In a 2004 interview with MTV, Ciara spoke about the impact that Michael Jackson had on her music: "I grew up listening to Michael Jackson, and he's one of the reasons why I started singing and dancing. He's the greatest entertainer of all time, and I strive to be like him."
In another interview, Ciara spoke about how Janet Jackson's music inspired her to pursue a career in entertainment: "Janet Jackson was another big influence on me. I loved her music and her performance style. She made me believe that I could do anything I set my mind to."
Ciara has also cited TLC as a major inspiration in her career. In a 2019 interview with Essence, she said: "TLC were one of the first groups that I fell in love with. They were so talented and their music was so empowering. They made me feel like I could be whoever I wanted to be."
Destiny's Child is another group that Ciara has spoken about admiring. In a 2008 interview with The New York Times, she said: "I think Destiny's Child are amazing. They're so talented and they've made such a big impact on the music industry."
Lauryn Hill is another artist who Ciara has credited as an inspiration. In a 2013 interview with Rap-Up, she said: "Lauryn Hill is a legend. Her music is so soulful and her lyrics are so powerful. She's definitely one of my biggest musical influences."
In addition to these specific artists, Ciara has also been inspired by the overall sound and culture of R&B, hip hop, pop, and soul music. She has said that she loves the way these genres can combine different elements to create something new and unique.
Ciara's music has been influenced by a variety of sources, including her personal experiences, her musical idols, and the overall culture of the music industry. She has created a unique and successful sound by combining these different elements into her own style.