I prefer to leave standing up, like a well-mannered guest at a party.

If I do have some success, I'd like to enjoy it, for heaven's sake! What is the point of having it otherwise?

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

All token Blacks have the same experience. I have been pointed at as a solution to things that have not yet begun to be solved, because pointing at us token Blacks eases consciences of millions, and this is dreadfully wrong.

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

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.

I am here and you will know that I am the best and will hear me. The color of my skin or the kink of my hair or the spread of my mouth has nothing to do with what you are listening to.