When I reflect on the issues that black Hollywood has had with the lack of representation at the Oscars, I realized that we have a responsibility to tell stories that are meaningful for our history.

The beauty about living in Atlanta is that there aren't too many paparazzi here; you can just relax. And that really works for me and my children.

The more youth begin to recognize that they have a voice, the more change is possible.

I learned how music works dealing with Jermaine Dupri, and I learned how image works dealing with Puff Daddy.

I'm a sponge, the more I absorb, the more I am able to articulate my vision, as artists do, like Picasso. I'm an artist in that light. I went from being an artist to an artiste.

For a woman to be able to dominate and also be feminine and soft, that's a talent. And its not all about appearance. A woman who has a brain, who is street-smart and book-smart, that woman is very, very sexy to me.

You are my superstar. I'm your number one fan, give me your autograph, sign it right here on my heart. Girl, I'll be your groupie, baby.