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.

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

I feel what they feel. And people who listen to me know that, and it makes them feel like they're not alone.

By the time I was eight I was taking classical piano lessons and I wanted to be a concert pianist. But that didn't work out. I graduated from high school and my formal education ended.

I made wine from the lilac tree/Put my heart in its recipe/It makes me see what I want to see/And be what I want to be

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

I was not reluctant to become a singer. Singing has been an activity I've done my whole life, without thought.