C.R.I.$.I.$. aka MR. SWAGGER REVEALS NEW ALBUM COVER
Added: (Mon Jun 15 2009)
Pressbox (Press Release) -
With the release of the new album, titled "Mr. Swagger" fast approaching, Zambian based Hip-Hop pioneer, C.R.I.$.I.$., real name Chisenga Katongo has finally revealed his new album cover design. As one of the many ways to tackle piracy, the rapper believes that once people are familiar with the real product, they will not be sold a CD with a fake cover.
With a name change from C.R.I.$.I.$. to Mr. Swagger, the Rapper/Producer and Diamond Chain label owner says that he is using a new approach in all his dealings regarding this album and everything else.
The album was originally scheduled for the 27th of May, 2009, which also marked the rappers birthday but was rescheduled to late June, 2009. The new album release date will soon be announced in all print and electronic media.
The new album is set to introduce people to a new man, as the rapper clearly displays that he has finally found himself.
"There's a lot of good music on the radio but, there is also a need for someone to come with change that people can believe in. Mr. Swagger is to Hip-Hop what Obama is to the White House. A new face, approach attitude and a team that is ready to look into people's needs" says the rapper.
In January, 2005 then simply known as C.R.I.$.I.$., he released the first Zambian Hip-Hop album despite being told that it would never work. He went against all the negative talk and advice that he had received and made history. He has been hailed by many of his friends and fans as the king of Zambian Hip-Hop.
In 2006, he was also the first Zambian artist to perform at the Channel-O Video Music Awards after his classic video "One Day" featuring J.K. received massive spins on that channel.
In 2006, he made his first international debut by releasing "Designer" which he says is his least favorite project. "My favorite project is my new album, "Mr. Swagger." The energy and focus on this album is totally different and as soon as you think you've got it figured out, the music takes a different turn, and that’s what I like about it" he says.
He also says, "a third album is important in any musicians career as it is the project that determines whether the artist can last in the game or not. You'll find that most people hit a downfall by the time they release their third album. Am glad that my creativity has become better than before although, I wish that I knew then what I know now."
The rapper will soon be shooting a video to the first single called "Hold Me Down" which features Camstar, a rapper from his label, Diamond Chain Services. The video will be released to all major networks as soon it is ready to be published.
The album will be available for sale in stores and online. The official release date is yet to be announced but is scheduled to hit the shelves before the end of June, 2009 after which tours will be scheduled around the city of Lusaka, and then countrywide and international appearances will follow next.
The rapper insists that "revealing the album cover to the public is important as it helps people recognize the genuine product from the fake. It helps curb piracy, which is a major problem in his home country, Zambia. I want my fans to be familiar with the genuine product."
He was recently appointed as Ambassador of Peace by the International Peace Federation (IPF) an organization that works closely with the UN but, despite his work load he is not showing any signs of slowing down.
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