My mom taught me a lot. A lot about minding your own business and leaving other people's business alone. And let them think what they want.

I heard someone say that all black people got rhythm. Bullshit.

I'd like to think that when I sing a song, I can let you know all about the heartbreak, struggle, lies and kicks in the ass I've gotten over the years for being black and everything else, without actually saying a word about it.

Many times during auditions, I was told that I couldn't carry a note with a bucket, and that I sure couldn't play the piano.

I sing what I sing true. Each night I sing it the way I feel that night.

Just because you can't see anything , doesn't mean you should shut your eyes.

My music had roots which I'd dug up from my own childhood, musical roots buried in the darkest soil.