Mica Paris, the celebrated British singer and songwriter, recently shared a heartfelt playlist that highlights her deep emotional connections to music and influential artists. The playlist reflects both personal memories and professional milestones, showcasing how certain songs have shaped her life and career.
Paris’s musical journey began with her love for gospel music, notably the song God Will Open Doors by Walter Hawkins. Raised by her grandparents, Mica was introduced to the Hawkins gospel family through records imported by her aunt. Although her grandparents viewed this music as somewhat secular, it laid the foundation for her musical education.
Among the songs that resonate with Paris, she cites Adore by Prince as one that speaks to her soul. “For some reason, out of all his songs, that one always resonates with me,” she explained. The first single she purchased was Funkin’ for Jamaica (NY) by Tom Browne, which she bought from Red Records in Brixton when she was quite young, barely able to reach the counter.
At parties, Paris believes no song gets the crowd moving quite like Sex Machine by James Brown. She describes it as a track that transcends various musical tastes, ensuring everyone joins in the fun. In contrast, the song she finds too painful to listen to is The Greatest Love of All by Whitney Houston. “It really hurts listening to it because I knew her so well,” she admitted.
When it comes to more personal moments, Paris mentions Distant Lover by Marvin Gaye as her choice for romance. Meanwhile, she embraces the lively energy of Gimme Some More by Busta Rhymes at karaoke, praising its ability to engage audiences regardless of singing ability.
Interestingly, Paris also has a soft spot for Shake It Off by Taylor Swift, despite pretending to dislike it. “I’m a grandmother, babe. And a soul singer,” she joked about the juxtaposition of her musical identity with contemporary pop.
Another song that evokes strong emotions for her is I’m Still Here by Dorinda Clark-Cole, which always brings her to tears. She recalls how her father’s love for What’s Going On by Marvin Gaye changed her perspective on music during a car ride when she was just 12 years old. “I don’t want to do gospel music for much longer, Dad. I want to do this kind of music,” she told him.
Paris also embraces her cultural heritage, often sharing her love for Brazilian jazz and Latino influences, which she incorporates into her work. “I always tell my band to practise Yatra-Ta by Tania Maria,” she stated, reflecting her diverse musical background.
Looking ahead, Paris expressed a poignant wish for her funeral: she wants Heaven, a song written for her by Gary Barlow, to be played, preferably with Barlow himself performing it.
As she prepares for her upcoming performance at the Watford Colosseum on November 28, Mica Paris continues to inspire with her rich musical history and personal narratives intertwined with the songs that have shaped her life.
