Episode 13: Cheryl Baker - Part 1: A Journey Through Music and Fame

In this engaging conversation, Me'sha chats to Cheryl Baker, known for her role in the iconic pop group Bucks Fizz, shares her journey through the music industry, from her early days in a band called Coco to her experiences with Eurovision and the dynamics of being in a manufactured pop group. She reflects on her love for harmony singing, the challenges of transitioning to a professional career, and the relationships formed within her band. Cheryl's warmth and humour shine through as she recounts memorable moments and the serendipitous nature of her career. In this engaging conversation, Cheryl Baker reflects on her experiences with Bucks Fizz, discussing the dynamics within the band, the challenges of popularity, and the impact of Mike Nolan's departure. She shares insights into the new line-up, her audition experiences, and the demanding nature of live theatre. Cheryl also expresses her desire to explore straight acting roles and discusses her singing training, highlighting the complexities of vocal techniques.

Links:

Cheryl's Website:

https://www.cherylbaker.net/

The Fizz Website & Socials

https://www.thefizzofficial.com/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/thefizzofficial/?locale=en_GB

https://www.instagram.com/thefizzcmjn

Stage and Screen

http://stageandscreenpodcast.com/

https://www.instagram.com/stageandscreenpodcast/

https://www.facebook.com/stageandscreenpodcast/

Me'sha's Website & Socials

https://www.meshabryan.com/

https://www.instagram.com/meshabryan/

Takeaways

Cheryl Baker has been in the music industry for over 40 years.

Her first paid performance was with a band called Mother's Pride in 1975.

Cheryl's love for harmony singing was influenced by her family and early musical experiences.

She won a talent competition at a young age, which boosted her confidence.

Cheryl's transition to professional singing was marked by her involvement with the band Coco.

She experienced the highs and lows of Eurovision, including coming in second and last in different years.

Joining Bucks Fizz was a pivotal moment in her career, facilitated by connections in the industry.

The dynamics within Bucks Fizz were complex, with strong friendships and some challenges.

Cheryl reflects on the importance of chemistry in a musical group.

Her journey highlights the role of serendipity and timing in achieving success. Cheryl was often late, which caused tension in the band.

Mike Nolan's support was crucial for Cheryl's career.

The dynamics within Bucks Fizz were complex and sometimes contentious.

Cheryl reflects on the popularity of the band and its members.

The new line-up of Bucks Fizz brings fresh energy and enthusiasm.

Audition experiences can be both challenging and enlightening.

Live theatre demands a strong work ethic and can be all-consuming.

Cheryl expresses interest in pursuing straight acting roles.

Training in singing can be a rigorous process.

The ability to adapt vocal techniques is a valuable skill.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cheryl Baker and Bookz Fizz

02:59 Cheryl's Early Career and Musical Beginnings

06:09 The Formation of Coco and Transition to Bookz Fizz

09:05 Memorable Performances and Family Influence

12:06 Eurovision Journey and Its Impact

14:52 The Dynamics of Being in a Group

17:58 The Formation of Bucks Fizz and Initial Experiences

27:19 The Tension in the Band

30:08 Friendship and Loyalty

33:19 Reflections on Change and Growth

36:43 The New Line-Up

39:06 Audition Experiences

43:40 The Challenges of Theatre Life

45:36 Exploring Acting and Training