I suppose that the media and their portrayal of Islam and the almost tribal separations and divisions of the Muslims are the greatest issues confronting Muslims in the United Kingdom.

From the moment I could talk I was ordered to listen.

I am confident that, in the end, common sense and justice will prevail. I'm an optimist, brought up on the belief that if you wait to the end of the story, you get to see the good people live happily ever after.

Being larger than life, or being projected as such in the music business, leads you to question yourself. Some people try to forget about it by taking drugs or too much drink, but I was never like that. I was aware that there were very serious, big questions, and I was petrified about what might be in store for me.

I'm not the best of you, but I'm not the worst either.

I've returned to being an amateur without any ties or strings attached, which gives me a freedom I never had before.

There is a powerful need for people to feel that gust of hope rise up again.