Singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow recently discussed her children and career from her 50-acre ranch in Nashville, Tennessee.
Crow has settled into a slower-paced life since her break-up with fallen cycling star Lance Armstrong and moving from Los Angeles. She said that after surviving breast cancer she had an epiphany, and wanted to return home.
"Something happens when you're diagnosed with a disease," she told Good Housekeeping in its August issue. "Your emotions start racing, and clarity is reached."
She adopted her son Wyatt in 2007, and another son, Levi, in 2010. The children are seven and four years old.
Crow, 52, said that the children know "that they came out of different tummies. But they also believe, as do I, that God put us together.
"They know how blessed I am to get to be their mommy. So when they're mad that I won't let them play video games, I say, 'God put me in charge. I'm raising you-all the best that I can, and some decisions are not fun.'"
Crow also decided to get back on the road, and is touring with country group Rascal Flatts this summer. Being back in the entertainment spotlight does not mean that the singer will be changing her image, however.
"It's hard to be a woman in music today," she said. "There's so much sex that's projected, and that's a bummer.
"These singers talk about how empowering it is, but a good musician who can command the stage doesn't have to rely on sex to sell her music."
She also feels more empowered after leaving a string of high-profile relationships with Eric Clapton, Owen Wilson, and Lance Armstrong.
"I had always gone out with guys who were highly successful, which would seem like it would put me at an equal level, but what ends up happening is that one of you becomes smaller — and it was always me. It's always the woman," she said.
"I mean, I don't know if it's always the woman, but I do think that sometimes in order for one person's light to shine, everyone else has to dim theirs."
She said she has learned her lesson.
"Embrace the idea of only having equals in your life, and you'll see your relationships change," she advised.
After two children, nine Grammy Awards, surviving cancer, and having a career that hasn't fizzled out after over two decades, Crow's light is shining brighter than ever.
