Really, every woman is an example to me, because as women we go through so much pain. We have to live this perfect life when we are messed up inside. We all go through trials and tribulations.

For the first time in my life, I'm proud of myself

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

From being a little girl in the projects, going through all of the mess that I was going through, to ending up at the Inauguration for the first African-American president, I'm speechless right now because I never thought I'd - I never ever - I couldn't even see that far. Even when I ended up in the music business I couldn't see that.

When you come from so many damaged places you don't ever want to spiral back there, so you gotta continue to check yourself.

I listen to gospel music.

It's sad that a lot of identities are lost and a lot of careers are lost because there's sort of a clone thing going on.