Interview: Alexandra Burke on her new album, UK music inspirations and proudest achievements

By Helen Le Caplain

Chart-topping pop princess Alexandra Burke graced HMV Manchester on Market Street to launch her second album Heartbreak on Hold last Wednesday.

Despite the bad weather and delays on the motorway, the 2008 X Factor winner was in high spirits and told me she was looking forward to sharing her new material with fans.

“It’s really different – it’s taken a year to do this. In a nutshell I have poured my heart and soul into this album.”

“Heart Break on Hold is an album that I want to mend as many hearts out there as possible.

It’s uplifting and hopefully will turn any negative into a positive,” she said.

Turning negative situations into positive ones is something Alexandra has experience of, having dealt with tabloid exposés on her family and relationships.

But despite the ups and downs she always has the support of her fans, or ‘Beasties’, and Tweam Burke to keep her smiling.

 “If I want to be around in 20 or 30 years’ time I need to grow with my fans, we need to grow together,” she said.

When talking about the album, it’s clear that Alexandra is immensely proud of it having secured the likes of Erick Morillo and DJ Smash to collaborate.

Having executive produced Heartbreak on Hold she has also had more control over the direction of the album which differs from that of her double platinum debut album.

The album features a variety of uplifting dance and Euro-house inspired tracks including Elephant and Let It Go.  

“It’s a blessing to do the second album. Overcome was about overcoming obstacles, but Heartbreak on Hold is about taking more risks and loving life,” she said.

The concluding track What Money Can’t Buy, co-written when she was just 18, lowers the tempo of the album.

The simple arrangement of her soulful voice along with piano accompaniment reminds listeners of her impressive vocal abilities which helped clinch the X Factor title.

She added: “My favourite song on the album is What Money Can’t Buy which is the closing song on the album. I’ll never reveal what it’s about as it’s very personal and emotional.”

When discussing inspirations on the UK music scene Alexandra conceded there were many talented artists out there but was impressed most by Ed Sheeran.

She said: “I love how effortless he is.  He just rocked up to the Brit Awards wearing a t-shirt and jeans and performed effortlessly.”

And when talking about the proudest moment in her short but successful career Alexandra said that it was at her home in London.

She said: “When I received my first album in my hands in my little flat. Everyone was in tears as I read out the thank you page.

“I will never forget that moment.”

And with a big grin on her face Alexandra swept out of the room to meet and greet her beloved Beasties.

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