By C.E. Hanifin
Enquirer staff writer

k.d. lang says her three musical heroes, Joni Mitchell, Patsy Cline and Peggy Lee, all share a quality she admires: "A central confidence in who they are."

IF YOU GO

What: k.d. lang with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra When: 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Riverbend, 6295 Kellogg Ave., Anderson Township Cost: $19, $34.50 and $45; discounts available. 381-3300 or www.cincinnatipops.org Information: 232-6220 www.riverbend-music.com

That's what lang, who will perform with the Cincinnnati Pops Orchestra at Riverbend on Saturday, says she strives for in her music.

One thing that's helps define her as a musician is her Canadian background.

On her upcoming album of cover songs, Hymns of the 49th Parallel (out July 27), the singer pays tribute to such fellow Canadians as Mitchell, Bruce Cockburn and Neil Young and other artists who share her nationality.

"The songs that I cover on this record are really songs that I grew up with and lived with and helped sculpt me as a musician," lang says.

Here's what the singer has to say about her new record, her childhood in Alberta and her favorite road food.

Does one song on "Hymns" stand out as your favorite?

Well, there are about 10 of them. (She laughs). I've always wanted to sing Jane Siberry's "The Valley" - that's my favorite song of all time - and of course Joni Mitchell's "Case of You" and (Leonard Cohen's) "Bird on a Wire." Those are classic Canadian songs that I just have always wanted to do.

What's your strongest memory of growing up Canadian?

Just the vast openness of the landscape. I remember the sky, it's almost past 180 degrees, it's more than half of what you see. The horizon is almost endless. I think that's had a really indelible impact on my vocal style, this openness, kind of minimal and not a lot of ornamentation.

What do you like to eat before your shows?

Watermelon. I eat a lot of raw foods before I sing. The hydration of vegetables and fruit is really, really good for the voice.

If you could switch places with anyone in the world for one day, who would it be?

Dalai Lama. I would love to have his mind.

What's the worst advice you've ever received?

"Wear lipstick."

E-mail chanifin@enquirer.com