I only knew classical music, which to me was the only true music. The only way I could survive at the bar was to mix the classical music with popular songs, and that meant I had to sing. What happened was that I discovered I had a voice plus the talent to mix classical music together with more popular songs, which at the time I detested.

Tomorrow, I might be in a different mood and you wouldn't recognize my voice.

Every day has its emotional difficulties. I miss my mother whether I'm singing her music or not.

The worst thing about that kind of prejudice... is that while you feel hurt and angry and all the rest of it, it feeds you self-doubt. You start thinking, perhaps I am not good enough.

I don't like to go to strange places. I was in Italy for about five hours on my way to Africa.

Music is a gift and a burden I've had since I can remember who I was.

I play piano, by ear. Yes, I write songs... and good ones.