Kele Le Roc is undoubtedly one of the finest artists to emerge from the UK music scene, and one of the hardest working women in the game! Kele is a winner of two prestigious MOBO awards and has had numerous chart and radio successes. As a solo artist with hits like ‘My Love’ and ‘Things We Do for Love’, and a featured artist with the likes of Basement Jaxx, Omar, Sticky, Lemar and Shy FX, Kele has left a lasting impression.
So what tracks influenced and inspired Kele when she was a young aspiring songstress growing up in East London? In between working on a new album and causing major heat with a reworking of her club classic ‘My Love’ (using the Timbaland produced beat from JT’s My Love) ‘Hot On Road’ managed to track Kele down and ask her to list her All-Time UK top 10.
Hot! You have selected some real classics in your top ten! Which ones provide the best memories for you and why?
Kele Le Roc: Omar – There’s Nothing Like This
I have always admired this man as an artist he is unique and exceptionally talented. There’s Nothing Like This was his 1st hit, but even after all this time this track is still just as fresh, and gives you that same warm feeling every-time you hear it.
Hot!: For real. Omar has without doubt had a real impact on Black music internationally! Even Indai.Arie pays tribute to his influence on her music and this song is an absolute classic!
Kele Le Roc: Kele Le Roc featuring Lemar – Number 1
Lemar supported me at my album launch party at the Criterion Theatre in Piccadilly Circus, we performed this track that night and it went down a treat. Lemar is such a talent I'm so pleased for all the success he is achieving. This one goes out to all those who don't know bout this tune ya!
Hot!: You both sound so different on this tune! I remember Best Kept secret and the early days with you, Claudia Fontaine and Chris Ballins….. top quality singers!
Kele Le Roc: Mica Paris – Shoulda Known Better
Mica the queen……… that says it all!
Hot!: Nuff said!
Hot!: What do you note most about how things have changed from when you first started making music?
Kele Le Roc: I love the DIY spirit that is going on especially surrounding the urban music scene things like channel U and Myspace are helping the movement.
Hot!: What examples from back then would you like to see today’s musicians adopt?
Kele Le Roc: I would like to see more positive messages portrayed in some grime music which can be somewhat negative. I believe in the words of me good mate Fonty "WE CAN ALL GET FURTHER IF WE STICK TOGETHER"
Who Jah Bless Let No man Curse! ..........Know yourself blessed
KLR x
Hot!: Teach it Kele, teach it!
Playlist (please choose the corresponding number on flash player to hear the sound clip)