Black Eyed Peas' glamorous talisman Fergie performed an upbeat six-track dazzler of a session from her debut solo album The Dutchess.

She's serious and a little apprehensive about her solo work: Solo success is scarier than success with Black Eyed Peas, because, with us, it's like a big fraternity and I'm kind of like the little mascot girl, she told us. I definitely get nervous and it's weird because [after] being on tour with the Peas for four years I'd call the stage 'the office'.

Fergie's nerves weren't apparent as she entertained the crew with note-perfect covers of 80s classics in between performances, or during the show, which was a full-on extravaganza complete with four fly-girl dancers, the Peas' back-up band, Bucky Johnson and a last-minute addition of fellow Pea Will.I.Am who duetted with Fergie on two numbers.

Born Stacey Ferguson in California, Fergie was encouraged by her parents to follow her ambitions, leading to a stint on the variety show 'Kids Incorporated' before fronting an angsty girl band in the 90s called Wild Orchid. After problems with debt and drugs, Fergie's ascent to superstar status was finally realised in 2003 when she was asked to contribute backing vocals to the Peas' Shut Up.

Now a permanent fixture in the Black Eyed Peas' lineup, Fergie's been able to explore her dreams of recording her own solo album. The Dutchess is full of Fergie's disparate musical influences, from Tina Turner to Guns 'N' Roses. I'm like a gypsy, she says, you know, I've kind of grabbed from everything.

From the stomping hip-hop attitude of Fergalicious and London Bridge to the vocal talents displayed on the more introspective Big Girls Don't Cry, Fergie's session really cements her worth as a solo artist in her own right. 'The Dutchess' herself is loving every moment I feel like I've accomplished so much the rest is gravy now.

- Download Fergie with iTunes
- Visit her official website
- Search: Fergie

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