I went to the Brit School for the performing arts in Croydon at 14, picking music as my main subject, and I'm so glad I did. I knew lots of people who'd gone there, so I always had my mind set on it.

I've never really compared myself to anyone who's a big star - I'm not trying to be a fashion icon or get famous.

Destiny's Child literally taught me how to sing.

My dad was a soul fan and a singer himself, and he loved vocal harmony, stuff like the Beach Boys and Motown like the Four Tops, which was a big influence on me.

I make music, and if people like it, they like it, and some people won't.

I don't want people to think they have to like me because I'm on TV every other minute.

The days of an open mic night when I'd rock up in an old jumper are over.