It’s been almost a year since Calvin Richardson released his Grammy nominated Facts of Life: Soul of Bobby Womack—a tribute to the rock soul legend—and nearly two years since he recorded new material. For fans that have followed the singer’s career since his days in 90’s group Undacova, this transition back to his own smooth style of music is a welcomed return. While he has yet to impact mainstream audiences in large numbers, the singer is touting himself and his upcoming release as America’s Most Wanted. With good material—not to mention his chiseled physique—that could very well become a reality. Affectionately known has the “soul prince” amongst those in his following; the North Carolina native dished on his new project, his ideal woman and his dream collaborator.

It has been just under a year since the release of Facts of Life: Soul of Bobby Womack, why another album so soon?

Richardson: I feel like the more you put out, the better it is. Plus, it’s more exposure for me.

America’s Most Wanted is quite a grand album title. What on this album will make you wanted by America?

Richardson: I’m a crooner and I’m bringing more of the same [sounds]. This is a heartfelt album that has some ballads, no covers and is more upbeat.  I even have a stepping groove that y’all are [going to] like.  This is real music with substance. I sing about real life circumstances. It represents love and happiness…what the world needs and wants.

It’s safe to say you are already “wanted” amongst the female set. What do you think drives that?

Richardson: Because I’m Calvin Richardson, a cool person.  I’m a mama’s boy in the sense that I was raised by my mom.  I learned how a woman looks at the world; learned that through closeness with my mom. I was able to look at her and know when she was unhappy.

You seem quite convinced of yourself. Are you single?

Richardson: Absolutely single!

That’s good to know. What qualities does your ideal woman possess?

Richardson: (chuckles) Past the outer beauty, she knows her plans for life and is set to achieve her goals.  She is also a woman who let’s a man be a man.

Speaking of women, if you could collaborate with any female in music today, who would it be and why?

Richardson: Keyshia Cole.  Her passion in writing and in her songs is crazy.  Just listen, you can hear it. Please quote my mama on this, “What comes from the heart goes through the heart.”

That would be interesting. Is their anything else your America should know?

Richardson: America’s Most Wanted drops on August 31^st

For more on Richardson and his newest single “You’re so Amazing” check out his official MYSPACE at www.myspace.com/calvinrichardson.

Justin D. Joseph/Detrel Howell

TAGS: America's Most Wanted, Angie Stone, Bobby Womack, Calvin Richardson, Detrel Howell, Jo Jo, Justin Dwayne Joseph, K-Ci, Keyshia Cole, You're So Amazing