PP Arnold Reflects on Iconic Musical Journey and Collaborations

PP Arnold, a celebrated figure in the music industry, shared her journey and experiences during a recent interview, revealing the unexpected twists that shaped her career. Known for her collaborations with rock legends like Tina Turner and Peter Gabriel, Arnold's career has spanned decades, showcasing her resilience and passion for music.

Arnold began her career in the 1960s as part of the Ikettes, the backing singers for the famed Ike and Tina Turner. Despite the challenges she faced, including an abusive marriage, her talent and determination led her to success. "I said a prayer to ask God to take me out of that situation and a couple of hours later, I was in Tina’s living room, singing 'Dancing in the Street'," she recounted, highlighting the serendipitous nature of her entry into the music scene.

In her latest endeavors, Arnold is set to perform at the Glastonbury Festival, where she aims to captivate audiences with her music. "I’m on the Acoustic stage with my fabulous band. I’ve had to edit my set down to 40 minutes, but it’s gonna be a great show," she said, expressing her excitement about the upcoming performance. Arnold's ability to attract audiences even when performing alongside major acts like Rod Stewart is a testament to her enduring appeal.

Throughout her career, Arnold has collaborated with a myriad of artists, including Nick Drake, Dr. John, and George Harrison. She described her experience working with Peter Gabriel on tracks such as 'Sledgehammer' and 'Don’t Give Up' as both enjoyable and creatively fulfilling. "The sessions with Peter were great fun, especially once I discovered he was also into gravity boots," she shared, illustrating the camaraderie and shared interests that enhanced their collaboration.

Arnold’s career has not been without its heartache. She tragically lost her daughter, Debra Arnold, in a car accident in 1977. "The most horrible thing that’s happened to me in my life was losing my daughter. I had to let her go, but she’s with me every day," she reflected, demonstrating her strength and ability to persevere through personal tragedy.

In addition to discussing her past, Arnold also expressed her eagerness to continue making music and collaborating with others. "I love to collaborate – basically, I like collaborating with people who want to collaborate with me," she stated, indicating her open-minded approach to future partnerships.

As Arnold prepares for her performance at Glastonbury, she also looks back fondly on her experiences with The Small Faces, describing her bond with lead singer Steve Marriott as a highlight of her career. "Steve was like my soul brother. We were very young and enthusiastic… I miss him dearly and he visits me from time to time in dreams," she stated, revealing the deep emotional connections she formed throughout her musical journey.

With a new single titled 'Soul Mouse' recently released and her autobiography 'Soul Survivor' detailing her life in the industry, Arnold remains a vibrant part of the music landscape. As she looks to the future, her passion for music and collaboration continues to drive her, proving that her journey is far from over. "I don’t hold grudges. I have to stay rooted in myself and that’s how I survive," she concluded, embodying the spirit of resilience that has defined her remarkable career in music.