An interview with Belinda Carlisle: new shows added to her 2027 tour of Oz
Belinda Carlisle has been making music since the early 1980s – first with pop outfit The Go-Gos, and irregularly as a solo artist since the release of her debut LP Heaven On Earth.
Last year, the artist released her latest album, Once Upon A Time In California, featuring ten fresh studio tracks, including a splendid cover of The Hollies’ classic The Air That I Breathe.
In March 2027 Belinda Carlisle will return to Australia to play a series of concerts kicking off in Perth and rounding off in Brisbane. Her sets are sure to include fan favourites such as Mad About You, I Get Weak, Summer Rain, Leave A Light On, La Luna, and perhaps even a few Go-Gos smashes like Our Lips Are Sealed and We Got The Beat… maybe if we ask really nicely?
Like Australia’s Tina Arena, once upon a time Belinda found favour with the French, finding that her records – well, the ones recorded mostly in French – sold better over there. And so she was living between France and the UK when I spoke to her in 2007.
Originally from Los Angeles, I wondered why this blonde bombshell found favour with grey, grey Europe over sunny California?
Hi Belinda. People must be surprised that you’ve spent some time living in France, especially with the old Go-Gos / Valley Girl image we can’t get out of our head.
I admit, people who don’t know are at first a bit surprised because I am a native Californian. But in some ways where I [was living] in France is very similar to California. It’s Province, and it’s the same sort of terrain. It’s like Malibu in the Mediterranean, if you will.
Were there any initial language barriers?
I speak a little French, but singing in French is very different to speaking in English. It was intense at first because not only do you have to think about what you’re saying but also about the proper pronunciation. Making that sort of music now, I don’t have to work in any pop constraints and am allowed to do whatever I want.
What has feedback from your original American market been about your Euro sound?
Of course people have preconceived notions of what the South of France is. When you think of Paris, you think [puts on hoighty-toighty voice] ‘Oh, it’s just oh-so-so-so!’ and I probably would have initially seen things the same way. But for me now, music is a complete adventure. As far as reception goes, I think most people in the States don’t get it, to be honest, but some people do get it.
Well the world’s a global village now. You have more of an international market at your disposal, thanks to the internet.
You would hope so, anyway.
Do you ever perform your old songs live?
I work with The Go-Gos for a couple of weeks out of every year, and have done so since 1990.
Do you still enjoy performing hits like ‘Our Lips Are Sealed’ and ‘Heaven Is A Place On Earth’?
I love all the old material but I don’t think I can add to that genre of pop in my recording.
And what do you think of the current state of pop, constantly rehashing the old hits? I gather you’ve heard the club cover of your single ‘Summer Rain’?
I didn’t know about a ‘Summer Rain’ cover!
You’re kidding? It’s been blasted from club speakers, from LA and London.
Oh… I guess I don’t go out much. But I do know some covers are out there and I have no problem with them.
Back to the current state of music, there’ve been several artists known for doing the crossover French thing, like Tina Arena, Celine Dion… Do you like what you’ve heard of these artists?
I think Celine has an amazing voice but some of it is a bit straight for me. At the end of the day, though, she is French Canadian and when she sings in French she has a killer voice.
What other French music do you like?
I like everything from Jean-Jacques Goldman to Charlotte Gainsbourg. You know, I think the French music scene is by far more interesting than the American scene.
Finally, what’s an average day like in the life of Belinda Carlisle?
Well I’m a wife and a mother now. I have a son [her son James Duke Mason is a writer, LGBT activist and politician] so that’s a big enough family for me. I do yoga pretty much every day. And, let’s see… Oh, I play golf and I like to ski.
Ah, the good life…
C’est la vie, eh?
‘Once Upon A Time In California’ is out through Demon Music.
Show dates for Belinda’s Australian tour in 2027 are as follows:
March 3, 2027 – Fremantle WA, Fremantle Prison
March 5, 2027 – Melbourne VIC, The Palais
March 6, 2027 – Melbourne VIC, The Palais
March 9, 2027 – Adelaide SA, Thebarton Theatre *NEW SHOW
March 12, 2027 – Sydney NSW, Enmore Theatre
March 13, 2027 – Sydney NSW, Enmore Theatre
March 17, 2027 – Newcastle NSW, Civic Theatre *NEW SHOW
March 19, 2027 – Brisbane QLD, Fortitude Music Hall
March 20, 2027 – Brisbane QLD, Fortitude Music Hall
Tickets are available through Abstract Touring.
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Tips for Making a Calm Study Space as an Online Grad Student
Embarking on an online graduate program is an exciting challenge that requires a significant amount of self-discipline and focus, no matter if you’re just out of high school or a mature age student taking on your first study at a tertiary level.
Creating an optimal study space is critical to facilitate learning and maintain the concentration necessary for academic success. For many, the home environment serves as a classroom, making it imperative to carve out a serene and motivating study zone. Below, we discuss essential tips for transforming any nook into a peaceful retreat conducive to the rigors of grad studies. Keep reading to discover how to fashion a calm and conducive learning environment regardless of your living space.
Creating a Dedicated Study Area for Online Grad Students
Securing a designated space for academic endeavors centralizes your study materials and creates a psychological boundary between schoolwork and leisure. It doesn’t require an entire room; even a small desk in a quiet corner can serve as your personal academic hub. The goal is to associate this area with productivity and learning, helping your mind to switch gears when you sit down to study.
Personalizing your study area with motivational quotes, goal lists, and a calendar can also provide inspiration and keep you on track. It is beneficial to make your study space ergonomic, with a comfortable chair and desk at the right height to prevent strain during long study sessions. Ergonomics are key in creating a sustainable and comfortable study experience.
The appearance of clutter can cause distraction while studying for your IT master’s degree, which is why organization is fundamental. Invest in shelving or drawers to keep your study materials in order. Having all your resources at arm’s reach minimizes disruptions during your study sessions, thereby enhancing concentration.
Finally, ensure that your study area is well-stocked with the basics: pens, paper, chargers, and textbooks. A well-prepared study area prevents the unnecessary stress of looking for study materials when you’re trying to focus, thereby optimizing your study time and efficiency.
Incorporating Nature and Greenery to Boost Study Calmness
A little touch of greenery can do wonders for a study space. Plants not only add a splash of life to your surroundings but they also have stress-reducing properties, which is beneficial when tackling complex material. The act of caring for plants can also offer a much-needed break from screen time.
If maintaining real plants seems daunting, consider integrating artificial trees into your study area. They provide the aesthetic benefits without the upkeep, helping to create a tranquil space where you can focus on your studies.
Natural elements can extend beyond just plant life; incorporating natural textures and materials, such as wood or stone, can simulate the calming effect of nature. These choices subtly contribute to a sense of peace and focus in your online grad student study space.
Evidence suggests that even viewing images of nature can have a calming effect. Try setting your desktop background to a serene landscape or hang a picture of a natural vista in your study area to remind yourself of the great outdoors, infusing a sense of tranquility into your space.
The Impact of Lighting and Color on Concentration and Calm
Lighting plays a crucial role in your ability to study effectively. Natural light is the best option, as it boosts mood and energy, improving cognitive function and reducing eye strain. If possible, position your study space near a window to take advantage of daylight hours.
When daylight is not an option, invest in quality desk lamps that mimic natural light. Avoid harsh fluorescent lighting as it can lead to discomfort and eye strain. A lamp with adjustable intensity can provide the versatility to suit different times of the day and various study tasks.
Color psychology also impacts your study space. Blue hues are often associated with productivity and calm, making them an ideal choice for a study environment. Similarly, green can induce a sense of balance and harmony—yet another reason to include plant life in your workspace.
When choosing the color of lighting and decor, consider opting for warm tones, which can provide a cozy and comforting atmosphere that’s conducive to long periods of concentrated study. A harmoniously lit and colored study space can greatly enhance your learning and retention.
Altogether, setting up an optimized study space is a combination of practical functionality and personal comfort. Adapting each element of your study area can have profound effects on your online learning experience. With the right atmosphere, you can delve into your graduate studies with a masterful focus, taking strides toward your degree with peace and purpose.
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