Melanie C, famously known as Sporty Spice, has unveiled a new tattoo dedicated to the iconic Ibiza nightclub, Pacha. The singer and DJ marked her fifth consecutive season at the renowned venue by getting the club’s distinctive ‘Pacha cherries’ logo inked on her arm. This personal tribute comes as she prepares to join legendary DJ Roger Sanchez on the decks for a special guest appearance at Pacha’s popular ‘Flower Power’ night.
A Symbol of Ibiza’s Nightlife
The Pacha cherry logo has been an instantly recognizable symbol of Ibiza’s vibrant nightlife for nearly five decades. Mel C, who has performed at the club multiple times over the years, including five consecutive summers, chose this iconic imagery to commemorate her enduring connection to the White Isle’s clubbing scene.
The 52-year-old pop star was photographed showcasing her new tattoo while posing with Roger Sanchez, 59. Mel C sported a stylish black lace Nike T-shirt, drawing attention to the fresh ink. Sanchez, an American DJ celebrated worldwide, appeared equally at ease in a distinctive cut-out grey sweater vest as they shared a moment before their joint set.
Mel C’s Tattoo Collection
The Pacha cherries join an array of other tattoos adorning Mel C’s body, each seemingly telling a story from different periods of her life. Among her existing body art are:
- A large ‘lucky’ Celtic cross on her left arm.
- Japanese symbols on her right arm, which she has stated translate to ‘woman’ and ‘strength’.
- A dragon tattoo on her right leg.
- Other notable pieces include a feather, a phoenix, a Celtic circlet, and a lotus flower.
A Complex Relationship with Body Art
Despite accumulating a significant collection of tattoos, Mel C has expressed a complex and sometimes conflicted relationship with her body art. In September 2022, she shared that she experiences phases where she wishes her tattoos were not present.
She has also commented on how some of her older designs now feel dated, instantly linking her to the fashion and trends of the 1990s, the era when she rose to global fame as part of the Spice Girls. Reflecting on the permanence of tattoos, she recalled a conversation with Madonna, who once advised her against them by stating, ‘Too permanent.’ This sentiment resonates with Mel C, particularly when considering her daughter, Scarlet, whom she shares with ex-partner Thomas Starr.
When asked about the possibility of Scarlet getting tattooed, Mel C acknowledged the irony, stating, ‘She’s at that stage where there are so many things I advise her about but she pretends not to listen. But on this? Well, I haven’t got a leg to stand on, have I? No, I haven’t gotten a tattooed leg to stand on.’
In a previous discussion on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, while Howie Mandel was guest hosting, Mel C confessed to having a ‘love-hate relationship’ with her tattoos. She elaborated, ‘It’s funny, they tell stories of different times in my life.’
Decoding the Meanings
During her appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Mandel inquired about the stories behind specific tattoos. Mel C pointed to a piece on her right forearm, explaining it read ‘love’ in Tibetan script. She also revealed a matching tattoo on her left arm, which she said translates to ‘happiness’.
In a moment of lighthearted banter, Mandel, a comedian, humorously pretended to be a fluent Tibetan speaker and suggested the tattoos might not say what she believed. This playful deception briefly concerned Mel C before Mandel revealed it was a joke.
A Night of Music and Tributes
Mel C’s decision to get the Pacha cherries tattoo underscores her deep appreciation for the club and her long-standing career as a DJ. Her appearance alongside Roger Sanchez at ‘Flower Power’ further solidifies her status as a respected figure in the electronic music scene, bridging her pop stardom with her passion for DJing.
The event at Pacha promises a night of music and celebration, with Mel C’s new ink serving as a permanent reminder of her connection to one of Ibiza’s most legendary institutions. Her commitment to the club, marked by this personal and visible tribute, highlights the significance of Pacha in her life and career.
