Ryan Leslie promises new songs and old favourites

After being robbed off his intellectual property (laptop and hard drive containing his music library) during a tour in Europe in 2010, American record producer, multi-instrumentalist, rapper, entrepreneur and singer Ryan Leslie still found it in himself to rise from the ashes.

Currently being sued by the man who returned his laptop claiming a portion of the proceeds from his latest album, the Diamond Girl crooner, in town to perform at Chi@The Lodge Thursday, talks to tabloid! about his new album and the inspiration behind it.

Tell us more about Les is More.

I am very excited about it. It is an album that is to be consumed visually because the concept of the album is to have a documentary look — a travel journal of all the events and places that have inspired the music. We filmed every single day of my life over the past few months. And finally, I directed and edited a series of videos that serve as the presentation of the music.

How did the concept come to you?

I have been filming for video footage and I gathered that the traditional music video format is very restricted. There was a much more beautiful window that I could offer in terms of an insight into my life, about the activities, people and places that inspire me and that's exactly what I have done with this album.

Have you explored any new genres in your new album?

This album is a complete rap album, which is different from my last R&B album, Transition. So, I have got to touch a lot of topics and subjects that are from my perspective much broader than what I would sing about in an R&B album.

Why did you keep your fans waiting for three years before releasing a new album?

Well, that's because my entire album was stolen. My laptop and hard drive containing my music library got stolen when I was on a promotional tour in Europe two years ago. I had offered a reward for the return of my intellectual property but nothing ever happened. I got back my laptop and hard drive but it was all corrupted so I had to start from scratch and re-record everything from memory. And the entire situation of being sued has actually inspired a lot of songs in my new album.

What are you playing for us Thursday night?

When I came to Dubai before I really wanted to come back with my band and it looks as though this is going to be another introductory show so I still dream of coming back with my band for live performances. I will be giving a taste of some favourites and also some new tracks so it will be like a sneak preview of my new album.

Who has inspired you in music?

I have such a vast music library that it takes some time to process it and funnel down to four or five. But I think they would be Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Jimi Hendrix and of course Stevie Wonder.

Don't miss it

Ryan Leslie performs at Chi@The Lodge today at 9pm. Tickets are priced at Dh150, Dh250 (VIP) and Dh950 (VVIP). Entry restricted to 21 years and above. Call 04-3379470.