Songwriting is a very mysterious process. It feels like creating something from nothing. It's something I don't feel like I really control.

Now love's the only thing that's free /We must take it where it's found /Pretty soon it may be costly

We all must live our lives always feeling, always thinking the moment has arrived.

So don't be tempted by the shiny apple Don't you eat of a bitter fruit Hunger only for a taste of justice Hunger only for a world of truth 'Cause all that you have is your soul.

My old man's got a problem, he lives with the bottle.

After it's finished, sometimes I can trace a path that goes back to the possible source of inspiration.

Growing up in Cleveland, I learned about singing from my mother, who had once sung professionally and who admired Mahalia Jackson and Aretha Franklin.