‘Rollercoaster’ Dance Diva ERIKA JAYNE Talks New Album ‘Pretty Mess,’ What She Likes in a Guy and More

Originally published July 16, 2009

Dance diva Erika Jayne‘s first two singles rushed to the top of the Billboard charts. This week, her third single ‘Give You Everything’ bumps up to the number 4 spot (click here to watch the vid). But what’s more? She’s set to release her first full-length album, ‘Pretty Mess,’ available August 11, 2009, via E1 Music. Album is out now – click here to get it in iTunes.

The 14-song collection contains the chart-topping singles ‘Rollercoaster‘ and ‘Stars‘ along with the latest release ‘Everything.’ Preview the tracks here.

I’ve listened to the album in its entirety (quite a few times now!), and I would hardcore recommend this album to a friend – it’s a great mix of upbeat dance, loungey chill and classic pop tracks – it’s been in my personal active rotation and is a solid listen start to finish.

Now, Erika has taken the time from her busy sked to talk with Muzo about the good stuff – new album, her work with Sheila E., what she likes in a guy, on a date, in the sack and much more. Lets get to it…

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Muzo: Congratulations on your forthcoming debut album ‘Pretty Mess.’ Your #1 hits ‘Rollercoaster,’ ‘Stars,’ and latest single ‘Give You Everything’ are all featured on there. What else can your fans expect from the new collection?

Erika: ‘Pretty Mess’ is a fun, fantasy, escape dance record. Lots of songs to kick up your heels to.

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Muzo: And Eric Kupper, who I love, helped produce your album – how did you align with him, and what was your collaborative process like?

Erika: Peter Rafelson introduced me to Eric Kupper, and we have become good friends. He is so good at what he does, it’s almost not fair. We always have a great time in and out of the studio.

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Muzo: For your track ‘Time to Realize,’ you worked with Sheila E. First off, too cool! Second, how did that collaboration come about?

Erika: Sheila was working down the hall, and I was telling Peter what a big fan I am, and he said, ‘let’s go say hi,’ so we started talking and it went from there. She is amazing, and I feel so lucky to have her on my album.

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Muzo: I’m really looking forward to hearing your rendition of ‘Sex Shooter.’ Any hints as to what we can expect with that track?

Erika: I wanted to make it my own, so I added a little Erika Jayne to it. It’s really fun.

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Muzo: What artists do you most admire?

Erika: Michael Jackson, Madonna and Prince

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Muzo: When you scored your first #1 on the Billboard charts, what did you do to celebrate?

Erika: I was at home in Atlanta, so you know it was a wild night.

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Muzo: How has the Internet affected your career?

Erika: The Internet has given me access to fans all around the globe. It’s crucial to an artist’s success.

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Muzo: You love ‘Purple Rain.’ Favorite track off that album? (Can I get a ‘what what’ on my fave ‘Computer Blue’ perhaps?)

Erika: I do love ‘Computer Blue’ but…’Darling Nikki’ kinda does it for me.

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Muzo: I love how so much of your message in your music is to just have fun. I have the same mantra! So when you are out with your friends, what do you guys do for fun?

Erika: Eat, drink, get loud and act silly. Oh yeah, we dance around, too.

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Muzo: And you are originally from Atlanta but live in L.A. now. What do you miss about home? And any chance I can catch you out in WeHo soon?

Erika: I do miss that southern hospitality. Yes, you can catch me in WeHo acting up.

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Muzo: What’s the biggest challenge facing newer artists today?

Erika: If you don’t come with a hit the first time out you’re done. No one takes time to develop artists anymore; they want ready-made stars.

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Muzo: OK, now for the really good stuff: Single or taken?

Erika: Single.

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Muzo: What’s a man gotta do to impress you on a date?

Erika: Be himself, no acting please.

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Muzo: Who pays for dinner on the date?

Erika: He does.

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Muzo: What’s a guy gotta do to get busy with Erika?

Erika: He’s gotta come get it. Show me he wants it.

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Muzo: One thing a guy should always do in bed?

Erika: Kiss soft and deep.

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Muzo: Your celebrity crush?

Erika: Christian Bale looks like he knows what’s up.

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Muzo: Your favorite personal vice?

Erika: Sex.

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Muzo: Least-favorite personal vice?

Erika: I like all my vices…no apologies here.

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Muzo: What’s next for Erika Jayne?

Erika: Getting ready for August 11th, the release date for ‘Pretty Mess’ and performing like crazy.

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Muzo: Oh, and btw, can you please give a raise to whoever writes your press materials – this is seriously the most brilliantly written promo for an album:

‘If disco balls, ecstasy, pearls, Studio 54, sex, crystal chandeliers, ‘Purple Rain,’ and Crème Brule could be whipped in a blender and made into a delicious pop-dance musical confection, you would have ‘Pretty Mess.”

Erika: I will tell Carrie you liked it!!!