God has a plan and God is in control of everything

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

To be able to travel the world, especially to places I never thought I'd be it's really, you know, still fascinating for me.

I used to want you so bad, I'm so through with that because honestly you turned out to be the best thing I never had!

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.

I felt very maternal around eight months. And I thought I couldn't become any more until I saw the baby... But it happened during my labor because I had a very strong connection with my child. I felt like when I was having contractions, I envisioned my child pushing through a very heavy door. And I imagined this tiny infant doing all the work, so I couldn't think about my own pain... We were talking. I know it sounds crazy, but I felt a communication.

I know I'm stronger in the songs than I really am. Sometimes I need to hear it myself. We all need to hear those empowering songs to remind us.