My first album came out in 1979.

I constantly tour, even when I don't have a record out.

Overall my race hasn't been a problem. I'm a black artist with white skin. At the end of the day you have to sing what's in your own soul.

I have a deep affinity for New Orleans - its like a second home to me - they treat me like I'm their own.

They told me that they are starting a classic label, and wanted me to be the first artist. So I signed, and am producing myself, and writing my own music, but I'm their first artist on their classic label. And I have creative control.

I play guitar, piano, bass and percussion.

You never know where a blessing can come from.