... we performers are monsters. We are a totally different, far-out race of people. I totally and completely admit, with no qualmsat all, my egomania, my selfishness, coupled with a really magnificent voice.

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

Stay up and really burn the midnight oil. There are no compromises.

We should not have a tin cup out for something as important as the arts in this country, the richest in the world. Creative artists are always begging, but always being used when it's time to show us at our best.

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.

If you're not feeling good about you, what you're wearing outside doesn't mean a thing.

Accomplishments have no color.