How are your plans looking for Abu Dhabi?
I’m just so excited. I’ve been to this part of the world before but I have never been to Abu Dhabi. I’m getting together with my band shortly and we are going to organise a cool, fun set from all of my five solo albums. I’ve been to Dubai and I’ve been to Bahrain before but I’ve never made it to Abu Dhabi so I can’t wait to get there. I imagine it will be all shiny and new with lots going on around the F1.
Speaking of F1, your brother is a British Touring Car Championship driver. Are you a fan of the Grand Prix?
I am really into it. My brother is coming over with me, along with my mum, so it’s going to be a real family affair for us. I’ll be really busy when I’m there with both Beats on the Beach and Skybar but I am hoping to get down to the track. If I don’t at least it will keep my family entertained.
You’ll be performing at Skybar with Cee Lo Green and Missy Elliot – are you a fan of their music?
Yes, I am for sure. I haven’t met either of them so I’m looking forward to it. Mel B did a song with Missy Elliot a long time ago now and I never got the chance to meet her so I can’t wait to see her perform.
How has your life changed since the Spice Girls?
I suppose I’ve just been able to find more balance. When I was with the Spice Girls it was so hectic and we were jumping on and off planes all over the world and it was so crazy and constant. I loved it at the time but you can’t do that forever. I still do a lot of travelling with what I am doing now, but it’s more balanced. I have a little girl so I need that balance in my life. I am very close to my mum and she has really helped me be a better mother.
What was it like being back with the Spice Girls this year at the Olympics Closing Ceremony?
It was mad. It was such an exciting thing to be a part of and it was amazing to all be back together again. It really gave us a huge buzz. It’s been such a long time so it was great to be together doing what we used to do.
You’ve collaborated and performed with so many different artists, who is your biggest musical influence?
Growing up it was definitely Madonna. I also really liked Dusty Springfield and Annie Lennox in my teens. I really admire Beyonce and Adele. I guess you could say I admire strong, female vocalists. I do have a pretty broad range of musical tastes though. I also really like rock and the Foo Fighters and Arctic Monkeys are two of my favourite bands. I really need a new album to listen to and flog to death. I can’t wait for
the Arctic Monkeys’ new album to come out.
You can see Mel C perform for free as part of Beats on the Beach on November 1 or at Skybar. Go to www.thinkflash.ae for tickets.
