The word [jazz] never lost its association with those New Orleans bordellos. In the 1920s I used to try to convince Fletcher Henderson that we ought to call what we were doing 'Negro music'. But it's too late for that now.

There are two kinds of music. Good music, and the other kind.

Self-discipline, as a virtue or an acquired asset, can be invaluable to anyone.

Love is supreme and unconditional; like is nice but limited.

People do not retire. They are retired by others.

It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing.

I'm sure critics have their purpose, and they're supposed to do what they do, but sometimes they get a little carried away with what they think someone should have done, rather than concerning themselves with what he did.