One day, when I was about eight years old, some kids pushed me on stage at school during a talent show because they knew I could sing.

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

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.

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

There is a great feeling in a small venue, with the closeness of the people and the intimacy.

I never sang for a Grammy, for money, for fame. That's my whole purpose for singing: for people, for the fans.

There's still injustice happening in my world. I sing my songs at concerts and I'm so grateful that the people are ready to hear them.