Interview: Kele Le Roc
Magical, musical and happy are the words that define the garage era for Kele Le Roc, and rightly so for a voice that epitomises the garage sound even to this day. Tunes like ‘Things we do’ produced by Sticky and ‘My Love’ have an everlasting popularity, evoking feelings of true nostalgia from those that lived through the garage days. Even those who didn’t get the chance to rave during this golden age of music still look at the time through rose tinted glasses and are most certainly envious of those that were in the clubs when Kele Le Roc songs dropped.
How did you first get into music? Where did it all begin?
I went to dance school from the age of 3 and that's where it all started although initially I wanted to be a dancer but due to a knee injury when I was 12 I decided to just pursue a singing career.
What music did you grow up with that informed your taste?
I grew up in the 80s so aside from black music like soul and reggae. I was lucky to be privy to really good pop music. Music in the 80s was diverse and creative everyone was unique and had their own vibe and sound, as opposed to music being so samey nowadays.
What where the garage days really like?
Garage in its heyday was the place to be everyone was happy and smiling and of course the music was amazing.
What’s your fondest memory of the garage scene?
I would have to say Gas club as that was one of the first garage clubs I went to. And Twice As Nice at club Coliseum every Sunday. I am so proud and grateful to have witnessed this era.
How do you feel about the current music scene?
I find popular music to have no soul anymore it's all quite contrived and auto tuned. I think that's why of late real song writers such as Adele and Sam Smith are being celebrated people are tired of the same old rubbish.
Do you know if there’s much of a garage scene now? When did it fade out for you?
My main source of income is from public Appearance's and these are predominantly garage PA's so yes there is still a scene albeit underground. It has its quiet moments but it's always there people love garage it's happy music and holds such positive memories for everyone.
What other music inspires you?
I love and sing all types of music. As I enjoy singing full stop. Plus I think it's important no matter what type of singer you are to educate yourself in all other genres.
Are you still in contact with producers like Sticky? What was it like to work with him back in the day? how did this come about?
Yes I'm still in touch with him, we have sessions every now and then. I actually knew sticky for years before we worked together when he was an R’n’B DJ. So that's how we knew each other.
What has been your best performance ever? And why?
I would have to say just recently performing at the garage event that was held at Wembley arena, UKG Chronicles. To perform there was a childhood dream of mine that perhaps didn't transpire as I imagined it but it definitely came true.
Was there a specific style/fashion to the garage scene?
I would say for the guys it was definitely the crazy matching printed Moschino, Versace and Iceberg suits however for women it wasn't so defined.
What music are you listening to at the moment?
I listen to a lot of mixtapes, all types of music really. I love Shakka he is awesome and D'angelos new album is really good. Prince is my favourite artist in the whole world I love him.
Are you involved in the UKGFest? What are you most looking forward to? What type of atmosphere does it create?
I am there this year and performed there last year too. It's an amazing event and is really positive for the scene. It was nice to see younger people there last year too. Garage music is like a time machine it takes people back to a happy time in their lives. I hear it all the time from people when I perform. My songs are associated with a positive memory of their youth it's amazing to make someone instantly relive that happiness just by singing a song.
When you’re not involved in making music, what do you like to do?
I'm so busy at the moment travelling with work I haven't even had much time to do that lol. However I'm in the early stages of a TV show idea that I've written. I'm writing a book on internet dating and I'm an avid gym bunny, juicer, bike rider (in the summer) and book reader.
What are you up to now? Any new releases?
I am recording a new album LeRoc Music which is long overdue. And I am on tour with Basement Jaxx and PA-ing all over the country, life is good I can't complain. I'm very blessed.
