On this week’s episode of Desert Island Dishes, our guest is Sophie Ellis-Bextor, a celebrated singer-songwriter and entertainer whose career spans pop hits, television appearances and popular live events. Sophie is a double-platinum selling artist whose work has reached a wide audience across radio, streaming and live performance. Her energetic presence and distinctive voice have made her one of the most recognisable figures in contemporary British pop.
Sophie began her music career as the lead singer of the indie band the audience when she was just 17. She gained mainstream recognition after her breakthrough collaboration with Groovejet, a release that earned her a first number one single and introduced her to an international audience. From that early success she has built a varied career, releasing six studio albums and two compilation records, and consistently evolving her musical style while maintaining her signature melodic flair.
Beyond music, Sophie has expanded her creative output into several different areas. She is the author of a memoir that offers an honest view into her life and career, and she has appeared on television in a range of programmes, including a popular dance competition show and a high-profile series of dramatic television. Sophie also launched her own podcast, where she shares stories, interviews and personal reflections, and co-wrote a cookbook with her husband, combining her love of food with approachable recipes for home cooks.
During the COVID-19 lockdowns Sophie became particularly well known for her weekly kitchen discos, livestreamed sets that brought joy and dance to thousands of people at a difficult time. Those sessions became a cultural touchstone and reinforced her reputation as an artist who connects warmly with audiences. In 2021 she raised significant funds for charity by undertaking a 24-hour kitchen disco danceathon, an effort that raised over a million pounds for Children in Need.
Balancing a busy public life with a large family, Sophie is also a mother of five boys, a role she often speaks about with warmth and humour. Her ability to combine family, creative projects and charitable endeavours has earned her admiration from fans and peers alike. On this episode of Desert Island Dishes we hear more about Sophie’s favourite meals, memorable food experiences and the role that food and community play in her life and work.
I’m thrilled to welcome Sophie, who many listeners affectionately call the undisputed queen of lockdown, and to share her stories with you. Her experiences in music, television, publishing and live performance make her an insightful and entertaining guest, and she brings the same upbeat energy to conversation that she does to her performances.
We’re also excited to announce a special competition in partnership with The Garden Trading Company. One lucky listener will win £250 to spend on their site. To enter, simply visit the link in our Instagram bio. Best of luck to everyone who enters.
Desert Island Dishes is supported by Lloyds Bank, and we’re grateful for their help in making the show possible each week. If you enjoy the podcast, don’t forget to follow us on social media—find us on Instagram and TikTok at @desertislanddishes for episode updates, behind-the-scenes content and more.
Thank you for listening, and enjoy this thoughtful and fun conversation with Sophie Ellis-Bextor on Desert Island Dishes.