Sunday Diva / Three From The Hip: Chaka Khan

Sunday Diva / Three From The Hip: 

Chaka Khan

In my own personal big gay church, there is a wing dedicated to what can only be described as...The True Divas. These are ones who may do many things in life, but from the moment they opened their mouths to sing they became the one thing they were meant to become: a true diva. 

One such passionate soul?

Chaka... Chaka... Chaka Khan.

She's a woman, she's a backbone. Everybody needs one.

Forged by fire, her voice is that of a warrior. Animalistic, fervent, extraordinary. Unlike any other. 

You hear her and you know... that's Chaka. 

You live her. You love her.

In a career that has spanned five funky decades of bringing the surest of grooves the lady has persevered and brought the fire. To the dancefloor. To  the party. And, to the bedroom.

For hers is a voice of celebration. 

And, oh, yeah... she's got the love.

The gospel according to her?

Well, here are three from the hip, dropping from her lips.

The topic: Gaining Stability

"When I was in my twenties, it felt like I was riding wild horses, and I was hoping I didn't go over a cliff. In my thirties, I felt I had hold of one of the reins some of the time. As you get older, though, you realize there are fire extinguishers. You do have an ability to control the flames."

"Your moment of clarity comes when you face your fears. Sobriety gave me back me - my life. Self-medication kills you slowly. You can never get a handle on that. It's a highly destructive force that has to be dealt with on a spiritual level as much as a physical one. I'd been in a vicious cycle and circle of people and couldn't see my way out. So I picked myself up one day about 15 years ago and moved where I didn't know anyone."

"I control my life and I have never let success run away with me - I've taken it and ran. And the only thing that could threaten my stability is me - I'm my only threat and my own worst enemy. Beyond that, I don't feel successful. I'm nowhere near where I plan to be as far as my goals."

Please Pardon Me (You Look Like A Friend Of Mine)

Rufus feat. Chaka Khan

Love You All My Lifetime - Chaka Khan 

Hello Happiness - Chaka Khan

And one more parting shot...

"Every personal experience of my life impacts my music. I can only give what I have. And when I receive, I give it back. I often fix it or color it differently or give it in my way, but that's what it's about."