The Buzz About … NATALIE IMBRUGLIA

THE STAR MARKS HER RETURN TO MUSIC WITH HER FIRST ALBUM OF ORIGINAL MATERIAL IN YEARS

She burst onto our screen in popular soap Neighbours in 1994. But it was Natalie Imbruglia’s singing career that skyrocketed her to stardom in 1997, with her debut album Left of the Middle – and its lead hit ‘Torn’ – selling seven million copies worldwide! So it should come as no surprise that our ’90s-obsessed selves were thrilled to hear the Australian artist is back with her rst collection of new material in 12 years, Firebird. (Her 2015 album Male comprised entirely of covers.)

The mum-of-one describes Firebird as “like a phoenix coming out of ashes” because the tracks are a celebration of independence – not to mention the fact they were recorded in lockdown during a pandemic. Here, she reveals to WHO what helped her nd her voice again …

Where did you get your creative inspiration from for your new album? Did becoming a mum for the first time in 2019 play a part?

It’s been pointed out to me that I overcame my writer’s block when I became a parent. I’m sure those two things are linked, too. After a long period where it was sometimes hard to envisage making new music again, I’ve de nitely found my creative ow. It’s a very joyful time and I’ve written lots of songs.

What does the title of the album mean to you?

I see myself as a rebird. A lot of the songs deal with the balance between your fragility and strength, and letting things fall apart to then build them better.

How would you describe the mood of Firebird?

It’s about nding your inner strength, so there’s everything from country ballads to upbeat pop songs. (Firebird is available from Fri, Sep. 24)