While the impact of the rocking performance by Boney M featuring Maizie William is still hovering over fans in the city, the lady herself opens up to City Express about her childhood and her journey from the 70s till now. Maizie is one of the original founding members of the evergreen Disco Band Boney M that included Liz Mitchell, Marcia Barrett, and Bobby Farrell apart from her. Maizie, who is 63 years old, feels age is only a matter of numbers. “My brother once told me that I have a terrible voice and I must stop singing,” recalls Maizie, before going on to reveal a lot more from her life.
You just came here after performing in the Middle East. What keeps you going even at this age?
I enjoy being in the music business. I knew this was exactly what I wanted to do, after modelling, of course. I love it when I am on stage, when I hit the road for tours. I enjoy meeting fans and interacting with them. There is a certain kind of adrenalin rush that you get when you do what you love doing, it always keeps you energised and on the move. I wish to be like this always.
You were one of the first Western bands to go to the then Soviet Union to perform after the song Rasputin topped the charts. How did you feel then?
We not only went to the then Soviet Union, but also to war zones like Beirut and Damascus, and sang our song Belfast, which was based on the tension in Northern Ireland. When we went to perform there, the military would declare ceasefire during our concert alone, and the moment we left that place, we would hear bombardments. Similarly, when we went to the Iron Curtain — physical boundary dividing Europe into two separate areas from the end of World War II in 1945 until the end of the Cold War in 1991 — we were initially scared, but when we heard people playing Rasputin in cafes and other places, we just loved it. While we were performing, we were asked not to sing Rasputin as it had the mention of the Queen. We found it funny as we heard people listening to it everywhere around. Later, when we performed our other gigs, all the Soviet leaders including Mikhail Gorbachev began dancing to our tunes... (laughs) You see, music has its own way of touching lives. Later, when we went back in the 90s, the first song we were asked to perform was Rasputin.
How does it feel to revisit places where Boney M had initially performed?
It’s really nice and enriching. When I went to Russia a few years ago, the place just drowned me in memories. But life must go on.
Have you explored any other profession apart from music?
Not really, I’ve made exercise videos, as you can see I am fit. I have acted in a few sitcoms, written a book on natural health and beauty. I’ve also recorded a gospel album Call upon Jesus. So I’m doing a lot of other things as well, but at the end of the day, music and Boney M are something I would always want to prioritise.
How do you keep up with the changing trends?
I don’t believe in trends. Once you change with pace, you will be weighed off. I like to keep it original, but of course we have done a few remixes of some songs.
Have you seen any change in the fan base of Boney M over the years?
Not at all. Disco music still exists, though people do not know what disco music is, when compared to our times. But it has not affected us in any way as our music is signed, sealed and delivered. We have our own large fan base which has been loyal to us since ages. Even small kids come up to us to get autographs and pictures. It’s truly a privilege.
Is there anyone you really like on the music scene today?
I like Will.I.am and Lady Gaga. As a matter of fact, I love Indian music. There was this lady whom I met in Goa a few years ago, she sang beautifully. I think that Indian music is wide, soulful and deep. There is still a lot to learn, explore and showcase to the world. I find it brilliant.
Exciting times. What’s next?
My next plan is to take a flight to Cochin. I’ve heard we have Boney M lovers there too. I am so thrilled and excited to meet them.
