We obviously feel destiny and purpose and do what we do, but within that are ways to help others and to inspire others and to support and encourage people.

One thing I always loved about hip-hop music was the raw, boom-bap element - it felt powerful and manly.

To me to be a storyteller is you got to be able to speak the truth. You've got to be able to absorb life and take in life and be able to interpret it in a way that anybody in this room could say, "Man, that's my story. I can relate to that."

To have my name said like, "Common and John Legend, Golden Globe nominees," is one of the greatest achievements I've ever had as an artist, as a person.

I just want people to feel like they can achieve something great in their lives. We all go through rough times, but love is the antidote. You've got to dream and just believe in yourself. And if you believe, you will achieve it.

Don't believe in role models, but if I do, then I'm mine

Not everyone is the same. You can't label a person just because of what they do or what they've done.