Zena's new single 'Been Around The World' releases today, supported by a Punjabi Hit Squad remix

London, August 2, 2004
UK Bureau

One of the UK's noted new talents, Zena, released her new single "Been Around The World" featuring Vybz Kartel supported by a Punjabi Hit Squad remix on Monday on Mercury Records.

Set to be an urban/pop crossover hit, the track showcases Zena's own fresh sound, which she describes as "urban, sexy, street", alongside Vybz Kartel currently Jamaica’s hottest export and the lead contender to snatch dancehall’s crown.

"It was mad working with Zena to produce this desi remix especially for the Asians rocking in the clubs. We are really happy with the remix and can see the tune already tearing the clubs apart," said Markie Mark of Punjabi Hit Squad, BBC 1xtra.

Originally from Birmingham, 23-year-old Zena may be a relatively new name in the UK, but she has already made a mark for herself in the US with a cameo appearance in the Ja Rule and Bobby Brown Thug Lovin video. In fact, Bobby was so impressed that he flew Zena on his private jet to an exclusive party in LA. She soon found herself mixing with Cuba Gooding Jnr, TLC and Whitney Houston.

Zena spent most of 2003 shuttling back and forth from the States, perfecting her sound and working on a range of collaborations with some of the biggest names in R&B for her forthcoming album. These included Redzone (Mya, Blu Cantrell, TLC), Kandi (who wrote 'No Scrubs') and Anthony Dent (Destiny's Child).

Back in the UK she joined Blazin’ Squad for their sell-out arena tour earlier this year.

Zena originally began her career as the fourth member of Mis-Teeq but her heart was set on the R&B sound and when the group took the garage route, she started to have second thoughts about being in the band. She left shortly after their Top 10 hit "Why" was released.