Jane Monheit's haunting voice and sensual, sultry looks have had her singing for the nationally televised Whitehouse Christmas, in the best concert halls of the globe and doing the TV circuit rounds including Letterman, The View, The Today Show and Emeril.  With seven albums and two DVDs Jane has been nominated several times for Grammys and has appeared singing "Over the Rainbow" on the movie "Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow."

Jane is here with a great tip for us on singing (even if you only sing in the shower) and to give us an update on her hectic life and how she manages it.

Gabrielle Reilly:  I always like to offer my readers something they could use for their own life even if it be for when they sing in the shower.  You talk a lot about understanding the emotions of your music.  Can you give us a tip for singing with emotion and/or the importance of emotional connection to the song? 

Jane Monheit:  It's incredibly important to be connected to the song somehow...other wise, what's the point? The only advice I can give is to choose music that means something to you. It's really that simple. 

Or learn to act!!!

Gabrielle Reilly:  When did you first become interested in jazz?

Jane Monheit:  I've loved jazz since I was a tiny little thing...my family exposed me to every kind of music, but it was clear to me from the beginning that jazz was in the cards for me.

Gabrielle Reilly:  Who are your favorite/most influential artists?

Jane Monheit:  My main influences are Ella Fitzgerald, Judy Garland, Keely Smith, Sinatra, Sarah Vaughn, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, Take Six, New York Voices, Bonnie Raitt, Maura O'Connell....the list goes on and on!!!!

Gabrielle Reilly:  How do you manage your life when touring with a baby? 

Jane Monheit:  I don't know!!!!! I'm an insanely organized person....that helps!!!

Gabrielle Reilly:  How much impact has having a baby had on your music?

Jane Monheit:  Well, I enjoy it more, because I can take it less seriously.....being a mother is so much more important. All that worry about my looks and everything else seems ridiculous now!

Gabrielle Reilly:  What career highlight have you been most excited about so far?

Jane Monheit:  Working with Ivan Lins over the years has definitely been the highlight of my career. I've done a lot of high-profile, glamorous things, but nothing compares to working with another artist that has influenced you and continues to amaze and inspire you as you change and grow.

Gabrielle Reilly:  What are your plans for the future?

Jane Monheit:  I don't have any definite plans....it's impossible to make any in this business! I'll just be on the road and making records, and most importantly, raising my beautiful son.