Stooshe: 'We dodged our fares to get to recording studio now we support Jennifer Lopez'

London girl group Stooshe have revealed that their early days were such a financial struggle that they had to dodge their fares while getting trains into the recording studio.

The three girls - Alexandra Buggs from Maidstone, Courtney Rumbold from Penge and Karis Anderson from Brixton – are now flying high after supporting Jennifer Lopez during her recent tour and have two top-five singles to their name.

But when they were put together by creative manager Jo Perry, the girls were all studying and working part time at M&S, Next and House of Fraser.

Alex said: “The biggest change for us is that we’re no longer struggling. I used to bump trains to get to the studio. We all used to work part time in retail – it was really nice when we were able to give up those jobs.”

The girls are preparing to release their debut album, Stooshe, next month but claim female bands have their work cut out for them compared to their male counterparts.

Karis said: “I do think it’s harder for girl bands. I think if the work rate is the same for a girl band and a boy band, the reception they receive from fans can be different. A girl band can work as hard as they can, but with a boy band, their fans will often love them no question. I think girl bands face a lot of hidden agendas.”

Although Stooshe have earned plenty of fans with their anarchic brand of pop, they have also had their fair share of critics who claim song titles like F*** You are not suitable for younger listeners.

Courtney said: “I don’t think you can say that [bands are too racy] in this day and age. We set a good example of speaking our minds and having fun with it. You’re never going to please everybody in this world.”

Stooshe are working with Hasbro to promote the launch of the new Furby toy, which is out now for Christmas.