KT Tunstall: Finding beauty in life and music's twists and turns
KT Tunstall has always embraced life's unexpected moments, letting them carve out her incredible journey in music. Back in mid-2000s, she burst onto scene with indie-pop gems like "Suddenly I See" and "Black Horse and The Cherry Tree," winning over critics and fans alike. With four BRIT Award nominations (and a win!), plus a Grammy nod and two Ivor Novello Awards, she's got quite a collection. But looking back, KT often wonders how differently things could have turned out.
20 years with Eye To The Telescope: A stroll down memory lane
It's hard believe, but her debut album, *Eye To The Telescope*, just turned 20! KT fondly remembers when landing a record deal felt like wishful thinking. "I couldn't get a record deal. There was just no interest," she recalls. Yet, despite every setback, that album went five-times platinum, all recorded on a shoestring in a makeshift studio.
"We were out in Bradford-upon-Avon, Somerset, at this guy's house turned studio," she shares. "We duct-taped duvets on walls just right." That raw honesty and simplicity? It's what makes it timeless.
Diving headfirst with Clueless: The Musical
KT's latest adventure? A musical version based on Amy Heckerling's cult hit *Clueless*. Over four years, she's poured her heart and soul, crafting a unique score. Catching up with KT, we find her above a buzzing rehearsal room, watching it all come together.
The spotlight's on Emma Flynn, from *Kinky Boots* fame, who steps in as Cher Horowitz. It's a role Alicia Silverstone made iconic—a Beverly Hills matchmaker learning life's beauties without controlling everything. The musical closely follows film while inspiring some fresh vibes.
Inspired by film's legendary soundtrack—think Radiohead, Beastie Boys—KT taps her "indie kid" roots. These days, though, it's all original, pulling influences from Green Day and NSYNC. "We wanted it sound like Cher's Jeep mixtape," she laughs.
Honoring Clueless' charm
The stage version nails film's spirit, keeping everyone's favorite lines but adding depth. Take "Cake Boy" Christian, played stylishly by Isaac J Lewis, keeping character's quirky humor. A few modern twists reflect today's inclusive vibes.
A celebratory year
The upcoming premiere in West End's big deal, dovetailing with important milestones. Celebrating *Eye To The Telescope*'s 20th birthday and ringing in her 50th, KT's also gearing up with a special concert at Royal Albert Hall.
It's been a time KT's reflected on her journey, remembering when she wanted a break from those early hits. Now, hearing crowds belt out her songs, she's filled with gratitude. "These songs easily might not have worked," she muses, "but when folks sing them back, it's pure magic."
Anticipating Clueless' debut
As *Clueless: The Musical* gets closer, KT's grounded, thankful. "I can fly anywhere, strum my guitar, and people know songs. That's something I'll never tire," she shares.
The curtain rises at London's Trafalgar Theatre on February 15, 2025. Expect a delightful, fresh take on a beloved classic.
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