Biography
British pop duo Mini Viva, frequently likened to a modern-day Mel & Kim, represent the newest protégées cultivated by the Xenomania production team. Under Simon Fuller’s management, the pair formed in 2008 after performing for the songwriters behind Girls Aloud at studios in Kent. Lancaster native Frankie Connolly was discovered through her MySpace page, while Britt Love from Newcastle opted to audition after spotting a promotional flyer at a breakdancing competition. Sharing a passion for the Spice Girls, they relocated to London and spent months co-writing material they characterize as “pop with a quirky edge.” To sharpen their live sound, the duo played underground clubs before supporting the Saturdays on the U.K. tour. Their debut single “I Left My Heart in Tokyo,” which the NME called “the catchiest single of the year,” peaked at number seven on the U.K. charts. Geffen Records has scheduled their first album for release in November 2009.