I grew up in a very modest house. We were poor-we lived on the poverty level. We all got jobs as young kids.

As a young girl, there were the obvious messages about what girls could and couldn't achieve. And to compound the limitations I felt being leveled upon me, I realized at the age of nine, that I was gay.

I'd like my writing to be recognized with a Grammy.

All I ever wanted to do was write songs and get on a bus and go play them for people.

If I wanted to be a pop singer, I would have done that 20 years ago. I love country music.

I would like to say when I turn the project over to the label that I have been successful. And that's truly the way I feel. But, in addition to the self-pride in 'making' a good album, to be honest, I'd love to have a hit record!

I'm very much a traditionalist, but I think it's important to know about tradition so that you can evolve the music you are deciding to make.