- Andrew Atkinson talks Exclusively to Holly Bannis, daughter of Murcia based Greg Bannis, former lead singer of Hot Chocolate, who starred on TV show Starstruck hosted by Olly Murs.
SUNNY SPAIN IS HOME FROM HOME FOR ME WITH DAD
Meeting Olly Murs and the Starstruck panel, Adam Lambert, Sheridan Smith, Beverley Knight and Jason Manford was really surreal! – they were really friendly and nice, said Holly, who appeared as Tina Turner on February 26.
“The show is really fun and positive and generally an all-round friendly experience with them all.
“Due to it being filmed last year during Covid-19 we weren’t able to quite meet them, one-on-one, or get too close, but I managed to get an elbow nudge from Adam Lambert!,” quipped Holly.
Holly, who first started singing in pubs, restaurants and parties eight years ago, said: “I’ve been really lucky to come across working at some great venues in London, including the Oval Cricket ground.
“I headlined a show at the O2 Academy in Islington in 2019. I’ve also appeared on a BBC 1 TV Documentary, winning a talent show, taking place at a famous local market which had a small judging panel, with the likes of an ex X-Factor contestant and won a cash prize!”.
So, what’s it like to have Greg as your father. And are you set to follow in his footsteps to fame?
“I think I’m ready to finally follow in his footsteps – but as long as I enjoy doing what I’m doing – the fame would just be a bonus,” said Holly.
“Singing is all I really know and I know it can bring great success, if you really work hard for it,” she added.
Who have you met and appeared with during your career, to date. Any famous names?:
“I’ve met some great people over the years, who I’ve worked alongside and shared the stage with.
“Including this latest show, especially on Starstruck, performing for Adam Lambert, Sheridan Smith, Beverley Knight and Jason Manford. They are all icons. And of course – the one and only Olly Murs!
“I’ve landed myself some great gig opportunities here in the UK, in front of the likes of Rio Ferdinand, and some Reality TV stars, who have praised my singing and helped share me on their platforms,” said Holly.
Where did you do the filming for the Starstruck ITV show?:
“We filmed at the ITV Bovingdon Studios, which is where Dancing On Ice and the Masked Singer are filmed – it’s huge!
“It’s like a massive arena – and the stage production is just unimaginable,” said Holly.
Have you got any plans to visit Spain in the near future?:
“I always plan to visit sunny Spain! It’s a home away from home for me, with dad living over there.
“I’m hoping to come over before the summer for sure – I’ve even been asked to do some singing out there which would be great!,” said Holly.
“Appearing in Starstruck as one of my favourite music icons Tina Turner and show the Nation was the biggest achievement in my career to date,” added Holly.
Main Caption: Holly Bannis: Spain is home from home for me with dad living there.
