THE RELUCTANT DIVA by Ian Gould
Paulini Curuenavuli is trying a fresh sound
She has the big voice, big hair and a forthcoming album called Superwoman.
But one-time Australian Idol starlet Paulini Curuenavuli hasn’t attained diva status just yet.
“I have had so many people say ‘you’re a diva’,” she tells Sydney Star Observer.
“I’m not. I’m so far from that.
“On the new album there’s a track called Superwoman and it talks about a young girl who’s telling her partner, ‘I’m not a superwoman, I’m just like every other girl.’
“That’s why I chose that theme. When I wake up in the morning I look exactly like every other girl – or maybe worse,” she laughs.
The Fijian-born singer, who came fourth in the first season of Australian Idol in 2003, is similarly down-to-earth about her position in the ego-driven music game.
“I definitely wouldn’t say I’ve made it or that I’m an established artist. I think the [new] album will tell me that.”
With Superwoman and its infectious first single Rough Day, Paulini is staking success on a change of style this time round.
“The other album [2004’s One Determined Heart] was very soft and really mellow,” the singer says.
“I still wanted to be that but with the imaging and with the songs I wanted to put a more hardcore sound to it.
“There are a lot more dance tracks, more up-tempo stuff.
“I just want people to know that I’m fun and that I’ve grown up. I’m not the young girl that I was on Idol anymore, and I’ve come out of my shell I think.”
Paulini’s reinvention post-Australian Idol has involved braving reality TV makeover show Celebrity Overhaul.
And like many an aspiring pop princess, the 23-year-old has also put in a couple of appearances at Arq.
“I love it there. It definitely is one of the best places to perform,” she says.
“It’s a great vibe.”
Paulini’s gay fans might even see their favourite non-diva at the Mardi Gras party some time soon.
“Oh my gosh! I’ve been wanting to,” she says. “I’ve been asking them for me to get a gig on that.
“Nothing’s really happened but I definitely want to.”
Rough Day is out now through Sony BMG. Superwoman will be released on 12 March.
