Marcella Detroit performs Angels, alongside Tony Hadley, Jools Holland, Clem Burke, Steve Norman, Earl Slick, Glen Matlock and friends on the new remotely recorded single from ‘Kindred Spirit’, a tribute to record producer Steve Brown, who sadly lost his life to Covid. The single aims to raise awareness for ‘Angels of The Nation’ a charity, supporting families who lost loved ones to Covid and front-line NHS workers.
American singer, songwriter, and guitarist, Marcella has been active in the music industry for many decades from co-writing Eric Clapton’s 1977 hit “Lay Down Sally” to reaching No.1 as one half of Shakespears Sister with the pop classic, Stay in 1992.
In 1994 Marcella achieved a solo UK top 20 hit with “I Believe” in 1994 and has stayed active in ensuing years with her band, The Marcy Levy Band.
Marcella recently discussed her music influences with Andy Howells as well as how she became involved with the Angels of the Nation project.
You have recently been involved with the Angels of The Nation single – can you tell us a little about this project and how you came involved with it?
I was contacted by a Facebook friend named Ian F Grant who told me about the project and I was immediately interested as it was a great cause and I was impressed with Ian’s previous work as a manager and all the illustrious artists involved including Tony Hadley of Spandau Ballet, Glen Matlock of the Sex Pistols, Jools Holland, Clem Burke of Blondie and more.
Ian explained to me that it was a charity that was initially set up by his friend the late producer Steve Brown to bring comfort to the families of NHS workers who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the pandemic saving others. The money raised by the song would be used to create beautiful Angel statues that would be given to the grieving families of the NHS workers to commemorate their loved ones. As I said its a great cause and I am honoured to be a part of it.
What was the first song that made an impact on you?
That’s so hard to say, I’ve loved music that was a child! I was brought up in Detroit so it was most likely something by the Supremes or another Motown artist like the Temptations, or Marvin Gaye. I also loved Stevie Wonder and used to listen to his song on repeat called “Fingertips” where he played an amazing harmonica solo.
I also loved Aretha Franklin. But loved The Beach Boys too. But what really did it for me was The Beatles from the first moment I heard them.
What was the first single /download you bought?
The Beatles, I Wanna Hold Your Hand, not available in download at the time!
What was the first album you owned?
Meet the Beatles
What’s your constant go to track?
I never tire of the Beatles especially anything from SGT. Peppers, I LOVE “A Day in the Life”…
…but also, I adore Sly and the Family Stone’s “If You Want Me To Stay”.
What’s your constant go to album?
David Bowie, “Hunky Dory“
Who’s your latest music discovery?
Doja Cat, though she’s huge now. First time I heard her record “Say So” I knew it was going to be a massive hit.
What’s your own track that best defines you as an artist?
As you see I have many influences. And right now I’m releasing my 3rd dance/electronic style album. But I’d say my song “I Believe” probably best incorporates all of my influences: pop, soul, electronic oriented production, and subject matter that really means something to me. Cuz if I don’t believe it no one else will!
- For further details visit www.angelsofthenation.co.uk