Stevie's (timely) Q&A in People

[beach~gypsy]

Stevie Nicks hits the road this month, donning her platform shoes to tour with Fleetwood Mac following the release of their new album Say You Will. PEOPLE talked with Nicks, 54, late one night after band rehearsal in L.A.

How's rehearsal?
If I sound like I'm spaced, I'm not. I've been listening to really, really, really loud rock and roll since 2 o'clock, for almost eight hours now. But that's how it is — very long hours.

And you still love this?
I will like it if I'm having fun out there. I think we need to go out and make music that makes people happy.

How do rock and menopause mix?
Well, it has not been easy. I fight it every day. It takes over your life. It makes you not feel good. I've heard women say menopause is wonderful, the "change" is great, but it's not. It sucks. It forces you to make a choice — whether you want to get old or you want to stay young.

And you?
I have a 40-city tour starting on May 17. I can't give in.

At what age do you start worrying about falling off your platform boots?
I was trying to prepare everyone that I wasn't going to wear them on this tour, and I got a terrible reaction. So I guess they're back.

What do you think of the new crop of female rockers?
I just met Michelle Branch. Pretty impressive. I told her to write her own songs. That's where you make the money. I also laughingly said, "Don't ever gain 20 lbs."

Out of curiosity, have you seen American Idol?
Whenever I can. I love it. It makes me laugh. If I was 20, I'd be down there trying out.

If Simon said you couldn't sing, how would you react?
I could handle him.

And if you were a judge?
I'd be just like him. "Get another job. Next!"