So here’s a fun thing I just learned today:

According to Wikipedia (which is never wrong) and this interview with Ellen (which is perhaps more verifiable), Akon‘s full birth name is Aliaune Damala Bouga Time Puru Nacka Lu Lu Lu Badara Akon Thiam.

*Changes iTunes Artist section.*

A few weeks ago, I introduuced Matisse to MuuMuse, the up-and-coming dance floor vixen (and former member of sister act Brit & Alex) responsible for the summer smash, “Better Than Her.” (LISTEN)

The singer is currently busy cooking up the contents of her debut album due out in Spring 2011, which is expected to include tracks by such production titans as Tricky Stewart, Dallas Austin and Darkchild.

In between her sessions in the studio, Matisse took some time out to answer a rapid-fire set of questions for MuuMuse. Read on to see the full interview!

Read more…

How can you become the best at anything? The way you do it is you just try to kill it every time.

Natalia Kills is a very new kind of radio killer.

Starting with the release of her murderously good buzz single at the end of 2009, “Zombie,” the soon-to-be superstar began capturing new fans left and right with her noir-gone-glam style and urban-meets-dance sound, immediately awarding herself the title of “Most Anticipated of 2010″ here at MuuMuse.

Now, with her self-produced, self-directed “Love, Kills XX” web series (check out the fifth installment, which just premiered yesterday), the singer has prepared herself a unique platform to introduce herself, her creative vision, and her music to the world.

As one of Cherrytree/Interscope’s newest artists on the brink of debut (with an album to be released in the fall), Kills was nice enough to chat with me on the phone last Friday about her background, as well as providing plenty of hints for what’s to come.

Check out our full conversation below to learn more about Natalia’s influences, ambitions, and plans for world domination. And yes–she’s deadly serious about all of it.

Hey Natalia! How are you?

I’m fine, thank you. How are you?

I’m doing great. You’ll have to forgive me. I’m getting over a bit of a cold, so my throat’s kind of scratchy today.

No problem! I hope you feel better.

Oh, thank you! So, you are, of course a very new artist under Cherrytree. I was wondering how you ended up under the label?

Actually, it was quite a while ago. Basically, I’m from England and I made a demo and put it on the internet in 2008. Perez Hilton blogged about me and I got all of this buzz. One of my songs got two million plays in a very short period of time. So, I went to L.A. and had kind of been going for a while hoping to make some contacts and follow my dreams–you know how a lot of people go to Hollywood to make it and such. So I went back to L.A. and I met a lot of people, but it wasn’t that hard to know if you go with Will [Will.I.Am].

I met with labels and a lot of other producers and artists: Timbaland, Justin Timberlake and just many people that had a really creative connection with Will. He signed me to Interscope. He has a label at Interscope and one of the labels I had actually met with that I was very excited about was Cherrytree at Interscope. So, once I signed with Will to Interscope, he has a really good relationship with Martin Kieszenbaum, who runs Cherrytree and is the head A&R of Interscope International and we kind of navigated my project back to there while Will was on the road with the Black Eyed Peas

Would you say that the image or narrative that you’re projecting right now is something that you started out with when you were searching for labels–the whole persona of Natalia Kills?

No, it’s definitely been an evolution. It’s definitely been a growing process. When I made my demo, it was actually called Wommanequin. It was under my real name, Natalia Cappuccini, and the whole thing was about searching for perfection. Being a girl; a mannequin being the perfect female form as a woman. So, I definitely started with the idea. My album is called Perfectionist. It’s literally the next step up from that demo; that idea. So, that idea hasn’t changed.

Developing who I am and making it more obvious was the first thing I was really encouraged to do once I was signed. You know, “Black Eyed Peas”–it says something. It’s a group. There are groups out there like The Knife, and certain words are very easy and invoke a certain feeling so that fans immediately identify. I thought to myself, in this quest for perfection and this great life and everything, “What do I want to do? How can you become the best at anything?” The way you do it is you just try to kill it every time. So, the label said “Maybe that’s what your name should be,” and I stuck with Natalia Kills.

I can see all of the influence that channel into the image because you have a sort of Tumblr style website with different pictures and quotes that inspire you and there’s of course the “Love, Kills XX” series. What sort of influences or references inspired the series?

I’ll give you a really small background of how I got into the film making. Basically, before I decided to do music, when I was quite a bit younger I was 14, I was doing a lot of acting. And you know a lot of creative people slide in and out of music, acting, and theater because it’s all a kind of system of being an expressionist. You have to express. You have to perform. So, I was doing that before I realized that music was what I really wanted to pursue.

I was on all of these sets learning lines and seeing how it was really done for years, and I have learned to a certain degree how it works. You write the script, you write the characters, you find locations, you find a director, you find a producer. and you make the show. So, when I was actually signed to the label they said “Look, I know you’re into all of this [Alfred] Hitchcock, [Stanley] Kubrick sort of stuff. But how are you going to translate that to people? What you need to do is be on the internet and make a diary or talk to the camera while going to the studio.” And I said that was silly to me, because I didn’t really want to be talking to the camera like “Yo, guys! I’m in the studio!” That’s not who I am. That’s not what I like.

So, I said “Well, how about the fans really get to know me through film?” They get to see me being me, but in almost imaginary and extraordinary situations. I’m writing, producing and co-directing it, so really, they’re getting a full-on take of my imagination, and that’s how they get to know me. Not just by seeing this Natalia Kills running around being a femme fatale maniac. They also get to see exactly what I think about, exactly how I feel by me writing all of this and actually directing it and making it real.

So, that’s kind of the general idea of the show, and we’re going to have twenty episodes. I’ve done most of them, but obviously you have to wait until they come out once a week. I’m very glad people are responding to it because it basically brings a very direct and visual impact to show people what it’s about instead of just pictures and interviews or whatever. It’s a different level of entertainment.

Are they leading up to something? Will there be a single or album release when they’re all said and done?

Yes, absolutely. We finished the album and it’s been wonderful. The single will hopefully be going on air in the summer and building from there.

Oh, good! Because you released two buzz singles..

Well, it’s funny. They were really buzz singles. “Zombie” was the first song I even recorded for the record, but I do have a first official uptempo–could be played radio; could be played pop single.

I’m so creative that it’s hard for me to hold back and make people wait for so long, so it was really good that the label allowed me to officially leak a couple of the songs so that people could get a really good feeling. The first single won’t be either of those songs, but definitely in the same vein. Same sound, same style.

You also gave a little preview in the latest series of another song..

Yep, and that will continue to happen, actually. That will keep happening, but if it was up to me, I would want my music to go out into the world and want people to hear it. I would be playing full versions, but I definitely have to leave a bit of mystery so when people get the album there are surprises on it.

Who have you worked with on the album besides Will.I.Am?

I’ve worked with really incredible producers. I’ve worked with Jeff Bhasker. He’s done work on Kanye West’s last two records and the one that’s coming up. Alicia Keys and Jay-Z’s albums as well. He did “Zombie” and is very rhythmic, dark and creative. It’s a lot of fun.

I’ve worked with Akon, who is a wonderful person. I was kind of wondering how he’d be before I met him because I had no idea, and you see people all over TV and they have a certain sound of music. But, when I met him he was very intelligent and creative. I totally understand why he and Will.I.Am. have achieved the level of success that they have because they’re really, really, really good.

I’ve worked with Fernando Garibay and Cherry Cherry Boom Boom [Martin Kierszenbaum] who have worked with Lady Gaga on her new album that no one has heard. She’s working on it right now.

I’ve worked with Ron Feemster who worked with Dr. Dre for five years and Michael Jackson for four years. He was Michael Jackson’s protégé. Michael’s new album that no one has heard (and probably won’t hear now) was all done with Ron. He was looking for a new artist and project after the passing of Michael, and it was really wonderful to work with him. He’s phenomenal, and I believe he could probably change the world with his music. He’s excellent.

That’s a great mix of producers. It sounds like some different sounds all in one..

Yeah, but you know what? The best thing was I got into the studio with Jeff and he started playing away. I do this thing were I choose all the sounds, so we’re kind of musically creating the actual music together. Once we found the sound and all of the different synths and rhythms and stuff, I went to all of the other producers and said “The songs we make have to marry this. They have to out-do it, they have to undo it, they have to re-do it, they have to all be absolutely consistent.”

So, even though I’ve worked with a couple of people on my album, all of those sounds and all of those ideas are absolutely consistent and flowing one after the other. It doesn’t sound like a patchwork of different sound, one in pop, one in hip-hop, one is urban or whatever. It actually sounds almost like the same person might have done every song, but just taking it to another level.

Do you know at all when it will be released?

Yes. In fall, my album will be released while we’re still growing the first single over the summer. I’m very excited for my album to come out. I am.

A lot of my readers were tweeting “When does new music come out?! Finally!”

Yeah, I know! I really want everyone to hear the music! At least the through the webisodes I can kind of leak little snippets so that people are already familiar.

Final question: A lot of artists in the industry are being compared to the same artist: Lady Gaga. What would you say to critics who may try to compare you to Gaga?

I would say thank you for comparing me to someone creative and talented, and not somebody who relies on other people or other sides of the industry to manufacture who they are. That’s what I would say. Thank you very much.

Good answer!

Thank you! Feel better!

Thanks!

Bye.

Bye.

Special thanks to RJ Kozain for transcription assistance.

Click here to visit Natalia Kills’ official website. To hear more, click here to preview and purchase songs from Natalia Kills on iTunes.

Hey–hey you! You’re at your computer right now and that is totally not sexy. You should be out making poor decisions with your girls/boys–like dropping ice down your cleavage and asking the neighborhood drunkard to lick it out! Luckily I’ve produced a mini-mini-soundtrack for that, so start slathering on the sunscreen all sexily, because it’s time to countdown the Top 4 sexiest summer sizzlers! Sss…

4. Booty Luv – Say It

Okay, so this is the only song that doesn’t directly include the word “sexy.” Big deal! Booty Luv isn’t just a two-piece dance troupe–it’s a way of life (like Kabbalah, Scientology, and joining the Tila Army.) Though the exact wording of the chorus faces fervent debate (“If you want my butt-body, come get it, get it” seems to be the most widely accepted translation), the reaction is generally the same: This song makes me feel ridiculously sexy in my pants.

3. Sugababes – Get Sexy

If you’ve ever been shopping with your lady friends at the mall and a random stranger has yelled “Hey, sexy!” at you, you might have just been sexually assaulted. But more than that–you’ve officially been deemed as sexy, and that’s all that matters! So why not tack on a theme song with your new found lusciousness? Featuring the word “sexy” no less than twenty five times, one spin of “Get Sexy” will have you grossly misrepresenting your own physical attractiveness in no time. Jump on this, you sexy, sexy slut.

2. Madonna – Celebration
Are you there Jesus? It’s me, Madonna! What’s a sexy list without Madonna, am I right? It’s a “Celebration” up in this bitch, and the world’s reigning Queen of Pop wants you to get up and dance. Drunk, sober, whatever…this is a judgment-free zone (and you’re just going to get naked anyway.) Taking a turn as the sultry seductress (different than her usual role), Madge tempts you with her breathy come-ons (“I guess I just didn’t recognize you with your clothes on”). If the nausea doesn’t get you first, the sexy will!

1. David Guetta ft. Akon – Sexy Bitch

“I’m trying to find the words to describe this girl without being disrespectful,” Akon woefully croons before launching into one of the most monstrous choruses of ’09. If “Get Sexy” didn’t make it socially acceptable to spin a person around, slap them on the ass, and call them a “sexy bitch,” this track surely will. “She’s nothing like a girl you’ve ever seen before / Nothing you can compare to your neighborhood whore.” Last I heard, “Sexy Bitch” has been entered in the running for the Poetry Society of America’s 2009 Cecil Hemley Memorial Award for its self-searching lyrical quality and general “willingness to go there.” Godspeed, Akon.

BoA is a global superstar. Having already moved a total of over 20 million units between Korea and Japan, the singer has released over 14 albums (not including compilations), 32 singles, dozens of prestigious musical and cultural awards, and gone on several nationwide tours since her debut in 2000.

Oh, and she’s only 22.

Debuting at the tender age of 14, BoA has continued to shatter records and defy expectations as an incredibly determined pop artist, showcasing both an incredible vocal range and superb command of intricate and innovative choreography. As a result, the entertainer has often been compared to Britney Spears because of their similarly successful pop careers, both built at an early age. But while Britney may have had her ups and downs in the music world, BoA has successfully maintained her popularity in Japan and Korea, continually releasing successful albums and singles to this day.

In 2008, BoA’s management announced plans to move into the Western world for an English debut album. Several press releases later, BoA’s first single, “Eat You Up,” premiered online in late 2008, along with a newly formed American website. Six months later on March 17, 2009, BoA’s self-titled debut officially marked BoA’s latest crossover into new territory.

Though the singer has been quite busy with promotional duties in both America and Japan, I had the wonderful privilege of speaking to her on the day of her English album’s debut–in English, no less! Though the language barrier did make itself apparent in parts of the interview, BoA’s excitable, chit-chatty nature was infectious, leading to a conversation mainly filled with giggles. In the few short minutes we spoke, we covered the new album, plans for her career post-America, her interests, and yes…even the Britney concert.

To say the least, it was utterly surreal. Aside from being an intense workaholic, BoA seems like an absolute sweetheart. Best of all, after I completely melted at the interview’s end and gushed about having all of her albums and posters, she called me “so sweet.”

STARSTRUCK.

So without further ado, here is the full audio and text of the conversation (click “Read More…” to expand the post). Though I firmly believe that my giggling fan boy voice pays myself no real compliment, I know that many fans would want to hear BoA’s conversational English. You’ve been warned accordingly–nervous fandom and old school microphones do not equate to a high quality recording.

P.S. Like my “Circus” ringtone? Haha.

(FIXED) AUDIO AND TEXT AFTER THE JUMP!

Hey BoA! How are you?

Fine, how are you?

I’m great! So, today’s March 17—that means today is the official debut of the album. I’m so excited…Congratulations!

Thank you!

I have to say, I just got the album in the mail about an hour ago and I’ve been listening to it ever since–

How is it? Do you like it?

I really do. I love it. It sounds like you put a lot of work into it.

Oh, thank you!

How long did it take to record the album?

Well, I think it took around two years.

Really?

Yeah, yeah (laughs). Because I had to go to Japan [for promotional duties], so we couldn’t go on recording constantly.

I had no idea it took so long…That’s cool! So I was listening to some of the lyrics on the album, and it’s definitely more mature than some of your past work. The songs aren’t like “Shine We Are,” all bubbly and sweet…it’s got more mature themes. Did you want to show that you were adult this time around?

Well, yeah…Because I’m an adult! (Laughs)

That makes sense (Laughs). What do you think your Japanese and Korean fans will think of this new sound?

Well, I hope they like this sound and keep supporting me…Hopefully, they’ll love this album. In Japan, I released my “best” album along with my US album so they can listen to both CD’s and enjoy them together.

The other thing I noticed is that the album is dance—no ballads. Was that just something that happened, or did you want it to be an album of all dance music?

I really wanted to make a hot dance album, so we just tried to make all types of dance music. I started working with producers like Bloodshy & Avant and Sean Garrett, and I guess I did a good job. I think the record came out really hot.

Yeah, you did! I watched your first single “Eat You Up” as it went up to the Top Ten on the Dance Charts.

Yes, thank you!

Now, “I Did It For Love” is coming out soon and I really, really do love that song.

(Laughs) It’s so catchy!

I have a feeling it’s going to go really high on the charts.

Yeah! We shot the music video at the end of January with Joseph Kahn. Sean Garrett was actually in the video too. It should be out at the end of March.

(Laughs)

I love it!

The rehearsal [for the video] was crazy. I was using chairs, hats, fans…lots of things like that.

So do you have a favorite song off of the album?

I would say “I Did It For Love,” definitely…I love it. I also really like “Energetic.”

So I remember, ever since your debut, there were rumors that you were finally coming to America…and now you finally did it. Is there any reason you decided to do it now?

Well, I just felt like this was the right time. We were finally all set for the album after we had been recording for so long. Actually, “I Did It For Love” was recorded last year, like right before the Christmas day.

Really?

Yeah! (Laughs.) It definitely came out right before New Years. Everything was all set, and then we decided this time was the right time, and we were ready to go!

That’s cool! So, do you have any plans to do an American tour? I know a lot of fans would really love to see you.

Yeah! I guess there’s a lot of people supporting me right now. They’ve told me that they’re really happy I’m here.

Yeah, you have a lot of fans in America, you definitely do.

(Laughs) Thank you! I actually just did Kollaboration…It’s really big in Asian society. It was in L.A. at the Shrine Auditorium. There were like…6,000 people there.

Wow!

Yeah, so I had a chance to say hello to my Asian fans!

So when you go back to Korea, or when you go back to do your Japanese work, do you think you’re going to do your English songs on tour?

Oh yeah, of course…Why not? I’m the same performer with my English songs as in Japan and Korea! (Laughs) I’ve actually got an event coming up in Japan called Springroove. It’s like a big festival…lots of artists from America are coming to perform their music, like T-Pain, John Legend, and Akon.

Wow…When’s that?

Um…April 4! It’s in Tokyo. I’m going to perform English and Japanese songs.

Awesome! So, after this album, do you think you’re going to return to Korea? We haven’t heard a Korean album from you in a long time!

Aw, that’s true! Ahh…I don’t know yet. I definitely have to go to Japan. Of course, I’ll return to Korea again I’m sure! (Laughs)

So, are you enjoying America now while you’re here?

Yeah, of course…I like it here!

You liking the weather?

Yeah, the sunshine! (Laughs) I really like LA weather.

What artists are you listening to right now?

These days, I’m listening to T-Pain, T.I., Lady Gaga (laughs). Stuff on the radio…

Are you going to any concerts?

Manager: You know, with her schedule…We’re trying to find time to go to Britney’s concert–

You should go to Britney’s concert. I went last night.

BoA: How was it?!

Oh my God, it was amazing (laughs).

She’s back? Finally?!

She’s back, definitely. It was so wonderful. I was right in the front.

(BoA gasps.)

Manager: Wait, where did you see her?

Boston.

BoA: Boston! I want to go there!

You should! No, she was really amazing. I just—(laughs). It was amazing.

(Laughs) Nice.

Well, alright, I don’t want to take up too much of your time! I just wanted to say I’ve been a huge fan for years, I’ve loved you ever since I listened to Atlantis Princess, I’ve had all your albums and your posters….

Aww, thank you! You’re so sweet!

I just wanted to say thank you for making such good music.

Thank you, thank you!

Is there anything else you want to say to your fans before I go?

Well, my album just came out today, so I’m really happy that my American fans will get to hear it. I can’t wait for it!

I know all yours fans in America are so proud of your success, so thank you so much! Have a good day!

Thank you, you too…Bye!

Click above to hear more from BoA, including her newly released debut album!

Additionally, click to visit BoA’s MySpace and her official website.

I’m confused. I’m hearing Leona Lewis, and I’m also hearing a beat thats ever so slightly faster than mid-tempo. It’s a new song that leaked from the American release of her album, Spirit, called “Forgive Me”. Sounds a bit like Gwen Stefani‘s “The Sweet Escape”, which would make sense, as Akon had a hand in producing both. I like it, generally, though you can still feel the copious amounts of boring seeping through the dance beat. I’ll allow for it. Congratulations on your American #1, darling.

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DL: Leona Lewis – Forgive Me