Soul singer and celebrated Prince collaborator Mica Paris has opened up about the soundtrack of her life, revealing the tracks that inspire, move, and even emotionally overwhelm her in a deeply personal musical journey.
From Brixton Counters to Global Stages
The artist's first musical love was the gospel sound, specifically 'God Will Open Doors' by Walter Hawkins. She was raised by her grandparents and immersed in the music of the Hawkins gospel family, whom she describes as her teachers. Her aunt would import records from America, though Paris notes her grandparents found the sound 'a bit too secular, even though it was gospel.'
Her first foray into music ownership was buying 'Funkin' for Jamaica (NY)' by Tom Browne from Red Records in Brixton. She recalls being so young that she 'could hardly reach the counter' at the time.
Songs of Joy and Sorrow
When it comes to getting a party started, Mica Paris turns to a classic: 'Sex Machine' by James Brown. She affirms it's a track that 'gets everybody up, and sends everybody nuts,' effortlessly cutting across different musical tastes.
However, not all classics bring joy. The singer revealed the profound pain she feels when hearing 'Greatest Love of All' by Whitney Houston. 'It really hurts... because I knew her so well,' Paris shared, contrasting this with her feelings about Prince's music, which don't evoke the same sorrow.
Another track that holds deep emotional weight is 'I'm Still Here' by Dorinda Clark-Cole of the Clark Sisters, which never fails to move her to tears.
A Musical Legacy and Future Plans
The song that fundamentally changed the trajectory of her life was 'What's Going On' by Marvin Gaye. Her dad played it for her in the car when she was around twelve years old. The experience was so powerful that she told him, 'I don't want to do gospel music for much longer, Dad. I want to do this kind of music.'
Looking to the future, Paris has already selected the song for her own funeral: 'Heaven', a track written for her by Gary Barlow for her new album. Her request is simple: 'I'd like Gary to sing it at my funeral, please.'
Mica Paris is currently working with Genaura Levagen+ Smart Face Serum. Fans can catch her live performance at Watford Colosseum on 28 November.
