The ultimate of being successful is the luxury of giving yourself the time to do what you want to do.

I have never given all of myself, even vocally, to anyone. I was taught to sing on your interest, not your capital.

The way I was taught, being black was a plus, always. Being a human being, being in America, and being black, all three were the greatest things that could happen to you. The combination was unbeatable.

Art is the only thing you cannot punch a button for. You must do it the old-fashioned way. Stay up and really burn the midnight oil. There are no compromises.

I am here and you will know that I am the best and will hear me.

If you are going to think black, think positive about it. Don't think down on it, or think it is something in your way. And this way, when you really do want to stretch out and express how beautiful black is, everybody will hear you.

The ultimate of being successful is the luxury of giving yourself the time to do what you want to do.