I donate heavily to the church and various churches in the Detroit community and food banks.

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.

Being the Queen is not all about singing and being a diva is not all about singing. It has much to do with your service to people. And your social contributions to your community and your civic contributions as well.

I know people I feel are extremely talented, but I don’t know that I’ve ever heard any geniuses.

...the people at large absolutely gave James Brown respect. He was an original like a Rembrandt or a Picasso

I've been around long enough for people to know who I am and what my contributions are. They know me as more than just an artist. I think they know me as a woman as well.

People really don't have to give you anything, so appreciate what people give you. And just don't let that go to your head, whatever it is they give you.