I need my career. That's what validates me.

My father worked on assembly lines in Detroit while I was growing up. Every day, I watched him do what he needed to do to support the family. But he told me, 'Life is short. Do what you want to do.'

I think there's no sacrifice too great for family, whether it's career, singing, whatever.

I dont think being black has held me back at all. Being black makes you strong.

Long tresses down to the floor can be beautiful, but learn to love what you have.

I would say that my peak was making my first million at the ripe age of 29, after the first album.

Typically, the theme of my albums, if there is a theme, is, 'How does it feel?' And that always leads to love songs. It just does.