But I did go to music really early on, even when I was 4 or 5, I was responding to music probably in ways other kids were not.

When you're onstage with an electric band going through a massive P.A. system, it's very artificial. You can't really hear your own voice as it comes out of your mouth.

I'm an egomaniac with an inferiority complex.

I sought my father in the world of the black musician, because it contained wisdom, experience, sadness and loneliness. I was not ever interested in the music of boys. From my youngest years, I was interested in the music of men.

And if I don't be there by morning, she'll know that I must've spent the night in jail.

To sing in a lower key is harder work. You have to use your diaphragm more.

I know there will be no more tears in heaven.