A Royal Affair

Diana King talks about working with The Notroious B.I.G. and her disdain for manufactured hype

KNOWN FOR HER reggae-soul fusion, Jamaican songstress Diana King has collaborated with some of the biggest artists the world has known whilst enjoying a fruitful career with her band releasing well-known tracks including Shy Guy and I Say A Little Prayer. Here we talk to the 43-year old artist to find out more.

Frequently touring Asia, what is it about the continent that keeps drawing you back?

My first track that I released, Shy Guy, really took off in Asia – specifically Japan – and I’ve been returning ever since. I go back at least once a year and have done for the past 20 years. I’ve only been to Abu Dhabi when it comes to the Middle East. I was just passing through and a promoter called wondering whether we were free. We did a few songs at a club. It has been a while. I can’t wait to go dune bashing this time around!

This year marks your 21^st year in the business. Could you have ever have foreseen that longevity?

No, I have always had one of those ‘go with the flow’ personalities. I never thought I would actually be a singer. I became a backing singer for Shabba Ranks at first and that was enough for me. Then I joined a band and it took off. Many times I pinch myself.

Of all the collaborations you’ve done is there any that stick in your mind?

The one I did with The Notorious B.I.G. is a great memory because it was the first. People didn’t really know either of us at the time. That track went huge. The next one I did, which is probably my favourite, was with Celine Dion. It’s my favourite because it was a song I wrote. For an artist like her to do one of my songs and feature me was a great honour.

What are your thoughts on the breakout female acts of today?

I admire them. I know how tough it is. I come from Jamaica and you can count the number of successful female artists on one hand. It’s always a pleasure to see women going out there and doing their thing even if it isn’t something I would do as an artist. I still feel good. I try not to be judgemental. As artists we have a duty to represent ourselves in whatever way you feel is right. I admire that.

What is it the Nicki Minajs and Rihannas of the world do that you wouldn’t?

They are more, ‘if you think you’ve got it, flaunt it.’ That’s the time we live in. New artists have to be bold and courageous and I respect that. The bit I don’t agree with is everyone has to outdo the other to stay current. I understand it, but sometimes the music should speak for itself. Sometimes the drama in their lives seems a little planned. Often you read something and you think, ‘this can’t be real.’ You don’t know who is doing it. It could be the people around them, but it’s so they don’t lose the eyes on them.

Were you never subject to advice from your record label?

I was asked to be a bit more ‘out there,’ but it’s a personality thing. I never agreed with it, so didn’t. I was babbling about it on social media the other day. I don’t like hype. I don’t like that side of the business. It should be about the work you produce. I’m just a bit too down to earth, maybe. I don’t like fashion and glamour.

What can the audience expect here in Dubai?

I’m just going to hit them with all the songs that I love. I have a newish album, but I’ll give them mostly what they know and love. I hate going to concerts and the acts don’t play the songs you want to hear!

David Light

david@khaleejtimes.com

Mercy me

No Mercy’s Marty Cintron recalls the group’s heyday

IN THE MID-1990S, Florida trio No Mercy hit stardom thanks to their blend of modern pop and classical Latin music.

The group are best remembered for 1996’s flamenco-inspired Where Do You Go. City Times called singer Marty Cintron in Miami Beach.

What are some of your main memories of the 1990s?

It was a wonderful time time, travelling to different countries and the like. Our biggest fans were in South America, I think because of our Spanish flavour.

How many concerts do you guys play nowadays?

At least a few a year, but I also have a recording studio here in Miami Beach. I do lots of stuff for films and commercials, as well as producing other artists.

Do you prefer producing now or does your heart still belong in performing?

A little bit of both. I really miss the stage though when I’m not performing.

You last performed in Dubai in 2012. How did you enjoy your time in the UAE?

It was awesome. I had visited Dubai a long time ago, and I couldn’t believe how amazingly built-up the city had become. I had a great time, and we had a lot of fun seeing people we’d worked with. People also really enjoy the older style of music.

(adam@khaleejtimes.com)