Musiq Soulchild is back with his fifth studio album, On My Radio. The first single, "IfULeave" featuring Mary J. Blige has found success since being released a couple of months ago (#14 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs Chart). Now, the Philly-native is ready to break the boundaries of his neo-soul persona and feature some of his other abilities. This transformation is seen on songs such as IWannaBe with Damian Marley.



Musiq recently discussed the album, the formation of his new label, and President-Elect Barack Obama with BlackVibes.com

What was it like working with Mary J. Blige on your first single IfULeave?

Musiq: I didn't get a chance to work with her in the studio on the song, but we did get to work on the video together. She's a real cool lady. She told me how much she dug the record and how much she appreciated being on it.

Traditionally, you haven't had a lot of collaborations with other artists on your album. Why is that?

Musiq: It's more of a scheduling thing. It's not like I choose not work with anyone. I would love to work with a lot of people. I haven't really pursued it much, but I'm starting to pursue it more now. I'm going to try to do it even more in the future.

When someone listens to On My Radio for the first time, what should they expect?

Musiq: Some good music. I'm doing what I can to push things forward. I'm trying to showcase more than just neo-soul. There's nothing wrong with [neo-soul], but there's a whole lot more out there to do.

Talk about the production on the album.

Musiq: I'm worked with my boy Warren Campbell out of LA. I also did song with J.R. Hudson from LA. I did the single with Dru Castro. I just met him. He's pretty cool. I also worked with some of the other people that I worked with on the previous albums.

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You will be performing at the Legendary Apollo Theatre on December 9. That's a big show. What does it mean to you?

Musiq: I'm definitely honored that I'll be able to perform at the Apollo Theater on the release day of my new album. I'm honored to be able to contribute to the legacy of the Apollo Theater and I hope that everyone has a good time.

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You also have a Christmas Album in stores right now. Tell us about the album and how it came about?

Musiq: Target approached me about putting together a Christmas project. It's not a full album. There are only 7 songs on the EP. They're all public domain songs that people should recognize, but I put my own twist on it by calling it a Philly Soul Christmas. I tried to live up to the tradition of the sound of Philadelphia. I pretty much produced the whole thing.

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I heard that you plan on starting your own record label called Soulstar Records. How is that going and when can we expect to see it up and running?

Musiq: I'm still waiting for it to be official. I'm trying to get all of the paperwork together. As soon as that's together, I'm going to let everyone know so I can represent some other artists and help them achieve their goals and dreams in music.

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2008 is almost over. As you reflect back on this year what things stand out to you?

Musiq: Barack Obama. That stands out the most to me. His campaign and his contributions to humanity had the most impact on me this year. I performed at the Democratic Convention in Denver and I felt like I was a part of something historical. I also spoke on his behalf in many circumstances and yes I did vote as well.