Working in the studio is a more personal experience whereas on stage in front of a billion people, its more exciting performing live.

I've learned so much from all my mistakes. I just wish I had gotten my education.

When I was a kid, I needed to sing because it makes me feel good about myself. It makes me feel good, period.

There are people out there who want to provoke me and bring back the old Mary but I'm not giving them the satisfaction.

Believe in yourself when nobody else does.

I used to think I was ugly. I thought I looked like a camel. A person who doesn't love themselves, they will see anything that pops up on their face. I've seen squirrels, I've seen a bird, and I've seen all kinds of animals on my face. But that is the result of self-hate. I've learned to say: 'You know what? I am a beautiful black woman'.

When life is real, it's not going to be smooth.