Sexy sounding Mikey Spice, has often been compared with Barry White. I sneaked backstage to speak to the artist about his new album 'Harder than Before' released under VP records. 'It is a statement. Everyone knows my little incident', says Mikey of his recent spin in prison eighteen months ago, 'I've come back to take it a step further-a little harder than I was'.

(Mikie Spice)

'It's a cool album. Though produced properly, it's one that I wish I had more time to play with, but I feel very good about it.' He added.

'Harder Than Before', comes from the title track. A track that's saying Mikey's made a change. Though he denies his music is changing from his trademark style of lover's rock, he maintains that it is becoming more 'conscious'.

'I'm not gonna come the way I were. I'm harder in terms of culture, reality music. People were curious and this album allowed me to sing about my downfall myself. I have come to the grip where I'm not young anymore, I'm wiser, and it's natural to grow and gain knowledge.' With the break that Mikey took he seems happy that he's returned with an album like this, and has been accepted. However, there is a lot of uncovered ground for Mikey: 'There are higher heights, a lot of places to go, a lot of ears to hear what I have to say. I hope my career expands in terms of a wider audience. It's not about being black or white, but that I'm playing what you need to hear.'

Mikey seems thoughtful, playful, and incredibly handsome on the night. I asked him what young aspirant singers should look out for. He said: 'Stay away from the drugs, stay out of trouble, and stay positive, keep your head up and remember your focus-you'll get whatever you want from life.' With that message, a cuddle, and a wink Mikey Spice goes out to treat his audience. He walks out onto stage to serenade his fans with the pride of a man that has come back- 'Harder Than Before'.

(Sanchez)