My father's record collection was full of New Orleans music of all kinds. I used to listen to the radio in New York, and all there was on it at the time was Madonna and Michael Jackson, so it sort of passed me by.

I had my guitar and some talent so that I could make friends with intelligent people and could talk my way out of difficult situations.

I've always loved singing. I find it exhilarating.

My father had a varied ear, from Hank Williams to Ravel.

I was just learning to play guitar when Tracy Chapman came out. She wrote these songs, she played them by herself and I so admired her for that.

I listened to Billie Holiday a lot in order to learn to sing. She remains one of the extraordinary jazz singers. But my intent is to become my own voice, to be able to interpret these songs in my own way.

It's wonderful to work with someone with mentor status.