I got a greater purpose. God put something in my heart to get across, and that's what I'm going to focus on, using my voice as an instrument and doing what needs to be done.

At first, I was scared to show fear because you can never be sure how people will perceive you. But I dared myself to do that, to stand out. Now I'll talk about being beaten up or robbed or making a stupid decision because of a girl or whatever.

I'm only as good as my last word, my last hook, my last bridge.

My mom's one of 13 siblings, and they all got six kids, and till I was 13 everybody was in Compton.

I look at where I'm at today and realize that most of my success is owed to the mentors that was in my life.

Since day one, since the first time I touched the pen, I wanted to be the best at what I do.

Sometimes you have the trends that's not that cool. You may have certain artists portraying these trends and don't really have that lifestyle, and then it gives off the wrong thing. And it becomes kinda corny after awhile. It's really about keeping hip-hop original and pushing away the corniness in it.

It's a great, great experience to finally get the reception that you know you rightfully deserve.

My word will never be as strong as God's word. All I am is just a vessel, doing His work.

I look at where I'm at today and realize that most of my success is owed to the mentors that was in my life.

I used to consider the listener. But now I'm in a space where, if I'm not inspired, I can't really do the music. I can't feel it.

My pops and my mom started playing Marvin Gaye and the Isley Brothers and all these people, but at the same time, they always had Snoop on right behind it in the same mix.

God to me is love.

The best thing is to always keep honest people around, because when you have a bunch of yes men around that know that you're making a mistake but let you go on with it, that's when it ruins your mind state as an artist.

I always thought money was something just to make me happy. But I've learned that I feel better being able to help my folks, 'cause we never had nothing. So just to see them excited about my career is more of a blessing than me actually having it for myself.