I lived on the north side of Detroit. Right down the street from me there was a young man by the name of Smokey Robinson. I was very proud to live down the street from him because he was our only celebrity in town. He was singing with the Miracles.

I've never been damaged or hurt by press. It's just that I think it's unfair to use your name in media.

I really don't think that Detroit was any different than New York of Boston or Philadelphia. Kids always wanted to listen to music outside because that's where they hung out with their friends.

My father worked hard, but we were still very poor; and I didn't want anybody arguing about money, so I became the entertainer, the one who wanted everyone to be happy. I didn't want there to be any problems.

I think that if my voice for some reason changes - because your voice does change - then it's time for me not to sing.

I spend too much money on my sets and my gowns. I think the presentation is important. I don't think people want to see the old show all the time.

You can have a lot of New York and still see what's going on in the rest of the world, I think - like in China.