![[EXCLUSIVE] Dave Hollister Talks New Album, New Single, Establishing a Relationship with God, Blackstreet and More](https://singersroom.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/DaveHollister-Interview.jpg)
Back in the early 90s, R&B superstar Dave Hollister began his career as a member of the platinum selling R&B group Blackstreet. The group released a number of hits and Hollister went on to have a solo career as an R&B and gospel artist. Some of his solo hits were “One Woman Man,” “My Favorite Girl,” “Can’t Stay,” and “Spend the Night.”
Following the exclusive album stream here on Singersroom, Hollister’s album The MANUscript arrives today (Sept. 9). “The Definition of a Woman,” the first single, gives us an introductory of the message Hollister would like to convey on this album; issues with men, women, and relationships.
Singersroom.com chatted with the singer about The MANuscript, working with LisaRaye in the “Definition of a Woman” video, working with Angie Stone on the album, and more.
The New album, The MANuscript: This album is different, and I consider this one very special. This album is for women, 90% for women. I made this album as a way to let women know they are appreciated and should be attended to at all times. I wanted to be the voice of reason and the voice for the men. Mary J. [Blige] is for the women, so that’s the frame of mind I had for this album. I wanted to make a record where the woman gives this to her man and is like, “Baby, if you want to figure out what I want or need, listen to this album.” The record was like a manual for men so they can know why it’s important to treat women with respect and simply love them wholeheartedly.
Single “Definition of a Woman”: The single was self-explanatory about how men should treat their women at all times. Men needed to know that women want to love you and not hurt you at all. If you hurt women, one of the most precious things on Earth, you may regret it later on, so learn to appreciate your woman, all women.
Working with LisaRaye in the video: LisaRaye is my homegirl. She is one of Chi-town’s finest. It was wonderful working with her; it was a great pleasure. When we did the song and decided on the leading lady, LisaRaye was my first choice. She couldn’t believe it, and she said, “I need to talk to David first.” She was like “I need to talk to my dude.” LisaRaye has been a friend for years, but this is the first time that we worked together. The chemistry was there, and our friendship is portrayed on the screen. She was very excited, and she did her thing in the video.
Watch “Definition of A Woman” Video
Collaborating with Angie Stone On the Album: I’ve known Angie Stone for a long time, and we worked together on a few projects. When Angie and I work together, we have great chemistry. She’s a great joy to work with, and she is one of the funkiest people I know in my life. Angie is a beast on stage and as a vocalist. I was on Angie’s song “Begin Again,” and it was a beautiful duet. In the near future, we’re thinking about doing a duet album together.
Favorite Song on the New Album: That’s a hard one, but I would have to say between “Blind” and “Evolution.” On those records, it talks about how this man is blessed to have this woman in his life. He appreciates her make-up, meaning who she is as a person. In the song, I sing about how it’s truly a blessing for the man because God created a Picasso just for the man.
Merging R&B with Gospel Music: I’ve been gracious enough to both; it’s just God’s grace that’s been placed in my life. It’s truly a blessing. I can record a gospel or R&B album because I am a messenger. It’s not about being an R&B or gospel artist; it’s about my ability to make music that will impact people lives. I’m not trying to put myself in a box. I have to say, whatever God puts on my heart, He will direct my steps. Whatever God assigned me to do at the moment, I’m going to do at the right time.
Touring with Blackstreet: We’ve been on the road since 2009. There are two different Blackstreet groups on the road. Teddy [Riley] and I are in one, and then there’s the other group. Teddy and I group are more authentic and real on the road. To be honest, the other group is just an imitation of us, Blackstreet. We will give you a concert that you will never forget and have people smiling in the end. There’s a live band while we’re on stage.
Deepening your Relationship with God: My relationship with God is the most important thing in life outside of my wife and children. You have to praise Him during the good and bad times; your relationship shouldn’t be superficial with Him. Within five years as a pastor, many people came up to me and said “‘The Book of David‘ is my favorite gospel album from you.’ People in the Bay Area told me “your ‘The Book of David’ album inspired me to get saved, find love, and just wait on the Lord.” It was a great album for those who don’t really listen to gospel music on a regular basis. The Book of David was a great and inspirational album. I was singing about things that most people have concerns with, especially with the church. I like to consider myself a “storyteller,” because I make you see what I’m singing at that given moment. The feedback I received from that album is further confirmation on how and why people should deepen their relationship with God.
