Ellie Goulding on Singapore, receiving panties and being slightly bananas

What’s the real Ellie Goulding like as a person? 

My friends would describe me as funny, caring, and slightly bananas. I guess that’s about right!

Fame has a price. What do you miss most since becoming famous?

I miss not having paparazzi at my door. I mean, I’m really grateful for my fans and for what I have, but sometimes you just wish that you can have a normal dinner with your boyfriend without having people taking photos of you all the time. 

Do you get stage fright? If so, how do you tackle it?

I do get nervous. But I try to overcome that by doing warm-ups—vocal ones, and even physical warm-ups like push-ups and skipping with my band.

What do you enjoy most about performing?

I love seeing the audience lose themselves in the song. I love the fact that my music can transport people to somewhere else—watching them sway to the music with their hands in the air is just amazing. 

Who are some of your favorite musicians?

I love love love Björk—she’s my absolute favorite. My friends like Katy Perry also produce great music. I enjoy lots of EDM tunes as well. 

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever received from a fan?

I receive lots of underwear, but I guess that’s a normal occurrence. I also get a lot of jewelry, collages and handmade stuff—especially so when I’m in Japan. Oh, and I receive lots of marriage proposals—hundreds, if not thousands of them! 

What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done on tour?

The usual stuff like partying and hanging out. Oh, I did try skydiving in Dubai—I’m actually really scared of heights, and it was terrifying but so amazing at the same time.

What are some of your guilty pleasures?

Sweets and chocolate. And Champagne—although that’s not a guilty pleasure, I don’t think! 

What did you enjoy most during your last trip to Singapore in 2013?

I had some great meals when I was in Singapore, but I was mostly very impressed by how clean the city is!


Ellie Goulding will be performing on June 13, 8pm, at The Star Performing Arts Theatre. $68 to $148 from SISTIC.