In a Guardian reader Q&A, Evanescence frontwoman Amy Lee reflects on her career, songwriting and the band's upcoming Sanctuary tour, discussing how the meaning of their breakthrough hit "Bring Me to Life" has evolved for her since writing it at 19 during an abusive relationship. She also addresses the political and emotional undertones of the band's new album, Sanctuary, framing her outspokenness as a refusal to stay silent on issues she now sees as inseparable from everyday life rather than mere "politics".

Lee discusses her admiration for Portishead's Beth Gibbons as a formative vocal influence, saying she could happily record an entire album of Portishead covers, having previously performed "It's a Fire" and "Glory Box". She also shares light-hearted anecdotes from the current tour, including a kabuki curtain mishap and mixed-up lyrics during a collaborative performance of "Fight Like a Girl" with touring acts Spiritbox and Nova Twins.