I think jazz is a phenomenal creative force, because it's one man, one vote as you're playing, but it's a collective thing, what you're doing. You're listening to all the musicians around you and you're working within that structure.

I was taken in by the bravado and the sounds of Mexico... not so much the music, but the spirit.

I think President Obama really does get the value of the arts.

When I finish an album and I find myself listening to it in the car, because it makes me feel a certain way, that's the time to try to let other people know about it.

The Japanese seem to be a loyal audience.

You can have a great lyric and a so-so melody; it's going to be a tough sell.

You know, the record business is much different than being artist on stage.