Heather Small wants to work with Missy Elliott.
The M People frontwoman thinks the US rapper is “very good” and believes a collaboration would help push her out of her comfort zone. Elliott, known for her innovative approach to hip-hop, has won multiple Grammy Awards and influenced countless artists since her debut in the 1990s.
“I think I’ve got another duet in me. I’d love to work with Missy Elliot – she’s really very good,” Heather told Britain’s HELLO! Magazine. “There are so many good people out there… somebody that would really push me to a different place.” The potential collaboration would bridge different musical genres and generations of fans.
The 59-year-old star thinks her “greatest achievement” is to still be working now. Her career spans over three decades, during which M People has achieved three platinum albums and numerous chart-topping singles.
Speaking after receiving her MBE from Prince William, she said: “I always said I wanted to sing for a long time. I think my greatest achievement is that people will still come and pay to see me sing.” Her performances continue to draw thousands of fans across the UK and internationally.
“I’ve done things for the Commonwealth Games, the Olympics, Oprah Winfrey – and there I am meeting Prince William. 20 years ago, the late Queen was naming the Queen Mary 2 and I was there singing ‘Proud’, now her grandson is talking to me about the song. It’s full circle.” The song ‘Proud’ has become an unofficial anthem at major sporting events and ceremonies.
While Heather received her honor for her charity work, she was pleased the prince wanted to talk to her about her music. Her charitable contributions have supported various causes, including education initiatives and youth development programs.
“He was really warm and genuinely interested,” she said. “He talked about M People and ‘Proud’, saying that it was an inspirational song that gave comfort, and it seemed very genuine. My family kept saying, ‘Well, he’s the right age group!'” The song has resonated across generations since its release in 2000.
“They have been singing ‘Proud’ now in schools and at many sporting events for a while, and they’re a sporty family.” The track has become a staple at graduation ceremonies, sporting events, and motivational gatherings worldwide.
The ‘One Night in Heaven‘ hitmaker admitted the accolade came as a surprise. The MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) recognizes her significant contributions to both music and charitable causes.
“I was quite shocked, because I did get it for charitable work and not music. Somebody nominated me and I didn’t know, so it was quite a surprise and quite emotional.” Her charitable work has impacted thousands of lives across the United Kingdom.
Small’s career achievements include multiple BRIT Award nominations, platinum-selling albums, and performing at some of the world’s most prestigious venues. Her distinctive voice has become one of the most recognizable in British pop music, with ‘Proud’ being used as the official soundtrack for London’s successful 2012 Olympics bid.
The potential collaboration with Missy Elliott would mark a significant moment in both artists’ careers, bringing together Small’s soulful vocals with Elliott’s innovative production style. Elliott’s influence on hip-hop culture and music production has earned her induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, making her the first female hip-hop artist to receive this honor.
The recognition of Small’s charitable work with an MBE adds to her legacy as both an artist and humanitarian. Her ongoing commitment to various causes demonstrates the impact musicians can have beyond their artistic contributions, inspiring a new generation of artists to use their platform for positive change.
