When jazz is played in another nation, it is called American. When it is played in another country, it sounds false. Jazz is the result of the energy stored up in America.

Jazz I regard as an American folk music; not the only one, but a very powerful one which is probably in the blood and feeling of the American people more than any other style of folk music.

What the hell do you want to work for somebody else for? Work for yourself!

I frequently hear music in the heart of noise.

Upper berth, lower berth, that's the difference between talent and genius.

The extraordinary thing about my mother, she's so modest about me.

My people are Americans. My time is today.