Mark Middleton on a mission

American R&B singer and Blackstreet band member Mark Middleton was in a repentant mood in the lead-up to tonight's performance at Chi@ The Lodge.

It seemed his decision to walk out on the Grammy-award winning group still causes the songwriter much regret. But now he is ready to make amends.

On top of his must-do list - the regrouping of the original Blackstreet band comprising Teddy Riley, Eric Williams and Chauncey Hannibal, with the hope of regaining their former chart-topping form with previous hits such as No Diggity.

"Right now, we are busy with our individual commitments and collaborations," he said shortly after arriving in Dubai.

"But in a few weeks, I will be going to Los Angeles to discuss the possibility of a new album with Teddy Riley. Things are looking good right now, so all we need to do is sit down in a room and get started on it. The album will feature all our signature elements including heavy R&B, hip-hop and rock 'n' roll."

But does it not get tiring to play peacekeeper to a group that is perennially racked by break-ups, make-ups, shuffling and reshuffling?

The group that was originally formed by singer, producer and new jack swing pioneer Riley in the early '90s has seen the likes of Jone Stonestreet, Dave Hollister and Terrell Phillips pull the plug more than once.

Middleton too stormed out of the group in 2000 over alleged financial issues and his desire to pursue a solo career.

Creating history

"Yes, sometimes it can get a bit tiring. But if you look at the bigger picture we have it in us to create history again and produce some great music. All we need to learn is to accommodate each other's eccentricities. For instance, Riley is a genius but to work with him can be incredibly tough. We need to learn how to work together. If I could go back in time, I would never have walked out," says Middleton.

"It's also a classic scenario of creative minds breeding a hotbed of discontent", he adds.

Disharmony aside, Middleton's personal life is the sole sphere in which there are no discordant notes.

"My wife and my kids are my greatest strengths. To me, holding my family together is one of my greatest achievements," he adds.

His love for bringing people together musically does not end with Blackstreet. In Dubai, he is collaborating with Sal Productions and DJ Teddy Jam for a track titled I Wanna Leave.

"Though it's too early to divulge the details, the track is an R&B, hip hop number about a couple on the verge of break-up. Though it was an incredibly rewarding experience, I wish I had more time to work on the track," says Middleton.

He also plans to collaborate with Middle Eastern artists to create a blend of R&B, hip-hop numbers laced with Arabian music.

"I have started a production house along with Blackstreet band member Eric Williams and we are in talks with Dubai based musicians to create our brand of hip-hop meets Arabian music tracks, The deal is yet to be signed," says Middleton.

With plans of collaboration, concerts and reunions lined up, Middleton hopes to make things happen this year around.

"It's a crime to let a blessing like talent go untapped. Making real music is all that counts."

Middleton's wish-list

I wish…

R&B/Hip-hop was not about gun-toting gangsters. Why can't our fans love hip-hop and be genuinely good people?

The US would learn a thing or two from Dubai's religious way of life. I love the way they have incorporated their faith in every sphere of normal life.

I could be more selfless. I wish I had not lashed out at my brothers [Blackstreet members].

I would win an Oscar for Best Music Score.

Don't miss it!

Watch him live at Slam's Summer Party.
When: Today
Venue: The Chi@ The Lodge
Time: 9pm onwards
Tickets: Dh100 (men); Ladies enter free until midnight
Contact: 04-3379470