My earliest influence was Quincy Jones. I thought 'The Wiz' soundtrack was the most amazing thing I'd ever heard. It was my first record and you had Michael Jackson, Ted Ross, Nipsey Russell and Diana Ross on it. I even took it to show and tell in third grade!

Balancing is hard. I've lost roles that I really wanted because I had set up a tour. I cancelled tours to do roles before. But I have to find the time to make that up to my audience. I made a commitment to them.

When Jett puts my face in his hands and tells me, 'Mommy you're so pretty' or smells me, it's so wonderful.

'True Blood' excites me. It scares me, but it excites me.

I was conceived after doctors told my mother she'd never have children. I'm a miracle - we all are.

I'm a girl who enjoys a great meal with great friends, so I'm not really that concerned about weight loss.

All man-made religions are limited. I go my own way.