Hats Off To Estelle
The UK’s multi-award winning artist Estelle is back with ‘Shine’ - her stunning new album, on general release across the UK now. She is the first artist signed to US soul sensation John Legend’s new Homeschool Records label and her new album features collaborations with Wyclef Jean, will.i.am, Swizz Beats, Mark Ronson and Kanye West, as well as a beautiful duet with John Legend. Rashmi Shastri met up with Estelle to talk about the album and her rise to prominence.
You performed at the BBC Electric Proms recently. How was it?
I loved it! It was so nice to come home and do a show for people who know me and my songs. I travel so much at the moment I don’t even get a chance to miss home. Everything’s been pretty cool so far.
How has John Legend helped you?
Oh he’s helped me plenty, especially since he signed me. He’s dope in the studio and a great person. He has a great ear for music. Will.i.am is also fun to work with; we’re always having jokes in the studio. I met him through John.
Have you thought of working with the Black Eyed Peas since you’ve already done something with will.i.am?
Yeah, I would like to. Maybe when I’m famous enough to catch up with them. We already have Wyclef Jean, Swizz Beatz, Mark Ronson and Kanye West on this album plus more.
Things have blown up for you more than ever with Wait A Minute (Just A Touch).
Things started to get better from the time I released 1980 as a single. Right now, things are on a totally different level. We’re going international now. I’ve had the opportunity to travel to so many places within the past year.
I like your new look by
the way!
Thank you. People have now figured out I’ve got legs and boobs! I’ve got a great stylist who gets me stuff but I don’t really have anyone telling me what to wear. She gets me lots of stuff but I don’t always get to keep it because it’s usually designer or runway. I also get discounts in shops like MAC makeup and shoes. They know you will end up wearing their things so they give you a celebrity discount. There’s this designer called Ashish who I really like.
What about the people saying you’re not staying true to the UK and where you’re from?
I don’t let anyone’s opinions affect what I do with my life.
If they have a problem with it then I don’t really care. If they wanna talk about me then
they can because at the same time it’s keeping my name
out there.
What makes you a musician over just a rapper?
I produce, I have opinions
about the beat, and I write things. It’s not about making quick hits, it’s about making music that people will listen to generations from now. That’s the kind of career I want. LS
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