McDonald's, Marley and Motley Crue: A Chat With Macy Gray

Macy Gray's gig at Atmosphere Bar on July 8 won't be the longest set Beijing has ever seen, but it's already set to be one of July's most talked-about events. The husky-voiced singer's is scheduled to sing for only around a half-hour - though she will take to the decks for a DJ set and the party will continue into the early hours - but we've been inundated with inquiries about tickets. There'll only be about 200-250 tickets available, and the organizers remain tight-lipped about how we can get hold of tickets, but we'll let you know that as soon as we have the information. For now, we'll tease you with this interview with the star.

I read you started working when you were 12. Where was that and what was it like?
McDonalds. Actually I was 14.

What did you want to do when you were a kid?
Be a fireman or a bank robber.

What was the first thing you remember hearing about China when you were a kid?
That it was far away.

Summarize yourself in three words.
I don't like to describe myself.

What do you think of your voice?
Interesting.

Of all the musicians you've collaborated with, who's been the hardest to work with?
Hmm. Working with myself hasn't been easy.

Mötley Crüe's Mick Mars has said he wants to work with you on a soul album. How did you feel when you first heard that?
I'd jump on that. Tell him to call me.

Who's your favorite young singer?
Bob Marley.

Who are the sellouts?
I dont believe selling out is valid anymore. Everybody just wants to be big.

Have any of President Obama’s policies disappointed you?
Not really. I think he does the best he can.

How do you feel about your national anthem?
Beautiful.

Give us a five-track playlist of your all-time favorite songs.

"Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)" by Stevie Wonder

"Dreams" by Fleetwood Mac

"Happiness" by Macy Gray

"My Way" by Nina Simone

"Santeria" by Sublime

Macy Gray plays Atmosphere Bar on Jul 8. Stay with TheBeijinger.com for more news on ticket availability.