My husband, children, and my family are my biggest supporters. I just pray to God to keep my family and I aligned at all times, and I just remember where it all got started before show business.

I just want to create amazing music that speaks and defines who I am. I want it to be based on my life and/or what I am going through at that specific time.

I am able to stay humble because I recognize that God has truly blessed me; I can't say that enough. I also understand without Him, all of this wouldn't be possible.

I love music; I was never the type of singer to say, "This is my specific genre, or I only sing R&B music." I feel like as a singer, you should be limitless and you shouldn't be stuck in a box.

I just have to give credit when it's due because there are some things that took place in my life that I couldn't explain at all.

As you're learning your lines and the character you're playing, you're going to make mistakes but I learned more about Shug Avery. I learned my lines, but everything had to be done quickly.

Some of the songs have a tinge more pop this time. I wanted to go into different worlds.

My husband is very supportive and is there for the kids, especially when I'm in projects such as The Color Purple.

I am working on a list for collaborations and it's just another way to share your artistic talent with other artist.

I had to get used to the theater atmosphere because I haven't had a role on Broadway since Aida. It was a different process from day one because I was learning my parts by myself.

I like to think about the quality, content, and concept for my music because I think these are the most important things and it just molds everything together.

Maturity is when you're able to say, 'It's not just them. It's me.

You are most happy when you can give yourself away to others.

Do one thing well. It's enough.

The price of light is less than the cost of darkness.

But it is clear to me that our survival—both yours and mine—will be dictated by how well you and I can work together.” “So we’re screwed?

Being a celebrity, you can remain a child for ever, almost. You get away with more; you can get too pampered and it's not healthy.

Anytime I'm involved with anything that's well-received, it's a surprise to me.

If the internal griefs of every man could be read, written on his forehead, how many who now excite envy would appear to be the objects of pity?

Location work has its charms, and can seem glamorous on the outside, but I think living at home and having the stability of a home life once you've finished work is very underrated!

To love or have loved is all-sufficing. We must not ask for more. No other pearl is to be found in the shadowfolds of life. To love is an accomplishment.