I've been lucky enough that I can gather all sorts of experiences and find inspiration by traveling around and by spending time with people I admire.

Im happy to say that at 62, I think Ive reached that point where stuff doesnt bother me as much, and my gratitude level has gone way up, especially having gone through the loss that Ive had, and losing so many of the great artists that I was close to. They taught me how to see it with a grain of salt and a lot of humor and perspective.

There are a lot of people that never get their stories told.

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.

When you love a song so much you have to sing, you know how you feel - it releases something in you that resonates as true, whether it's James Brown or Joni Mitchell.

I've watched my peers get better with age and hoped that would happen with me.

I was raised with the blessing of being involved with peace and social justice, and the environmental movement. I have my parents to thank for that.