I think the origins of music have probably to do with magic and transcendence as well.

The closer you get to the source, the more you begin to understand its essential nature.

I think entertainment is a perfectly noble occupation.

I don't want to copy the people I admire - I'd rather find out what inspired them and try to find my own way through it.

Going to Morocco was massive; that's where I really found music which had the African syncopation and swing mixed with Arabic strains, and together they had this transporting, bittersweet quality.

I think the origins of music have probably to do with magic and transcendence as well.

I have much clearer memories of my time in Egypt: songs on the radio, the rhythms that accompanied belly dancers, the sound of the adhan - the Muslim call to prayer. I just soaked it all up.