Janelle Monae

"I performed this for a Prince tribute [at the BET Awards in 2010] at his request. He told me, ‘This is an uptempo [song] I think that you can really do; it’s part of your spirit.’ His affirmation brought tears to my eyes. ‘Let’s Go Crazy’ is a resistance song. It’s a song for those marginalized because of their skin color, sexual identity or gender. There will never be a wrong time to dance to it like nobody’s watching."

"I sang this song, a capella, at a talent show and won three weeks in a row. As a young African-American woman, I found the lyrics resonated with me, because I was still trying to find out who I was, what I wanted to say and how I was going to make music. Everything she says in the song helped shape my early thoughts. She hasn’t made an album in a long time, but that’s cool — I’ll be here waiting."

"I first met Stevie when he invited me to play at his charity event in LA in 2011. I was backstage when I heard a voice singing my song ‘Tightrope’ — it was Stevie Wonder. My mind was blown: He’s been a hero all my life. I sing this song with my family and it never gets old. When you see the news or social media, there are things constantly trying to divide us; this song brings you closer to loving your neighbor."

"Bowie has been a huge inspiration to me with regard to creating concept albums, new worlds and alter egos. When I heard this song for the first time, it took my music tastes to another level; I wanted my own writing to be just as interesting and clever. I once performed a cover of ‘Moonage Daydream’ with one of my favorite bands, Of Montreal. The song remains a source of inspiration for me."