90s dance icon Kelly Overett on Top of the Pops, EastEnders and Phil Collins
90s dance icon Kelly Overett on Top of the Pops, EastEnders and Phil Collins

Kelly Overett, the former frontwoman of Italian Eurodance group Capella, has opened up about her emotional return to music after nearly three decades away. The 54-year-old, who stepped away from the spotlight in 1994, is now back on tour as part of Originals Live, a nostalgic showcase of 90s dance acts.

Speaking about her return, Overett said she had no intention of coming back until she stumbled across old photos while moving house. 'It was quite emotional. There were a lot of people in those pictures who've since passed away,' she said. After setting up social media accounts, she was surprised by the response. 'Two and a half years ago, I did my first show in nearly 30 years to 27,000 people.'

Overett recalled her first appearance on Top of the Pops as a dancer with Carl Cox, and later performing with SL2 and Capella. She described the surreal atmosphere of the show, including a memorable encounter with Phil Collins. 'Someone nearby was making a huge fuss... after it all went quiet, Phil turned to me and said, 'Everyone becomes an arsehole... but the good ones come out the other side.' That stayed with me.'

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She also admitted to 'breaking into' the EastEnders set with SL2 to take pictures outside the iconic café and pub. Reflecting on her decision to leave music, Overett said she had no regrets. 'I didn't have a personal life. We were successful in 37 countries, and back then you had to physically go to each territory. It was relentless.'

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