I've only ever wanted to be a singer; I never wanted to be famous.

With 'Believe' bringing really big success for me outside of the U.K. for the first time, it meant I have been touring around the world and that led to a gap from the studio. I really feel like the gap has done me the world of good. Throughout that time I was able to collect songs that I really loved.

I have to believe that I know what's best for me. For instance, I choose all my songs. I never record anything I don't want to record. No one tells me what concerts to do.

My mother and father were perfect role models. They were together for 25 years and very much in love. But I've got too much to do now. I'm only 27.

I was such a geek in school.

I can't leave the studio until everything is as it should be. And I can't put a record out unless I am completely happy with it. I never want to be at a signing and hear my album playing and think, 'Oh no, I could have done that top note better.'

I really see myself as a homegirl. Wales is my first home. London is my second home - I've been there 14 years now.