Last Train To Paris is not only the upcoming sixth studio opus from producer/rapper/actor/fashion designer/entrepreneur, Sean "Diddy" Combs, but, maybe even more important than that, it also features his newfound collective, Dirty Money, comprised of himself, Dawn Richard, formerly of Danity Kane, and uber talented singer/songwriter, Kaleena...
When did you first discover your love for music?
At the very tender age of three is when I discovered my gift of song. I was full out by the age of nine singing on Gospel radio. I was really interested in being a mainstream artist at the age of fourteen.
So, that's when it actually all really began for Kaleena?
It all began really around the age fourteen. I was a member of a talented group of kids called Creative Impressions. I knew then I was specifically designed to entertain. By seventeen, I was recording a lot, so I was getting fairly good at my craft. So, I began to get offers by the time I was nineteen to write for other artists. I left my parents' house, went to N.Y.C. to work with a few Roc-A-Fella artists at the time, (and) the rest is history! Never looked back.
Since you bring that up, you have already worked with many people in the biz -- Can you give me a quick rundown of your extensive resume?
Quick run down... My first placement was on Christina Milian's Peanut Butter & Jelly, Charlotte Church's single, Moodswings, from the Tissues and Issues album, Aretha Franklin and Fantasia's Put You Up On Game, Ciara, her Fantasy Ride album, Kiss My Swag, Three 6 Mafia's Shake My. The list gets bigger and better, but these are just a few.
Now, where exactly do you hail from?
I was born in Philadelphia, PA, but I traveled to Frankfurt, Germany, at (age) three, and continued touring the world because of my father being in the military. So, I guess you can call me a "Military Brat!" [Giggles]
Growing up, whose music were you always a fan of?
I think traveling so much cultured me to be ear friendly to a lot (of) world sounds; Opera, R&B, Classical, etc. My parents influenced me a lot. They were young, so their swag was on point! I love Michael Jackson! Also a fan of Prince, Diddy, Marilyn Manson, Marvin Gaye... The list goes on! I'm a melting pot, but M.J. was my standard.
With that being said, describe for me your overall musical vibe?
Overall, the vibe is free healing, empowering. It's without a doubt fun and boundless.
How did you even manage to wind up hooking up with Diddy, and later joining his Dirty Money collective?
Hooking with Diddy! I was working hard at trying to be my best, (and) when I walked into any studio I would give it my all. So, with that being said, my publisher brought it to my attention that I had a Diddy/Bad Boy feel! I was flattered, so they wanted to put me in with him to work on his new album. So, the next day they set up a session, I went to his house, and we began vibing. It felt right, so we kept working. Now here's the catch... I knew he was putting a group together, but I had no clue he was eyeing me to be a part of Dirty Money. The call came as I'm walking through LAX, "K, I know this might sound crazy, but I want you to be in my group!" I just stood still for a second, super excited on the inside. I said, "Of course!" Here we are: Sean, Kalenna and Dawn!
From both a personal and professional standpoint, what exactly are you bringing to the table when it comes to a Dirty Money record?
I believe Diddy admired and respected my work ethic, and my will to be great. I'm a writer, so I think I bring 1/3 of the ability to make this conceptional album come to life with my strong points of view, and willingness to be vulnerable.
Last Train To Paris is Diddy's long overdue, oft-delayed sixth LP -- Despite the fact that three singles have been released, still no album has materialized. What's been the hold-up?
We decided to delay the album, because we we're dead set on making sure there was substance, emotions, and hot records on Last Train To Paris. At the end of the day, we wanted to push ourselves to keep going until we knew in our hearts we've said everthing we wanted to, so that Last Train To Paris would, and could, be understood!
Conceptually, what does the title Last Train To Paris really represent?
It's a love story! It's about finding love, losing love, and finding love again! It's a desperate attempt to figure yourself out, with little to no time to change enough to make another happy; i.e., the train ride back to someone, and how will they react after being away for a while. And, I've been doing my thing over here trying to forget, but it's impossible anxiety to overcome. It's deep, but so human.
Now how much overall input/involvement will/does Dirty Money have on Last Train To Paris?
I mean, we're a group; myself, Dawn and Diddy! We collectively put in on this album. A lot of "No ways," turned into a lot of "That's what I'm talking abouts," amongst Dirty Money, so expect the three of us.
Do you have any personal favorite track(s)? And, why that one/those specifically?
I know it sounds vague, but I've fallen in love with the entire body of work. Every song is part of the puzzle, and without one it just would not make since.
Will there eventually be a full-length Dirty Money album? Or, will you forego that altogether for a solo career?
Last Train To Paris!
Let's switch gears here...What can you reveal or divulge about the creative direction of what can actually be expected from a Kaleena solo project?
I'm saying the Kalenna project would be a great touch to my life's achievements, but for now I have my eyes set on Dirty Money.
Well, okay. So, what has been the key to your success thus far?
Key to success for me has been staying honest as I can possibly be with me, and knowing that I didn't do this alone! Staying focused on what's most important, and that's life.
Besides music, is there anything else that you'd like to get involved in or with?
Yes, reaching out (to) the youth, and health & education issues. Movies would be a nice touch!
On a more serious note, how do you view the current climate of today's R&B artists -- Are you content with it?
Times change, expression changes. I do enjoy a lot of the R&B artists of today. It's evolution of artistry, and a lot of time all that means is, "What goes around, comes around even better than before!" So, I'm patient.
Everyone either knows your music already, or will become familiar with it soon, but who exactly is Kaleena Harper?
Kalenna is just a girl shooting for the stars, with an unconditional love for the human race. "Love everybody," is my tag.
And, what do you like to do in your spare time completely away from this music?
Study animals. I love babies and elderly people! The conversations are the dopest learning experiences. And, just watching people go and come back and forth, etc. [Laughs]
Ultimately, what is your 5 to 10 year plan in entertainment?
I plan to do a few more albums, (and) sell millions! Maybe sign a few writers and artist(s), and help them to reach their goals. To make history! Kind of take what's for me as it comes.
As for now though, Last Train To Paris, is due out when exactly? The warm-up single, Strobe Lights, featuring Lil Wayne, is out now, and doing well! And, are there any plans for a Dirty Money tour?
Last Train To Paris will be arriving June 22, 2010! Our first single is named Hello Good Morning, featuring T.I. We are very excited and proud of the project! You can (go to) www.lasttraintoparis.com and keep an eye out for upcoming performance dates near you!
What's that "live" show element (gonna be) like?
Treats! You have gotta come and be entertained! [Laughs]
Are you still writing for other acts? If so, anything coming up along those lines?
I'm still writing for other artists, (so) expect to see me a lot coming up!
Is there anything else that I may have left out or forgot to ask you about?
Follow me on Twitter: @Kdiddybop!
Any final message for our Yo! Raps readers?
I'm also a spokesperson for the Lupus Foundation. I lost my sister to it, so I encourage you guys to be aware of your bodies, and any changes; small or big! Make sure to take notice! Early detection is one thing that could maybe save your or someone else's life -- So, be aware!
- By Todd Davis