Fat Joe knows rap, Sean Paul knows dancehall and Craig David knows R&B.
Besides the fact they could all pass for first cousins, these three different artists with their three different styles do have another thing in common: their record label.
Atlantic Records will feature Fat Joe’s new album “Loyalty” and Sean Paul’s new album “Dutty Rock,” both released on Nov. 12, along with Craig David’s new album “Slicker Than Your Average,” released today.
Attendees can hear the newly released albums at the Atlantic Records Listening Party tonight at Sloppy Joe’s.
“The objective is for listeners to hear a variety of the hottest tracks, and give feedback on the music they hear,” said Greg Webb, 18, the FAMU marketing representative for Atlantic Records.
Listeners will receive feedback sheets that will be given to the record company. From the sheets, the recording company will determine what the Tallahassee audience likes in order to make music and schedule concerts that local residents can enjoy.
The Listening Party is the first of its kind to hit Tallahassee, according to Webb.
“Atlantic puts on a lot of listening parties to keep abreast of what the public wants to hear,” said the business administration student from Moreno Valley, Calif., “But this is the first one to hit Tallahassee.”
Webb has single-handedly organized the party to enlighten Atlantic on what Tallahassee residents want to hear, and the local listening public doesn’t seem to mind at all.
“As a buyer, I like to know what I’m spending my money on, and CDs can sometimes be an upset,” said Andy Benoit, 19, a sophomore education student from Miami.
“I think it’s a good idea for the company to allow a preview so we can know what exactly we’re purchasing.”
The party will not only feature new music.
Each participant will receive a special gift and will be placed in a drawing for other prizes and give-aways, including full length CDs from each featured artist and previous Atlantic releases such as Trick Daddy’s “Thug Holiday.” and Trina’s “Diamond Princess.”
“Basically, everyone who comes can socialize, chill and kick it to some good music,” Webb said.
Fat Joe’s album will feature edgy hip-hop tunes with Ginuwine, Scarface and newcomers, Remy and Tony Sunshine.
For all those compelled to “heel-toe,” Sean Paul’s album will feature his hit single “Gimme the Light,” as well as other dancehall tunes featuring Tony Touch, Busta Rhymes and Rahzel.
Craig David, however, chose to keep his new album a one-man show, making only one exception for rock legend, Sting.
Radio play gives listeners a taste of
what each album has to offer, but for some listeners, a taste only provides an inquisitive tease.
“I think Sean Paul came on the scene with a bang,” said Tanesha Philpot, 19, a sophomore electrical engineering student from Orlando.
“I like ‘Gimme the Light’ and I’m very curious to see what other tracks he has to offer.”
The Listening Party will be from 7-10 p.m. with no cover charge.
For more information, and to submit feedback on the albums, visit atlanticrecords.com or digitalguestlist.com.