I've had 60 years of ups and downs, and all of the downs that I've had, I'm happy that I've had them because it's taught me to appreciate all the ups.

- Patti LaBelle

I decided to always sing in the back with the chorus and never went up front because I had trouble performing.

- Patti LaBelle

I don't feel as though I have to prove anything to anybody.

- Patti LaBelle

I have to go 150 percent or nothing at all.

- Patti LaBelle

I keep showing decade after decade that I am a real performer.

- Patti LaBelle

I'll perform all the way to the grave.

- Patti LaBelle

I'm so grounded, it's sad.

- Patti LaBelle

People with no humor, they're outta my life.

- Patti LaBelle

I think the race situation is getting better as far as people respecting each other goes. I think the race situation with entertainment is not that much better.

- Patti LaBelle

I truly respect the people who are working. If they want an autograph from Patti LaBelle, they are going to get it. I have never separated myself from them. I never think you are better than the next one.

- Patti LaBelle

I clean my house, although I have help. I'm on the floor getting spots. I can't stand a dirty house. I'm a cleaning fanatic.

- Patti LaBelle

I can't do some of the songs that younger girls like Mary J. Blige and Beyonce are doing. They have their own place and I have my own place.

- Patti LaBelle

I like hip-hop music, but some of the lyrics make me want to cry.

- Patti LaBelle

I never wanted to go on stage alone because if you mess up, who can you blame?

- Patti LaBelle

I was very shy. I'm still shy.

- Patti LaBelle

I'm 60, and I did 60-year-old women songs. I'm not trying to be the Hip-Hop Queen, although I am the original Hip Hop Queen.

- Patti LaBelle

I'm no different than you.

- Patti LaBelle

I'm very shy in a crowd.

- Patti LaBelle

I'm very spontaneous.

- Patti LaBelle

Women are strong now. Women are dominating the charts, and women are doing it for themselves. We're kicking butt and taking no prisoners.

- Patti LaBelle