T-NICE RELEASES

T-Nice just released their second single 'Sexy', follow-up to their successful first single 'Summerlove', both produced by Johan 'Shade' Plak of Shadowzone Records. The group consists of one rapper, Ernest 'E-Nice' Amponsah and one singer, Robert 'L.O.V.E.' Matovu.

How did you come by your handles?

E-Nice: Way back when I was a little boy I was called 'E', for Extraordinary, as I was always different. (Grins) I put nice behind it because I can be extraordinary nice. L.O.V.E.: My name is self-explanatory.

I understand that, before you joined with Shadowzone, you had another producer. That didn't work out?

E-Nice: Our first producer was a good friend and a fine producer, but he had too many artists to devote the attention to us that we required, so we parted as friends and searched for someone with the same qualities.

Your first single 'Summerlove' was an R&B song, the current single 'Sexy'[ is both R&B and TWOSTEP. If there comes an album, what genre will influence the total sound the most?

E-Nice: On our first single we tried to show our versatility, which is why we put out three different songs and one remix. Our second single features three versions of 'Sexy': a radio version, a club version and a balled version, to show what we can do with just one song.

You had some public performances now. Any comments?

E-Nice: There's a duality about public performances. We've done some television performances, where we had to use backing tapes. Not that we wouldn't be able to perform live, but a television studio doesn't always have the right acoustics for a live performance. L.O.V.E.: And time restrictions. But live performances is where our hearts are at.

What's was your first public performance as T-Nice like?

E-Nice: I was more curious than anxious, to tell you the truth. During the performance, when I noticed how the audience liked our music, I could really let go and let my feelings flow. L.O.V.E.: I lived towards that goal, so when I finally got to be on stage it was a dream come true. And I have to say, the positive reactions from the audience were very encouraging.

Which artists do you like and do the influence you style?

E-Nice: I like Busta Rhymes for his lyrical raps and Bob Marley for his spirit. I like both qualities and try to mix them into my own style. L.O.V.E.: R. Kelly. He influenced me from way back in the nineties. My style leans towards Jou and Boyz-2-Men.

In general, R&B music and videos create an Image that is slick and superficial. Can you find yourself in that image? Where does T-Nice differ?

E-Nice Oh, no. Not at all. T-Nice aims to keep it real. That's where we differ, we do what we do from the heart.

What about the depiction of women in R&B videos? Does you ideal women look like that?

E-Nice: Looks are nice, but heart is more important. Being a musician can be demanding, and the support of a good woman is a necessity to go on. L.O.V.E.: I agree.

Now that fame is around the corner, do you see yourself different from the way you used to see yourselves?

E-Nice: Not much, I try to be myself whereever I am. L.O.V.E.: I think I can safely say I don't feel different.
I've always felt I was an artist and now that I'm growing and learning it feels more like refining my personality than altering who I am inside.

Despite your differences the two of you seem to mesh well.

E-Nice: We're not so different. Perhaps on the outsice, but we have the same goals and that draws us together. L.O.V.E.: Talent and heart, that's what counts.

I understand both of you are religious. What role does it play in you daily life and in your music?

E-Nice: Oh, I'm very religious. I pray to God for support and guidance all the way. L.O.V.E.: I believe God guides me in all I do. I do pray that He helps me reach the goals I set for myself.

Even with the positive reactions, there are bound to be negative comments. What is you opinion on criticism? Does it influence what you stand for?

E-Nice: Everyone has the right to their own opinion, both positive land negative. L.O.V.E.: Constructive criticism I can live with, but I was taught when I was younger to keep negative opinions to yourself, since they won't help the person involved on this road to self improvement.

Any last words?

E-Nice: If you like our music, let us know. L.O.V.E.: I'd love to see you all at our next performance!