Often I have to move my body in a certain way, like exercising, to begin to get into the right rhythm for writing a song.

I was brought up to express myself only when asked to express myself and then to do so in a way that's pleasing to hear. But I've always had a need to make my presence known. I was just sort of born that way, I guess. It's my natural tendency.

Fame is a can of worms I haven't really had to contend with.

I grew up as a Catholic, and there was so much that was beautiful there, and also so much that was troubling. The whole patriarchal thing, the whole male-dominated approach, really bothered me.

Most people like the sad songs. Some of the oldest songs known to man are sad. Listening to a voice singing something sad is a really great way to help you to feel sad when you need to.

I think there are times when a song can be a spiritual experience - just making music, in general, is pretty much that.

Everyone is tortured. Do you know anyone who isn't?