If I weren't reasonably placid, I don't think I could cope with this sort of life. To be a diva, you've got to be absolutely like a horse.

All singers must be crazy. But we're a nice family of crazy people

My voice was obviously God given and I have tried to give of myself honestly.

The world we are born into-this complicated, difficult, hauntingly touching world-is the one whole thing. It is the world we awaken in, and awaken to.

I don't sing for anybody. I wouldn't sing for the Queen dear.

One is just given a talent, and it's one's duty to make the most of it.

You can listen to what everybody says, but the fact remains that you've got to get out there and do the thing yourself.