My true friends, and my son, see me with kind eyes. I feel it. So that's the freedom my children have given me. To be naked in the world with an open heart.
I have to have another child. I have to bring someone into this world that will be here for Dashiell.
Marriage is a walk in the park compared to being a single mother or father. I'll take that walk later.
By pushing children and wanting quick success, parents are producing followers, not leaders.
I grew up listening to Beethoven and old jazz singers like Billie Holiday, Nina Simone and Anita O'Day. But those were, like, the only women I listened to - I hated women pop singers.
Very few artists are as independent as I am mentally, physically, spiritually and technically. I sit in my home studio and record things by myself. I don't need to get anybody's approval or validation.
I've evolved as a human being, and I've taken more risks. I've let go of judgment. I don't know when the best stuff is coming - I sink into the process in a different way. I paint more, and my vision is stronger, but I don't think my music is better, because nothing is ever better than your first material.
I'm always working on a new album because I'm always writing, and I'm always in and out of my home studio.
Most people depend on a lot of other people.
I didn't want to be a performer. I didn't want to be famous.
I was a coat checker, a dishwasher, a waitress, and those were some of the happiest times of my life because I still got to do my writing. You're lucky when you can work and then do your art.
My songs are always four years ahead of me. They're like my teachers.
I want the Congress that really is going to listen to the people. I really don't care what party it is anymore.
The Tea Parties are only here because people are not listening.
Obama may be brilliant, but he's not a leader.
I used to write songs that were deeply personal, but since I am becoming so passionate about the world around me, that passion and drive is starting to come into my work.
'Betchya Got A Cure' is my gut response to the media wars in this country, which are driving a wedge between citizens. It's about taking a stand for individuality and being brave instead of being accepted.
There is something about the stage that makes it so much better than being in the studio. I always connect with my audience; a concert to me is a collaboration between me and the audience, and I love it so much.
I am so proud to be partnering with Waterkeepers, who are the voice for the Gulf Coast's waters.
The Gulf Waterkeepers are our first line of defense against the BP oil disaster. Their incredible knowledge of the marshes, wetlands, beaches and inner-coastal waters make them invaluable first responders. Their commitment makes them critical and effective community leaders.
