‘I am what I am and you get what you get’
From being a quarter of Eternal to footballer’s wife to Strictly contestant, Louise Redknapp never stops. Now she’s on the way to Nottingham’s Rock City. She talks to
It’s been 15 years since you’ve performed live – isn’t it really nerve-wracking coming back after such a big break?
Yes, it is. I worry no-one’s going to be interested that no-one’s going to want to listen. It is completely nerve wracking, but I’ve done it at the end of the day because it’s my passion, it’s what I love and for the first time, in a long time, I’ve really had something to say.
What can the fans expect?
It’s really important to me that this tour isn’t nostalgic; It’s about moving forward. I’m going to be doing all the old songs, lots of Eternal songs and lots from the new album, but I want it to feel current and up to date. I want fans to feel they know the music but that it’s relevant in today’s music scene.
Rock City is a legendary venue – have you heard about the new floor?
Yes, and I’m really looking forward to coming back to the city. Nottingham is a place I’ve not performed at for a long time.
Was it the writing that you missed? Is that what initiated the return to music?
No, I don’t know. I had my kids, I was very content, then something happens in your life where creatively everything comes at once – the opportunities. I always say this, but timing is really important.
Were you ever tempted by The Big Reunion in 2013?
I did want to do a reality show – and I’d love to sing with the girls again – but I just didn’t want to do that style of show where it wasn’t just about the music.
When you tour, who will you take with you, apart from the band?
It depends. The kids will definitely come to a number of them. But, because everyone I work with are such good friends, it’s like a home from home anyway.
Speaking of friends, do you stay in touch with any others from school?
Yes, I’m in touch with all my school friends – my three closest friends are all friends from school. We’ve been friends since we were 10, so have been there every step of the way – we’re just mates, regardless. I’m deeply proud of what they have achieved, and they are of me, but when we are all together it doesn’t matter what any of us have done – we are just mates from when we were kids.
Congratulations on Strictly. Have you used any of the dance moves you learned on the show in your tour?
NO! The foxtrott or samba will not be appearing! I haven’t done any Strictly-style dancing since I finished the show.
What kind of pressure comes with being once voted the “World’s Sexiest Woman” – I guess you can’t pop to the corner shop in your onesie?
If you could see me now – I was at the gym an hour ago; I haven’t had a shower yet and didn’t take a hairbrush with me. If people stopped me like this, I would probably scare the life out of them. I am not precious with hair and makeup. I am happy to be who I am. I don’t claim to be a supermodel, I know I’m not and I never tried to be. I am what I am, and you get what you get.
Are you recognised now more for Strictly or for your music?
I think it’s a mix, depending on the age group. I have been in this industry for many years. In general, people are really nice if they stop me – they just say “hi”, get a selfie and then go about their day.
Who sparked the ambition in you?
My mum. She is very quiet but very driven. She gave me lots of opportunities as a young girl, so I was very lucky. It’s led to me, when given an opportunity, to run with it for as long as I can.
Finally, what are you most excited about this year?
The tour. Blood sweat and tears have gone into the album, so I’m just really proud to be getting it out there and performing the tracks live.
Louise plays Rock City in Nottingham on Wednesday, March 18. Tickets: alttickets.com, £24.75.