I can't just make a song people can dance in a club to... it still has to be real.

I still get nervous about singing. I drink tea with honey and lemon before every concert. And I need to have scented candles in all of my hotel rooms.

When I`m going to do a Christmas album I had to put my mind in Christmas mode. I had to go back to being a child and remembering all of that. When I go to do a project, I'm serious about it, so I wrap my world around it, and it becomes Christmastime for me and I'm singing songs like it's Christmas day.

You know a lot, but you don't know everything.

You demand respect and you'll get it. First of all, you give respect.

I do consider myself part of black history.

People in my neighborhood inspired me to sing. Believe in your ability no matter what, but be realistic with yourself and your ability.