As a child I spent a lot of time at the library.

I think it's important, if you are an artist, to use your music to stand up for what you believe in.

I found myself in the middle of a race riot when I was about 14 years old, and I found someone pointing a gun at me and telling me to run or they'd shoot me.

I learn all these things about the record talking about it after it's finished.

Growing up in Cleveland, I learned about singing from my mother, who had once sung professionally and who admired Mahalia Jackson and Aretha Franklin.

After it's finished, sometimes I can trace a path that goes back to the possible source of inspiration.

You have to pay attention to the moment and make it the best it can be for you. I've been trying to do that. It's really made a major difference for me. I'm a happier person.