All In London meets... Ella Henderson

We chat to the songstress about what she's up to at the moment, her new album and her favourite bits of London.
All In London meets... Ella Henderson picture

Dermot O’Leary called it ‘one of the biggest shocks’ in X Factor history and we have to admit, we shed a tear when the lovely Ella Henderson was voted out of the ITV talent show in 2012. Thankfully, it hasn’t stopped her from successfully creating her own music – and having notched up a number one single back in June; she has now released her debut album. Who’s laughing now, eh?

These days, Ella lives in London and when she’s not travelling to America to promote her album, she’s enjoying her new-found fame more locally. So, let’s see how she’s dealing with it…

Tell us about your new album?
The album is called Chapter One it’s out now. I'm so excited to share it with everyone. It's a mixture of my singles, Glow and Ghost, if you’ve heard them. I write about life experiences and so my songs are full of emotion. I did a gig a few weeks ago in London and it was the first time thousands of people sang my song back to me – it was the most amazing thing.

Has your lifestyle changed since you’ve become famous?
My lifestyle hasn't changed at all. I had a surprise party when I went to number one with Ghost back in June. But I've been working every day since. I love getting to see my family and friends and have some quality time with them. I bought my first sofa at the start of the year and that's been one of my most exciting moments.

Where are your favourite places to hang out?
I love Shoreditch House and Soho House – there's always something do and always good vibes. Both are private members’ clubs too, so it’s nice to have some space when I go there with my friends. In the summer, I head over and depending on my mood, sit by the bar and enjoy the swimming pool.

What’s your go-to restaurant?
I love my local pub – I spend a lot of time there and they do a great Sunday lunch, so that makes up for missing my mum's roast now that I live in London. That's actually my most favourite hang out but I can't say where though because I don't want anyone showing up there.

Do you find it easy to keep in shape in the city?
If it's cold I go to the gym near where I live, and if it's sunny I go for a run. I always have to do it after work – I can't go it first thing, it's hard to get early with my schedules.


Ella’s debut album, Chapter One, is out now.

Published Nov 4, 2014