Keri Hilson hosted “A Very Keri Christmas” for some of Hot 107.9’s listeners at the all-new Harlem Nights Ultra Lounge in downtown Atlanta on Dec. 15. The private affair afforded attendees an exclusive first listen to her second studio album titled, No Boys Allowed. She was greeted by an anxious crowd that found it difficult to contain their excitement for the upcoming release, which is less than a week away. The atmosphere was one of anticipation and celebration for the R&B starlet and Decatur, Ga., native.
During an intimate Q-and-A session with Hot 107.9 radio jock Emperor Searcy, Hilson opened up to her fans about the motivation behind the music and appeared calm and confident as he asked personal questions. She revealed that her goal for this project was to truly represent women and her inspiration came as a result of connecting with the fans and having them share their feelings for her previous work.
The album tackles relationship issues through smooth grooves over bass driven tracks and features production from industry heavyweights Timbaland and Polow Da Don among others. “It’s Decatur with drums and dazzle,” Hilson says of her collaboration with Chris Brown. “Chris is a man, he’s been through a lot and he’s very remorseful. He will be ok provided it doesn’t happen again.”
The album also includes “The Way You Love Me” featuring Rick Ross, a cut that stirred up mixed reactions when the raunchy video was released on the Internet earlier this month. Hilson admits that mature conversations take place within the album and recommends the discourse for those who are able to handle it.
No Boys Allowed features a slew of female anthems, which encourage women to find their beauty within and not allow the surface or material things to validate them. Hilson salutes women that were daring and bold enough to be themselves and encourages all women to embrace their size and shape. She lauded Josephine Baker, Madonna, Lady Gaga and the R&B trio TLC for pushing the envelope and providing confidence. –garrett webster