If I were to categorize what I sing, I have many different influences, and a lot of them are from back in time.

I love classic rock, rock and roll, that's the top notch. I love soul - bluesy music as well.

If my life had to be a song I would name it, 'Live every day like its your best day ever', because it pretty much is.

Music continues to remind me that its boundaries are limitless.

First thing I did when I found out I made it into the top 13 is I tried not to faint and you know, I took it all in and I really looked at the crowd and said a big 'thank you'.

I'd rather have people really be able to step back and get their money's worth and look at me as a true artist than somebody who is just regurgitating other material.

If there's a pool I love to hangout there and layout and get some sun. If I can ever find a second to get some sun, some Vitamin D, I will do so.

I believe a great performer is someone who sounds just as great live as they do in the studio and vice versa. They should know how to work the stage.

I'm going for something very raw and organic.

Music is not just a part of my everday life, I'm surrounded by it every minute.

My parents have basically just taught me the rules of the stage and everything since I was eight.

Don’t let the burdens and hardships of this lifedistract you or discourage you, but keep your eyes firmly fixed on what God has promisedat the end of our journey: heaven itself.

I was drawn to be very solitary as a scholar. I lived a very quiet life, aloof, with my books, with my walks in nature, meditating, and of course with my teacher.

I have always advocated for funding and programs that increase our productivity and competitiveness

Do you think you can be righteous and holy with impunity?

I can see the humorous side of things and enjoy the fun when it comes; but look where I will, there seems to me always more sadness than joy in life.

If you're a Black artist, you could paint a wall of smiley faces, and someone will still ask you, 'Why are you so angry?'

The moments of the past do not remain still; they retain in our memory the motion which drew them towards the future, towards a future which has itself become the past, and draw us on in their train.

Everything we think and feel is creating our future. If you're worried or in fear, then you're bringing more of that into your life throughout the day.

White fragility! White people are so sensitive about race and racial conversations. I feel like I'm always walking on eggshells when I'm around white people.

It seems to me we are losing our way in an effort to get the ratings.