Betty Boo celebrates turning 50 after doubting she would reach the milestone like her parents

In the early 1990s, Betty Boo was the epitome of cool for teenage girls in Britain. A young Londoner, she was not just a pop star but also a female rapper, a fashion icon, and a successful chart-topper, all rolled into one. Her signature hit, Doin’ the Do, was a massive hit in 1990, and her debut album, Boomania, achieved platinum status the following year, earning her the title of best British breakthrough act at the Brit awards.

Despite her widespread popularity, many of her fans knew little about the real Alison Clarkson behind the Betty Boo persona. A shy and reserved individual who had lost her father at a young age and was of mixed Scottish and Malaysian descent, Clarkson was able to channel her pain and energy into her music career. She was raised by her strong-willed Scottish grandmother, a member of the Fabian Society, who instilled in her a sense of independence and determination from a young age.

Even before achieving fame as Betty Boo, Clarkson was part of the rap group She Rockers and had a memorable encounter with hip-hop icons Public Enemy. This chance meeting catapulted her into the world of rap music and led to opportunities to tour with the band in the US. Despite facing backlash from her family for pursuing her dreams, Clarkson remained determined to succeed in the music industry.

Betty Boo’s career, however, came to an abrupt halt due to burnout and personal tragedies in her life, including caring for her mother and grandmother who were both battling serious illnesses. Despite attempts from industry heavyweights like Simon Cowell to reignite her career, Clarkson chose to focus on songwriting for other artists and working on music documentaries with her husband, Paul Toogood.

It was not until she reached the age of 50 and experienced a sense of restlessness during lockdown that Betty Boo made a comeback with her new album, Boomerang, in 2022. The album, featuring collaborations with artists like Chuck D, David Gray, and Sophie Ellis-Bextor, was well-received by critics and fans alike. Clarkson reflects on her journey, expressing gratitude for still being alive and able to create music at this stage in her life.

Betty Boo’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of reinvention. From her early days battling shyness and grief to her meteoric rise to fame and subsequent struggles, Clarkson’s journey is a testament to the highs and lows of the music industry. As she embarks on her first UK tour at the age of 55, Betty Boo is proof that it’s never too late to make a comeback and reclaim one’s place in the spotlight.