The pop star on getting racy in a lads’ mag, loving Mariah and hoping to take after Take That. By Lucy Hunter Johnston

What’s it like working with your idols?
The only time I’ve been starstruck was when I met Mariah [Carey]. I could feel myself welling up and mumbled that I was a massive fan. She said, ‘Oh, that’s so sweet… I need to go to the bathroom.’

Who has been your favourite person to perform with?
I grew up listening to Stevie Wonder, so just to meet him was amazing, but to have him on the album, I was overwhelmed.

Your fan base is predominantly young girls, does it get frustrating trying to maintain a squeaky clean image?
I don’t think I have a squeaky image. I just represent a normal 20-year-old. I’d never do drugs or crazy things like that, but I love going to parties and drinking like all my friends. I don’t try to pretend to be what I’m not. I don’t feel I need to do anything outrageous.

Do you ever worry that people might not take your music seriously?
Because it’s pop and it’s on the radio people might think that I’m just some blonde singer who dances around, but I work really hard. I try not to pay much attention.

You got to number 31 on FHM’s sexiest women list this year…
I don’t know what to think of it. Thank you to everyone who voted, I guess.

Would you like to be number one?
It’s not a priority.

How did your father react to your racy FHM cover shoot?
I don’t know. We made sure they did it in a tasteful way, not a horrible way. As long as you do it tastefully then it’s all cool.

Professor Green rapped something rude about you in a song recently, were you offended?
I wasn’t offended, but I was a bit speechless. My sister wasn’t happy, but I didn’t take it too seriously.

Are you going to retaliate?
No, of course not. I’ve seen him since then and I haven’t said anything. I think only a rapper would retaliate. We’re friends, but that’s all.

Apparently your brother was offered a role in the new series of TOWIE…
Yes, he was offered a role because he’s friends with Joey Essex, but he said no. He’s just got a really good job in the City.

Do you watch it?
I’ve caught a few shows. I’m excited about the new series.

What’s your ultimate career goal?
I went to the Take That show at Wembley earlier this year and that’s what I’d like: to play to 80,000 people in sold-out stadiums, all there just there to watch me. I’ll be satisfied if that happens.

Pixie’s new album Young Foolish Happy will be released on 7 November. Her new Lipsy collection launches next week

Source: ES Magazine