Vanessa Mai is riding the wave of success: Her project "Wolkenfrei" landed a hit last year with the song "Wolke 7", she is currently a judge on "Deutschland sucht den Superstar" and recorded her first album under her own name together with Dieter Bohlen. She spoke to us about her new success, love and her future.
You won an Echo at this year's Echo Awards. Congratulations on that! What was it like for you?
It's been a long time since I've been so shaken up. After winning, I had to give interviews and I really couldn't find the words. It was incredibly surprising for me, which is why I didn't prepare an acceptance speech.
Have you always been interested in pop music?
I'm generally interested in music, I listen to everything. I chose Schlager because I like performing on stage and people are so welcoming.
Could you also imagine making music in English?
No. My music should remain German. But I should never say never, because back then I also said that I would never give up the name Wolkenfrei. That's the case now.
Why did you decide to take this step?
It came about when I signed up for "Deutschland sucht den Superstar". For many people, Wolkenfrei was no longer a household name. For me, the time had come to do something new. And that's why it was clear: if Vanessa Mai, then the music has to sound like me. So everything is new.
"If Vanessa Mai, then the music has to sound like me too."
You are now also working with Dieter Bohlen.
Exactly. The work was totally great. He's a visionary and has an incredible feel for the zeitgeist and what people want. The atmosphere was relaxed, but it all happened incredibly quickly because he knows exactly what needs to be done. I learned a lot from working with him.
What did you learn on "Deutschland sucht den Superstar"?
It was a really great experience. I became stronger as a person. At first I thought that I wouldn't be able to judge people my age. But in the end, that was my strength: I had a special connection to the candidates and was able to approach things in a completely different way.
What was important to you for the new album?
It was very important to me that there were a lot of uptempo numbers on it. I just like to party and dance on stage. And I also love making commercial music. This term has such negative connotations, but I don't think that's a bad thing at all. There has to be carefree, simple music that takes people out of their everyday lives.
What can people expect on your tour?
We're still in the planning stages, but I'd like it to have a bit of a show, a bit of dancing, but still remain intimate. It will definitely involve a lot of work on my part!
Do you have any role models?
Yes, Taylor Swift is a great role model. She's incredibly close to her fans and still a huge star. She's very active on social media and interacts with fans, just like me. I do it all myself. A lot of people don't believe me.
Does being called the "next Helene Fischer" annoy you?
At first, I thought the comparison was totally far-fetched. Helene has been in the business for over ten years and is enjoying huge success, I'm still just starting out. In the meantime, the comparison no longer comes up. I think people now perceive me as Vanessa. I also want to do my own thing.
"I think people perceive me as Vanessa Mai now."
What would you have become if not a singer?
I completed my training as a media designer, but nothing else was ever an option for me. I always worked on making music work.
How do you relax?
Quite simply: lying on the couch and watching sitcoms. It's a great way to switch off.
How do you keep fit?
I dance a lot, I like doing sport and I like going out. But there are also times when I don't feel like doing any sport at all. But I think if you're constantly on the move, you're automatically fit.
Do you like going out partying?
Since I've been making music, I don't go out at all. But I don't miss it either, you're on the road so often. But of course: at events like the Echo, there's still an after-show party where you have a quick drink together. But I hardly ever go out in my private life.
Have you already been to Switzerland?
Of course! I made my first Swiss appearance at the Kreuzlinger Seenachtsfest. I was showered with chocolate and received a very warm welcome - I was even given a Swiss flag. And I'm coming back to Switzerland in the fall, so I'm looking forward to it. I've never been to Zurich before, so I'm very excited!
You are engaged. How far along are the wedding plans?
It won't happen this year, my schedule is too full. I think you should take your time to plan a wedding. But I hope to get married next year.
Are you nervous before performances?
Yes, very much. No matter how big or small the event is, I'm always equally excited. But that's a good thing. I think when the nervousness is gone, you should give up your job (laughs).
Where do you see yourself in ten years' time?
I hope that I'll still be with my boyfriend and on stage. And at some point I want to get a nice little house and a big dog.
VANESSA MAI
29.05.16, Hallenstadion Zurich
28.11.16, Neues Theater Spirgarten Zurich
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