Playing Etta James in the movie 'Cadillac Records' really changed me. It was a darker character, and I realized that if anything is too comfortable, I want to run from it. It's no fun being safe.

When I hear a great new record, especially when it's by someone that I respect and admire, then a part of me is like, Why didn't I think of that? Why didn't I write that record? It makes you sick, but in a way it can be a great thing. It makes you want to go back to the lab and start writing again. Maybe it will inspire you to try a little harder.

Baby it's you. You're the one I love. You're the one I need. You're the only one I see.

And my husband and I have been together for 10 years, so I guess people felt a part of it and it makes me feel really good

It is so liberating to really know what I want, what truly makes me happy, what I will not tolerate. I have learned that it is no one else's job to take care of me but me.

I have two different sides to my personality. I decided to give my fans what they want and who they are used to who is the person in all the videos and the person in 'Crazy in Love' who is Sasha Fierce. I have someone else takes over when its time for me to work and when I'm on stage.

If you work hard, whatever you want, it will come to you. I know that's easier said than done, but keep trying.