**Sophie Ellis-Bextor Challenges Age Barriers in Pop Music with New Album ‘Perimenopop’**
British pop sensation Sophie Ellis-Bextor is making waves once again, this time for confronting the longstanding stereotypes associated with age in the music industry. Speaking on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, the 46-year-old artist voiced her determination to reshape perceptions about middle age, particularly within the often youth-focused world of pop.
Ellis-Bextor, well-known for dancefloor anthems such as ‘Groovejet (If This Ain’t Love)’ and the enduring hit ‘Murder On The Dancefloor,’ opened up about the reasoning behind her latest album title, ‘Perimenopop.’ The clever play on ‘perimenopause’ and ‘pop’ serves not only as a nod to her current life stage but also as a statement about the vibrancy and creativity that can come with age.
Reflecting candidly on her earlier years in the spotlight, Ellis-Bextor admitted she once harboured doubts about her longevity in pop music. She explained, “When I was younger, I thought pop might be something to abandon as I got older. There’s a prevailing idea that the industry is reserved for the youthful, and that can make you question your place as the years go by.” However, her perspective has evolved, and she now sees this phase of her life as something to celebrate, rather than conceal.
During Friday’s interview, Ellis-Bextor revealed that her personal and professional confidence has only grown. “The algorithms of life seem to be pointing towards what’s next, but rather than feeling anxious, I feel an immense sense of well-being,” she shared. Surrounded by friends and enjoying her work, she expressed, “I’m deeply proud of what I do and the joy it brings—not just to others, but to myself. That’s why I felt ready to ‘flip the script’ and embrace ‘Perimenopop.’”
This positive outlook isn’t just for her own benefit; Ellis-Bextor hopes her journey will help redefine what’s possible for other women in the entertainment sector and beyond. “There’s plenty of fun and fulfilment to be had in this chapter. Nowadays, it feels as though younger generations are less fixated on an artist’s age, and more focused on the quality and spirit of the music,” she suggested, challenging the industry’s tendency to undervalue its older members.
The excitement around ‘Perimenopop’ has been matched by a fresh appreciation for Ellis-Bextor’s musical catalogue, particularly after ‘Murder On The Dancefloor’ experienced a renewed surge of popularity following its memorable feature in the 2023 film Saltburn. Such moments, she points out, illustrate how music can transcend age and era, appealing to listeners young and old alike.
In addition to her music, Ellis-Bextor has diversified her career, presenting a weekly show on BBC Radio 2. Her achievements span back nearly three decades, boasting an impressive record of six UK top 10 singles and five top 10 albums—a testament to her enduring appeal and adaptability within an ever-evolving industry.
Ellis-Bextor’s new album is scheduled for release on 12th September, with fans and commentators keen to hear how her personal experiences and creative vision will be reflected in her latest work. Early teasers suggest a record brimming with honesty, celebration, and a refusal to be sidelined by ageist expectations.
In a culture that often prizes youth above all else, Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s bold move to reclaim narratives around age in pop is both timely and inspiring. As she leads by example, her message is clear: talent, joy, and creativity know no expiration date. With ‘Perimenopop,’ she invites audiences to join her in celebrating the full spectrum of life’s stages—on the dancefloor, and far beyond.