As soon as I began to earn what might be called fairly large sums, I bought a car and began to explore the country around New York.

My singing is part of me, like my stoutness, or my light hair, or my poor eyesight.

I am harder on myself than anyone else could be.

I have been extremely lucky with reviewers and critics throughout my career.

I know I'm fat and I know my hair is straight, but I can sing.

An entertainer should in his public performance keep himself out of any controversy, political or otherwise.

I shall always respect the composer. If I embellish, it is his idea I am embellishing.