I drew a lot of inspiration from the Ginuwines, the Ushers, the Michael Jacksons, the James Browns, Sam Cooke.

I want people to see an honesty within me. I'm not trying to be the next Sam Cooke or Otis Redding.

My father was very interested in music, and when he and his brothers were young, they had a singing group that used to open for Sam Cooke. There was always music in our house, but there wasn't much art around.

I know Drew and I know Xavier, and I know their work ethic, ... They know they have to be ready in a matter of a couple of weeks.

Sam had a great night. She comes to work every night.

I know a lot of people who are not here anymore, and I wonder why I'm still here... Not a day goes by that I don't think about Sam Cooke. His presence is so strong and so convincing to me, a true artist, a true talent, who never talked down to people.