Big Brovaz’ Big Mouth

In the beginning, way back in 2002, there were six in the Big Brovaz house: boys Flawless, J-Rock, and Randy alongside girls Cherise, Dion and Nadia. Five years down the line, following departures and eliminations, four remain. Adopting our best Russell Brand impersonation, uk-fusion corners Randy to talk about bling-bling, food, and, of course, kinkiness

It was a nickname from my grandma when I was a little baby. She just gave me the name. Everyone in Jamaica (Randy moved to the UK in 1986) has got a nickname.

What skills did you pick up at Geoffrey Chaucer Technology College?

All my skills. Those were my formative years. I formed bonds with my fellow students. Apart from social skills, it gave me a great education.

How prepared were you for your breakthrough?

Very. We’d all been working hard for a long time for it to happen.

You seem to do most of the interviews, how did you end up as band spokesman?

I’m not really. I didn’t expect to be doing this, for example. That’s the nature of promotion. A different day, different people.

How difficult a decision was it to sack Flawless after he was stopped at LAX airport and found to be in the possession of cannabis?

It was pretty easy, to tell you the truth. After what he did, we had no choice . We were promoting a kid’s film (Scooby-Doo 2) after all.

And how surprised were you by Dion’s departure?

In all honesty, I expected it. During all her years with us, Dion always seemed a bit uneasy with the group. When we left Sony, she wanted to go off and do her own thing which she is doing in Australia. Good luck to her.

Moving from Sony to Genetic, how have you found the switch?

Smooth. I’ve known Genetic’s owner for eight years. He’s interested in us and that’s the most important thing.

How would you describe the chemistry in the band?

It’s cool. Us four are a team. Although people thought we went away, we were still travelling up and down the country doing shows. The girls might have been involved in writing and J-Rock and myself busy with another project, but Big Brovaz never ceased to be.

Who takes longer to do their hair – the fabulously-coiffured J-Rock or the girls?

(Suppressing a giggle) Oooh, that’s a hard one. The girls take their time, but I’m gonna have to say J-Rock. He’s got braids, you see.

“Watching the Streets” What’s that all about then?

It’s a campaign. There was a lot of police things going on, like the anti-gun movement and the Damiola Taylor affair. We just wanted to get involved to help the community.

What’s your definition of the perfect night out?

(Thinks for a while) Me and my girl going out for dinner. Then moving on to a club.

What’s the most bling-bling of your favourite things?

I got a number of things. My girl. What do you expect me to say? It’s Valentine’s Day today. She’s my most prized possession.

How does your new album Re-Entry compare to your last one, Nu-Flow?

Well, Re-Entry, the very title, conjures up images of coming back down to earth, getting more grounded. Whereas Nu-Flow was more about being in Outer Space.

To what extent does Re-Entry  represent a comeback?

We are on an independent label now. It’s like the band’s come full circle. Still, it’s a big deal for us. We hope it does well. This time it’s not about chart position, though, but about longevity. We’re here for the long haul.

What’s behind the delay in the release?

You’re right, the album was supposed to be brought out last year. We just didn’t think we were ready. The way the climate was, it wasn’t right. It just wasn’t the right time. We didn’t want to become part of the Christmas race where companies spend millions of budget to get the highest chart position. So, we decided to hold back until this year.

You list “mum’s food” as your favourite cuisine? What’s her signature dish?

She does everything well. Steak, lamb, everything she cooks, she cooks to perfection. I grew up on it. My grandma taught my mum everything she knows, though. She’s the real genius.

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

Kanye West. I understand where’s he coming from. Everything he says, I can relate to. Plus he’s the hotter rapper out there at the moment.

Outside the band, who’s your most famous friend?

My most famous friend? They’re all UK artists, so they’re at the same level really. Simon Webbe is a mate, as is Jamelia.

How often do you check your MySpace page?

Every day. I love it. It’s important to me that I answer my messages. I like to keep in contact with my MySpace buddies.

How autobiographical is “Don’t Matter”, sample lyrics “Is your man loving your right? Or do you need a thug in your life cos baby girl, Randy the type that’ll twist you right back 'cos I know you like that”?

(Becoming sheepish all of a sudden) Ahem, that was a made-up story. At that time, though, it was really real to us. A lot of times girls would reject us. Thankfully, though, that’s a thing of the past.

Randy by name, randy by nature, what’s only kinky the first time?

Hmm. I know! A one-night stand. It can only happen once, right?