"I shall always respect the composer. If I embellish, it is his idea I am embellishing." — Kate Smith

As soon as I began to earn what might be called fairly large sums, I bought a car and began to explore the country around New York.

Because of my voice, speaking words which had been carefully chosen, women had used money they had set aside for other purposes to buy war bonds.

I am continually embarrassed by people who point me out as an example of what can be done without training.

I am exceedingly lucky that my voice, along with perfect pitch and perfect rhythm, was given me at birth.