‘Big Reunion’ chart-topping band Liberty X return for (quite possibly/maybe/maybe not) their final performance at G-A-Y. QX spoke to band member Tony Lundon…
You guys were the initial surprise success from Popstars as you didn’t win the show, and you’re still household names years on. How did that feel to go into the Big Reunion and have the response to your return?
Great. It’s almost as if people can’t remember our origins, which I think is a good thing. Not that we’re ashamed of them – it’s just that all that remains are the songs we put out and the associations people have with those songs: brilliant experiences and moments in their lives.
Where do we stand with the group at the moment, with Michelle about to give birth and you all having your own lives? Have you disbanded?
We are a re-united disbanded band and have genuinely no idea where the road will take us, but we always love a good trip together – if it can tie in with family and other work obligations, which are numerous!
Is it hard to adjust to not being in a pop group?
Not really, the tours felt like a holiday. Great fun while they lasted, but I never want to go back to that full time – I like my life outside of Liberty X. I’m back in it for good times with mates and easy money, and if it can fit in with real life, then long may it continue, but I won’t shed any tears when it ends.
Last year’s Big Reunion was a surprise hit for TV and all involved. Which members of other bands surprised you most?
I wouldn’t say I got to know her really well, but I was impressed by Kerry Katona – she’s straight up, no nonsense and funny as fuck. She works hard for her family and deserves a good life, so I hope things go her way.
Have you got any ‘behind the scenes’ stories to share that didn’t make the media?
The only thing that wrecked my head a bit was when people would call a camera over when they thought they had a genius or hilarious comment to make – like it’s not worth saying unless it’s on camera. Most of those moments ended on the cutting room floor anyway.
You perform at G-A-Y this Saturday. Have you got any particular stand out memories from past gigs there?
Performing ‘Just A Little’ at G-A-Y was one of my “we’ve made it” moments. We hit number 1, the crowd was with us, and the whole week went like a dream. It’s a legendary club to play – always an honour.
GIRL-ON-GIRL WITH JESSICA, KELLI AND MICHELLE…
Jessica on Kelli
Describe her in five words…
Honest, kind, driven, direct and loyal.
Food that best describes her…?
Something spicy containing Tabasco and chilli. Firey hot.
Film title that best describes her…?
Dirty Dancing – because she’s an amazing dancer.
Song that best describes her…?
Michael Jackson’s ‘Billie Jean’ – only because every time I hear it I think of Kelli.
What animal would they be and why…?
Snow Leopard – cool and sleek.
Kelli on Michelle
Describe her in five words…
Organised, sensitive, motivated, girly, reliable.
Food that best describes her…?
Chicken breast – lean, low in fat, carb-free!
Film title that best describes her…?
Pretty Woman.
Song that best describes her…?
‘Brown-eyed Girl’ by Van Morrison.
What animal would they be and why…?
A Lioness because she’s an industrious, fierce working mother!
Michelle on Jessica
Describe her in five words…
Loyal, intelligent, totally trustworthy, straight-up, caring. (OK, maybe that’s technically seven words… but u get me!)
Food that best describes her…?
Crème Brûlée – she wears a shell, but she’s gooey in the middle.
Film title that best describes her…?
There’s Something About Mary – obviously Jess is Mary not the old bird who looks like George Hamilton!
Song that best describes her…?
‘Independent Woman’ by Destiny’s Child.
What animal would they be and why…?
Husky. Capability to be a wolf to take care of her herd… But a soft and gentle animal everyone wants to hug! Everyone loves a Husky!
• Liberty X perform at G-A-Y at Heaven (Villiers Street, Charing Cross, WC2H 6NG) on Saturday 1st February, 10pm–5am. £4 with wristband from G-A-Y Bar.
