Malcolm X made me very strong at a time I needed to understand what I was angry about. He had peace in his heart. He exerted a big influence on me.

I was unique in that I was a kind of black that white people could accept. I was their daydream. I had the worst kind of acceptance because it was never for how great I was or what I contributed. It was because of the way I looked.

I've seen so much. And I've heard so many great performers. There are performers now that couldn't work back in the days when I came along.

Count Basie isn't just a man, or even just a band. He's a way of life.

It's ill-becoming for an old broad to sing about how bad she wants it. But occasionally we do.

As much as I try, when I open my mouth, Lena comes out, And I get so mad.

I'm still learning, you know. At 80, I feel there is a lot I don't know.