We haven’t heard much about Bananarama stateside, in nearly a decade, but don’t think that means they dropped out of the game! In 2005, Bananarama had two #1 dance hits in Europe, and their new album, Drama, is poised to make its mark on American airwaves.
The legendary punk-pop 80’s girl band has a reputation for naughtiness and a ‘break-the-rules’ attitude. To date, Bananarama boasts more hits than the Spice Girls and an induction into the Guiness Book of Records as the most popular girl group since The Supremes.
I had the pleasure of meeting up with Hot Moms Sara and Keren of Bananarama, in Los Angeles, mid-May. (Siobhan has been out of the picture since the 90’s). The ladies were in the midst of a bi-coastal whirlwind, promoting their CD featuring a collection of Ibiza-esque dance tracks.
How did motherhood affect your careeer? Or, Vice Versa?
Sara: I had Alice in ’91 when the bulk of our ‘80’s career’ was out of the way.
Keren: I had Tom in 1986, right at the height of everything. Being the bread-winner, I had to get back to work. I liked not having a 9-5 because I got to spend time with him because I mostly worked at night. Although, we did a lot of traveling. I had to be organized. I did, finally, succumb to a live-in nanny.
Do your children want to follow in your Show Business footsteps?
Sara: Alice, who is now 13, wants to be an actress.
Keren: Tom is in university.
How old were you when you knew you wanted to be in music?
Keren: We were friends since we were kids. We would write songs and tape ourselves singing. I think I always knew.
Sara: For a while, I wanted to be a journalist. I loved writing, books, literature. Now, I write songs.
How do they compare 80’s music with pop bands today? "Today, everyone is swamped by reality TV, and the bands are more manufactured. It’s understandable that they take the opportunities where they get them but they all end up singing songs by the same writers. Pop music has lost the individuality that the 80’s had."
With Drama released, last week, in the US, coinciding with their avalanche of radio and TV interviews, and CD signings in NY and LA, Bananarama is back!
(And, the CD is a super summer must-have. The electro, trance and disco vibes in shakin' songs such as "Move in My Direction" and "Look on the Floor" will be a staple in your car, ipod or beach house cabana. The tunes are darn catchy for moms and kids - don't say we didn't warn you...!)
The following excert comes from Natalie's personal Liquid Muse blog:
During our interview, I asked the ladies about their favorite beverages (to share, of course, with the curious Liquid Muse community). I don’t know why I expected fruity concoctions or fancy French champagne. Bananarama is far too seasoned to be impressed with ‘what’s hot now.’ In fact, being trendsetters is what makes them classic. And, their drinks are classicly British, too.
Here are a few things I learned:
Favorite drinks? Gin and Tonic or “anything vodka-based, like a Sea Breeze”
Favorite bars in London? Sutton House, Groucho, Homehouse
Favorite way to start the day? A cup of tea and a fag.