After making his major mark on the music scene in 2004 via "South Side," the Top 20-placing love-struck anthem on which he collaborated with Ashanti, Lloyd released his debut disc of the same title. In the years that have followed, he's proven himself as a legitimate industry player, generating hits like 2006's chart-topping "You" and the infectious "Get It Shawty," which saw Top two placement last year. The latter was spawned from his gold-selling sophomore disc, Street Love.
In June 2008, Lloyd returns with his third effort, Lessons In Love. The hard-driving lead single, "How We Do It" featuring Ludacris, a party track written by Lloyd and Wood Works and produced by Baby Boy & Superkidd, a group of promising up-and-comers based out of Inglewood, California. Lloyd says of the track, "It's pretty much reppin' where you're from and having pride in your community." The album sees Lloyd re-teaming J-Lack, the mastermind behind "Get It Shawty." Eric Hudson, famed for Kanye West's "Flashing Lights", and with beat-men Jasper Cameron & Big Reese. Lloyd also enlisted some additional heat working with, Polow Da Don and the team of Tricky & Dream ("Umbrella" & "Bed").
The level mix of club-bangers and ballads presented on Lessons In Love varies in subject matter, from physical lust to true love; Lloyd communicates with his strong fan base through terms they can relate to. He nods to the time-honored sport of girl-chasing on tracks like "Around the World" and acknowledges the realities of sexual activity on "Party All Over Your Body," a seductive ballad dropped over a fast-moving drum bass resulting in an organic, mid-tempo gem. "Lose Control," which features Nelly, dares ladies to let go of their inhibitions and embrace their wild sides, taunting, "I'm trying to find out how low can you go/Free your mind of doubt/Let love rule your soul/Take the time out so we can loose control ."
But at 22, Lloyd is ready to embrace maturity. Songs like "Lose Your Love" - which cunningly borrows the chorus from '80s rock band Outfield's hit "Your Love" - and "Have My Baby" touches on genuine love and relationships.
Growing up in a largely-female household gave Lloyd a deep-rooted respect for women and has helped tune his antenna to the fairer sex. His sensitivity comes through on tracks like "Treat U Good" - on which he flips his vocal style to a fast staccato - and "I Can Change Your Life," a moving, beautifully-produced piece sure to secure the cross-over potential heard on "You" and "Get It Shawty." This ladies man not only enjoys pursuing women, but uplifting them as well.
Lloyd's performing arts education not only helped him hone his natural-born talent but also gave him an important outlet to express himself that has stuck with him throughout his career. Since releasing his debut single, Lloyd has gained more confidence in his craft and his identity as an artist. His energetic performances on the Scream Tour have proven his ability to command a crowd and he's counting on his new project to further cement his brand.
Lloyd aspires to be successful behind the scenes as well; He's launched his own label, Young Goldie Music -- on which his last two projects were released -and he's prepped to sign his first artist, Bronx, New York-based Tokyo Diva. He's also taken on endeavors outside of the music world. The Atlanta-raised performer has given back to his birth city of New Orleans by taking part in rapper and New Orleans native David Banner's 2006 Heal the Hood Concert benefiting displaced Katrina victims. He donated 50 tickets for the show to children from fellow heartthrob Usher's New Look Foundation, which helps create avenues for young people to enter the business side of sports and entertainment. He also travels to speak to kids across the country with producer and musical mentor Dallas Austin in support of the fellow Atlantan's new project that builds recording studios in area public schools. All of this encompasses Lloyd the person. With a successful recording career, business savvy and a connection to the community, Lloyd is one young person on which youth has clearly not been wasted.
Check out the Lloyd playlist on BlackPlanet Radio!
