Keren Woodward of Bananarama reflects on the freedom and wisdom that comes with aging, where past concerns no longer hold weight.

Keren Woodward of Bananarama reflects on the freedom and wisdom that comes with aging, where past concerns no longer hold weight.

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Keren Woodward, born in Bristol and now 62 years old, had a job in administration at the BBC. It was during this time that she joined forces with Sara Dallin and Siobhan Fahey to form the band Bananarama in the early 1980s. Over the years, they have achieved success with 25 songs making it to the Top 40 in the UK, including popular hits such as Cruel Summer, Venus, Love in the First Degree, and Robert De Niro’s Waiting. While they were a trio in the beginning, they have been a duo since the 1990s. This month, they released their latest album Glorious: The Ultimate Collection and will be performing at the London Palladium in April. Woodward, who has a son, currently resides in Cornwall.

Can you recall a time when you were most joyful?

In recent years, there is a certain charm in reaching an age where you no longer let things that used to bother you affect you.

What is your most disliked characteristic in yourself?
I have a tendency to procrastinate.

What is the quality that you dislike the most in other people?
Impatience.

Describe yourself in three words

I enjoy complaining and appreciate humor and kindness.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

To reach a foreign country without boarding a plane.

What causes your unhappiness?
Observing pain and struggle, whether it be in the global landscape or among individuals in my personal circle. And dealing with documentation.

What is your least favorite aspect of your appearance?

I desire to have longer legs and a larger buttocks.

Who would play you in the film of your life?
Elizabeth Taylor.

What is your most indulgent guilty pleasure?

I do not feel remorseful about indulging in any treats. Every day, I include biscuits, chocolates, and cakes in my diet. I purchase my biscuits in large quantities.

What habit do you find least attractive?
Nibbling the skin around my fingernails.

What were your aspirations as a child?
A teacher.

Which would you prefer: fame or anonymity?

I am not skilled in being well-known. I enjoy being anonymous.

What is your responsibility towards your parents?

Our work ethic has remained consistent for the past 40 years, as neither Sara nor I have ever been tardy for anything.

Who would you apologize to and why?

I have apologized to my son, Thomas, for not being around for a significant portion of his early years. However, as a working mother and primary earner, it was necessary. I believe I have compensated for it since then.

Who or what holds the title of being the most beloved in your life?

I have deep adoration for my son.

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How does love make you feel?
Can’t remember.

Have you ever expressed the phrase “I love you” insincerely?
No.

What has been the most disappointing experience you have had?

When a connection that I have put effort into ends. However, I am now content.

How frequently do you engage in sexual activity?

It is currently happening infrequently.

What is the nearest you have ever been to mortality?

We have experienced flights where the engine has caught on fire and when we have rapidly descended.

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment?

Continuing with a job that was estimated to only span six months and still being in this position after forty years.

Have you ever encountered a close encounter with legal trouble?

The police in Los Angeles asked us to cover up our torsos while on the beach.

What prevents you from sleeping at night?

Tinnitus and sleep apnea.

What would you like to be remembered for?
As the dark-haired bird from Bananarama.

Source: theguardian.com