Lamitschka: Music has many new fans throughout Europe who
may be hearing about you for the first time. How would you describe
yourself and the music you play to someone who has never seen or
heard you?
Ilse DeLange: Heartfelt songs and humor. Come see us!
Lamitschka: How was the ESC for you? What were your
highlights?
Ilse DeLange: To see the Dutch flag next to the song title
was a goosebump moment, that you really feel proud to represent your
country. The moment we went to the finals was great and every time
we got points during the finals.
Lamitschka: What is your latest CD and how’s it doing?
Ilse DeLange: “The Common Linnets” is the name of our
record. It’s doing extremely well in our country, number 1 for 3
weeks now, double platinum. All across Europe the record is doing
very well.
Lamitschka: How did you choose the title for the CD?
Is there a story behind the name?
Ilse DeLange: A “Linnet” is a songbird in the eastern
part of the Netherlands where I am from so I thought that would be a
nice reference.
Lamitschka: Your current single is being played by radio.
What do you feel is special about this song that makes people want to
hear it?
Ilse DeLange: I think it describes a situation everyone
knows and can relate to. The question mark about if the relationship
you are in should stay intact or if it is better to part.
Lamitschka: What will your next single be?
Ilse DeLange: Don’t know yet.
Lamitschka: What kind of songs do you like to record the
most?
Ilse DeLange: Sad songs mostly.
Lamitschka: Who inspires you musically and how deep do your
musical roots run?
Ilse DeLange: A lot of people. Dolly Parton, Patty
Griffin, Emmylou Harris.
Lamitschka: What inspired you to become an artist?
Ilse DeLange: I think you are born that way.
Lamitschka: What inspired you to become a songwriter?
Ilse DeLange: Other great songwriters.
Lamitschka: What drives you?
Ilse DeLange: That I can express my emotions through music.
Lamitschka: What’s unique about you that will differentiate
you from other artists?
Ilse DeLange: I think everyone is unique. You just have to
stay true to who you are.
Lamitschka: When you get time off, how do you like to relax?
Ilse DeLange: Series! Food.
Lamitschka: Is there anything in your life that you would
change if you could?
Ilse DeLange: No. I’m right where I want to be.
Lamitschka: What hopes and desires do you have?
Ilse DeLange: To stay healthy. Be loved and love. Smile a
lot! And musically I hope we can have sustainable success so we can
tour and play the record live.
Lamitschka: What can your fans expect to see when they
see you in concert?
Ilse DeLange: A very dynamic concert, from very serene
intimate songs to very rocking stuff. And humor. That’s important
as well.
Lamitschka: Many music fans today get their information
about artists online. Do you have your own website and what will fans
find there?
Ilse DeLange: Yes, that is: www.thecommonlinnets.com
Lamitschka: How do you feel about being winning the 2. place
of the ESC? What has it done for your career?
Ilse DeLange: It gave us a chance to get international
success. I’m so thankful for that opportunity. Coming in 2nd
is fantastic, perfect.
Lamitschka: Fans are always hungry for good road stories. Do
you have one you can share with us (come on don’t be shy)?
Ilse DeLange: Ow. I lost my golden shoes that day before
the finals of Eurovision! We had shoes delivered from Amsterdam on
the day of the final.
Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine