I embrace my body, and I embrace everything about myself. Coming full circle is a celebration of freedom and happiness because that's what [my new album] 'Lotus' is representing. I'm embracing everything that I've grown to be and learned to be.

I still have my eyes on the prize: I want to be that old lady onstage shaking her hips and singing her greatest hits.

One day I hope to open a shelter of my own. I think it's really important to share my own story with women who've been abused, because going through that experience has led me to where I am today: It's given me the strength and motivation to be the best that I can be.

Power is making a statement about who you are.

Being a mother, singer and actress is a definite juggling act, but I don't think I would be comfortable any other way.

Just the whole concept of burlesque, I've always been fascinated with it. I've always collected so many books about burlesque.

So consumed in all your doom, trying hard to fill the emptiness.