I think we're in a time and place, the last 20 plus years, and certainly now, it's only more so, where it's just about us creating a body of work. Creating hopefully our own scene.

The goal in life is to live young, have fun, and arrive at your final destination as late as possible, with a smile on your face.

There are a lot of different ways you can be a part of this music and love it and make a contribution that's personal to you.

A true leader doesn't lead to gain power. They lead to empower and give power away.

There were a lot of great things you could go and hear for very little money at the time [ '80s]. Mike Stern is still playing at the 55 Bar on Mondays or Wednesdays.

Phil [Wood] was known for having a little bit of a gruff manner, but he was all heart.

When [Charlie Parker] saw the young guys, especially the ones that were scuffling... "Did you eat today?" And if you hadn't eaten, he'd take you and buy you some lunch.