US singer Miguel admits he has mixed emotions over comparisons to Prince
THE super smooth star's third album, Wildheart, was one of the albums of 2015 with its heavy psychedelic production and sexually-charged lyrics impressing fans and critics alike
MIGUEL admits comparisons between him and late music legend Prince are both flattering and annoying.
The 32-year-old singer is gearing up for the release of his fourth album, War&Leisure, in December, following on from his critically-acclaimed LP Wildheart.
That record saw Miguel find his signature sound with its mix of psychedelic guitars, smooth vocals and sexual lyrics - but also drew comparisons to the Purple Rain hit maker.
Speaking to The Sun Online about the similarities between the two musicians and whether or not he finds it annoying or flattering, he explained: "I think it's obvious he's a major influence but I think there's also things about me that are uniquely mine that aren't coming from his vibe.
"Being a reminder of Prince is a huge compliment. No one will ever be that. I don't want to be that.
"It's a bit of both, being flattered but like 'hey, there's more.' Hopefully that's enough to get you to listen more and go 'ok I see where he's different.'"
The Grammy winner has collaborated with the likes of Mariah Carey, Kendrick Lamar and Travis Scott.
But when it comes to choosing artists to team up with he's very particular.
Sitting behind a table full of fresh fruit at Sony's London headquarters, the impeccably dressed singer said: "I'm pretty picky. I don't have a reason for why.
"I've only collaborated with a handful of people. I think I'm more open to collaborations now."
One artist who particularly impressed him was Dua Lipa, who he teamed up with for Lost in Your Light.
He said: "She's one of the coolest girls. She's always got a great vibe around her, consistently positive and effortlessly cool and fun to look at... She's beautiful.
"You don't expect her voice to be like that. All of that together is just... on top of that she's got a great work ethic. I love and respect her."
The new record contains plenty of Miguel's trademark smooth vocals, catchy hooks and atmospheric live instrumentation.
While it isn't overtly political, he couldn't help but include some references to world events.
"I wouldn't be myself if it didn't make it into my music," said the star. "So I think you'll hear it sprinkled around the album.
"None of the songs, with the exception of Told You So. They're more like the leisurely side, whereas the other songs may not feel dark or heavy but are clearly mentioning some events.
"I think there are new territories. They're definitely still me but there's gonna be some in the fanbase like 'I wasn't expecting that.'"
The star will return to the UK in 2018 following a one off show at Islington Academy in October.
He promises a brand new production and plenty of jamming between him and his band.
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