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.

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.

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

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 fun just about everywhere I go.

My voice is my gift. And Pops had me using it in the right way. I had many offers to sing pop, to sing rhythm and blues. Pops said "Mavis, this record company want to give you a million dollars." I said, "No daddy, I want to sing with the family." And I did. I never wanted to branch out by myself. But I've had to now. It's my mission. I've been left here to do it. And I'm grateful.