If you don’t mind I would like to start our conversation by asking you about the beginnings of your artistic career. Well, your first solo album was released in 1989, and it was produced by the head of Ruthless Records – the legendary rapper Eazy-E. This album called simply "Michel’le" reached a platinum status and it was also ranked on #35 on the U.S. Billboard 200. I'm curious, do you often think of those days? What do you remember from the recording session of that CD?

Yes, I do think of those days, it was a wonderful exciting time in my life.  Thinking about the recording sessions bring to mind what a perfectionist Dr. Dre is and how professionally he conducted himself when we were working.  I had a lot of fun, but also did a lot of crying trying to get each song on tape the way we both heard them in our heads. 

After such a success, I think that hardly anyone expected that we will have to wait for your next album until 1998, so nine years. This was the album called "Hung Jury". At that time, you also changed the record label, and you signed a contract with Death Row Records. What was the reason for such a long break in your career?

Life issues.  I had a new family and wanted to take time to raise my children.  I put a pause on my career for a moment, now it's time to push play. Lol

How do you remember the times of so called Death Row era? Well, you were a part of the one of the most important record labels of the 90's. You’ve also worked with many great artists, such as Tupac Shakur, who joined Death Row Records in the late of 1995. Weren’t you afraid that this dream - that wonderful time may soon come to an end? There were a lot controversy surrounding Death Row at that time…

There were great times and times that weren't so great. I didn't think about it coming to an end.  Everyone was so creative and loved making music. I wasn't involved with all of the craziness going on, I kept myself in the background at the label, and took care of home.

I promised myself that I won’t ask you much about Death Row because you probably said a lot about it in your previous interviews. But I would like to ask you one more question – question about Marion "Suge" Knight, the famous former CEO of Death Row Records. See, I'm a longtime fan of Tupac’s music and the topic of Suge was always present when we talk about his last months of life. Since I can remember Suge was considered as the most dangerous hip-hop mogul at that time. I wonder if this is really true? I mean, how do you perceive Suge Knight? You know more about him than anyone else. You were in fact married and have a daughter. But now it seems that every year Suge has some problems with the law.

No, we did not view him as dangerous.  You don't fear someone you trust and someone you can call when you need help.  I was never afraid of him, I had no reason to fear him.  I know he loved Pac. Even though I don't fear him I don't play with him, I don't live in his world and don't deal with him on the same level as others.  He is human and a much calmer man than most believe, he's Suge Knight.I hear about his problems with the law just like everyone else does; in the media.

Let us now return to the subject of your musical career. In 2011 you released your new single entitled "Freedom of Love". It was a preview of your next album, which release date is still not known. Why? Could you tell us when can we expect your new album?

There were creative differences, but I am back in the studio and there will definitely be a project out next year.  

I wonder how did you start your adventure with music? When did you first become interested in singing?

I remember catching buses going to talent shows and competing as much as possible. Once I realized I wanted to sing, I sang at every talent show I could find.  I was around 8 or 9 years old when I became interested in singing.

It has been many years since the first time you made a public appearance. How would you rate today’s music industry? What are its advantages and disadvantages?

I love music and love to hear people create new sounds.  Music is suppose to change and people are doing that.  I have been in the studio working on new music and having a great time creating my sound.

When I listen to your music I feel a little sad. Sad, because such a talented artist like you is still in the shadow of others, more well-known today’s singers. Don’t you feel a bit cheated by fate? You have everything - all you need to be a star, but for some reason you are a bit overlooked by the music industry? Why? It’s a matter of promotion?

Absolutely not.  No people are working hard and making their mark in music.  I was on hiatus so why would I be bitter about anyone elses success.  I reached superstar status during my era, and I achieved great things in a short period of time.  I chose to take a break so I am alright with where I am in the industry. I received grammy nominations, received awards, and had money.  I have no complaints nor regrets.

Tell us about your plans for the coming months? What can we expect from you in the second half of 2013?

I have so many things on the horizon.  I am working on my new CD, a book, and we start taping R&B Divas LA at the beginning of next year. I am back with a vengeance, and I can't wait for people to see what I have in store. 

At the end, please tell me, what music means to you? What is its role in your everyday life?

Music means expression to me.  It gives me an opportunity to reach people around the world with a common love for good music.  I have had a chance to meet incredible people and that is something I always love to do; connect with my fans.

I am very grateful that you found the time for us and that you answered our questions. It was a real pleasure for me. Thank you and I wish you many future successes.

Journalist: Kamil Mroziński