Your music in this case is doing something else for us. As you were writing these songs, what were you saying that affirmed your feelings?
I’m pretty clear on what each scenario was. I believe that’s exactly what you’ll get from it.
Can lovers and friends be one and the same?
Absolutely. It depends on the friendship. It starts there. It depends on the dynamics. It depends on the particular relationship. You have friends and you just call. Then there are associates, and if you cross that line, there are no emotions to that. However, if you have a long-standing relationship that you genuinely care about, that has all these emotions for you. You care about their family; they care about yours. You’ve known about their past relationships; they know about yours. When you cross that line and it doesn’t work, that’s heartache and pain waiting to happen.
What would you tell the lovers and the couples who’re enjoying this album? What drink would you recommend they start off with?
A couple of [songs] are definitely brown liquor based. I’ll give the brown liquor-based songs to “69,” “So Good” and “Night Time.” Those are the brown liquor moments.
In that moment, how important is “69” to a relationship?
To a relationship, a long-standing one, it’s being comfortable. It’s a comfort. To a brand-new relationship it’s, “wow, are you really ready to go there?” And that’s where the brown liquor comes into it. Or you can switch it up to the nice vibe and get you some white wine, some sangria even and go with a “You and I” or “Lalalalala” or “Cupid Shot Me Straight Through My Heart,” all of these initial moments when you first meet someone. Like wow, I think I could fall for you. It’s that moment that is completely different than being in an actual relationship where you’re already together.
The seductress of being unafraid from a sexual standpoint clearly allows us to be free, but also responsible.
Absolutely. I’ve always preached that, especially having as much sensual music as I do. I need people to protect themselves. What I can’t guarantee — protecting your heart. You’re accountable for your feelings and your heart. I implore that you really protect yourself. Don’t give yourself or lend yourself, whether it’s your heart or your honeypot.
You can’t guarantee that your heart won’t be broken. … Whatever it may be, enjoy your moments.
How do you do that as a lover?
Easily. Just let it be. Give in. Surrender.
