Five questions to... Marcia Barrett, Boney M

Meeting Boney M's Marcia Barrett was like seeing a star from a distant galaxy whose faint light ignites memories that have long laid dormant somewhere deep within. In Dubai this week for an ACI Real Estate-sponsored concert in aid of Dubai Autism Centre, she is one of the original members of the Europop group that dominated dance charts through the 1970s and early 1980s. In an interview with Emirates Business, Barrett, who released solo albums before and after Boney M, spoke of how hitting the tour circuit again – albeit with a new band – is about re-engaging with her glorious past: A recent show in Bangalore, India, drew 30,000 people.


Although the tours advertise you as Boney M, the band in its original form does not exist? Yes, that's right. The original band disbanded in 1988. Frank Farian, the producer, decided not to produce anymore because he wanted to do rock – although I haven't heard any rock numbers from him since. But life goes on. After we split up I lived in Florida for a while, writing and composing – but battling spinal and ovarian cancer made me realise I couldn't stay in pensioners' paradise any more – so I returned to Germany, where it all began.

You battled cancer? Yes, four times and all through, my husband and faithful partner Marcus James was by my side. It showed me how imperative it is to do what you can to further awareness of noble causes.

But what's the purpose in touring as Boney M? My purpose? I think it is God's will, what can I say, 32 years later people are still wanting to hear the songs. It's fantastic. People love their memories. And to be able to rekindle them is good!

But doesn't it dilute the experience for those expecting to hear the original act? No, people should not expect this because they should know the background. You won't see the original Boney M now or ever. However, what you can witness is Boney M with an original member. I've never felt the audience was disappointed because I never advertised my performance as that of the original Boney M.

Do you miss being part of Boney M? When I'm on stage, I don't think of my other colleagues. But I still miss them. I called Liz [Mitchell, the band's lead singer] last year when I was in Berlin.

What's next for you? I'm working on a remix of my solo CD, called Seeing is Believing, which I will release over the internet. And by early next year, I will be putting out a CD of some old Boney M songs, which is fun because I have a more "rock" voice than Boney M ever had.

THE NUMBER

150m: Total number of records Boney M have reputedly sold worldwide, including 50 million between 1976 and 1978 alone. One of the most influential Europop acts of the 1970s, the group has had 15 Top 10 hits. However, lead vocalist Liz Mitchell has been quoted in the UK press as saying the group only ever received nine per cent of the profits from their music.

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