Singer and actress Elaine Paige reflects on the songs and personal memories that have defined her musical journey.

Singer and actress Elaine Paige has shared a selection of songs that hold personal significance throughout her life and career. Her reflections range from early childhood memories of singing with friends to pivotal moments in her professional stage life, including her debut in the musical Hair.

Early influences and stage memories

Paige recalls singing the Everly Brothers' 'All I Have to Do Is Dream' as a child and buying Perry Como's 'Magic Moments' for her mother's birthday. Her professional career took a sudden turn in 1968 while performing in 'Hair,' when she was unexpectedly called to replace an absent lead performer despite having no prior rehearsal for the role. During her time in 'The King and I,' she performed alongside a rotating cast of actors after her original co-star departed the production. She also notes that her rendition of 'Don’t Cry for Me Argentina' remains a career-defining song, stating that her current public profile is largely tied to that performance.

Musical tastes and personal connections

Paige describes herself as a fan of Mozart, noting that one of her first public performances was an aria from 'The Marriage of Figaro.' She also expresses admiration for George Michael’s cover of 'The Long and Winding Road' and Chris Isaak’s 'Wicked Game.' Family remains a central theme in her musical choices, with Cole Porter’s 'Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye' serving as a reminder of her mother. Her father, an estate agent who also played in a band called the Arcadians, influenced her early exposure to music through the records they listened to at home.