Who is Mika?

Classically trained musician Mika (pronounce Meeka) is being touted as the next big thing before hes even released a tune. The 23-year-old London-based dudes tunes are big, funny, orchestral and poppy - we see him in the same vein as Scissor Sisters or Lily Allen You read it here first!

So another male singer/song-writer?
I dont say Im a singer/songwriter because I dont sit at my piano and moan " my thing is creating huge sounding pop records. My music reminds people of artists from the 80s and 90s.

Wheres the accent from?
Well, Ive lived in London since I was 9, but I was born in Lebanon in 1983. I left there as a baby because of the war and lived in Paris for 8 years. My accent changes all the time but my parents were taught English in an American accent which Ive picked up on.

Tell us about the first single 'Take It Easy/Billy Brown'
Its a little teaser single coming out on limited release on October 2. We started the ball rolling slowing but Scott Mills on Radio 1 made it his Record of the Week recently.

And 'Billy Brown' is about a bloke who leaves his wife for another man?
You can tell stories in a pop song that arent the normAlthough maybe this song might encourage lots more Billy Browns to come out.

Theres more than a touch of the Queen and the Scissor Sisters about your music, would you agree?
Freddie Mercury: I take that as the highest praise. Scissor Sisters: Great, everyone loves them. As long as people dont start comparing me to Danny La Rue Ill be happy.

Who floats your boat musically?
Prince, and anyone who makes records who cant be done by anyone else - non-karaoke records. Michael Jackson and Beck both make records like that as well.

Youve already been described by Music Week mag as the next 21st Century superstar. Are you?
Are you serious? Thats amazing. Im honoured. But of course, I have to say I am! 2007 will be mine.

Fair enough. Anything else you want to get off your chest?
Yes, what this fascination with grey clothes we've got at the moment? London's dull enough as it is in Winter - bring on the colour.

SLJ