I think there's quite a lot of cowardice in music. I don't mind if it goes wrong, I just want to go for it.

Trust your instincts: they tend to see you right. By listening to them, at least you can sleep at night.

Yes, being educated is definitely an advantage. But having said that, I've met so many people in life who haven't done very well at school but who are still really bright.

In real life, I'm not super-posh but if that's the stereotype, I really don't care. It could be worse.

In terms of influence, my style icons have been a mixture of Julie Andrews and Olivia Newton-John. When I was little I used to watch 'Grease,' 'Mary Poppins' and 'The Sound of Music' a lot. If you put all those things together you do kind of get my outfits. A slightly tarty nanny in a second-hand outfit. That is pretty much what I wear.

I'm someone who has always been quite clear about what I like. In the studio, I'm not a control freak but I know what I want.

I don't think writing or co-writing my songs makes me a better singer, but I haven't really got an excuse not to do it as I've got too many opinions!