I was taking singing lessons, and they'd say, 'Your voice is too hoarse. You have to do more exercises.'

My one area of vulnerability was I didn't know how to have a healthy relationship with a man.

I listen to both oldies and contemporary stations. I enjoy listening to current stuff because there's an energy to it that's inspiring.

In my career I have never felt that my being a woman was an obstacle or an advantage. I guess I've been oblivious.

All I needed to do was sing with conviction, speaking my truth from the heart, honestly and straightforwardly, and to offer my words, ideas and music to the audience as if it were one collective friend that I'd known for a very long time.