Beverley has a holistic approach to her diet and wellbeing

Since exploding onto the music scene with the hit track Made it Back, there’s been no stopping her. Three albums and three Mobo awards later, Beverley Knight is determined to carve her niche in the music industry. Her new album, Who I Am features the excellent first single, Get Up and creative input from producers such as D-Influence, Dodge and C-Swing. This talented sister, who insists on singing live whenever she can, has certainly proved she’s part of UK music history.

Beverley visits the gym regularly

How did you prepare yourself to promote this new album?
‘There was no radical change, it’s just been a natural progression. The biggest change was that I grew my hair and changed the colour. It’s a combination of burnt orange, red and blonde streaks that emphasises the cut and texture of my hair. I also wanted to make a complete life change, so I gave my health and fitness regime an overhaul and now have a more holistic approach towards my diet and wellbeing. You have to be physically fit and mentally astute to be in this business, so I go to the gym regularly. If you want the best, you have to look the best.’

Have you changed your clothing style to compliment your toned appearance?
‘I’ve always liked cropped tops but never felt comfortable wearing them. It’s not just about getting in shape and physically looking good, you have to gain the confidence to wear this style. Now that I realise they look good on me, I wear them on stage to keep me cool.’

Beverley's favourite feature is her eyes, which she enhances with eyeshadow

'Iman make-up is gorgeous,' says Beverley

What is your most attractive feature?
‘Most people remember my eyes, because they’re huge. I look at people intently when I’m talking with them. I’ve always loved my eyes – they portray everything about me and it’s easy to apply eye make-up. When I was younger, everyone would compliment me on my large eyes, but as I got older, my eyesight gradually deteriorated and I wear specs, which can be a bit problematic.’

What is your essential make-up item?
‘MAC Lip Glass without a doubt. It really gives you glossy lips. Although I like all of their products, I would choose Iman products initially as they are gorgeous.’

MAC Lip Glass is a make-up essential

Beverley thinks Top Shop is wicked!

Would you consider growing your hair long again?
‘Yes, but at the moment, I’m happy with this length. I like to have texture, so that I can adapt and style my hair. When I had long hair I would hide behind it, as I wasn’t as confident as I am now. So I became really empowered when I cut it short and dyed it red, and I felt I was making a strong statement.’

How do you cope with a bad hair day?
‘That happens every time I leave the gym. You just hope nobody sees you in your horrible, baggy tracksuit bottoms! I feel more confident now and will either hide it under a hat or make it part of my look. Star quality is nothing to do with appearance, it’s about charisma. A certain attitude makes people notice a star, so you don’t always have to look pristine.’

Do wear designer labels or high street fashions?
‘Either. My clothes could be from a small boutique in Soho or Top Shop – which is wicked. Whatever – if it works for me, I’ll wear it.’

Was it a culture shock moving from Wolverhampton to London?
‘Completely different. It’s taken me years to get used to living in London and I will always be a Wolverhamptoner at heart. However, I don’t think I would go back as I’ve adapted to the fast pace here in London, and living somewhere slower would be too difficult right now. When I moved here, I embraced London’s fashion style as it was an inspiration to me.’

How do you think the UK public perceives you?
‘I hope they see an assertive, opinionated and single-minded woman from the Midlands. My accent is slowly disappearing – which I’m not too happy about – and becoming rather middle England!’

Where did your style of wearing one long earring originate from?
‘That earring is my lucky charm! My stylist bought it for me from the Pineal Eye in Broadwick St, Soho. You’ve got to have lots of confidence to wear some of their mad designs. If I really like something, I’ll get attached to it, even if everyone thinks I’m silly. I’m not wearing the earring now because I’ve been to the gym, but it’s in my bag. Two years ago, when I was about to go on stage to perform for Children in Need, I realised that I wasn’t wearing my earring so I asked my best friend to fetch it from the dressing room because I couldn’t go on without it!’