Inner City talk songwriting, shows and their return to the scene

How did Inner City come to form as a group back in 1987? Was there a defining moment when the Saundersons met Paris Grey?

Paris: I was recording with Terry Baldwin in Chicago, and he knew Kevin was looking for a vocalist for a track he was working on. I flew into Detroit and worked with Kevin on lyrics and melody for "Big Fun" and the rest, as they say, is history!

Inner City are synonymous with Detroit Techno but your songwriting is very refined. Can you tell me how your early songs came about and who or what influenced you?

Ann: Earlier songs came about from various life situations, from everyday life, to being pregnant. Paris and I would bounce ideas off each other, one of us would get a verse going, and the other would finish it then we would come up with the hook. Influences include Chaka Khan, Chic, Amy Winehouse, Adele, Jamiroquai.

You seem to be touring again an awful lot more and producing new music, how did this come about?

Paris, Kevin and I all took time out to do some other things; take care of family, take a breather as it were. But meanwhile, Kevin was still producing music and touring the world, and was noticing how some producers were trying to replicate sample etc. The I.C. sound. We figured the time was right for us to return to the scene. Lucky for us, people are so receptive to the sound and songs that we have to offer.

Are there any upcoming shows and festivals that you are particularly looking forward to this year?

Ann: I'm actually looking forward to the Bestival Festival that will be happening in the Isle of Wight. I've never been to this particular location but I've heard really nice things about it.

Paris: There are some fantastic festivals coming up like Apple Cart and Bestival in UK, plus many more in Europe (which we cannot announce yet as the promoters are still finalising line ups). Then club events like Electric Picnic at WMC in Miami, UK gigs at Deja Vu Hull, Mint Leeds, some amazing Ibiza events and across Europe at really special clubs like The Loft in Barcelona  - and of course Panorama Bar in Berlin which we have heard a LOT about!

Finally, what kind of music do you listen to away from the studio?

Ann: Jamiroquai, Brand New Heavies, Adele, Morcheeba, Feist, Jill Scott.

Paris: We are really looking forward to meeting all our fans and friends in Leeds who have supported us throughout the years, and we know from all the recent sell out amazing performances we have had in the UK that this is going to be a very special night... peace and love to you all y'all, see you on the 24th!

Catch Inner City at Mint Warehouse on March 24th with Derrick Carter.

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