Diana Krall

Music is firmly rooted in Diana Jean Krall's upbringing. Born in Nanaimo, British Columbia, USA, to a musical family and a father who is a stride-style pianist and serious record collector, it was only natural that Krall would grow up absorbing music that laid the foundations to her future growth and career.

Like she says, "To say I grew up in a musical home is an understatement!" Learning to play the piano at just four years of age, Krall was performing professionally by 15, and earned a scholarship to Berklee College of Music in Boston in the early 1980s. Later she would study under jazz greats like bassist Ray Brown and pianist Jimmy Rowles, who convinced her to focus on her singing as well.

And focus she did. Today, 44-year-old Kraal is a modern jazz musician in a class of her own. She's managed to transcend a particular style of music and broaden its audience to the masses.

When her album When I Look In to Your Eyes was nominated for Best Album Of The Year at the 42nd Annual Grammy Awards in 2000, it created one of the biggest stirs in recent music history, and understandably so - it was the first jazz album to be nominated in 25 years. She walked away that night with wins for Best Jazz Vocal Performance and Best Engineered Album - Non Classical. In 2002, The Look of Love was a No.1 bestseller in the USA and a seven-time platinum album in Canada.

The Girl in the Other Room, released in 2004, was her first album that focused on her own song writing - featuring six tracks co-written with her husband Elvis Costello; and with From This Moment On, Krall came closer than ever to her musical aspirations and, in many ways, it serves as a tribute to her heroes and mentors whom she holds close to her heart.

Talented both as a pianist, composer and vocalist, she constantly pays respects to those who have inspired the art form that is so rich in tradition. Krall says, "... I do that at all my concerts. It's important because it's not all about me. I learned it from Percy Mayfield and Jimmy Rowles and all these great artists out there who should be recognised as well."

Diana gave birth to twins boys two years ago.

Would you say motherhood has changed you as a woman?

Yes, it's the best thing that's ever happened to me. My life is busier but I enjoy it that way. The twins bring such joy to Elvis' and my life. Being a busy musician and career woman, my priorities have changed, but I'm more than happy to move them around to be with my children.

And how has it changed you as an artiste?

I'm at a good point in my life right now; I feel happier with myself. Now it's not just about career or proving me. I have more balance.

What are you currently working on?

My next album. It's coincided with a happy time in my life, so we should expect, next year, something fresh yet timeless.

As a child, who most inspired you to become a musician?

I was heavily influenced by my father's love of music. I started learning to play the piano at the age of four and never looked back

Who's currently playing on your iPOD?

Many artists from Miles to Coltrane, Ray Charles to Ella Fitzgerald. I also listen to a wide genre of music, like bossa nova and the blues.

Do you have any pre-concert rituals?

You have to perform brilliantly every time, so I do my homework. I listen to the music, review my keys. Touring is incredibly taxing on both the body and the spirit, but those two hours on stage, they're the most healing part of my day.

What do you look for when you're picking an outfit for a show?

Charm, elegance and grace. I try to adapt my outfits to my audience and the venue I'm performing in. I have worn a baseball jersey and jeans singing the National Anthem at a game, but maybe in a Vegas show, I will ready my sequins and up the glamour. Comfort is also important. I'd rather feel good and sing at my best than look sexy in a tight outfit and feel uncomfortable the whole time.

Any favourite accessories?

I'm always with my reliable yet stylish Rolex watch, and I love diamond stud earrings. They will never let you down.