Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/14045
F or the last decade, Lil Jon has been one of the most prominent figures in music. Known best for his role in creating and popularizing the southern movement and lifestyle known as "Crunk." Lil Jon crafted groundbreaking hits for a diverse array of artists, such as, Usher, Ciara, The Ying Yang Twins and E-40, to popular rock acts, Weezer and LMFAO. As an artist, he has sold millions of records as the front man of Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz, whose smash hits "Get Low" and "What U Goin' Do" have been among the biggest crossover hip-hop hits in recent times. When Lil Jon commenced work on his highly anticipated solo album Crunk Rock, he made a surprising decision. He decided to work with other producers. "After a certain amount of time, it's hard to be the artist, producer and everything," he explains. "And, I wanted a new sound, to take it to another level! I wanted to have the best producers, the best of the best at whatever they do and let them do their thing. I just went to other people and it was dope because, for a change, I got a chance to just be an artist. It gave me a new energy and a new freshness." That new energy and freshness is reflected throughout Crunk Rock, an innovative, genre- bending collection that features explosive new sounds and attitudes. Hit makers Drumma Boy, LMFAO, DJ Chuckie and Kassiano are among the producers who join Lil Jon (who also produced several selections) to create Crunk Rock's searing soundscapes. Lil Jon's reach quickly expanded to endorsement deals with Oakley sunglasses and Crunk!!! Energy Drink, his award-winning wine label, Little Jonathan Winery, which garnered tremendous pres eature in People Magazine and another project he's especially proud of, his forthcoming television program Designated Driver. But for Lil Jon it always comes back to music. He is looking forward to producing for other artists again now that Crunk Rock is complete. The Giant Orange Festival, which took place on Saturday, July 17th at the Great Park in Irvine, was the inaugural festival for the opening of the park. The festival also provided musical performances by Paper King, Nico Adams, the Derby Dueling Pianos, Annabella Lwin of Bow Wow Wow, and The English Beat. Lil Jon put on the finishing touches with a spectacular family friendly performance, providing a fan favorite experience. During this milestone event, Michelle Patterson had an exclusive opportunity to interview Grammy award winner Lil Jon. LIVEMAGS.NET AUGUST>>10 25