All photos © Daniel Clarens

Find details on how to win the new Gabriella Cilmi album "Ten" at the end of the article!!

Having been extensively touring UK and Ireland since March this year, Gabriella Cilmi (pronounced “Chill-me” by the way) is finishing off her long list of concerts on the continent. Her penultimate gig was a slot at Terres Rouges festival on Sunday 5th September in Esch-sur-Alzette.

Best known for the song “Sweet About Me”, from her debut album “Lessons To Be Learned” a worldwide hit and number one in 16 countries, Australian-Italian Gabriella's current tour's aim is to promote her second album “Ten”.

Gabriella Cilmi played a late set at Terres Rouges in the “chill” of the Esch night to an appreciative bouncy crowd, before disappearing into her backstage caravan to prepare her for an interview with 352LUXMAG:

So, in the backstage catering tent on a 70's style sofa, I had a chat with the 18 year old from Melbourne.

Is this your first time in Luxembourg?

Yes it is, nice place, but a bit cold right now.

Was it a good crowd tonight and is this the smallest venue you've played at?

Yeah, great crowd, this is just a nice size crowd. Obviously I've played bigger festivals but have played some smaller ones in Italy for example.

Which concert(s) stand out for you or is it pretty much a blur?

Pretty much a blur, but all been great. I guess V festival will stick in my mind as one of the biggest


You've been touring since March, this being your penultimate concert, are you tired yet?

Like I said it's been a blur, but I'm am getting tired a bit, especially now as we were doing a lot lot of filming last night.

Were you surprised that “Sweet About Me” was such a massive hit worldwide?

Actually, when we released it the first time radio stations weren't playing it. My manager kept saying that we had to get something else out there as it wasn't doing too well. But the second time it was released it just exploded, so yes you could say I was surprised.

Between your first album “Lessons To Be Learned” and the new “Ten” describe the journey and difference

Well I've certainly matured and Ten defines me more of who I am with my musical influences which is more the glam rock era, Rolling Stones, that kind of stuff.

You mentioned the the Rolling Stones, back in the beginning you were discovered singing Stones covers, would you like to sing with them some day?

I'd love to! I think some of the band member are keen and others not though! However one of my heros Robert Plant has indicated he might be interested in a collaboration in the future.

Before touring you said on your website “The whole album is about me becoming an adult, being stronger. I want to really switch it on, smother myself in gold paint and transform into someone else. I can't wait to get this show on the road”. Do you now feel you've achieved what you set out to do?

I don't know who put that up on my website, I think I was misquoted or something, but it has been a great tour and yes I have achieved a lot, but quite tired now.

Although a big superstar you still find time for chatting on social networks such as Facebook and Twitter, is being close to fans a big priority?

Social networks and modern technology has really brought fans closer to me. It means they can really follow me and be part of what I do, so yes it is very important for me and keep up to date.

Have you heard and Luxembourg music?

Actually no I haven't one was playing when we arrived, but I'd love to hear more!

It was at this stage that I gave Gabriella a present; The EP of local band
Angel At My Table but under the condition that she was able to answer at least one of the following multiple choice questions about Luxembourg correctly:

What is Schueberfouer?
What is Gromperekichelcher?

The Schueberfouer she thought was a cabbage, but correctly answered potato cake for Gromperekichelcher and so walked away with the EP.

So what comes next after the tour?

I think I want to take a break for a while and and go to Peru to follow the Inca trail that would be nice, just leave my cares behind.

The final very important question: Are you more a Neighbours or Home & Away kind of girl?

Definitely Neighbours! I'm from Melbourne so really relate to it. I've been following it since forever.

The interview ended and we continued chatting about Neighbours, where I was from, how long she was staying in Luxembourg etc. Great to interview an international artist who has time to chat at after nearly 50 shows and of course, just off stage on a chilly Sunday Luxembourg night at 11:30pm.

So here's your chance to win a copy of the new Gabriella Cilmi album "Ten" on CD. Just click the link and send your full name and address to: adam.walder@station.lu