AFTER her dramatic departure from Eastenders, Preeya Kalidas, known to millions as the loveable ‘Amira’ from Eastenders is gearing up for the release her new track ‘Shimmy’ later this month. The up-tempo song features Brit star Mumzy Stranger, described as the UK’s answer to Sean Paul, and has been remixed by Rishi Rich. With the song already receiving rave reviews we caught up with Preeya for a quick chat…
Preeya, congratulations on ‘Shimmy’. How are you feeling ahead of its release?
Nervous but very excited! I can’t wait; I really can’t believe my dreams are coming true!
How would you describe the song?
It’s something I like to call ‘Triple S pop’ SASSY, SEXY AND SOULFUL!
Why a collaboration? And why specifically Mumzy?
I always love listening to music especially modern RnB , and I’ve always loved how vocalists collaborate with MC’s on their records so I thought why not incorporate the same into my record! I am a Proud British Asian, so choosing Mumzy Stranger, one of the most talented and popular British Asian artist was an easy choice!
Your debut album is due later this year. What can we expect from the album?
My album will have a great collection of songs, especially great dance records which I hope everyone will enjoy.
Any tasty collaborations on the album?
I have another song on the album which Mumzy features on but apart from that there are no other collaborations however I have been fortunate enough to have ‘ Labyrinth and ‘Naughty boy’ produce some great tracks for me.
Some may remember the catchy ‘Shakalaka Baby’ from Bombay Dreams in 2002 – the song did extremely well then; did you not want to pursue a full blown music career at that stage?
Music was and still is my first love but at that time I was so young and had so many opportunities in front of me so I wanted to keep my options open, but I am glad now that I am finally achieving my dreams.
Eastenders; huge soap. It must have been a hard decision to leave
Yes it was difficult but music has always been my first love…
You did a bit of signing in an episode of Eastenders – how did that go down with your fellow cast members?
I loved it however I was very reluctant at first. The cast and crew heard me singing off set one day and loved it so they forced me into it…but I’m glad I did it!
Have you had messages of support from your former cast members?
I’ve had so many messages of support from my former cast members especially from my amazing on screen family, Nina Wadia, Nitin Gantra and Marc Elliot.
Is the acting on a back burner now?
For the time being yes but never say never, but for now it’s all about music music music!
You’re doing the Mela circuit at the moment; that must be fun
It’s been great fun! The crowds have been absolutely amazing and it’s been so much fun travelling with Mumzy and H-Dhami, I can’t wait till the next one!
Finally, what have you got lined up in the coming months?
My single ‘Shimmy’ featuring Mumzy Stranger is out 26th July and my second single off the album will be released in November which we will be shooting the video for in September. Until then you can catch me performing at all the mela’s this summer with Mumzy, make sure you come down and see us!
Preeya’s debut single ‘Shimmy’ featuring Mumzy Stranger is out 26th July
Interview by Zakia Yousaf