I don't know what it's like for a book writer or a doctor or a teacher as they work to get established in their jobs, but for a singer, you've got to continue to grow or else you're just like last night's cornbread...stale and dry.

My life has run from misery to happiness.

I ain't got much education, but I got some sense.

I love people and I love to sing, and that's what keeps me going.

I was married when I wasn't quite 14 and had four babies by the time I was 18.

You have to be different, great or first.

My biggest hero, Gregory Peck, was my birthday present on April 14, 1973. I just sat and stared at him.