I used to sing at funeral homes for families that didn't have a vocalist. I didn't get paid. I needed to sing.

I'm picking and choosing in terms of the stress factor. If it's not fun, I'm not going to do it.

I'd love to be the political voice of my generation, but that's not my gift.

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 say if it's going to be done, let's do it. Let's not put it in the hands of fate. Let's not put it in the hands of someone who doesn't know me. I know me best. Then take a breath and go ahead.

It's impossible to write and produce a record when your parents are dying. I really tried, I really, really tried, but it just wouldn't come.

As soon as you get off stage, that's the most dangerous time for a singer to kiss people because your vocal chords are receptive to any kind of germ.