To be young, gifted and black!

I believe in racial memory too. I'm sure I've got ancient African blood in me that has something to do with what I am.

You can't help it. An artist's duty, as far as I'm concerned, is to reflect the times.

I had heard blues and jazz all my life but I was never aware that it was associated with nightclubs and drinking.

It is difficult to retain your standards with the pressure of trying to make money, which always has its rules...It's hard to walk the tightrope of doing what you think is your best and making money at it.

I can read and arrange, but I can't write.

I had spent many years pursuing excellence, because that is what classical music is all about... Now it was dedicated to freedom, and that was far more important.