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Music Interview


Alexandra Burke

© Kevin Rosdale /LOOK

Alexandra Burke

When Alexandra Burke arrived to our interview dressed in purple Nike shorts and matching top, we'll admit that minor panic set in.

After explaining that she is currently promoting the new Nike+ Kinect training game for Xbox, we thought it'd be rude if we didn't join her for a quick workout session before finding out what else she's been up to of late.

15 minutes of dodgeball and high knee-raise sprints later, we sat down with her - gasping for air - to get the latest.

Hello Alexandra, we've just been exercising with you using Nike+ Kinect and now we're exhausted, so thanks for that.
"Me too! I've only just started doing this. Now I need to get my brother do it with me - he's a proper sport freak, so I know he'll love it."

We're assuming you got involved with it as a way of keeping fit?
"The thing is, I'm genuinely never motivated to go to the gym, but this means I can do it in my living room and keep my onesie on. Obviously, I need to keep my fitness levels up when I'm on tour or playing shows, and there's only so much breathing exercises can do!"

And judging by your posts on Twitter, you're a very busy woman at the moment...
"I love having almost too much to do - I'm waking up at 5am - 6am every day at the moment. Obviously there's nothing worse than having to trek down to the gym at that time. Trust me, if I can fit this in my life, anyone can."

Alexandra Burke Nike+ Kinect

Alexandra Burke playing Nike+ Kinect

You've also mentioned that you're in the studio quite a lot.
"Literally, studio. It's where you'll find me round the clock at the moment! I'm actually going there after this interview. I'm recording in America next week and I've built a studio in my home as well. At the moment, I don't think I've ever been so focused. I'm really focusing on this third album, but I'm looking at getting into acting as well and starting a fitness clothing line."

How far along is the album?
"I can't say when it'll be finished because I honestly have no idea. I've always said I'm never going to rush into something - it's about the quality that goes into it. I'm really happy that RCA have let me concentrate on it and spend time writing it rather than rushing another album six months after my last one. There's a big focus on live instruments this time - I'm starting to learn to play the keys."

Were you pleased with how Heartbreak on Hold played out?
"I loved that album. I loved the positivity behind it. This new album is very different - I'm listening to Aretha, Gladys Knight, Billie Holiday. I'm being inspired by the greats - particularly those who may have been forgotten by my generation. All I want to do is sing and have people hear my voice. If that means slowing things down then so be it... although I do love to dance!"

You mentioned earlier that you were getting into acting; what sort of roles would you like to take on?
"I'm taking classes at the moment, but my recent charity performance for Les Mis really inspired me. It was a real honor. I'm still looking for the right thing - whether it be films, musicals, theatre - but it's a part of my life I need to start taking more seriously.

If a spot opens on this year's X Factor judging panel, would you be up for it?
"Can I just say, Louis ain't going anywhere! I really would consider it. Once was definitely not enough, it gave me a taste for it. If the opportunity came about I would love it - to go out there and find the next music star would be a fantastic experience. If Simon asked I would definitely consider it - it would be an honor."

Alexandra Burke showcased how to get in shape at home with Nike+ Kinect Training exclusively for Xbox. It offers a personalised workout experience controller-free, no matter the fitness goal. Find out more at

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