Belinda Carlisle, renowned for her role as the frontwoman of the trailblazing new wave band the Go-Go’s and later for her transformation into a glossy pop sensation with chart-toppers like “Mad About You,” “Heaven Is a Place on Earth,” and “I Get Weak,” is in the spotlight once again.
Now at the age of 64, she asserts that her current pursuits align perfectly with her path in life. “I feel like at this point in my life, at age 64, this is what I’m meant to be doing. I’m good at what I do, and I’m enjoying it,” Carlisle shares with Yahoo Entertainment.
Engaging in a candid conversation ahead of her Kismet EP release, Carlisle reflects on her journey from the Go-Go’s to her latest endeavors. This EP marks her first collection of English-language studio recordings in over two and a half decades. The magic of her partnership with famed songwriter Diane Warren, who penned the hit “I Get Weak” for Carlisle 35 years ago, remains vibrant.
Interestingly, the serendipitous reunion with Warren occurred when Carlisle’s son, Duke, coincidentally encountered Warren at a Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf in Los Angeles. The subsequent FaceTime conversation led to a fresh burst of inspiration for Carlisle. Despite initial hesitations about venturing into new music, Carlisle’s visit to Warren’s studio ultimately reignited her creative spark. She confesses, “Obviously, I wasn’t meant to semi-retire.”
While crafting the Kismet EP, Carlisle discovered newfound confidence that had eluded her during her breakthrough solo album, “Heaven on Earth,” released in 1987. Her transformation into a glamorous Hollywood figure back in the mid-’80s brought with it scrutiny about her appearance. Reflecting on those challenging times, she acknowledges the media’s focus on her weight, which took a toll on her self-esteem. Carlisle’s journey also includes overcoming struggles with eating disorders, alcohol, and cocaine addiction. Her path to sobriety brought clarity and the assurance that her current pursuits are aligned with her true purpose.
Amidst the ebbs and flows of her career and personal life, Carlisle’s enduring marriage to political operative and film producer Morgan Mason stands as a testament to their unwavering bond. Their unique love story emerged from a chance meeting and weathered challenges that might have torn them apart.
Carlisle shares that the key to their lasting relationship lies in their genuine fondness for each other. The couple’s decision to relocate to the French countryside brought about transformative changes, propelling Carlisle toward self-acceptance and a healthier lifestyle.
As Carlisle embraces new horizons, including the Go-Go’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and potential future solo projects, she does so with a sense of purpose and contentment. Despite her musical success and enduring fame, she remains grounded, cherishing the joy that her creative endeavors bring, whether or not they achieve chart-topping status.