Darius World

Down and dirty with Darius

by Lelia Ferro

Would-be Pop Idol Darius, once famous for his bad goatee and even badder version of Hit Me Baby One More Time, has come a long way.

After smash hit single Colourblind, his debut album Dive In went platinum and he played a sell out tour across the country. But 2004 was a tough year for Darius, helping his family through his father’s serious illness. Now the boy is all grown up and has transformed into a stylish and very sexy man indeed. But he still has the charm and blind confidence we've come to love, and is putting it to good use.

Recently spotted out with Geri Halliwell and his ex-girlfriend, model and Hollywood actress Natasha Henstridge, he has serenaded the socks off countless lasses who fall for those big brown eyes and wiggly hips. Luckily for us, Darius is finally back with the beautiful new single Live Twice. So was it worth the wait? The UK’s favourite loser talks to bliss about music, love and sexy underwear…

What inspired your new album Live Twice?

I wanted to write great songs that move people. It’s a more mature album inspired by artists, like George Michael. I took the idea from Colourblind to make organic songs just playable with the guitar.

Your new single is pretty emotional stuff. Who did you write it for?

My father had terminal cancer last year and was given six months to live, but miraculously recovered. I prayed he’d live to hear it on the radio. It’s a very intimate song for me and I hope it comforts people if they are missing someone.

Your last album went platinum. How does it feel finally to be a credible artist?

It’s a lovely feeling for all three of us. Lemar, Will Young and myself, are forerunners in young British male talent. I’m so glad I’ve had the opportunity to express myself and to do what I’ve always dreamed of.

Nearly all your fans are girls - discuss!

Yes indeed. The Dive In tour last year was a real eye opener because 70% of my audience were female and only 30% male. It’s very flattering and I have to admit I really like it that way.

Maybe men are jealous of your smooth moves?

[laughs] That’s funny! I’m not seen as street or hip as Justin Timberlake, so guys that enjoy good music and aren’t afraid to go out and buy a Darius record obviously have balls.

You were spotted in Anne Summers recently. Were you shopping for sexy underwear for Geri?

Right now I’m single and Geri and I are just good friends. I was thinking about buying something for a special lady but walked out empty handed. Next time I’ll have to make sure I walk in with a girl on my arm.

How are you celebrating Valentines Day?

I’d love to be with a girl and in love but I’ve learned that if you chase after something you don’t always get it. But what is meant for you doesn’t pass you by and I’ll let bliss know when it happens!

What’s your perfect romantic evening?

A beautiful, intimate candlelit restaurant I know where the food is sumptuous and they play romantic music. Then a snuggle on the sofa with a box of Belgian chocolates and a romantic DVD.

What do you look for in a girl?

Someone who really appreciates life, has a great smile and who isn’t afraid of expressing her emotions.

How do you remember your Pop Idol days?

It was great fun. I went through an assault course of training and worked with the best people in the business. That was the first rung of the ladder I’m climbing.

What would you say to bliss readers looking to make it big in pop stardom?

I wish you the best of luck and I hope you continue to believe in yourself no matter what. Knock backs only make you wiser, so always show the world you won’t give up easily.

Live Twice is out now and a new tour will be announced later this year!