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.

I get some letters from girls that if their mothers knew what they were writing me in these letters, they'd get their butts whipped.

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

I'm in love with mary jane. she's my main thing. she makes me feel alright. she makes my heart sing. and when I'm feeling low, she comes as no suprise. turns me on with her love, takes me to paradiiiiise do you love me mary jane, yeah now do you think you love me mary jane don't you play no game.

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

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

If anything I consider myself non-violent. I'm from the hippy era, peace, love, groovy.