I first got interested in music as a toddler by my childhood babysitter, Rosetta Atkins. She taught me how to sing by imitating the voices on the gospel radio station she listened to - both men and women's voices.

Many artists who sign deals in the US and UK get the benefit of worldwide promotion and have a better shot at breaking globally.

Everyone faces challenges from the fierce competition as well as the manipulative crooks that are rampant throughout the music business.

Always have clear lines of communication and be open to trying new ideas. Being open to new ideas is crucial to growing as an artist. If you always have the same creative habits, how will you ever excel to the next level? The answer is, you won't. Taking those creative risks reaps the most incredible rewards.

As a new artist you should ignore trends at all costs.

My strength is in my ability to be versatile.

I first got interested in music as a toddler by my childhood babysitter, Rosetta Atkins. She taught me how to sing by imitating the voices on the gospel radio station she listened to - both men and women's voices.