I had a chance to have a little chat with Bela from Bela Takes Chase earlier today… What struck me the most is her straight forward attitude, honesty and a very charming (and hopefully infectious) radiance. I have seen Bela live twice already, and when she sings, time literally stops. The innocence hinting towards Emiliana Torrini gets me hooked instantly every single time. In other words, the girl is absolutely hypnotising!

Hey Bela, what have you been up to today? 
I’ve actually been out to see some morning jazz, the brilliant Jeanette Mason, with no alcohol involved (ok, a little alcohol involved)…

What does your daily routine look like?
Getting out of bed in an appropriate and sophisticated manner or manor always helps, perhaps gym, and then music… Then music, then some more…

What’s the reaction been so far to your upcoming single Radiate?
Very overwhelming, very humbling. People seem to be really taking to it, which is great!

What’s the meaning/ story behind Radiate?
There’s many, I think. We are all looking for home and freedom and that place of belonging.

When you perform live, you usually wear a Native American head-piece. Does it symbolise anything in particular? Is there a story behind it?
My father is American and when I was twelve we went back to live there. For a while we were travelling and we saw a lot of native American history which I really loved and to me that head dress signifies a certain strength and courage. Also, I loved Tiger Lilly from Peter Pan when growing up.

You tend to perform with a band and on your own. Which do you prefer and which is more you?
Each is very different and unique in their own way and I love doing both. They feel very different and it takes a different kind of performance, so each is just as important… I like both.

You’re originally from Australia. What made you move to London and why?
Well, I am fairly pasty, so I thought I would fit in more over here… And also I needed to go to a big city to find out who I was, what kind of music I wanted to be making, and overall be challenged whilst being on my own. Plus I’m a sucker for grey rainy days…

What’s been the best music-related experience for you so far and why?
Basically being able to do what I am doing. I’ve played some great festivals and gigs, I’ve been able to release my two EPs and a 3rd in May. I’ve got a great band who come everywhere with me and the whole thing is an amazing experience.

Can you tell us one interesting fact about yourself that people don’t know about?
If I see spit on the pavement I gag in my mouth… Every time.  Who does that?

Well, we all have our unique behaviours and reactions to every-day life…
If you could do a collaboration with any living musician, who would it be and why?
Hmmmm lots….Paul Simon for sure!! Chris Cornell, Alt J…oh so many. I just supported To Kill a King. Last Year I was listening to Ralph’s lyrics, and now I’m supporting him! Would be fantastic to do a song with them…

What are your plans for 2014? 
So much is planned! My single will be out in February, followed by the next one in May. I’ve got some great festivals lined up and some collaborations. Hopefully trying to get as much music out this year as I possibly can.

Thank you so much Bela, and for those who have’t heard her upcoming new single yet, here it is: Radiate
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