Susan Boyle's musical 'companion'

Susan Boyle feels music is a "companion" to her.

The 'Perfect Day' singer, who has never married, told how music has helped her through both reflective and joyous times in her life, and how she wanted to reflect that on her second album, 'The Gift'.

Susan explained to popeater.com: "Music has always been a companion to me, particularly on special occasions.

"I wanted there to be a mix of songs that would flow with all our moods this holiday season. As much as the season is a time for reflection, it is also a time for fun and enjoyment with those closest to us."

Susan, 49, shot to fame on a British reality TV show in 2009 and has since become a megastar, selling over eight million copies of her debut album 'I Dreamed A Dream', but said despite her success she doesn't feel any different to other normal people.

She added: "Singing is the best job in the world, it really is fantastic. I'm just an ordinary woman who showed a bit of determination and this is what has happened. To have a second No.1 album is wonderful and something I never expected."

'The Gift' is available now.