LISTEN: Cassie Talks Music, Fashion and "King of Hearts" to Rod 2.0

Believe it or not, it's been almost six years since Cassie's self-titled debut. Now the recording artist slash model has just reintroduced herself to fans with "King of Hearts." The video to the catchy electro-pop track features a scantily-clad Cassie—wearing Versace and little else—surprising critics with a new range and new sound.

"After the first album came out, there was a lot of criticism," the Bad Boy bombshell told Rod 2.0 in a short phone interview two weeks ago. "I had a few bad performances and [some] people had a lot to say. I've taken the time to work on myself."

Taking that time off could pay dividends. Cassandra Elizabeth Ventura has been working on her second album for the past four years. The new music has been eagerly anticipated. And given Cassie's new look and new sound, it'll definitely make some noise.

Listen to the interview:

Cassie Interviewed by Rod McCullom for Rod 2.0 by RodMcCullom

ROD 2.0: I just returned from Rome, I was there about two months ago. In one of the clubs they were playing “Me & You.” The kids love you in Rome!

CASSIE: (LAUGHING) That’s crazy! I can’t believe people are still playing that in clubs but I love it.

R20: King of Hearts hadn’t dropped yet. But this was an Italo-disco version of the track. You know that style.

CASSIE: Oh yes. But that’s one place I haven’t even been yet. I would love to! I don’t even know what their club scene is like. I bet it’s really cool.

R20: You haven’t been to Rome?

CASSIE: No, unfortunately.

R20: You’ll love it and they’ll love you. You have so many projects going on right now. What are you most excited about?

CASSIE:  I’m most excited about the new music. About releasing it and people hearing it. I’m anxious and excited but have to be patient. I’ve been working for a while on this project. I have to keep my wits about me and stay focused. But I’m really excited for people to hear the music.

R20:  I’m really a big fan of King of Hearts. It sounds like a change for you but it’s a good change.

CASSIE: Thank you! King of Hearts is an extension of where I am—and where I started, as far as my sound. But it’s a grown up version and just a little bit different. It gives me a little bit more. I’m so proud of it and the sound. It’s going to work well with my audience and everybody. Especially the clubs.

R20: We were just talking about Europe. It could be huge over there if it isn’t already.

CASSIE: Oh yea. I was just in Paris for Fashion Week—

R20: We know! (LAUGHS)

CASSIE: (LAUGHS) And we dropped [King of Hearts] out there officially. There was a party and there was so much great energy. It fit right into what people are playing so I’m excited about it.

R20: I love the video. The video is remarkable.

CASSIE: Thank you so much.

Watch the video AFTER THE JUMP ...