Like all soul singers, I grew up singing in church but sometimes I would leave early and sit in the car listening to gospel band, The Blind Boys of Alabama. Hearing their lead singer Clarence made me connect the idea of church and show business and see how I could make a career singing music that stirred the soul.

I have to say I have never been comfortable with somebody else telling me what to do - in any way.

If you work hard and you're good, you can build something for yourself.

As I got older, my voice got better.

If Paul McCartney tells me that so-and-so song is his favorite song, what do I care? What do I care what anybody else says?

I have an English family and I've lived in England for years.

I love antique architecture, so if I have any indulgences, I have owned and renovated and reconstructed a lot of old houses.