Today, we have a special guest – West End star, the incomparable singer and actress Louise Dearman. Her unique vocal talent and dramatic range have won the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide. Known for her outstanding roles in iconic musicals such as “Wicked,” where she is the only actress to have played both Glinda and Elphaba, Louise has also graced the stages of major shows like “Evita,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Cats,” and “Grease.”

Louise has just released her latest musical creation, a heartfelt rendition of Duran Duran’s “Ordinary World.” Filled with emotion and genuine passion, this cover is set to resonate with listeners far and wide. In our conversation, Louise shares insights into her creative process, her experiences performing live, and her aspirations for the future.

photo by @louisedearmanofficial

V. Hello, Louise! You have such a beautiful name that I can’t help but ask if there is a special story or meaning associated with it?

Louise is my real name, not a stage name I’m proud to say…my mum loved the name…and thus, I was blessed with Louise Dearman. It’s served me well.

V. Our readers would like to get to know you better. Could you tell us a little about the “backstory” that inspired you to interpret such a classic hit as “Ordinary World”?

Born in ‘79, I was a child of the 80’s with all the incredible artists and influences that era gave us. I loved Duran Duran’s ‘Ordinary World’ and have recently met lots of people who love it too and rate it as a part of the soundtrack of their life. I wanted to cover a song that has a great pedigree and fanbase of its own and I’m really glad I made this choice. I love it!

V. What does “Ordinary World” mean to you in the context of your life and career?

I just adore the lyrics to this song! I’m sure when I heard it in my youth it meant something different to what it means to me now. Ask me again in 5 years and it’ll mean something different again. There is a survival theme in the song and I relate to that as I navigate my career with all the twists and turns.

V. The music video for “Ordinary World” looks impressive. How did you work on creating its atmosphere?

The atmosphere on set was calm and supportive and that’s how I was able to get in the zone and find my focus. The backdrops and colours we used felt very inspiring to me and it was easy to forget I was standing in front of a large LED screen.

V. What inspired you to choose this particular song for a cover?

I believe that classic songs should be celebrated and I share this philosophy with Singers Inc. Records, who only produce cover versions in a unique and creative way. The forthcoming 2025 album ‘Trinity’ that ‘Ordinary World’ will appear on is full of glorious covers by various British artists and I can’t wait to stand shoulder to shoulder with all that vocal talent!

V. How did you adapt “Ordinary World” to your style, and what changes did you make to the original version?

I think for the most part we stayed true to the essence of the song that Duran Duran created. It’s still recognisable on first listen. The melody and hook all intact. It’s not a radical cover. The female voice adds a new dimension and I felt like I was able to lean into a vocal where I could share my range. I hope Duran Duran like it!

photo by @louisedearmanofficial

V. Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your musical journey that had a significant impact on you?

I began my Theatre career in my teens, but was fortunate to develop myself as a singer/songwriter in my 20’s with many producers and fellow writers who inspired and helped me grow and create great songs. It was a really special period for me and I discovered who I was an artist.

V. Which projects are you especially proud of and why?

My album ‘Here comes the Sun’ is a highlight of my career. It took me away from Theatre and once again led me to the work of my childhood heroes, Annie Lennox, Alison Moyet & Des’ree to name but a few. It was incredibly well received and I know that it lives on in my fans playlists which is comforting!

V. What are the most interesting or exciting projects you are currently working on?

Well right now I’m really excited about Ordinary World, and my follow up single ‘The Scientist’ (Coldplay). These tracks are both on the ‘Trinity’ album and I know we have a lot of promo, live performances, listening parties ahead so I’m excited to see all of that come to fruition. It’s been great fun so far but lots of adventures ahead!

V. Is there anyone in the world you would like to have breakfast or lunch with privately, and why?

My idol is Celine Dion. I respect every part of what she has achieved in her career. Her discipline and most of all – the voice!! She’s just incredible in every way and to sit down and talk with her would be the greatest honour!

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