Bobby Valentino "Slows Down" for AC

Sexy, Confident, Smooth & Can "Sang." What more would any woman want in a man? If I've wet your appetite, take a number because Bobby Valentino is "bringing sexy back" and the requests are pouring in for more.

Bobby Valentino, is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University with a BA in Mass Communications and an ear for great love songs. He says that he wants to "make timeless music." "Music that is classic and will be picked up 10 years from now." He is inspired by women in every way and says that because he loves his fans, he has taken his time with his new album. Perhaps, that's why his last name is Valentino? Anyhow, together with his label, DTP/Def Jam Records, Bobby has assembled an A-list of producers including, Tim & Bob, Timbaland, Dre & Vidal, Delite, Sean Garrett, Brian Cox and Rodney Jerkins to create an album fit for any "Special Occasion."

His myspace page is blowin' up with fans wanting to hear new music from the Billboard chart topping artist. Recently, Bobby and Ludacris addressed misconceptions about the album "leaking" on the internet. To this Bobby responds; "I put out a couple of songs that I knew weren't going on the album on myspace & mixtapes to give my fans a little something for them to ride until the album is released."

Bobby's first single "Slow Down," received numerous nominations for Best R & B single and was certified gold selling over 700,000 copies. As the first R&B artist signed to Ludacris' Disturbing Tha Peace Records, he was the success story of 2005. His brand new single "Anonymous" (featuring Timbaland), is coming in as the #1 Most-Added record on Urban radio upon release.

Bobby V (I can call him that 'cause we've become tight like that), took some time out of his busy schedule to talk with me and Associated Content.

Saba,Ink: Congrats on the success of your new single.
Bobby V: Thank you.

Saba,Ink: What was it like working with such creative/talented producers on this album.
Bobby V: The producers were all people I really wanted to work with. They were on my wish list and DTP made it happen.

Saba,Ink: After the success of "Slow Down" were you afraid of the sophomore jinx?
Bobby V: No, not Really. I just want to be consistent and make hit records.

Saba,Ink: What is your formula for achieving this?
Bobby V: Being consistent with my work. Making soul music people can feel. Letting them know that I am a human being and just touching people with my music.

Saba,Ink: Ludacris has proven to be such a diverse talent. Artist, Producer, Businessman, the works. What have you learned or are learning from working with him.
Bobby V: He is the one guy I can say works hard. He is proof that hard work pays off. Whenever I get tired, I think of Luda.

Saba,Ink: Because of your songs, particularly the love songs, do you think you will be "bringing sexy back?"
Bobby V: Oh yeah (laughs). I brought sexy with the first album!

Saba,Ink: What inspires you professionally and personally?
Bobby V: Women inspire me in every way to make music. Of course, God first, then family because without God none of this would be possible.

Saba,Ink: Is there a specific woman or women that you could point to?
Bobby V: The women in my family. My mother and sister who always pushed me and believed in me. I remember many days sitting in my Momma's Kitchen and her motivating me.

Saba,Ink: You are quoted as saying "people congratulate me on my success but I feel I haven't done nothing yet." What are you doing to take it to the next level?
Bobby V: Everything I can. If there is an event, I'm there. If an artist wants me on their song, I am there whether the label approves or not. I am always reaching out to help.

Saba,Ink: You are a graduate of Clark Atlanta. Have you done anything with them?
Bobby V: Yes. As a matter of fact, I just performed for home-coming and am planning to go back for an autograph signing. I'm also looking at going back to my old High School North Atlanta... it's a performing arts school.

Saba,Ink: With your interest in kids, entertainment and giving back, do you have any plans for a charity of sorts?
Bobby V: I've actually started the Bobby Valentino Foundation. We will give away scholarships for kids wanting to study film, music, things like that.

Saba,Ink: Is it one scholarship ?
Bobby V: We will give away 3-4 scholarships per year. You should be able to check out information on it at justbobby.com, my personal website.

Saba,Ink: Any parting words for your fans?
Bobby V: To my fans and the haters, ... Special Occasion due in stores May 8th. If you don't like 10 songs, you can take it back!

Saba,Ink: (laughing) Is that a Bobby V guarantee?
Bobby V: Yep, that's a Bobby V personal guarantee!

If you have not experienced Bobby Valentino, think Babyface, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Prince rolled up in one. At least, that's how he channels his music and wants you to think of him. His fans seem to think the world of him and if they are right, Bobby V should not be "anonymous" to the rest of the world for too much longer.