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.

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

My purpose: to lift your spirit and to motivate you.

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 won't wear rings and jewelry on the stage because I don't want you looking at my hands. I want you hearing what I'm saying.

If I wasn't my age, I would turn a flip. I would do some cartwheels. That's how I feel.

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.