The ambitious singer-songwriter Tina Dico gives Urbanplanet.co.uk the lowdown on her inspiring career, favourite acts and plans for 2008.

How did you get started?

I started playing the piano when I was 6 but it was Tracy Chapman's Fast Car that got me started playing the guitar and writing songs when I was about 10.

How would you describe your style?

I'd say singer/songwriter pop with focus on "the song". Someone called it Joni Mitchell meets Coldplay - I like that...

What was the best ever set you've have played to date?

Probably in my home town, Århus. We have a beautiful concert hall with 1500 seats and last time I played there I was so moved by the support of my home crowd! I'm doing 2 nights there this weekend and really looking forward! I've also had some fantastic intimate nights alone with my guitar in the UK and US!

We read you don't use marketing gimmicks or other music labels to promote your music- so how do you promote yourself?

The ol' fashioned way - I play lots of gigs. That's what I love the most! Apart from that it's mainly word of mouth and hiring good press people to try and get people to write and talk about the music!

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We also read you set up for own record label at 21, what made you do this? And how did you go about it?

I was fed up with discussions with Danish major labels who wanted me to be more radio friendly and I was quite excited with the idea of doing it myself. My Dad has always run his own company so it's in the blood. He went to the bank with me and they lent me the money to record my first record. It was hard work and felt like a big responsibility but it's so satisfactory and today I can't imagine it any other way!

We think it's fair to say you're an international artist, is there one country in particular were you feel most supported/praised/well known?

Denmark is going really well! Everybody knows who I am so it feels very different from any other country. Count To Ten is approaching double platinum and nominated for "Best album" and "Best Pop Album" at the equivalent to the Brits - quite unbelievable!
Germany and the US and UK are at the same kind of level but as I've lived in the UK for over 6 years it's starting to feel like home and that makes it feel quite special to tour the country and connect with people!

What's in store for you in 2008?

Lots of gigs - both in the UK, US, Denmark and the rest of Europe!

Also, I'm doing a trilogy of EPs. I've just recorded the second one, doing the third one over spring. They'll come out collectively - about 20 - 25 songs - in a years time so that'll keep me busy!

Are there any bands/Artists/DJs you tip as the next big thing in 2008?

I'm so bad at keeping up - I listen to a lot of old stuff! Alpha Beat from Denmark are doing quite well in the UK at the moment. Or Teitur from the Faeroe Islands - he's putting out and amazing album this year!

Tell us 3 things you think people won't know about you?

I've just bought my first pair of football boots,
My biggest dream when I was 6 was to be a ballerina,
I learned English very young from playing adventure games like "King's Quest" and "Leisure Sweet Larry..."

Who is your all time favourite act?

Bob Dylan.

Are there any acts you love to hate?

Not really. I know it sounds a bit too zen but I can't think of any. Everybody's just doing what they can to make it...

What was your first job?

Paper round.

When was the last time you threw up? And why?

On a tourbus a year ago. I had played a really exhausting show and afterwards I looked waaay too deep into several bottles of white wine.

What's your pre-gig drink of choice?

Coffee. I never drink before a show!

Do you do the whole groupie love thing?

No. It's not as easy for girls, I think. I wouldn't wanna be with a guy who thinks I'm cool just 'cause I've been on stage!

Who have you most enjoyed working with?

I really enjoyed working with Zero7! Also, I've had a year-long collaboration with one of the grand old men on the Danish music scene - I've learned so much from him!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

No idea, actually! Still inspired and making music, I hope, but maybe writing books on the side and living a slightly less hectic life!!

Where was your most enjoyable holiday?

A month in Rio de Janeiro over New Years in '99. I travelled with a friend who has family there so we met lots of amazing people and I've never been so relaxed in my life!

Who did you last share your bed with?

A girl friend I often stay with when I'm back in Copenhagen.

Do you have any advice for those trying to break it into the music industry?

It's hard to give advice at this time when everybody's struggling and confused about the future of the industry. But the most important thing will always be to have something to say - good songs delivered in a way that's going to move an audience...