Ellen Foley Talks Meatloaf, The Clash, ‘Cocktail,’ and Her First Album in Eight Years (audio)

Ellen Foley–featured on one of the most iconic Meatloaf songs of all time–is releasing a new album today, “Fighting Words,” featuring a new collaboration with Karla Devito and her own rendition of Jim Steinman’s “Heaven Can Wait.”

Her new single, “Are You Good Enough,” is a fierce anthem, which Foley describes as cross between rock and roll with a little Shania Twain in the mix.

“Our intention was for the song to land somewhere between AC/DC and Brownsville Station,” said its songwriter, Paul Foglino. “It’s a love song for people who know better — they’ve been through the wringer, either together or individually, and they’ve emerged on the other side.” 

“Fighting Words” is her first record in eight years, featuring first solo album in eight years, Ellen Foley and songwriter Paul Foglino have assembled a stellar array of players, including bassist C.P. Roth (Ozzy Osbourne, Rick Derringer, Edgar Winter), drummer Steve Goulding (Graham Parker & the Rumour, The Mekons), and backing vocalist Ula Hedwig (Darlene Love, Bette Midler).

Foley’s version of “Heaven Can Wait” was originally recorded for the soundtrack of the 2016 film Lies I Told My Little Sister, which featured her in a supporting role. Foley has an extensive career as an actress, including originating the role of The Witch in “Into The Woods” and film roles in Hair (1979), Tootsie (1982), Fatal Attraction (1987), Married to the Mob and Cocktail (both 1988), and as a series regular on season two of NBC-TV’s Night Court (1984-1985). 

Check out Michele’s interview below: