Currently celebrating the success of her third chart-topping album Someone To Watch Over Me, Susan Boyle has matured from the woman we first saw on Britain's Got Talent.
In an exclusive interview, Susan spoke about her new record, adjusting to fame, her fans and much more.
-The release of Someone to Watch Over Me has seen you get your third number one album. Are you excited?
I still can’t believe that it is number one again. It’s fantastic news. When I was told I asked whether they were pulling my leg. Never in my wildest expectations did I think I’d have another number one album, but obviously I’m very, very pleased.
-How does it compare to your previous two?
This album is very different, It’s moved away from the overtly religious aspects and showtunes and allowed me to explore new genre’s of music that will appeal, I think, to a wider and younger audience.
With my producer Steve Mac we have really played with arrangements on iconic songs and given them a new twist. It’s been wonderful.
-Some of the songs were inspired by letters your fans have written to you. How much does that support mean to you?
Their support is invaluable. Although I don’t have the opportunity to respond to every letter I do read them, and to be able to read their stories I find them inspirational and moving. To have that support and also trust, well I don’t feel lonely anymore.
-How much creative input have you had on the record?
Well I am able to put forward my own suggestions and also I have ideas put to me. It’s a creative and fun process that involves everyone. I also listen to the fan suggestions as well - they are very helpful.
-The last few years of your life have been a roller coaster ride. Has it really sunk in yet?
I don’t think it will ever sink in. I’m having the time of my life and I don’t want to get complacent. It’s important that I’m kept on my toes so I strive to do better.
-You still live in your family home - is it important to you that you won't be drastically changed by fame?
It’s very important to me to retain a sense of normality and also to keep in touch with my roots. Being in my family home with my family and friends around me is very important to me and I don’t want to get too big for my boots.
-You got your break through Britain's Got Talent. Would you like to motivate more people to be brave and take similar opportunities?
It’s very important to encourage people to be brave and sieze the moment. I wanted to make a better life for myself and to sing.
It wasn’t an easy step to take but you have to be brave and put yourself in the way of possible rejection. You have to take a risk and if it doesn’t work out the first time, chalk it up to experience and try again.
-You've had some amazing experiences since Britain's Got Talent - which ones stand out?
Each and every experience is special because I honestly never thought they would happen. The chance to go to Australia and see the iconic sights with my own eyes.
Performing in China to a stadium of 60,000 people and over half a billion watching on TV. Flying to LA to meet Piers Morgan, they are all wonderful and I could never pick a favourite.
-Do you feel you've been altered by fame at all?
I feel I’ve grown up as a person and got more confident. The fame has allowed me to become a better person.
-Where do you go from here?
Well I’d like to continue performing, another album next year and in March I’ll be performing in the musical about my life. I’ve got another exciting year ahead. It just keeps getting better.
Female First - Alistair McGeorge (Follow me on Twitter @AlistairMcG)
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