Soul and RnB singer Tyrone Lee is set to release his debut solo album Invitation. He spoke with Matt Wilcock about performing as lead vocalist in the West End smash about the life of Michael Jackson, Thriller, singing gospel at Fairfield Halls, and the joys of South Croydon.

Matt Wilcock: Have you enjoyed being part of Thriller?

Tyrone Lee: So much! I’ve loved the West End and I’ve toured 22 countries with the show. Brazil was the best: warm people, and definitely the world’s biggest fans of Michael Jackson! I’m always touring but now Croydon is home for me.

MW: Do you live in Croydon?

TL: Yeah, I’ve lived near the High Street in South Croydon for seven years now. I’ve always been familiar with the area. When I was younger I sang gospel at Fairfield Halls - since ’89 in fact. I’m still involved in gospel projects in South London, they’ve made me the lively singer I am today.

Since my 20s I’ve sang at Brixton’s Ruach City Church, and their annual conference at Fairfield gave me my first chance to perform to a much bigger audience. There is also so much greenery in South Croydon, it’s so peaceful, I love it.

MW: Where in London can we find you performing?

TL: Apart from Thriller, I’m getting my own music out there. I’m working on new material but I also perform my 2013 album, Invitation, which has had a phenomenal reception.

I prefer open-mic nights and turning up unannounced, to putting my name to events. This summer I’m lining up a gig for the Jazz Cafe in Camden. I’d love to do something Croydon based too.

MW: Who have you most enjoyed working with?

TL: Before Thriller I was a backing singer for Gary Barlow after he left Take That, but from 2002-08 I was a vocalist for the Jazz Funk band Incognito and I did about four albums with them which was such a great learning curve.

Invitation will be released on Expansion Records on July 6