I had to pawn my clothes just to pay my rent.

Music to me is like breathing. I don't get tired of breathing, I don't get tired of music.

I never wanted to be famous. I only wanted to be great.

I don't sing a song unless I feel it. The song don't tug at my heart, I pass on it. I have to believe in what I'm doing.

Music's been around a long time, and there's going to be music long after Ray Charles is dead. I just want to make my mark, leave something musically good behind. If it's a big record, that's the frosting on the cake, but music's the main meal.

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

I can't help what I sound like. What I sound like is what i am. You know? I cannot be anything other that what I am.