Belinda Carlisle
‘Summer Rain Porch Thoughts’
Across several continents, Belinda Carlisle’s songs have been appreciated, quoted, sung at Karaoke bars and otherwise re-iterated on so many platforms including our very own, ‘Dancing with the stars’. Her music conveys messages of humanity, from simple fun through to nature, personal struggles, relationships and everything in between.
With worldwide hits including, ‘Heaven is A Place On Earth’ and ‘Summer Rain’, her career has had varied highs and lows in the global spotlight. Having overcome many challenges early on to achieve enormous popularity among her millions of fans around the world, her 30 year journey is to be admired for its resilience and resistance to conform to the trappings of fame or fortune.
In the narrative of her 2010 memoir ‘Lips Unsealed,’ Belinda described her eventful history stepping into both the dark and light sides of the fame game. Her revealing and frank account of these personal experiences both educates her readers and inspires those who may want to follow her path in the international music industry.
These days, Belinda has welcomed the teachings of Buddhism into her life, and while balancing family life and performance obligations, she has also undertaken training as a Yoga Teacher.
I connected with Belinda as she arrived in Tokyo just prior to the Australian leg of her November/December 2013 tour. Once recovered from jetlag and completing my Porch Thoughts interview, Belinda planned to put the finishing touches on her performances in Japan, before planning her then upcoming appearance at the VRC Oaks Club at the Crown Palladium in Melbourne.
I am sure your heavenly Porch is situated somewhere on Earth. Where do your thoughts drift to when I mention spending time on your Porch?
In Malibu, California! I was born and raised there and have so many great childhood memories. I just love the Pacific Ocean, and, although I’ve been living in France for over 20 years and really enjoy the lifestyle there, I’ve been considering that I may spend some more time in California.
With your family life with your husband and son living in the south of France, does the ‘California’ track from your album, ‘A Woman and A Man’ perhaps highlight an inner conflict surrounding your relocation to Europe in the ‘90’s?
My husband and I had already made the difficult decision just after the New Year in 1994, that we would move to Europe, but I’ll never forget the Northridge earthquake which happened at 4am on a Monday only days later. We’d experienced many tremors in Los Angeles before, of course, but we were packed and out of L.A. by the end of that week. References to the circumstances and personal impact of the Northridge earthquake are captured in the ‘California’ track, particularly with the lyrics ‘It took a lot for me to say I want to walk away, L.A.’
Did you always plan to stay in Paris?
When we first moved to Paris it was only a six-month plan, but we loved it and decided to stay. I’m really not interested in the high-profile attractions of big houses or fancy cars which L.A. is known for, so the European lifestyle has been a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a more ‘normal’ life. This was especially important while raising our son, who’s now all grown up and making his own way in the world.
Reflecting on the lyrics ‘Leave a Light On For Me’, you’ve collaborated with many highly regarded musicians across both American and European continents. Are there other artists with whom you’d particularly like to work if the opportunity presents itself?
I’m always open to collaborating on music projects, and have luckily found song-writers such as Rick Nowels, who somehow manage to ‘get into my head’, coming up with lyrics which capture the exact message I have in mind. I’ve pondered collaborating with Kanye West, as I think he’s a great talent, but I think the Kardashian thing has probably been too much of a distraction recently
Is there an artist closer to Australians’ hearts that you may like to collaborate with?
It’s no secret that I’ve always admired Crowded House’s - Neil Finn. I would love to maybe work with him someday. I think the logistics of that have proven difficult to overcome, though.
You’ve enjoyed creating hit songs and successful albums over 30 years. In your view, have you had any flops or perhaps even stinkers?
Although I have the same admiration for The Beatles as does any other musician, I actually think my cover of John Lennon’s ‘Jealous Guy’ wasn’t a great idea. In fact, I was in a bad place in my life at the time, and I wasn’t happy with some of my choices, including most of that album. Of all my recorded work, I guess that was my ‘stinker’.
You’re not only going to be in Melbourne to perform your own shows, but you have been invited by the Victorian Racing Committee to take to the stage as part of the Oaks Day Luncheon. What has been your experience of Australian audiences and our love for your music?
I’ve found Australian audiences, particularly Melbourne fans, to be really enthusiastic, and I always enjoy performing there. The audience participation and energy are fantastic (sometimes bordering on rabid, which is great!). Between performances, I have a kind of routine, including walking or running along the Yarra River, and I have a few favourite places along Chapel Street.
Among other creative pursuits such as Stage and TV acting, you’ve added the writing of your memoir ‘Lips Unsealed' to your list of achievements. Apart from your artistic work, what else might you have liked to pursue as a career?
Prior to my music career, I had big aspirations to be a travel agent so I could visit places like Asia, India and Eastern countries. I’ve enjoyed being able to do that through my music, especially as I consider myself a bit of a gypsy. I’m glad my work is flexible so my husband and I can sometimes be spontaneous. We’d like to visit Thailand in the not-too-distant future.
What’s the next project in line for you after you tour?
I had a new single come out in May, and have another one due in the [European] Spring. Following an exciting tour in Australia, I’m looking forward to returning to my training as a Yoga Teacher.
You’ve contributed much to an increased respect for female musicians over your long career. What inspiration or advice would you share with younger people who would like to follow in your path?
The music industry has changed a lot since I started, but it’s still most important to believe in your ability. Have a positive attitude and find your own unique way to be creative - and Don’t Do Drugs!!
What is your Porch Thought For The Day?
“No matter where you’re from and what your experience of it, there’s always a desire to return ‘home’ or somewhere that you feel has shaped who you are.”