Talk us through the creative process for Speak Now

It had a lot to do with my life. There are no co-writers - my writing is circumstantial. I often get ideas for songs on the tour bus at odd times. Like at 6am when no one is around, I'd just write. I soon realised that I could do it on my own and built up confidence. I'm always inspired by how life makes me feel. I feel the emotion that life conjures up and the songs I write get me closer to my feelings and realising who I am. It's a natural process.

What inspired you during the writing of your album, were you listening to anything in particular?

To me emotions sounds like melodies, so I try and translate how these melodic ideas feel in my head and get them into a song.

Do you like any of the British artists currently on the scene, and are there any you think could crack America?

I love Coldplay - they have had a natural evolution. Chris Martin is a great storyteller. There are loads of great British artists...I can't remember all of their names though.

You've won so many awards - including four prestigious Grammys! Where do you keep them all?

At the moment I'm refurbishing my new apartment and there's a big loft landing with a grand piano. I've got my Grammys on top of my piano and I look at them when I play.

Källa