Music is such a joy, just an absolute joy.

I just had a wonderful life, and I couldn't ask for anything else.

I was not fortunate enough to run into Obama. We were at the same church per se, but I would never be there when he was there.

I have to pinch myself sometimes. It's unbelievable, but it's not. Because I know that this would not be happening if it hadn't been for Dr. Martin Luther King.

I'm so blessed that I can still be here to bring the music and have new generations of fans. My Pops would be so proud.

My uncle was 16, in junior high, and he heard me singing and snatched me off the stage. I thought he was happy and was going to pat me on the head and say I was good. But he took me home and told my grandmother this youngin' was at school singing the blues.

We stay strong. We stay positive, keep our heads up, love one another, spread love. The Devil can't win when you have God on your side.