From The Straits Times    |

This British singer-songwriter with her trademark alabaster skin and gorgeous cheekbones is back with her fourth album. Plus, she’s coming to town, all thanks to a private closed-door event by Audi Singapore, where she’s set to get the 400 guests on their feet with her electrifying electro-pop performance for the Audi Red Carpet Night, part of Audi’s Fashion Festival, happening on May 11.

After a long hiatus, Sophie Ellis-Bextor presents her latest album, “Make a Scene”, collaborating with renowned and talented producers like The Freemasons, Calvin Harris, Meteronomy and more.

The talented songstress tells herworldplus.com about her new album and how motherhood has changed her.

hw.com: “Make A Scene” is album number four now. Can you tell us a little about it and what was your main inspiration for this album?
Sophie: I started DJ-ing with my husband, Richard, a couple of years ago and that was part of the reason my fourth album is so dance-centric. Playing songs produced by people like Calvin Harris and The Freemasons that are really loud just sounded so brilliant. Luckily for me, I was also able to collaborate with them on this record and that really set the tone.

hw.com: You’ve worked with the renowned Freemasons. What was it like working with them?
S: It was a bit of a dream come true. I’d been a fan of theirs for a while. Happily, I can now call them my friends, too. They are lovely talented folk.

hw.com: You’re a mother of two. How has motherhood changed you since?
S:Massively in many ways I’m sure but when it comes to my work the main change is that I am overall more focused. I feel that if work means time away from the children then I want it all to count more. I think I’ve upped my game.

hw.com: Has it influenced any of your music?
S: Well mainly it has made me a happier girl and I think that comes across on this album, and the last.

hw.com: You’ll also be touring the UK this summer with Erasure and Bryan Ferry. How excited are you about this? Can you give us a little teaser of anything special that you’ll be doing on the tour?
S: The tours will be lots of fun. All those shows are outdoors so the crowd is always in kind of a holiday mode. I’ll try to create a little party atmosphere for them.

hw.com: This isn’t your first time in Singapore, what do you remember or like about our city?
S: I remember the lovely, welcoming people and I’m sure I’m not alone in noticing how brilliantly clean the city is. Gorgeous. Plus, the shopping is incredible!

hw.com: Is there anything you’re looking forward to seeing, doing or even eating here?
S: I hope I can get to experience some authentic local cuisine. I do love my food and I know there are some fantastic restaurants in Singapore.

hw.com: You’ll be performing at the Audi Red Carpet Night, which is like a precursor to our very own version of Fashion week. How would you describe your personal style and how has it evolved over the years?
S: I think my style has stayed pretty much in the same vicinity over the years – I’ve never been a particular follower of fashion – but that being said, I hope I make slightly less mistakes now than I used to. I’m sure I get it right sometimes (fingers crossed). I’ve learnt a bit more about what suits me. I love anything slightly retro, feminine or fun dresses with strong silhouettes. I love getting dressed up.

hw.com: Any favourite designers or any particular items you’re currently lusting over?
S: I adore many designers but Dolce & Gabbana and Chanel are some of my all-time favourites. They both have a very clear idea of what their aesthetic is and if money is no object, I’d own more of it!

Get Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s latest album, “Make a Scene”, out in all major record stores now.