Mel B (Spice Girls) justifies his choice of song in Mask Singer

The Sun, it was her! This Friday April 28, 2023, TF1 broadcast a new episode of the fifth edition of Mask Singer. A special number since one of the three international stars announced this season was present to offer an exceptional performance on the entertainment set. And it was… Mel B! The ex-Spice Girl, a cult British group from the late 90s, was hidden under her shimmering costume. In an interview given to Tele-Leisurethe singer talked about her performance and behind the scenes of her visit to the program presented by Camille Combal and produced by Hervé Hubert.

Mel B (Mask Singer 5): “My children did not know that I was in Paris to participate in the French version”

Tele-Leisure : You have already participated in the Australian, English and Spanish versions of Mask Singer. Who convinced you to try the experience again in France?

Mel B: Nobody needed to do it. The show is a huge hit all over the world, so I couldn’t turn down such an opportunity. I’m a fan and my kids love it too. They didn’t know that I was in Paris to participate in the French version. I reserved the surprise for them for the broadcast. When I saw some of the costumes and learned about the ideas the production had for my performance, the dancers and the fireworks all around me, that convinced me even more.

Did you experience this shooting differently from the other versions?

Even though the show remains the same, I found that everything was a little better organized in France, it was less chaotic than in other countries. This allowed me to appreciate the adventure more and to concentrate on learning the song, the choreography but also the costume fittings. I really enjoyed myself even though I was a little nervous. Unlike my previous participations, this time, I didn’t want to camouflage my voice. I wanted to interpret Roars by Katy Perry because it’s the kind of title you have to sing at the top of your lungs. It was fabulous to live.

Exactly, is this title a nod to your nickname “Scary Spice” or does it have a deeper meaning?

This song is related to my book brutally honest [publié en 2018, NDLR] in which I mentioned the domestic violence of which I was a victim during ten years of marriage. It was a very dark time in my life because my ex-husband had a lot of control over me. The lyrics of this song give me strength. It’s like a hymn that helps me keep my self-confidence. It reminds me of the songs we used to write in the Spice Girls days, whose lyrics were so catchy, catchy and full of positive energy. Since I couldn’t choose one of our songs, I thought Katy Perry’s hit was a good choice.

Mel B, the Sun in Mask Singer 5 : “Tu can’t sing and breathe easily with the mask on”

You are famous all over the world and your style is easily recognizable. How did you deceive the investigators?

As I can’t change my physique, I decided to bet everything on my vocal technique. With the Spice Girls, I often sing with a deep voice. But for the show, I was able to get out of my comfort zone and offer higher, more acute notes, so that people would identify me less. I tried to change my walk and my attitude but once on stage, I automatically returned to my “groove”. It was stronger than me. [Elle rit]

What was the main difficulty for you during rehearsals?

I had about two days to work on the choreography with the dancers. The costumes make the preparation complicated because they are not really made to jump everywhere. It is necessary to practice a lot, if only to be sure of being able to walk. And then, you can’t sing and breathe easily with the mask on. Fortunately, the whole production team was really lovely with me. They were attentive and supported me a lot.

Why did you choose the Sun costume?

I picked it because it’s exactly the kind of outfit I could wear to our shows with the Spice Girls. She matches me. It’s amazing to be dressed all in gold and mirror, not to mention all those gorgeous little details on the costume. I loved it so much I wanted to steal it and bring it home! [Elle rit] I even asked if it was possible to have a copy!

Mel B (Spice Girls): “In Paris, I disguised myself so that no one would recognize me”

How did you manage to keep your identity secret during your stay in Paris?

When I was out for a walk or going to a restaurant, I would dress up and always keep my hat on so no one would recognize me. I also spoke very little. I wasn’t really allowed out of my hotel room but I was unable to stay locked up. Fortunately, Anthony Meunier, the show’s producer, took me to the Moulin Rouge, one of the places I love the most here. I didn’t post anything on social networks and I answered calls as little as possible so as not to burn myself out.

Did you have the opportunity to discuss with Camille Combal and the investigators after the shooting?

We were able to get to know each other, indeed. Besides, Camille Combal told me that he would cook me a croque-monsieur the next time I come to Paris. Apparently, his are the best! Michèle Bernier offered me to have a fondue together. I was really touched by their kindness and humor.

Finding your clues, investigators first thought you were Geri HalliwellThen Emma Bunton (two members of the Spice Girls), before mentioning your name. Did that surprise you?

Geri Halliwell can’t sing as well as me… She’s also much smaller. [Elle rit] As for Emma Bunton, she has a very soft voice, which is absolutely not my case! I can’t believe the jury guessed it was me so quickly. Yet I did everything to confuse them. They weren’t supposed to recognize me so quickly.

Your tour with the Spice Girls in the UK in 2019 was a huge success. Will we see you again soon on stage and especially in France?

[Sur le ton de la confidence et avec un grand sourire dans la voix] All I can tell you is that we’ll be making an exciting announcement soon. And this will concern the five Spice Girls. But don’t tell anyone…