The primary focus of our discussion centers on the illustrious journey of the Belgian dance project, 2 Fabiola, whose impact on the music scene is both profound and multifaceted. We meticulously explore the origins of the group, commencing in 1991 with the creative collaboration of Pat Crimson and Olivier Adams, and delve into the evolution of their sound and lineup over the years. Throughout this episode, we scrutinize the intricate dynamics of their success, including the revelation that the visually prominent Zora did not provide the lead vocals on their most iconic tracks, a fact that reshapes our understanding of their artistic identity. As we trace their trajectory from underground acclaim to mainstream prominence, culminating in their resurgence with the hit "She's After My Piano," we also reflect on the complexities of their current status, wherein they enjoy significant demand yet perceive themselves as undervalued in the marketplace. This narrative not only highlights the resilience of 2 Fabiola but also invites contemplation on the broader implications of legacy and economic valuation within the contemporary music industry.

Who is

In this episode, we rewind to the golden age of Eurodance with 2 Fabiola — the Belgian act that brought color, energy, and catchy hooks to the '90s dance scene. Founded by producer Pat Krimson and fronted by the charismatic Zohra, 2 Fabiola made waves with hits like Lift U Up, Freak Out, and Play This Song.

We explore their rise to fame, their flashy style, and how they captured the spirit of an era where everything was loud, fun, and made to move. With their blend of synths, powerful vocals, and relentless beats, 2 Fabiola became a festival favorite and a symbol of feel-good club culture in Belgium and beyond.

Whether you grew up dancing to them or just discovered their retro charm, this episode is a tribute to the glittery pulse of Belgian eurodance.

🎧 Push play. Lift it up. Feel the vibe.

The exploration of the Belgian dance music project, 2 Fabiola, reveals a complex narrative that spans over three decades. Beginning in 1991, the project was initiated by musicians Patrick Clason, better known as Pat Crimson, and Olivier Adams, who sought to create a distinctive sound within the Eurodance genre. The duo's choice of the name '2 Fabiola' pays homage to Queen Fabiola of Belgium, an unusual yet striking branding decision that set the tone for their artistic identity. Their journey commences with the release of their debut single, 'The Milky Way,' which, although not an immediate commercial success, garnered respect as an underground dance classic, laying a solid foundation for their future endeavors.

As the narrative unfolds, listeners are taken through the significant milestones of 2 Fabiola's career, marked by a series of impactful releases in the mid-90s. The single 'Lift You Up' serves as a pivotal moment, propelling the group into international acclaim and solidifying their status as pioneers in the Belgian dance scene. This era is characterized by a string of chart-topping hits and a public revelation regarding the vocal dynamics within the group, particularly the distinction between the frontwoman, Zora, and the actual lead vocalist, Karen Bollertz. This revelation adds depth to the understanding of the constructed nature of pop music, where image and sound may diverge.

Transitioning into the late 90s, the departure of key members led to a period of experimentation and lineup changes, including the introduction of new vocalists such as Yvie Goffin and Katie Michaelson. Although these changes brought fresh energy, they did not immediately yield the same commercial success as before. However, the group's resilience is evident as they navigate through quieter periods, ultimately leading to a triumphant resurgence in the 2010s with their entry into the Eurovision pre-selection. Their hit 'She's After My Piano' marks a significant comeback, achieving widespread radio play and accolades, including the title of the most played song on Flemish radio. The current phase of their career showcases ongoing creativity and a busy performance schedule, yet the group expresses feelings of being undervalued relative to their legacy and demand, prompting reflections on the economic realities of live music today.

Takeaways:

• The podcast delves into the intricate history of the Belgian dance group 2 Fabiola, exploring their origins, key members, and significant milestones in their career.
• It highlights the unique aspect of 2 Fabiola's success, particularly noting the vocal contributions of Karen Bollertz, who was the voice behind many of their hits, despite not being the visible frontwoman.
• The discussion reveals the evolution of the group through various lineups, emphasizing the impact of transitions on their musical journey and public perception over the decades.
• The episode culminates in a contemporary analysis of 2 Fabiola's current status, discussing their ongoing activity, live performances, and a candid reflection on their perceived undervaluation in the market today.

Links referenced in this episode:

• wikipedia.org
• spotify.com
• joeradio.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• 2 Fabiola
• Milk Inc.