SANDRA: Over the years I repeatedly got letters and mails from all over the world, that I should make music again.

- The reason for your long break were your twins, right?
Sandra: Yes, correct! In my opinion children need at least one parent to look after them around the clock, before they go to school. Family is very important to Michael and me..

- For all who donґt know: Your husband is the famous producer Michael Cretu...
Sandra: Exactly. And the one who discovered and produced me.

- But you were already very successful at the end of the 70's with the disco trio Arabesque?
Sandra: In Germany we only had one hit. In Japan, however, we were already something like the Spice Girls back then. That was very exciting. But Michael immidiately realized that I'm more suited for a solo project..

- Michael kept on working busily. Enigma released a new album and he produced Andru Donalds and some other artists.
Sandra: Of course I never quit completely either. Our studio is directly at our house, so you cannot prevent working on projects together. After all Iґm giving my voice to the "Enigma" project each time.

- Didn't you miss the singing?
Sandra: Sometimes yes. But as I said, there was Enigma. I could work off on that. And you can believe one thing: Twins, especially boys, really keep you busy!

- Why did you move from Munich to Ibiza in 1988?
Sandra: Everybody who ever was on Ibiza, can understand that. Actually it's not a party island but one of the most beautiful spots of Europe. And I wanted to protect my kids from the media hustle. Everywhere, at the fences, in the garden and at the windows photographers were lurking. Terrible. On Ibiza you have your peace. In addition to that, the traffic connections are very good. It doesnґt matter after all, if I fly to Cologne from Munich or from Ibiza. And the children grow up bilingual, what I consider an advantage.

- Your new album "Wheel of time" is modernly arranged, nevertheless one can hear that it is Sandra without a doubt. Is that by purpose?
Sandra: Yes. Over the years I repeatedly got letters and mails from all over the world, that I should make music again. First I consider this a compliment and second I think that my fans want back the Sandra I once was.

- So no fear of change?
Sandra: No, why? Who says that I'm going to be successful with this album? No matter if I now do something else or if I stay like I am: In the end the fans decide what they like. If suddenly the whole world calls for a new beat, I might think about it. But frankly I can't imagine that. I surely didnґt want to turn back the "Wheel of Time".

- Why did you cover "Such a Shame" from Talk Talk? Memories of the good old 80's?
Sandra: The 80's were really terrific, not only because of my success as a singer. Listening to that song, I got to know Michael and we listened to it all day long. When we produced the album now, we decided that it has to be added to it. I love this song. That's why it's the 2nd single release.

- And "Silent Running" from "Mike and the Mechanics"?
Sandra: hen this song was played, we were moving to Ibiza. Somehow it fit: "Can you hear me running..." We actually almost ran, too (laughs).

- Your first single release "Forever" is already rather successful.
Sandra: I was very happy about that. You're always anxiously awaiting the reactions of the fans. It encouraged me to release the album immidiately.

- Will there be a tour?
Sandra: It depends on the reactions of my fans. If the album sells well, of course I will go on tour.

- They want to see you live for sure and also will want to hear the old songs again...
Sandra: If I go on tour, of course I will also play all my hits from the past. I also connect many beautiful memories with them after all.

- Is "Maria Magdalena" your personal favourite, because it also was your greatest success?
Sandra: Yes. I think that's how everybody would feel. After all it is one of the most important cuts in my life. From one day to the other you are famous. No private life anymore. Daily interviews. Photo sessions and so on. You have to get used to something like that. But I donґt want to deny all the advantages now (laughs).

- I'm sure your new album will be a success.
Sandra: That's great. I wish my other fans think the same.

Sandra, thanks for this interview. With kind support from VIRGIN.