I spent a lot of time teaching myself theory and harmony so I could be free to express myself on the instrument.

The first time I tried to sing along with my guitar, everybody in the studio booed. They all said it wouldn't work.

I like Simon Cowell - look at how many great artists have come out of the U.K. because of him.

Never give up on a good thing, never give up, never give up!

Love songs are one of the great essences of life, the only thing thats lasting.

Guitar gigs were everywhere in the '50s, and I started diddling around so I could keep working. Playing honky-tonk, simple stuff. I took a few gigs with an organ band that put me out front.

Larry Carlton is an incredibly versatile guitarist who has been a major force for guitar for many years. He is easily recognizable - all you have to do is hear him once and from that point on you'll be a fan, just like me. It gives me great pleasure to extend congratulations to Larry on his 2011 George Benson Lifetime Achievement Award. Congratulations !