In a candid new interview, Sharleen Spiteri, the iconic lead singer of Scottish rock band Texas, has opened up about the challenges she faced as a young woman in the music industry.
| Sharleen Spiteri | Scottish singer and guitarist |
|---|---|
| Birth and Origin | Born on 7 November 1967 in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire, Scotland; originally from Finnieston, Glasgow, Scotland. |
| Best Known As | Lead singer of the rock band Texas. |
| Contralto Vocal Range | Possesses a contralto vocal range. |
| Worldwide Album Sales | 40 million records sold worldwide by 2013. |
| Solo Career | Released solo albums ‘Melody‘ in 2008 and ‘The Movie Songbook‘ in 2010. |
| Genres | Works across alternative rock, pop, rock, jazz, and soul music genres. |
| Years Active | 1988–present in the music industry. |
The 56-year-old frontwoman revealed that she was told to change her appearance and style choices immediately after the band was signed to a record label in the late 1980s.
Pressure to Conform
“As soon as we got signed, there was this pressure to fit into a certain mold,” Spiteri recalled. “I was told my look wasn’t quite right, that I needed to dress differently and maybe even change my hair.”
The singer, known for her signature jet-black hair and bold fashion sense, admitted that the criticism was difficult to hear as a young artist trying to make her mark.
However, Spiteri refused to compromise her identity for the sake of success.
I knew I had to stay true to myself, she said. I wasn’t going to change who I was just because some record executive thought I should look a certain way.
Defying Expectations
Despite the pressure to conform, Spiteri and her bandmates in Texas went on to achieve massive success, selling over 40 million records worldwide and scoring numerous hit singles, including “I Don’t Want a Lover,” “Say What You Want,” and “Black Eyed Boy.“
Spiteri credits her unwavering sense of self for helping her navigate the often-treacherous waters of the music industry.
I think part of our success came from the fact that we didn’t try to be something we weren’t, she explained. We stayed true to our roots and our own unique style, and people responded to that authenticity.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Now, as a veteran of the music scene, Spiteri hopes her story will inspire young artists, particularly women, to stand their ground and refuse to be molded by industry expectations.
It’s so important to believe in yourself and your own vision, she emphasized. Don’t let anyone tell you that you need to change who you are to make it in this business.
Spiteri’s message comes at a time when the music industry is facing increased scrutiny over its treatment of women, with many artists speaking out about the sexism and double standards they have encountered throughout their careers.
As Texas prepares to release their latest album and embark on a new tour, Spiteri remains a beacon of resilience and individuality, proving that success and staying true to oneself are not mutually exclusive.
I’m still here, still making music, and still being me, she said with a smile. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
The Glasgow Times, “Texas star Sharleen Spiteri told to change look for success”, April 23, 2024.
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