Some say chivalry is dead, but in Nick Cannon's world, a "woman should be treated like a precious queen with her crown held way up high." He holds an umbrella for his beloved wife, Mariah Carey, when it rains and protects her from the mobbing paparazzi.

In the recent years, Cannon has evolved into far more than just the funny kid with the big smile on Nickelodeon. We have watched him grow from comedian and film star to executive producer of his own hit TV shows. We've also watched intrigued as he swept one of the world's greatest pop icons off of her feet, only to be labeled "Mr. Mariah Carey." It makes you wonder: what qualities does this young brother possess to win the affections of such a woman? More importantly, what can he impart to some of the men whose "sensitivity chip" seems to be missing?

Recently, BV on Love caught up with Cannon and dating expert Anna David to discuss his current project with AXE and what men need to know about keeping women happy. According to Cannon, it all starts with sensitivity.

How did you form a partnership with AXE and dating expert Anna David for 'Sensitive Subject,' which helps men learn to be more sensitive?
I think it was just a no-brainer, because I am a sensitive dude. I have always been in touch with my sensitive side, and I think they recognized that. I don't know what it is. I must have some type of magic mojo, because I'm no Brad Pitt or Denzel Washington, but I've had my luck with the ladies. So I think it has something to do with my sensitivity.

You say you have this magic mojo. What qualities do you possess that women have found so appealing?

One, obviously, I think it's the sense of humor. And then, you know, being able to be nurturing. And, honesty, more than anything, those three things combined together make a good guy.

Why do you think men have such a hard time showing a woman their sensitive side?

It's insecurity more than anything. I mean, guys are taught at a young age that they have to put up this bravado in order to be a man, that they have to be tough. Toughness is just another word for being uncomfortable. It's like they're just uncomfortable in their own skin.

Some guys, unlike you, find it hard to share that side of themselves. What steps would you suggest for a man struggling in that particular area?

I think he should just evaluate his feelings. In any relationship, you should understand the value of the person you're with and express it to them. If they truly mean the world to you, you should let them know. It's that simple. It doesn't just have to be verbally. You can show your woman with your actions. There's a bunch of stuff you can tap into -- a nice card, some flowers, all of that stuff goes a long way.

It's interesting that New York is noted as one of the most romantic cities in the AXE campaign to help men tap into their sensitive side. The city is particularly important in your own life. What is it about New York?

Yes, New York was the place where I proposed to my wife. New York is a romantic city. It's one of those places where you can take a ride through Central Park on a horse and carriage. You can look at the skyline from the top of a roof. There are great restaurants, there are so many great places that you can go to get in touch with your sensitive side, to show your woman a good time, and show her that you understand. For example, a dude can show his woman his cultured side by taking her to see a late-night Broadway show. That's always a great way to make your woman think, "Wow, he's really sensitive; he likes the theater."

Are there any experiences, from your own life, particularly from your marriage to Mariah, that have taught you how to truly tap into a woman's needs?

Just understanding. I've learned patience from my marriage more than anything. And being able to always support her and elevate her in that way. I was always taught that a woman should be treated like a precious queen with her crown held way up high.

How do you keep your wife's days filled with love and happiness?

I like to do the unexpected. I'll surprise her with a nice card, the flowers. When you love someone, it's just that simple. I always take the time out of my day to remind my wife just how much I love her.

On the flip side, there are times when a man has to show his hard side and defend his woman's honor. You had to do that when Eminem attacked Mariah. What's your take on that?

Always, when it's necessary, a man has to stand firm. As a man, you have to be able to be a protector. As long as you're on the same terms as your woman, you have to do whatever you have to do to hold it down.

Do you perceive that perhaps some women don't like sensitive guys?

I think women want a well-rounded dude. If a dude is hard all the time -- like what you hard at breakfast for? -- there is no point in waking up hard core; but if you have a dude who is sensitive all the time, in those times when you need him to be a little stern or you need him to hold you down or protect you, you don't want him to be sensitive in those moments. A woman needs someone who understands the full range of their emotions.


In marriage, does it become easier or more difficult to stay in touch with a woman's needs?

I think it's just one of those things about being in touch with yourself and being comfortable and secure with who you are. Everyone has emotions; no one is sensitive or hard core all the time. It's about just knowing yourself and knowing how to express yourself.

Ultimately, what do you hope that men can learn by your example?

Just to be comfortable with who they are instead of trying to be something they're not. I mean, we got too many dudes striving to be thugs, trying to emulate the people they see on TV and hear in music, instead of just being who they are. Ultimately, you have to be you at the end of the day.

From your perspective, what do all women want?
All women truly want to be comfortable. There are ways that you can make them comfortable. Whichever area a woman is uncomfortable in, if a man can provide comfort for her in that area, then you'll always win a woman over.