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Home > Atlanta Music Scene > Archives > 2008 > December > 30
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Keri Hilson Talks Lil Wayne Tour
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
On her way to the I Am Music tour’s stop in Greensboro, N.C. Monday night, Atlanta singer-songwriter Keri Hilson gave us her quick report card on one of the most anticipated hip-hop and R&B shows of the year is going.
“So far, so great,” Hilson (pictured above with Ne-Yo) said of the bill headlined by the biggest artist of 2008, rapper Lil Wayne; and stopping at Philips Arena New Year’s Eve.
“The response has been growing with every city. Last night in Philly was amazing. They were singing every song — which means a lot to me, because I never expect that. I’m the scrub of this tour [which also includes Atlantans T-Pain and Keyshia Cole, along with Gym Class Heroes]. The freshman. And I feel like it. But it’s not a bad season opener at all. I’m very grateful!”
Hilson has been a major name behind the scenes for some time, having written for Usher (“Red Light”), Ludacris (“Runaway Love”) and Omarion (“Ice Box”). But this marks the first time she’s really gotten out in front of national audiences. And what has she learned about the live aspect of the music business?
“It’s kind of funny because you don’t realize that the artists only see like the first couple of rows of people,” offered Hilson, whose opening set only lasts about 10 minutes. “We really just imagine the crowd is there…I mean you can hear people; and feel energy. But what I have learned abourt performing, in general, is when you hit the stage give it your all. Go harder than even you think you can go. That is really a rush!”
Hilson — whose latest single “Turnin Me On” is with the inescapable Wayne — added she expects a lot of surprise appearances on the Atlanta date. “It’s home for so many of us, so many stars, so I know it’s going to be the livest show,” she said. “And afterwards, I’m going to hang out and party it up. I’ve had a really great, great year as a new artist. Yeah my [debut] album [‘In A Perfect World…’] still hasn’t come out…And the release date is still unknown…But this tour has reignited the performer in me. I’m living my dream every night.”
Planning to go tomorrow night? (If so, fair warning, ticket prices go up $5 Wednesday.) What do you think of what you’ve heard from Hilson so far? (See YouTube clips of her “Energy” and “Turnin Me On” videos BELOW)
