I don't think the white establishment will ever respect or appreciate a black man who speaks the truth.

I was going to get drafted, but I didn't really want to go into the Army.

Anybody that's old and closed-minded does not like Rick James... They don't like the fact that I'm free and I'm wide open.

When I'm about Rick James, it's all about get out there and kill 'em.

I'm trying to change the root of funk, trying to make it more progressive, more melodic and more lyrically structured.

If I told you Jesus Christ was black you're going to be afraid of me because I'm telling you the truth. That's where I always come from.

I'm not part of the Hollywood scene. I don't run around with 30 women. I have a very calm household. I'm surrounded by my grandkids and wonderful friends, and I consider myself very lucky.