Singing from age six, writing songs on the piano since 11, Louise Carver was never really going to become anything other than a musician.

Little surprise then that she released her first album aged 18 and has since had continued success with songs like 'It Don't Matter', 'Empty Fantasy' and 'Home' ? all characterised by beauty and honesty.

This December she's taking those songs ? as well as her renditions of some other much loved South African songs ? to some of the country's coastal towns.

In between packing and rehearsing she found the time to talk to us about 'Thriller', punching another girl, and being a conversationalist.

How the devil are you?

Manic at the moment ? this is a crazy time of year for musicians. I am about to go on a summer tour and I have just launched my new jewellery range entitled 'Jingle & Chimes'. No sleep for me until 2009.

Do you think you are a celebrity?

I don't think of myself in the third person. I just go about my day, trying to meet all my own expectations of myself, as well as those around me. I am a perfectionist, so I can drive myself a bit crazy. When someone recognizes me, I get more of a shock then they do, as I don't tend to dress up during the day unless I have a show.

What's in your pocket right now?

I don't have pockets ? I am wearing a lime green dress from Lunar, my new favourite.

Pick five words to describe yourself:

Fiercely independent, loyal, driven, happy

How do you get the party started?

I get a nice chilled glass of champagne and start chatting to whoever is there. As my boyfriend kindly puts it "I am a conversationalist", which is a nice way of saying "chatterbox"?

If you did not play tunes what would you do?

I would love to be a travel journalist or have a talk show. Alternatively, I did get my Honours in Economics, Politics and Philosophy and love creating beautiful things ? so something that ties those two qualities together could work... I have always needed to be my own boss.

What's on your iPod?

Everything from Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' to John Mayer's 'Continuum.' I love variety ? I find it inspiring.

You are having a dinner party. Name four famous people you would invite:

Barack Obama to find out what his plans are for Africa; Helen Zille to personally thank her for being an inspirational woman; Lionel Richie ? I've heard he is an incredible man and I am a big fan of his voice and career; and lastly, Desmond Tutu ? he too is a conversationalist, and I am in awe of what he has achieved for all South Africans.

Who was the last person you punched?

I punched a girl when I was 13 just to see what it would feel like. She was a big girl and punched me back ten times harder...rightfully so!

When was the last time you cried?

I am a real trooper and only cry out of pure frustration or a real heartbreak. Let's just say I haven't cried this year ? it's been such an incredible year for not only me but for my friends and family too.

Are you superstitious?

Not really, but sometimes I surprise myself when I get concerned about a black cat crossing my path... Silly girl!

Meet anyone famous lately?

I meet well established and talented people everyday. They are my friends and peers. We have so much talent in South Africa, but meeting Nelson Mandela a year ago was a true highlight.

What are your fears?

I don't put too much energy into worry and fear. I suppose I worry most about my family being healthy and happy, as well as the environment and all the terrible things we are doing to it. It makes a person feel so helpless.

Your all-time greatest musician and song?

'Bridge Over Troubled Water' by Simon and Garfunkel.

Advertising slogan that would describe you?

Just Do It - Nike

Goals or dreams for 2009?

There is so much going on next year so I want to be able to enjoy it all and celebrate my journey as well as those closest to me. I am doing the 'Home Tour' again next March, which will be supported by the live album of the 'Home Tour' show.

I will also be releasing my fourth album in the latter half of next year, which I have already started crafting.

My jewellery range is currently in Callaghan in Hyde Park and Lunar in 44 Stanley ? I hope that by 2009 'Jingle & Chimes' will grow and be available in all parts of the country.

I love making people happy, so my true goal is to keep being able to do that.

> In association with 1st For Women Insurance, Louise Carver plays Tappas Al Sol in Port Elizabeth on 18 December, Neptunes in Kempton on Sea on 19 December and Buccaneers in East London on 20 December. She will donate 10 percent of all her merchandise profit during the tour, to the Leigh Matthews Trust, which provides free stress and trauma treatment for victims of crime. Visit her website for more info...