Louise returns with “Stretch”!
by Mark Keen
With Louise about to relaunch her solo career after a sixteen year gap we thought it was time to revisit the early days. Louise obviously started her career in Eternal in 1993, but after a few hits she flew the nest in 1995. We never really knew why, but she soon made an impact. Louise’s debut single “Light Of My Life” was a lovely ballad with a stunning video filmed on the beach as many of the best videos are. Louise took it to number eight in the UK. It was co-written and produced by Simon Climie of Climie Fisher fame as was much of the first album.
The follow up “In Walked Love” was a catchier track, but faltered in the UK charts at number 17. The track is noticeable for being written by the indomitable Diane Warren, a rare upbeat track from her. This was previously recorded by the American group Expose in 1992. Louise’s solo career would really take off with “Naked” peaking at number 5 in the UK in 1996. It was viewed as a bit saucy as the time. It was the 1990’s.
Louise would capitalise on this success with another top 5 hit “Undivided Love” . Again Simon Climie receives a song writing credit. Louise would complete her first album campaign with the number 9 hit “One Kiss From Heaven”. The debut album “Naked” released in July 1996 peaked at number 7 in the UK and went platinum.
Louise took a quick break and returned in 1997 with “Arms Around The World” hitting number 4. Louise then released a well chosen cover with “Let’s Go Round Again” which is one of her best selling tracks. The original was released in 1980 by The Average White Band. Yell also released a version in 1990. The third and final single from the sophomore album came with “All That Matters” in 1998 which reached number 11. The “Woman In Me” album hit the number 5 spot and again achieved platinum status.
Louise would have a break for a couple of years, but would make a great return with a single which had plenty to say and received more critical acclaim than Louise had previously managed. “2 Faced” peaked at number 3 in 2000 becoming Louise’s biggest hit. Louise co-wrote the track and whilst we don’t know who it was directed at, there was plenty of speculation, and it was helped by a great video. The follow up “Beautiful Inside” was another stand out track reaching number 13 and giving Louise another song writing credit. Louise had obviously taken control of her career and this was confirmed with the “Echo Beach” album which reached number 12 achieving silver status. Whilst the album was not as commercially successful as her previous two albums it was nevertheless a personal and critical triumph. It’s a shame no more singles were released from the album.
Louise would return in 2001 with the top ten gold greatest hits album “Changing Faces – The Best Of Louise”. The album contained three new tracks including the huge hit “Stuck In The Middle”, a cover of the well known Stealers Wheel 1970’s hit as well as a cover of the great Five Star hit “The Slightest Touch”. Louise showed she good have a good laugh with the video for “Stuck In The Middle” spoofing Reservoir Dogs.
A couple of years would pass before Louise released the double header; “Pandora’s Box/Don’t Give Up”. Whilst this hit the top 5 and raised money for charity Louise would soon disappear into family life with Jamie Rednapp. Who wouldn’t I ask myself???? The third studio album never appeared and remains unreleased.
Louise would return to the limelight in 2016 with a turn on ‘strictly come dancing’ and this obviously relit Louise’s creative ambitions after raising a family. Subsequently Louise did a couple of well received live shows and signed a new deal. The “Heavy Love” album is expected later in the year with the first single “Stretch” released today! Let’s wish Louise well! We’re ready to go around with you again!
Stay in touch with Louise through her WEBSITE and her FACEBOOK page
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