The use of rock, folk, or pop music serves a purpose. It gets people into the church. But an inexperienced guitar player who doesn't have much to say, for example, can make me wish to leave the church immediately, whereas one great jazz or classical guitarist can confirm that I will have a spiritual experience in the church.

We don't know the power that's within our own bodies

My own Brubeck Institute in California is turning out fantastic young jazz players, and I know great things will happen.

I never wanted this kind of life that Im still living.

If there's a deadline, I work late. If not, I like to have normal hours, and get up early and work. When things are going well, I hate to quit. And then I'll work 'till exhausted.

The secret of a great melody is a secret.

Damn it, when I'm bombastic, I have my reasons. I want to be bombastic-take it or leave it.