Bringing the old school back

The UAE is witnessing a nineties revival. First up was Vanilla Ice (who, amidst public criticism, eventually managed to perform at Barasti); now American R&B singer-songwriter Montell Jordan returns to the region for a performance this evening at Chi @ The Lodge.

Jordan, 41, is no stranger to the Emirates, having performed at venues such as Embassy Abu Dhabi (now known as Etoiles), and Mix at the Grand Hyatt Dubai.

Speaking to Emirates Business on a previous occasion, he said: "I always love coming back to the UAE. I come for both business and pleasure."

During this trip, the performer is set to sing a mix of his greatest hits – we're predicting This Is How We Do It, Somethin' 4 da Honeyz, What's On Tonight, Falling and Let's Ride – as well as a few tracks from his upcoming album (the eight in Jordan's career): FLH: Friends, Liars & Haters.

Of course, it will be those with a soft spot for all things old school who will be heading to catch him in action this evening. 1995's This Is How We Do It is still one of the most played '90s tunes in clubs in the region, and the song ranked number 95 on VH1's 100 Greatest Songs of the '90s. The hit has received its fair share of plays in movies as well, including in The Nutty Professor, To Gillian on Her 37th Birthday, Multiplicity, How High, 8 Mile and Freedom Writers.

So does Jordan ever get bored of singing or hearing the song that catapulted him into the limelight?

"Of course not," he responded. "It's a blessing to have had such a huge song that is still played to this day. I'm glad to be part of something that still sounds fresh. And the song still gets remixed, which is awesome."

However, as well as reconnecting with lifelong fans of his music, there's no denying that Jordan also wants to introduce himself to a new generation of R&B lovers with new music.

"I think good music comes in cycles," he says. "There are periods when there is good music, then there's bad music, then there's good music again.

"I think that's normal, and having a period of bad music makes way for really good music, like Alicia Keys, for example."

And how has his music changed? "My music now is more soulful; you know, about relationships and real life and real pain.

"I would love to go on a world tour, like the one I did with my This Is How We Do It album. I've only toured in the US following the releases of my other albums."

Supporting on the night is acclaimed London-based artist Mr Tears whose unique sound is what he has dubbed Urban Clash.

 

- Montell Jordan Live in Dubai. Tonight from 10 at Chi @ The Lodge. Tickets cost Dh100 or Dh150.

Visit: www.lodgedubai.com