Exclusive: Jason Derulo to headline Caribbean-themed festival in Dubai

US r’n’b star Jason Derulo is coming back to Dubai this winter. Not just because he loves Dubai Mall and the beach (though he tells us those are pretty good reasons) but to put on a show at a two-day Caribbean-themed carnival taking place at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, on November 1 and 2.

“Dubai better be ready — it will be amazing, I guarantee,” Derulo told us by email. I’m a singer, writer and performer so all these elements come out in my shows.”

Playing on the first night of the festival, this will be his second performance in the UAE following a club set earlier this year, and he’ll be sharing the stage with two more top artists to be announced later, say the event organisers.

2012 has been a tumultuous year for the Haitian-American singer, who first hit the charts in 2009 with the Imogen Heap-sampling “Watcha Say”. After breaking a vertebra in January, he cancelled all tour dates and recuperated (with the help of his girlfriend, Sparkle actress Jordin Sparks) from what could have been a fatal injury. Now, not only is he back performing, he’s got new music in the works too, having gone into the studio recently. He was tight-lipped about whether he’ll play anything new for Dubai in November: “I can’t really tell you what to expect,” he said. “All I know is that it will be a crazy show with lots of surprises.”

The Caribbean carnival is a family event celebrating several aspects of island culture, said Zoha Beig, CEO of event organisers 321 Events.

“There is a special focus on children-friendly entertainment, to bring people of all ages together. November is probably one of the best months weather-wise in Dubai. We’ve been wanting to do a family-based event for a while and took inspiration from the celebratory environment that surrounds anything Caribbean. The music, the people, the culture…all have a jubilant sense about it and we thought that was enough reason to make it our theme.”

Beig is expecting 20,000 people to attend over both days. The first day will start from 4pm with the concerts, while the second day will see entertainment from local artists.

Derulo’s background is Haitian (his stage surname is a phonetic spelling of his real name Desrouleaux) and he says Caribbean music played a role in his upbringing in Miami — just listen to his hit Don’t Wanna Go Home to hear the influence.

“I grew up listening to lots of music, Michael Jackson was my favourite. But of course there was a lot of Caribbean music at the house,” said Derulo. “Haiti experienced several tragedies the past few years that’s unfortunate for a small and beautiful country like this. After the earthquake I’m really proud how the celebrities have kind of come together, especially Wyclef. I mean, he’s always been very, very instrumental in charities for Haiti, but he has really, really stepped up.”

Beig says Caribbean culture will be represented “across the board, from our colour palette to our food, Caribbean-inspired dancers, performers, food and of course, music! These are all aspects that will make this a truly Caribbean weekend.”

Derulo was asked to perform because “our main aim was to keep the entertainment family-friendly and appealing to all. This is yet another reason why we chose Jason — he’s popular with our younger audiences while our more mature audiences can also groove to his sound”.

Quickfire with Jason Derulo

What’s your music writing process?

You know I love writing my own songs, I started in the business writing for big artists [including Diddy, Lil Wayne and Sean Kingston]. This is something I love to do. I like to feel the music first then start writing.

Anything you are looking forward to doing while you are here again?

I love Dubai! It’s one of my favourite places. I hope I will have time to visit, sightseeing, shopping in Dubai Mall. And spend time in Jumeirah Beach [laughs] or skydiving — if my neck feels like it.

Sparkle hasn’t released in the UAE yet. Tell us why you think we should go watch it when it does?

I think it is a great movie. People should go and watch it. At least in memory of one of the most talented artists ever, who unfortunately passed away recently. Miss Whitney Houston. She is just AMAZING in the movie. This is what people should remember about her.

Aside from your album and Dubai concert, what else is going on musically for you? Any other TV [Derulo’s Australian dance reality show with Kelly Rowland was recently cancelled] or perhaps movies?

Right now I’m focusing on my album and then the promo. We’ll see for the rest. I like to be focused on what I’m doing. One step at a time.

You’re famous for singing your name at the beginning of your tracks. How did this come about?

I like my music being unique [laughs]. I think it’s more a signature move!