Like all soul singers, I grew up singing in church but sometimes I would leave early and sit in the car listening to gospel band, The Blind Boys of Alabama. Hearing their lead singer Clarence made me connect the idea of church and show business and see how I could make a career singing music that stirred the soul.

I think Philadelphia has been underrated over the years as a musical region.

What I do isn't black music, it's just my music.

If Paul McCartney tells me that so-and-so song is his favorite song, what do I care? What do I care what anybody else says?

I love antique architecture, so if I have any indulgences, I have owned and renovated and reconstructed a lot of old houses.

I never felt entitled to anything. I'm the hardest worker I know.

Any song I don't feel good about, I shelve. Anything you ever hear me sing, it's because I want to.