Kerry Ellis

1) Introduce yourself

My name is Kerry Ellis. I've been in music for over twenty years, starting my career in musical theatre. I've released several albums by myself and with my collaborator, Brian May. I won't list them all, but you can check them out online.

2) In terms of musical artists, who are your biggest inspirations and why?

So I guess inspiration wise, I grew up listening to tonnes of music. My dad was quite a rocker - I grew up listening to Meat Loaf and Bonnie Tyler, so I had a real love of music. I've got a huge music collection. So I listen to Les Miserables, and lots of other musicals. Also, when I met Brian, I got to do a lot of work with Queen, and Brian inspired me massively. I have worked with him loads over the years; he's really been a massive influence and driving factor in my career.

3) You've starred in theatre shows for the West End and Broadway, and had to sing in them. How do you prepare your voice? 

In preparing for a role, I try to be as equipped as possible. I do as much research as I can; I like to learn about the characters, the show, the music... but also try and go in with a fresh approach - bring a bit of myself to it and try not to be too influenced by other people. I try to be honest - give a truthful performance... and that's kind of it.

4) What does music mean to you?

Music is my life. It is my career, my world. I love it. I think it is just everything. I'm almost distracted when music is on. I love different kinds of styles. I enjoy singing all kinds of styles, and I think throughout my music career I have changed and evolved and I think that reflects in the album.

5) How do you react with, and to, fans?

Fans are interesting. I think social media has completely changed the way that people interact with fans. I think it is a great thing. Y'know, years ago, you used to have to write a letter and it would get sent to the agent, eventually the artist and then back to you, or to a theatre. Whereas now, social media is just so instant. It's really amazing, and I love it. It gives you a sense of who is out there and supporting you, and I really enjoy that.

6) What do your fans mean to you?

My supporters and fans mean the world to me. I wouldn't have my live shows and album sales if it wasn't for the supporters and fans. I am really fortunate to have followers who have followed me for years, and also it's always wonderful when you pick up new people. They're really great, I value their opinions. Again, social media is amazing because you can find out what fans like, what they want to hear - it's really quite useful.

7) Have you got anything coming up in the future that you're excited about?

So coming up in the future... I have... I'm currently working on a little independent merchandise album that will only be available at my gigs. I'm going to take it out to Japan - I'm going there at the end of February to do some concerts there.I'm also performing in Milan at a similar time. And then I have a big tour coming up in summer, around April with an orchestra and a band, singing Queen songs which is joyous - all around the country. We're playing arenas. Lots of concerts and lots more recordings, I'm doing an originals album and also back in the studio with Brian - so lots going on!

8) Is there somebody in your life that you would like to thank? Somebody that you couldn't have done it all without?

I am really fortunate to have an amazing family network. My parents, when I was younger, took me around the globe, classes and supported my choice. And they continue to do so. Obviously now I'm married and have two kids - it's a sacrifice sometimes because I have to go away to perform, and I'm a working parent. And that's hard. You have to split your time between your family and a career you love... and that's difficult. That's a sacrifice for all of us. But like I said, I'm lucky. Hopefully, I hope it shows my kids that to support a family and do a career that you love is really important.