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

I was 21. At the time, I was under the thumb of my label, and I felt like I had to do, say and act out everything they asked me to do. I was trying to please them and the public and finally I had to say, "Enough. I'm going to make a record that makes me happy and addresses all facets of being a woman. I don't care if I sell one or one million records." That's how I came to make Stripped.

There was no way in hell I was going to jeopardize my baby for my show.

I am very honest, even in interviews.

I don't even watch my own show: I tape it, I'm out.

Etta James is my all-time favorite singer. I've said it in every interview, in every story, in every on- and off-camera question. That music was always such a huge escape for me, even from a young age.

Getting older, you just don't want to sing fluffy.