We do not let slip from our understanding that America was founded on a bonding of many people, from many places and of various color and religion.

Along with the music, there is a large part of my father's legacy that has to do with what he had to say. What he believed in, what he stood for, the understanding of his own darkness, the faith that he had that drove him, and the great love that he had for people.

My first memories of my mother are of a delicate lady with a kind voice.

Right before my dad died he was planning to go to New York City for the video music awards that he was nominated for, the MTV music awards. You couldn't tell him he wasn't going to go. It was going to happen. But he wound up having to check into the hospital there, and not too long later he died. But his spirit never gave up - his body did.

No adult in my family would ever tell me anything about who my father was. I knew from an older cousin - only four years older than I am - everything, or what little I could discover about him.

I've had tough times before. Leaving Brazil when I was so young, saying goodbye to my family and friends to go to another culture, that was so difficult.

We have lived together for more than 18 years. Malaika is like family to us even after separation. We have a son together. We are responsible for him.

As a new mother, you're so vulnerable and make mistakes all the time. I guess there's more pressure when you're in the public eye, but I'd never stand by and let anyone exploit my daughter.