'Bout time!

http://www.billboard.com/...1000579416

...Searching frantically for a link to "Rifle Love"

Where's Raphael Saadiq? Ask 'Ray Ray'




R&B artist Raphael Saadiq will release his sophomore solo album, "Raphael Saadiq As Ray Ray," in September via his own Pookie Entertainment imprint. Why "Ray Ray?" Says Saadiq, "My mother calls me 'Ray Ray.' My homies call me 'Tanqueray.' 'Ray Ray' represents the fun side of Raphael Saadiq."

First single "Chic Like You" is tipped to feature as-yet-unannounced guests when it goes to radio next month. But album track "Rifle Love," featuring former Saadiq collaborators Dwayne Wiggins (Tony Toni Tone) and Dawn Robinson (Lucy Pearl), has already leaked to some stations, including KMEL-San Francisco.

The album will also include "Ray Ray's Theme," featuring Pookie artist Joi, plus "The Fence," featuring Teedra Moses. It's the follow-up to 2002's multiple-Grammy nominated "Instant Vintage," which peaked at No. X on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.

"It's all about a feeling," Saadiq says. "I want this album to feel like a movie, only it will tell several stories. I always try to come with concepts --to keep myself amused more than anything. It's not about trying to be deep. I just like to have fun."

Saadiq has also been plenty busy with production duties, including work on Jill Scott's upcoming album "Beautifully Human," the Isley Brothers remix album "Taken to the Next Phase" and Robinson's next solo project.


-- Jonathan Cohen, N.Y.

Well it's good to hear that he and Dawn have reconciled...for now.