Fergie says the Black Eyed Peas are her "family"

The singer joined the hip-hop group, consisting of will.i.am, apl.de.ap and Taboo, in 2003. Since then, the group have released three hit albums and performed a strong of sold-out world tours.

Fergie has gone on to become a solo artist and actress, but still loves working with the band because they are such good friends.

"Peas is not just about the money, it`s a family," she explained to the British edition of OK! magazine. "We`re friends. We have a great time together and we have a great time making music.

"I`m very blessed because I have the best of both worlds - I can do a solo album, or I can do a Peas album or I can go do a movie, but they`re all different animals."

Fergie made her acting debut in musical movie Nine, opposite Nicole Kidman, Kate Hudson, Daniel Day Lewis and a host of other stars. She enjoys acting, and also loves her solo career, but has the most fun when she is working with her bandmates.

"There`s a little less pressure being with the Peas," she explained. "I`m not the only one talking in interviews, plus it`s fun to hang with the boys."

sections: Celebrities