I'm grateful to be alive, because I really did not think I was going to be alive, onstage performing songs.

I've got these five-pound weights and a treadmill in the living room. I work out the other parts that have affected my voice: my diaphragm - doctors took mine out in surgery - and my lungs. I've got to build back my legs, too, so I can run across that stage. I've got a lot to do, but I'm going to get out, sing songs and tell the stories.

I'm singing, you know, because I'm happy and I'm free.

Juicing has helped me bring my pressure down. Organic natural foods, too.

My fans have written me such kind emails. My management at Daptone helped me heal, too. I'm in a good place.

I tell the songwriter's story. When I read people's lyrics, I'm so amazed. I want to tell this story and make it part of my life. I usually can't write lyrics down, but I can sure tell that story. You've got to make people feel the hurt and love in each song.

I miss my hair, but I feel like going out there with some fake braids wouldn't be right. I want to be the most genuine performer I can be.