Where did
you get the name Ahmir?Well, when we first started we were called “One Luv”, but we decided to change it because it seemed like it was too common of a name for an R&B group and wasn’t unique enough so we wanted something really different like Jodeci. Management at the time suggested “Ahmir” and we liked it because it was indeed very different and it sounded classy. It means “prince” in Arabic and we like to think of ourselves as the princes of R&B. We’re not king status.. YET!!
How did you get together as a group?
It’s kind of a long story, but basically our manager helped put us together. Our manager knew Leon personally and invited him to try out and he was eventually selected to be a part of the group. Leon was friends with Mike so he auditioned and he made the cut too. KC was another successful person at the audition. We actually had a couple prior unofficial members before Mark. The other ones simply did not work out so Leon, Mike and KC went on a hunt and found Mark performing at a show at Berklee College of Music in Boston. He was amazing so they invited Mark to check out the group and before long… we had 4 guys… and Ahmir was complete.
What are your musical backgrounds?
We all have backgrounds through church choirs. Some of us were also solo artists or part of other groups. Mike was actually a soloist for the renowned Boys Choir of Harlem. Mark went to college for music and is a highly trained vocalist and musician.
What do you each bring to the group as individuals?
Mark brings the most versatility to the group as he sings all different types of songs whether they are club songs or emotional ballads. He’s got amazing skill and range in his vocals and he also adds that special element of being a piano player. His energy on stage is just bananas too!
Mike has that special power ballad voice. His speciality is writing and singing leads for slow songs. The emotion he brings to these songs is so dynamic that you are often left speechless. He certainly is an attention grabber too and loves to work the stage.
Leon is a truly gifted songwriter. Many of our songs were written by him. His gift for catchy choruses, wordplay, and strong verses make him a lyrical genius that really give Ahmir that arsenal of hit music. He’s also an unexpectedly solid rapper!
As a part-time model, KC is a ladies favorite. He definitely brings that sex appeal to the group. However, besides all that… KC has a special old-school falsetto that really gives our harmony a unique dynamic and an unforgettable sound.
How do you feel having reached the top 10 in the States?
It was really a surprise. We never would have thought it would happen. We are so blessed to have so many fans that support us and really enjoy our music. It’s probably the most satisfying and rewarding feeling to know that your hard work and relentless efforts are being recognized.
Have you been treated any differently since making the charts?
Well, we’re still not very big compared to many of the major artists out there, but we certainly have been treated with more respect and command more attention when we perform. We also want to note that as big as we may get, we will always remain humble and never forget where we all came from.
What was it like being the opening act for John Legend?
Wow, to even be mentioned in the same sentence as John is amazing. We were so honored to perform at that event. He really is a special artist with a special talent that we know he’ll be around for ages. That is what we strive to be and we couldn’t have been happier to open for him.
Are you signed at the moment?
No, we are not signed at the moment. It’s so tough these days, but we will say that we’ve had a couple major labels express interest in us. Regardless, we strive to make great music that people enjoy. This year has truly been incredible and we feel that the best has to come so we know that if we keep doing what we’re doing, we’ll get that “deal”.
Describe your album…
Our album definitely has two different R&B styles to it. We like to call them the “Club Ahmir” section and “The Ahmir Lounge” section. Club Ahmir showcases all our uptempo songs that make you bounce on the dancefloor and when you want to smooth it out with your special someone The Ahmir Lounge sets the perfect vibe with soulful love songs and between-the-sheets music. So no matter what your mood, our album will have something for you to enjoy. It is scheduled for a FALL 2006 release. However, you can purchase a preview of our music on iTunes now!
What makes you different to the many other groups out there?
Quite frankly, there are just not many male R&B groups out right now. We want to change that. We think people really miss that four-part harmony and sound that only an R&B group can fulfil. However, we don’t think we sing anything particularly different then what’s out there. We all have club songs and sing about love, but it’s all in the quality and delivery of all those ideas. It’s how you execute and we think we are the best.
Have you got any collaborations in the pipeline?
We’re working on getting some special collaborations. Nothing is solidified yet, but when they are… we know you’ll like them.
www.ahmirmusic.com
www.myspace.com/ahmirmusic
By Rashmi Shastri - Sep 2006