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

I'm still James Johnson. Rick James is a stage name. James Johnson keeps Rick James on the ground... Kind of sort of.

Off stage it's cool-out time. You can't funk and roll ALL the time.

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

I think rap definitely has its place in the art world. I think it is an art form. But, just like any art form, you can misuse it.

Punk Funk means to be one with yourself. To be rebellious, aggressive, able to do and say what you feel at all times, without inflicting mental or spiritual pain.

I'm a long way from Ike Turner.