When you're me, when you're R. Kelly, everybody wants a piece of you, and if you don't give 'em a piece they'll find a way to get a piece of you one way or the other.

If I'm going to be a leader then I have to go places that other people are afraid to go to. That's what makes a leader. To be not afraid to step out and go over the frontline. To stare darkness right in the face.

While the angels sing, I'd ask you to marry me, give you the sun for a diamond ring, if I could do those things.

I've programmed myself musically to come up with love-feeling tracks that are romantic, sexy, but classy, all in one. And that's the challenge. Once I create that music, then the lyrical content starts to come - you know, the stories and things like that.

I spend like $2 million a year on Chinese food and pizza for ten people in the studio who don't sing or produce.

My mother always told me if you write about life, you will always be in the game. Just don't write songs write life. I decided to take her up on that.

I am very conscious of who I am as an artist and as an inspirational person.