What happens is, when I perform, I'm somewhere else. I go back in time and get in touch with who I really am. I forget my troubles, my worries.

Even as a little child, I've always had that comedian kind of attitude.

I'm not starry eyed, and I'm not money crazy.

It feels so good to be happy.

This is an album of songs that I've always loved, tunes that I heard. For the first time in 53 years of recording, I really had control over an entire album, start to finish.

When Malcolm X was assassinated I was working at the Apollo. They brought his body to the Unity Funeral Home, which was around the corner.

I am so happy that I am alive and can walk.