“Guess Who Loves You More” by R & B’s latest soul crooner, Raheem DeVaughn, is one of my favorite songs of the summer.  Raheem’s debut album THE LOVE EXPERIENCE is filled with jazzy soulful songs. “Guess Who Loves You More” and “You” are by far my favorite two songs on the album; however there are at least four more that I constantly hit the “repeat” button when I hear them: Ask Yourself, Believe, Breathe and Catch 22.  Raheem says, “There’s something on there for everybody.”

Sixshot.com:  From reading your bio, it seems you were destined to be in music. Did you always know that music would be your career path?

Raheem DeVaughn: Your browser does not support inline frames or is currently configured not to display inline frames. pacerun: yes">  I always knew. I felt like it was my calling even before I started pursuing it.

Sixshot.com:  How long did it take you to get your record deal with Jive?

Raheem:  I was doing music long before my deal. I really didn’t set out to get a deal. I was putting out my own music. The deal came to me when I wasn’t really looking.

Sixshot.com:  How much input did you have in producing The Love Experience?

Raheem:  I had ninety-nine percent creative control in terms of this project.

Sixshot.com:  Your music has a jazzy feel to it. Do you think it’s because of your father’s influence?

Raheem:  The overall CD has different vibes. Rock…Jazz…very Soulful…R & B.

Sixshot.com:   Are your songs based on your real life experiences?

Raheem:  Its from my life experience and my friends experiences. It’s a reflection of the people. There’s something on there for everybody.

Sixshot.com:  What is an average day like for you?

Raheem:   I’ve been doing a lot of traveling. I just got off tour with New Edition and Brian McKnight. Gerald Levert showed up on some of the dates. That was my first tour. When I’m not performing, I go to a lot of shows and meet different artists. Right now I’m in Philly.

Sixshot.com: What makes The Love Experience different than the other albums on the market?

Raheem:  The harmonies are unique. The writing and song structure are unique.

Sixshot.com: Describe your personality in three words or less.

Raheem: Lover/Rock Star/Activist.  I say activist because my subjects and lyrical content can be really blunt. The song Catch 22 is my political activist song.

Sixshot.com: Is there anything else you would like to say to your fans?

Raheem:  Thank you for supporting me so far. You can reach me at www.theloveexperience.com.  I also have a phone number for promoters or anyone who wants to drop me a line about the CD at 240-455-2434.

Interview by Shelia M Goss, a freelance writer and the Essence Magazine Best Selling author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are Thorns, Violets are True. Her website is www.sheliagoss.com.