Honeyz were a British-based R&B girl group formed in 1997. The lineup was initially made up of Heavenli Abdi, Naima Belkhiati, and Célena Cherry. Their debut single, “Finally Found”, was released in 1998 and peaked at number 4 in the UK Singles Chart. They were also nominated for the BRIT Awards in the categories Best Newcomer and Best R&B Act. “Finally Found” went on to sell more than half a million copies. The follow-up, “End of the Line” notched up similar sales figures, peaking at number 5 on the UK Singles Chart and reaching #1 on the UK R&B Charts. Their debut album “Wonder No. 8” went gold in the UK with sales of over 250,000 copies. If you were a fan of R&B at the time those girls would probably be the hottest new names to drop. Five singles were released from “Wonder No. 8” of which all charted inside the top 10 – impressive stats! There were a couple of line up changes over the years too. In late 2001, Mercury Records made the decision to drop the group, and plans for the release of the group’s second album, “Harmony”, were shelved; following this and a departure from their management company the group decided to go their separate ways in 2002. 2005 saw the band reform and they still perform on a regular basis. I managed to catch up with Célena and have a chat about the band…
Hey Célena, Thanks for chatting with us, we really do appreciate it.
You’re known for being in The Honeyz, what are your fondest memories from your time with the band?
My fondest memories are the early days before we had a hit. We were living together and having so much fun and no idea what was ahead of us!
You reformed a few years back and last I heard you were still doing a few shows every now and then, is this still the case?Yes we still gig every now and then.
I read that it was a chance meeting that led to The Honeyz, what actually happened?
A friend forced me to audition. I had just been dropped by Walt Disney records and hated the industry but a good friend made me audition and I’m glad he did.
Are there any plans for any new Honeyz records or more solo albums?
Not at the moment but I’m always writing material.
How was it working with your cousin, Alani on the project Anotherside?
It was great we had lots of fun!
What’s Alani doing these days?
She is still song writing.
How was it playing to such a huge crowd at Hyde Park?
It was the most amazing experience! A sea of people. And meeting Prince Charles was amazing!
What have been your favourite place to play concerts?
Party in the park was one of the best.
What were and still are your favourite Honeyz songs?
My favourite Honeyz songs are “Finally Found” and “End Of The Line.”
How was it working with Lionel Richie?
Working with Lionel was amazing! He is such a legend and an amazing person. So sweet and down to Earth.
Is there anyone who you would love to have the opportunity to work with?
I would have loved to work with Michael Jackson. I was privileged enough to get to know him and have dinner with him but would have loved to have worked with him.
Who are your musical influences?
Growing up I was really into Janet Jackson, Lionel, Whitney Houston but also loved other styles of music from Motown to calypso as my parents are from the Caribbean.
Do you think today’s pop music matches up to the ’90s glory days?
I think the 90’s was a great time for music. Now pop music is ok but it disposable. You won’t remember it a year later. But 90,s stuff was classic and timeless.
You went to theatre school at a young age, is this something you would recommend for people wanting to get into the music and acting business?
I think theatre school was great but I don’t think it is necessary in having a career in the industry.
We hear you had a role in Hollyoaks and Doctors, how did those jobs come about?
I have an acting agent.
If you had to choose between acting and singing which would you choose?
I always wanted to be an actress until I got into the music industry. Now I love both! Couldn’t choose.
Did you enjoy doing panto as well?
I just finished doing Peter Pan in Yeovil. I love doing panto its hard work but so much fun! And I always have a laugh.
What projects are you currently working on?
At the moment I’m currently putting together a small show called MJ Eternity which is a loving heartfelt tribute to the King of Pop Michael Jackson. The show consists of myself singing some of Michael’s biggest hits and also includes the world’s most amazing Michael Jackson tribute artist Danny Oliver. It’s a great show and we are available for bookings right now.
Thanks so much for chatting with us, we have one final all important question for you… which is your favourite Disney movie?
My all time fave Disney movie is Beauty And The Beast. My daughter’s middle name is Belle! Is that sad? Oh well who cares I love it!
by Mr. T (Jan 2011)
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