LUCKY GIRL!
SHE’S best known as the lead singer from the 80s group, Altered Images. Passionate about her work and hugely proud to still be in this business after 40 years, Clare Grogan is feeling very fortunate.
What will this Let’s Rock Retro Winter Tour be like from an artist’s perspective?
It’s almost like a family event for all of us that take part in it. It’s just really fun. We’ve been doing the Let’s Rock events all summer, but it will be a different atmosphere performing inside and, in the evening too.
And from a fan’s perspective?
Well, they’re all amazing performers, I’ve seen them all so many times. I think of it like the best episode of Top Of The Pops. There’s something for everyone.
Do you consciously fit gigs around being a mum?
Very much so. When Ellie arrived, I took a year off. I was 43 and delighted to have that break. I do try to work around my family and have done that successfully now for a long time. Obviously, it does mean that I have to say no to some things.
I hear you’ve written a children’s book – how did that come about?
I’m someone who likes doing things and I had this idea when Ellie was a bit younger – I wanted to explain to her about how I ended up being a pop star. I thought the best way was to write a book about another girl, loosely based on my experience, so I told my story of my love of music. It was a really joyous thing to do and the book did well – reaching number two in the Waterstones Children’s Book Chart!
Are you going to follow in the footsteps of the McFly singers? They have a whole series out?
Well, I have written book number two and that’s online through Amazon, but I’m just so busy with other stuff. Writing is a whole other full-on career – I’m sure I will write something else but it’s all about timing.
You’ve done a fair bit on screen too: Gregory’s Girl, Red Dwarf, EastEnders.
Yes, I’ve just done a cookery show for BBC Scotland too, called Corner Shop Cook Off.
Are you a great cook as well, then?
Well, my husband and I have a couple of restaurants. I do like cooking and think there’s something lovely about cooking for your family too.
Speaking of EastEnders, how was that? You played Ian Beale’s love interest – do you stay in touch with Adam Woodyatt?
No, not really – I bump into him now and again and he is a lovely guy. Apart from anything, these guys are so busy, they work all the time. I really enjoyed the experience, but I also realised it wasn’t for me. I was originally cast for nine weeks but ended up staying a year!
Who’s the most famous person you’ve ever sang your hit Happy Birthday to?
Urm…. oh, I don’t know... I do get asked all the time to sing it in video clips for people’s parties.
Do you charge?
No, I don’t – but I often think I could make a fortune out of this!
Nowadays, which would you say is your main passion – singing, acting, writing or presenting?
I like working. I feel that I really love the opportunities that I get and I’m fortunate that people keep asking me to do things in a manageable way. I feel so passionate about my work, but I also have a life as well and to me that’s so important.