BECOMING a parent is just about the biggest event in anyone’s lives, bringing with it a raft of challenges and unforeseen scenarios that potentially pose the sternest of tests, writes Neill Barston.

For Paloma Faith, the experience of being a new mum may have left her wondering where her next night’s sleep might ever be coming from, yet it’s brought a renewed sense of purpose and focus to her music.

“I’m trying to juggle being a mother and a singer. I have no idea how I am managing, but I am somehow,” she laughs, recounting her whirlwind existence recording her fourth studio album.

The 36-year old Londoner has already amassed an enviable career over the past decade that has seen her become the only female artist beyond Adele to have three double platinum recordings to her name.

While it’s been a road requiring plenty of hard graft, her artfully soulful sound and quirky style have undoubtedly played their part in propelling the Hackney-born star to success.

The singer’s latest offering, The Architect, follows boldly in its predecessors’ footsteps, showcasing her distinctive powerful vocals that have earned comparisons with everyone from 60s icons such as Etta James and Billie Holiday, through to the late Amy Winehouse.

As she admits, she’s hoping her latest work, partly recorded in America, might yet crack the elusive holy grail of top slot in the album charts. If the slick, yet lyrically reflective lead single Crybaby is anything to go by, then the signs are indeed looking promising.

It seems the singer is enjoying a compara­tively settled phase of her life living with French boyfriend Leyman Lahcine, and it’s apparent that starting a family has directly influenced her music.

“I do feel my approach to music has changed since I’ve become a parent — which does have an impact. With difficult things that are happening in the world, you feel protective and want to make things comfortable for your family.

“I think things are changing in our history and maybe not for the better, which is something I’m concerned about. I feel there’s a sense of duty to talk about events.”

Much like any other artist in the limelight, her rise has come with the perhaps inevitable burden of being followed around by the ever-hungry paparazzi.

Everyone from Hello magazine through to the national red-top national papers has been waiting to secure pictures of her new youngster, whom she is keen to shield from un-necessary public attention.

“I value my privacy more so than ever now, as it’s a real responsibility being a parent, and I want my child to know itself first rather than everyone else feeling that they know all about them.”

Such determination to do things on her own terms has proved a consistent theme throughout her career, and something that has helped her stand out from the crowd.

As she recalls of her childhood in East London, the half-Spanish artist says that she always had something of a creative streak. However, it was far from obvious that she was destined to become a singer, with her initial studies being at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance.

“Growing up in Hackney, I was surrounded by lots of different types of music — from my mum, I remember listening to plenty of revolutionary music from the 60s such as Bob Dylan, while my dad was really into jazz, which is where my interest in all that comes from.

“Later, when I was studying, I got into R and B dancehall as well, and originally I wanted to be dancer. Then I did my musical theatre, and I think that music just chose me,” she explains of her formative years.

From her early CV that spanned everything from being a life model, cabaret dancer and bartender, to a gig as a magician’s assistant, her rich experiences have offered plenty of tales and adventures to fuel her inventive songwriting.

Her down-to-earth manner is a breath of fresh air in an industry awash with egos, and her willingness to give something back was seen with her time on The Voice series. Beyond being a vocal mentor, she was determined to help those under her wing with additional songwriting classes.

As for her own career, having been nominated several times for a Brit Award, persistence paid off two years ago as she claimed a long-awaited win in the best female solo artist category. Being in an industry that is often quick to cast judgment, she felt there was a real sense of vindication in claiming the coveted accolade.

“It was amazing to win the Brit Award and to finally gain some acknowledgement. I come from a long line of people that haven’t really been acknow­ledged for what they did. I think there are a lot of people out there doing important work, like doctors and nurses who don’t get that recognition they should.”

With a major award to her name, there has been plenty of hype surrounding her latest release, bolstered by notable additions including an appearance from Samuel L Jackson and a duet with singer songwriter John Legend in the mix.

Besides the album, fans will have to wait a little longer for her next UK tour, which kicks off in March and she has announced a huge summer run of shows taking in Forest and Jockey Club Live events. It’s destined to feature some of Paloma’s trademark self-designed sets to spark the tone for a hit-packed series of shows.

“The only reason I do what I’m doing is because I love touring – as when I’m out there I am excited and feel that I’m in the right place,” adds the singer, who may well have a little more to think about with a young child in tow, yet it won’t stop her from enjoying every single moment.

WIN?TICKETS! On Sunday, July 8, Brit Award-winning singer Paloma Faith will journey south to perform at one of Cornwall’s most magical open-air venues and we’re giving one lucky reader the chance to win a pair of tickets.

Renowned for her eccentric style and wild wardrobe, the Hackney born artist will headline this year’s first Live in The Wyldes event. Following a successful launch last summer, Live in The Wyldes enters its second year with a series of one-day live music events at The Wyldes site near Bude. Kicking off the multiple music experiences, Paloma Faith will take to the main stage on the Sunday evening for what is set to be an exciting live show.

The Post has teamed up with The Wyldes’ team to offer one reader a pair of tickets for the gig. You’ll also get a pitch at the camping site, so pack a tent and your wellies for some feel-good summer fun.

All you have to do is answer the following question: What is the name of Paloma Faith’s latest album?

Send your entries, marked Paloma Faith, to Cornish & Devon Post, Tindle House, Westgate Street, Launceston, PL15 7AL by 11.59pm on Friday, May 11.

Normal Cornish & Devon Post terms and conditions apply and the Editor’s decision is final.

Please note: The tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable and not for re-sale. The competition is limited to one entry per person. The winning entry will be drawn at random from all entries received by the closing date.