Being poor in Africa is something people in America can't relate to. Part of the challenge is bringing that reality to people and moving them. You have to arouse compassion.

What I find really astonishing is how quiet everybody is in my industry. I mean, nobody in the entertainment business except for maybe a handful of people ever speak out about what's going on. Nobody takes a political stance or expresses an opinion.

It takes a Real man to fill my shoes.

I don't want no lies, I don't watch TV. I don't waste my time, won't read a magazine.

If you want to change the world, change yourself.

For me, it's either you're part of creation or you're part of destruction. It's inexplicable; it's like breathing, and I can't imagine not doing it.

People hear the soul, black influence in my voice. I grew up listening to CKLW and all the black stations like WLBS.