Patti Labelles Secrets To Happiness

Godmother of Soul Patti LaBelle is 80 years old and has no intention of slowing down. In fact, she’s busier than ever, performing seven months out of the year and about to launch a new album called “8065.” The “Lady Marmalade” singer dishes life is great and “it’s still getting better!” Here are the performer’s secrets to staying happy and looking forward to the future.

COOK YOUR FAMILY FAVORITES

By using the recipes of family members who’ve passed, it’s a way to stay connected to them even after they’re gone. Patti uses recipes from her mother, grandmother and her sisters. “I’m blessed and lucky to have lived with these ladies and to have learned so many things from them that I’m still carrying on,” she says. Making their favorites has also helped Patti heal from her losses. “I’m always thinking about them when I’m cooking, and I hope I’m still making them proud.”

KEEP DREAMING

“Stay persistent and don’t stop dreaming,” says Patti, who’s a mother of five. “There’s a lot more for me to do, even at 80. It isn’t over! Some people think when you get older, life stops. But the older I get, the more I do. I’m just creating and recording all the time. At 80, I’m doing more than I did when I was 50, which is a blessing.”

KEEP THE FAITH

Patti credits her deep faith for her ability to keep going, even during the times when she wants to stop. “It’s all about God. I always say, ‘God got me.’ Before every performance, my band and I pray together, each taking a turn leading a prayer. We all get together in God’s Spirit — It’s wonderful! My go-to is the Lord’s Prayer; it always fills my heart.”