39 Quotes by Teena Marie

I just think it’s a blessing that I was able to have the gift of words and to be able to put them into music. I was given a great gift all the way around. I didn’t ever have to really go out and look for songs, you know.

I have a deep affinity for New Orleans – its like a second home to me – they treat me like I’m their own.

I try to keep my ear to the streets without sacrificing who I am as an artist. If a song needs a drum machine I’ll use a drum machine. If it needs a drummer, I’ll use a real drummer.

I have a different mentality when it comes to catering to a man, I just won’t allow it. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll do for you but I’m not taking care of no man and catering to him for life; he better be bringing something to the table. I learned that from my mother and my grandmother.

It’s just a whole different thing, and it’s just that my life has been a blessing, and I thank god every day for the gifts that he has given me and for my daughter and to be able to watch her grow and be a part of her joys and her excitement and what she wants to do in life.

I always try to be a trend setter. That’s what I always tell young people when I’m giving them advice. To go with their heart and don’t follow the trends.

They told me that they are starting a classic label, and wanted me to be the first artist. So I signed, and am producing myself, and writing my own music, but I’m their first artist on their classic label. And I have creative control.

I just really always try to do what’s in my heart and I’m still passionate about the music; I still love what I am doing.

I’m from California, and still live in LA.