Imelda May on Lou Reed & avoiding politics

Imelda May's rise since 2010's Mayhem would be considered meteoric to say the least. She's cracked both the UK and US markets and has collaborated with the like of Bono, Elvis Costello and the late Lou Reed. But amidst her rise, perhaps the largest change in her life was the birth of her daughter in August 2012. Despite it all, her music hasn't changed.

"I'm madly in love with my baby and she's changed my whole life for the better and she's my priority," says May. My whole world revolves around her now.But at the same time, as a person my musical tastes haven't changed. I'm still meself, I don't want to turn into a big lump of mush. I think women are half expected to do that!"

Still, being a mother and a performing all over the world can still take it's toll. As May enters her album release cycle, she hopes to find a balance amongst her busy schedule

"This is the bit that's crazy though," said May of the forthcoming promotional campaign. "I wish I could clone meself for this next little bit of time. I had my accountant ring me up and say 'are you sure that there's not one day that you could meet me until next month?'. I was looking at my calendar and the was not one single day. It's nuts but it's good nuts."

Read the full interview in the latest issue of Hot Press, in shops today!