Singer and actress Jamelia has revealed exclusively on The Queerly Breakfast Show that new music is on the way this year, marking her return to recording after a two-decade hiatus. The Birmingham-born star shared the news during a candid interview with Queerly’s Rob Gillett, where she discussed her role in the new BBC Three dark comedy series ‘Just Act Normal’.
Set to premiere on BBC Three and iPlayer from Wednesday, 16th April, ‘Just Act Normal’ features Jamelia as ‘Fake Jackie’, a character she describes as “absolutely insane” and “nothing like me”. The show centres around three children whose mother goes missing, with Jamelia’s character bringing lightness to the otherwise dark storyline.
Birmingham Pride
One of the most touching moments of the interview came when Jamelia spoke about filming in her hometown. “Honestly, to film in the Midlands, to be working alongside Birmingham-based actors, directors and crew, it was my first time for a lot of those things. And it was just so heartwarming,” she shared.
The MOBO award-winning artist emphasised the importance of showcasing Birmingham stories: “The show kind of showcases a working-class Birmingham, inner-city Birmingham lifestyle that I think a lot of people don’t get to see.”
“It was absolutely one of the things that drew me to the project,” Jamelia added.
From ‘Superstar’ to Screen
During the interview, Rob and Jamelia reflected on the enduring success of her hit single ‘Superstar’, which continues to receive millions of streams monthly and has taken her “all over the world.”
“Superstar has taken me all over the world. I’ve had number ones with it in Australia, New Zealand, Thailand. I’ve been all over Europe with it,” Jamelia revealed. “I think it was the most played song on radio in 2005.”
New Music Coming
In an exclusive announcement that will delight fans, Jamelia confirmed she’s been back in the studio: “I’ve gone back into the studio. I’ve been in the studio this week, loving it.” When asked directly about plans for new music, she promised, “You will be getting new music this year. I promise you, you will be getting it this year.”
Watch and Listen
Don’t miss ‘Just Act Normal’, premiering on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer from Wednesday, 16th April. You can hear Rob’s full interview with Jamelia on Queerly’s Stage and Screen Podcast, and catch The Queerly Breakfast Show with Rob Gillett weekdays from 7:30am on Queerly Radio.