Texas star Spiteri ‘still living the dream’ ahead of Belladrum

Sharleen Spiteri of Texas claims her enthusiasm for live performances remains as strong as ever, nearly 40 years after the band’s inception in Glasgow.

Known for chart-toppers like “Say What You Want” and “Black Eyed Boy,” Texas recently completed an arena tour and is gearing up for several European dates.

“I never step onto the stage thinking, ‘I’m not in the mood tonight’,” Spiteri shares.

“I’m mindful of those audience members who were brought along and are thinking, ‘I’m not really a fan of Texas’—my goal is to ensure they leave saying, ‘Texas is the best band I’ve ever seen’.”

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Texas saw substantial success, with hits like “Summer Son” in 1999 and “Sleep,” released in 2006.

The rock-pop band has graced the Glastonbury music festival stage two times and is set to close the 21st anniversary of the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival in the Highlands this August.

Now, Spiteri from Bellshill balances touring with family life.

“When you’re single, you can tour endlessly—it doesn’t matter; you’re just living the dream,” she explains.

“Honestly, I still feel like I’m living the dream.

“I have the privilege of doing what I love most: performing on stage and playing the songs that mean so much to me.

“This summer we’re doing festivals, working four-day weeks in June, July, and August, and then I can be home the rest of the week to recharge. It’s ideal.”

Spiteri confesses to still having moments that make her “pinch herself.”

“I feel incredibly fortunate and privileged,” she states.

“There are times when I think ‘wow,’ and it can feel surreal.

“A few years ago, I stood on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury, fist-pumping, then suddenly realized I was looking out at a sea of people.”

A performance at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro last year stands out for her.

“The first night we entered, we couldn’t even hear ourselves over the roar of the audience.

“We stood there on stage, exchanging looks of disbelief.

“I thought, ‘Hold on, let’s pause before we start the songs—I need a moment to catch my breath.’ It was so emotional.”

She remarks: “We’ve been doing this for so long. We’re an established band, still performing for such large crowds. That’s incredible.”

Texas previously graced the Belladrum stage in 2011, and Spiteri emphasizes the effort that goes into sustaining a festival.

She states, “The music industry is incredibly challenging, and we’ve witnessed the closure of many venues and studios.”

“Creating a festival is tough work; too many believe it’s as simple as booking some bands and calling it a day.”

“A significant amount of thought is put into selecting performers.

“We’re honored to celebrate Belladrum’s 21st anniversary; we must have done something right.”

Spiteri regards the Highlands as a remarkable area, noting that Texas has also performed in Inverness, just a short distance from the festival site.

“The air there is more refreshing than anywhere else on earth,” she says.

“As a singer, that’s critical when you’re taking deep breaths.

“Inhaling that Highland air prepares you to perform.

“And to step out into that breathtaking landscape and perform there is truly special.”