AIL meets Mica Paris

Soul songstress Mica Paris is back with a new album, paying tribute to the jazz legend that was Ella Fitzgerald in celebration of the icon’s 100th Birthday. We caught up with her to find out a little more about her London and what makes this songbird tick
AIL meets Mica Paris picture

Your new album celebrates the music of Ella Fitzgerald – did you feel nervous about taking on the iconic songs of a musical legend?
Yes absolutely. There was definitely a fear of taking on such a giant as Ella just because I wanted to make sure that I would do her justice but I was glad for the challenge and enjoyed every moment.

Other than Ella, if you could perform with any artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
I think I would have to choose Marvin Gaye because he is my favourite male singer of all time, his voice is the smoothest sexiest voice I have ever heard!

What do you like about performing in intimate venues such as Quaglino’s over bigger locations?
I really love the feeling of being close to the audience, you can really see the enjoyment on peoples faces and the appreciation. I do love big locations though too.

What’s been your favourite ever London venue to play?
The Royal Albert Hall was a really incredible experience.

And what would be your most memorable gig?
I think that would have to be performing with the legendary Prince at the Camden Palace.

What is it about being in the music industry that still gives you a thrill after such a long career?
The thrill of still being a musician after all these years is seeing how your gift touches people. I live only for this and am so grateful that I can do something that I love and am so passionate about.

Is there one piece of music that epitomises London for you?
Acid jazz epitomises the London sound I think. Even though that was many years ago it's totally unique to London and as soon as I hear it, wherever I am in the world, it makes me think of home.

Do you have a favourite club or nightspot in London?
I love the chiltern firehouse just perfect for food and after good tunes in the bar

What do you miss most about London when you’re not here?
I miss all things about Holland Park when I'm away, the shops, the people, the restaurants – everything!

And what’s the first thing you do when you come back?
Usually go to my favourite Italian restaurant Essenza in Notting hill just fab !

What’s your favourite spot in London and why?
If I could make all of London be like Holland Park that would be perfect

If you could change one thing about London, what would it be…?
You never get bored in London there's so much going on all the time it's just buzzing especially West London.

Describe the city in three words…
Buzzy, Vibrant, Loyal.

Finish this sentence.. "One thing everyone should do in London is"…
is take in the music of all the venues! Ronnies jazz cafe or Shepherd's Bush empire then stroll along Bayswater on a Sunday and look at the paintings on the railings of Hyde park -- my father always took us as kids and now I take my kid. It’s a great day!


Mica Paris will ber perfoming an intimate concert at Quaglino’s on Thursday 25th May. For more information visit www.quaglinos-restaurant.co.uk

Published May 12, 2017