Ciara:
The Evolution indicates Ciara's growth as a singer, songwriter, and
producer. The album's creativity such as the sound and edge comes from Ciara
in general. By providing her input on the tracks, Ciara says the dance
numbers she’s known for will also give fans a glimpse into her personality, yet
did not want the album to sound too grown up. Michael Jackson, Prince,
and Janet Jackson influenced Ciara throughout the album's production. The
album is composed of Miami bass, Atlanta crunk, ballads, and old school songs.Why is Promise the next single?
The Promise single is more mature sounding and the video is on a sexier vibe than videos I’ve done before. I wanted to expand on what I’ve already done in the past.
What’s your favourite track on the album?
I love all the records on the album. Each record serves a different purpose and tells a different story. I think it’s a very strong record and contains some of my best work so far.
I’ve noticed that you wear black a lot but you’re wearing white on the album cover, is there any reason for that?
No, there’s nothing behind that. Black is definitely one of my favourite colours when it comes to clothing but sometimes it’s good to change it up a bit. The outfit was changed at the last minute.
You have a sexier approach to this album, how do you plan on bringing your younger fans along with you?
My main goal is to make great music. The cool thing about my records is that they appeal to different audiences. I don’t want to leave out anybody. I hear kids singing and dancing to my records so hopefully that will continue.
What was it like working with will.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas?
His life story is so intriguing and we had a lot of fun in the studio. We were dancing all the time and he cracks me up! The first song we wrote was at about 3am and recorded it within a day, we definitely worked quickly together.
How does it feel to be famous?
I know some things happen now that wouldn’t normally have if I wasn’t famous but I’ve learned to deal with it. I try to do normal things that I would do if I wasn’t an artist but being an artist is my dream so I don’t mind being famous. I go to the movies and go shopping like anybody else.
What do you think of your comparisons to Janet Jackson?
I grew up listening to Janet [Jackson] and Michael [Jackson] and she’s someone I like to watch because she’s an amazing performer. When people compare me to her, I take it as a compliment. We both have our own style when it comes to music, dancing and videos. I would love to be as successful as Janet is.
Have you recorded any collaborations that you really enjoyed doing?
So What with Field Mob was a big record and I was glad to be a part of it. I actually wrote the bridge which I was really proud of. I love the melody and would like to collaborate with them again soon.
Have you thought of doing some acting?
I’m working on a couple of things at the moment including a TV movie but at the moment I want to take time to perfect my music. I’d like to act in an action movie one day.
I heard you also want to start your own clothing label, another artist who’s done that successfully is Gwen Stefani, do you look up to her?
I have a lot of respect for her and what she’s doing and she’s a business inspiration for me. Gwen is an amazing person and female. I look at her as a woman doing her own thing and that’s what inspires me the most. Although I look up to her, I’m trying to do things my own way. I was on tour with her but we talked mainly about everyday things and cracked a few jokes, she’s really cool.
www.ciaraworld.com
By Rashmi Shastri - Dec 2006