Nas really introduced the world and a lot of people to me - that was ideal as far as me first coming in.

I always wanted to do something I knew I could love to wake up and do every day, and rap was just second nature to me, growing up in Harlem. I never really had to try.

Growing up in Harlem, I was always in the parks playing ball.

When I'm out of town, I always try to get some readings or some type of new information to where I'm learning more about Islam, just to become the best Muslim I can become.

I have a very musical family from my Scottish roots.

My family truly believes they are better cooks than I am. They see me as Giada, not as a celebrity chef. To them I'm just me - their granddaughter, niece, etc., and they're older and wiser. I like that because it keeps you grounded.

I wasn't really raised in a religious family.

I never expected I was going to travel the world playing gigs with my band and best friends. I have surpassed any dreams I had.