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

God gave me a voice to sing with, and when you have that, what other gimmick is there?

I like being a woman, even in a man's world. After all, men can't wear dresses, but we can wear the pants.

I believe that children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside.

I believe the children are our future

I'm older, I'm matured... I'm looking forward to the years to come. Good years.

If I fail, if I succeed, at least I live as I believe.

Learning to love yourself, is the greatest love all

My mother taught me that when you stand in the truth and someone tells a lie about you, don't fight it.

There can be miracles when you believe.

I wish to you, joy and happiness. But above all this, I wish you love

The difficult part in an argument is not to defend one's opinion but rather to know it.

There was a time in America not long ago when rock 'n' roll was called race music, and white kids who wanted to go see Chuck Berry were completely forbidden.

I think my secret is that there's no shortcuts for hard work, determination and having that don't give up attitude.

Do not fight the darkness, let the light in and the darkness will disappear.

I have never been able to understand why it is that just because I am unintelligible nobody understands me.

What I try to do with any of my stories, any of my novels, is make them feel very original.

Industry jargon may not be a language your customer understands.

I started taking gymnastic classes when I was 3 years old.

If you are energy-efficient and water-wise at home, then take all your good habits abroad with you.

When I was a kid, I thought I was going to be an actor.