Nobody likes to be picked on. Nobody.

I finally faced the fact that it isn't a crime not having friends. Being alone means you have fewer problems.

When I heard Aretha, I could feel her emotional delivery so clearly. It came from down deep within. That's what I wanted to do.

I've got some good saints out there - that's right - that pray for me constantly. You've gotta have that! You do.

Being around people like Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight, Dionne Warwick and Roberta Flack, all these greats, I was taught to listen and observe.

My mother was the first singer I had contact with. She sang constantly to us around the house, in church.

When you're feeling full of doubt and fear has got you in a bind, love will save the day.