La Voz: When and why did you start “Those Videos”?
Aldin Barrett: “Those Videos” was started in the summer of 1994, then went on the air in Fresno, CA. In July 1999, we resurfaced for the purpose of critiquing a variety of music videos, while entertaining the audience. Many videos that are made today portray sex and violence. “Those Videos” is trying to change the way music videos are watched. Our main message is to try to get the audience to listen to the lyrics and see if they make sense. We … only play certain videos that are viewable and ethically challenged.
LV: What are your hopes for the show?
Aldin: Our hopes for the show is to see it syndicated and hopefully move the show from just two hosts to an audience participation and analysis of music videos, including interviews with artists and producers that create the videos.
LV: Who is your target audience?
Aldin: Our target audience is a range from 16 to 35 years of age and some over 35.
Aldin: Our show’s format includes R&B, jazz, hip hop, gospel, some old-school, and sometimes something different like rock or international to give it that extra Flava.
LV: What are your individual interests and goals?
Aldin: My interests are my involvement with church, spending time with my son, and making money..
LV Do you have a lot of contacts in the music industry? Who? How do you maintain them?
Aldin: Yes, we have contacts in the music industry with Sony, Universal, Motown, Interscope, Def Jam, Arista, La Face and several more. It’s very difficult to maintain while working full-time.
LV: Have you interviewed musicians for the show?
Aldin: In the past we interviewed such artists as Naughty By Nature, Sir Mix A Lot, etc. Recently, we talked with Dwayne Wiggins from Toni, Toni, Toni.
Aldin: … Previous music videos host. For Jenan, she has modeled, done commercials … sings and is aspiring to be an actress and singer. She is currently working on a project to complete her demo. She is definitely “The Bomb.” If you think her looks are amazing, wait until you hear her blessed voice. She is a star waiting to be discovered.
LV: How did you meet and decide to do this show together?
Aldin: We met through a mutual friend and right when I laid eyes on her I knew she was the missing link to “Those Videos.” Once I talked it over with my partner, Robert Jones, I decided that she was the one. I also decided to manage her career. It has been a challenge. (The name) Jenan means paradise and Aldin means old wise protector, so I guess I’m protecting “paradise.” Where elsewould you want to be?
LV: What’s the best part about having the show? The worst?
Aldin: We have an opportunity to show music videos, be on TV and a chance to create our own way of doing things. The worst is putting the show together; it’s not as easy as it looks.
“Those Videos” airs Wednesdays at 7p.m. and Thursdays at 6:30p.m. TCI Channel 15.
