“Music is the only thing that will give and give and give and not take.”

I was hit by a car once on my bike, but I still rode home.

When I’m nervous, I stutter, and I had to keep stopping and starting.

I write songs about stuff that I can’t really get past personally – and then I write a song about it and I feel better.

I wouldn’t be with a man who was scared of me, but I don’t think men are scared of me – look at me, I’m tiny. I don’t think I’m capable of putting anyone off. I’m a nice girl.

I’ve never been an idiot – I was a smart girl but I’d do stupid things like go around Asda and nick stuff because my friends told me to. I was a good girl as a teenager.

I can’t be arsed with game players. I’m more ‘I like you, do you like me? Let’s go and do something about it.’ I’m a very straightforward person like that.

If I heard someone else singing like me, I would buy it in a heartbeat.

I only write about stuff that’s happened to me.. stuff I can’t get past personally. Luckily, I’m quite self-destructive.

Here in England, everyone’s a pop star, innit, whereas in America they believe in the term artist.

I’m not a natural born performer.

I just dress like… I’m an old black man. Sorry! Like I’m an old Jewish black man. I just dress like it’s still the ’50s.

I don’t think your ability to fight has anything to do with how big you are. It’s to do with how much anger is in you.

I read a lot when I’m travelling and always have a couple of books on the go.

I’m happiest with my family around me.

I told you I was trouble, you know that I’m no good.

The jazz I love is sweet and pure with raw elements, which is exactly what the good hip-hop is doing now.

Deep human connection is … the purpose and the result of a meaningful life – and it will inspire the most amazing acts of love, generosity, and humanity.

Teach us to give and not to count the cost.

God will not be outdone in generosity.

Be generous to the poor orphans and those in need. The man to whom our Lord has been liberal ought not to be stingy. We shall one day find in Heaven as much rest and joy as we ourselves have dispensed in this life.

God who gives the wound gives the salve.

Dearest Lord, teach me to be generous; teach me to serve you as you deserve; to give and not to count the cost.

You really have to be satisfied with what you are and accept from life what it still very generously offers you – and notice it, and be glad for it.

The essence of generosity is letting go. Pain is always a sign that we are holding on to something – usually ourselves.