down some verses for not ONE but TWO tracks:
"Working with Nicki was amazing... She brings something so special to the table. Her delivery is so unique and I didn't want anyone else on the track other than her. The video for 'I'm Out' turned out fantastic, and I am so proud of the project. It was a perfect pairing."
Of course, as a serious journalist I had to ask the difficult questions as well...
One of my favorite tracks on the album is 'Read My Lips'...It's pretty direct and leaves little to the imagine (Chuckles).
"It's kind of like a woman's chant to be a little aggressive... As a woman, it's empowerment in every sense of the word. The song is about control, its playful, and really meant to hint at something beyond the words themselves. Also, its sexy, and who doesn't love being sexy?"(Chuckles).
She went on to say that
with the new album will come a brand new touring experience:
"Expect the unexpected...We are making sure that this tour is something that you will not forget, excited isn't the word!". She also had gone further and said that she wished she could collaborate with Chris Brown again after having worked with him in the past. "Couldn't you imagine a dance battle between us? How exciting would that be!"
With exciting music on the horizon, a sexy tour in the works, and a fully committed attitude, Ciara is ready to make 2013 her year. Plus, she sounded ridiculously sultry over the phone...
To keep up to date with my reviews and journey into the music world, follow me on twitter at @AntoineRouge
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Looks like Ciara haters have something else to be mad about
Tour Dates:
September 21, 2013 : The Regency Ballroom, San Francisco, CA, US
September 28, 2013 : Best Buy Theater, New York, NY, US
October 1, 2013: Starland Ballroom, Sayreville, NJ, US
I will spend my last coin to buy her ticket if she ever comes to Toronto 