“The last thing I wanted was a big paycheck but no inspiration or support.” — Vonda Shepard

Starting young has definitely helped my success. All the experience I gained by touring with other players as a backing artist helped to prepare me for my own big break.

I would advise anyone starting out as a singer/songwriter to play live as much possible. You never know who might be in the audience.

Although I don't come from a musical background, I was given piano lessons along with my sisters, but I wasn't what you would call a good student. I tended to write songs rather than do scales.

There was a singer-songwriter who slept on our couch for a year when I was about 7 or 8. She used to sing these songs for us, and I loved it. It was magical to watch her.