I feel like a good mom. I'm a strong woman now... Don't look down on me. Pray for me because I'm trying.

It's always good when you can bring two artists together who are totally different.

I've been wanting to sing for a long time. I've been singing all my life, and I've tried different record companies, but it seemed like - it was such a struggle and so hard to get out there. So, I said, 'I'm gonna go on American Idol and see how far it takes me.'

I caught a lot of flak for being a young mama.

I want to still be singing at 70 years old. I want to be open to the dreams I haven't even dreamed up.

When I realized I was having trouble reading, I was too embarrassed to ask for help. Some teachers believed in me, but I just wasn't focused on school - I was into the music and trying to please my dad.

My lips are big, but my talent is bigger.