I didn't have to be a pop singer with a certain look. When I started, there was really a revolution in natural artists with blues and folk artists crossing over; otherwise, I wouldn't have been able to get started.

I would like to inspire a lot of people to be active and give back.

I don't want to sound like a self-help book, but it really has been transformative for me to take a look at my relationships in a new way and see my part in them. Everybody's going through that.

It's very personal in California to live within hours, and sometimes just a few miles, of earthquake faults when nuclear plants were being built.

I learned a lot about what it was like to have to use different hotels and not use the bathrooms, which made me more determined to be an activist.

It is still a surprise when people tell me that I've had an influence on them, particularly when it's someone I really respect.

It's so thrilling. And not just the music. The Internet is changing the future of fund-raising. I'm thrilled by the potential.