BERA: The Atlanta Interview

He may be young, but Georgia’s (as in Russia’s) own BERA has already launched his own record label and worked with Rob Fusari (Lady Gaga) and Rodney Jerkins (Britney Spears, Michael Jackson). We spoke with BERA about his recent visit to Atlanta…

The U.S. is the capital of the music industry in the world. You can be from any country, but if you’re a musician, you’re at the right place here. I like Georgia, especially Atlanta. I had a really good time in your Georgia. It was a good experience.

How did you get your start in music?

I started pretty much as everyone else. I was playing my music to everyone, doing freestyles, some small showcases etc.

Who are some of your musical influences?

I was attracted to the music when I was born. I was handed a violin at the age of 5 and started piano two years later. I’m classically trained, but it’s my love for jazz that has me motivated to create. My background may not be usual for a pop artist. I listen to rap music, one of my big influences is 2Pac and in pop music it’s Michael Jackson.

Talk about your song ‘Favorite Things.’

It’s the fourth song I did with Rob Fusari. I already had a lot of up-tempo songs and we wanted to make a ballad, a love song. Once I heard the track, I was attracted immediately. I recorded this song one day before my birthday.

What were some of your favorite things about Atlanta?

I liked the city, the nature, the people, the lifestyle. The music is cool. I wish I could spend more time there. I stayed for only four days. Hopefully I’ll come back soon.

What was it like working with Rodney Jerkins?

He taught me how to make hit records, strong radio songs and how to stay credible at the same time. All of his hooks are so catchy and they’re musically so deep. He never makes one shot hit records. He only creates real classics, immortal music. And the most amazing thing is that he creates them only in 15 minutes. Rodney Jerkins is more than a genius! I’m so happy I had this chance to work with him. It was fantastic, he gave me a lot. I really grew up with him. It was such a great experience for me.

What was it like working with Rob Fusari, Lady Gaga’s former boyfriend?

First of all, working with Rob Fusari made me learn a lot about myself. He helped me do things I thought I would never do or I wasn’t campable of. He made me discover new abilities. For example, before I started working with Rob, I was hesitating to take high notes and he pushed me and taught me how to do it. I wish I had enough space and time here to speak about Rob. I would love to write a book about him. He really gave me a lot. I’m so happy I had a chance to meet and work with him.

How was it performing at the Hot 107.9 bash?

I was really excited. I liked it very much and it was a great experience for me. I had a lot of fun.

You have two sides to your music.

I divide my music into two parts: a more fun, club, up-tempo side, and the laid-back, loverboy, romantic side, which can make you dream.

Tell me about your debut album and when it will be available.

First of all, I would like to say a few words about my music, my sound: My first album will be available in 2012, but we’ll keep you posted…

- To learn more about BERA, visit BeraOfficial.com.

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