The liquor was flowing, the sun was shining, and the music was pumping as Jermaine Dupri hosted a listening party for rising star Austin Brown at the El Cartel Tequila mansion in the Hollywood Hills during BET Awards weekend.
The nephew of the late King of Pop previewed music from his upcoming debut Highway 85 including his single “Menage a Trois” as celebrities such as Melody Thornton, Too $hort, and Evan Ross stopped by the poolside soiree.
“He has a fresh new look to this music scene and I think that’s what we need out here,” J.D. told Rap-Up TV of the 26-year-old singer, who he manages.
Brown has worked with Rodney Jerkins, Q-Tip, Ryan Tedder, and Pharrell on his album, and maintains a close relationship with his aunt Janet Jackson, who he calls his best friend. “She’s the one who gives me the most advice,” he said of the pop icon, who introduced him to A Tribe Called Quest.