Clark Terry is an American Master. I love to listen to him, particularly 'Mumbles.' I was so delighted when we received degrees together, along with Edward Kennedy, at the New England Conservatory in 1997.

I'm the lady next door when I'm not on stage.

I remember singing around the house to records that were playing. All kinds of music. And the great James Cleveland was often in our house, and I grew up with his sound as well.

When God loves you, what can be better than that?

My heart is still there in gospel music. It never left . . . I'm gonna make a gospel record and tell Jesus I cannot bear these burdens alone.

Trying to grow up is hurting. You make mistakes. You try to learn from them, and when you don't, it hurts even more.

It's so glamorous, you have to see it." (describing the $92 million Rock & Roll Hall of Fame)