I'm sorry that I did not become the world's first black classic pianist. I think I would have been happier.

I think the rich are too rich and the poor are too poor. I don't think the black people are going to rise at all; I think most of them are going to die.

If I want to take a particular form of blues somewhere else I have the equipment to do it but I never even thought of it.

Talent is a burden not a joy. I am not of this planet. I do not come from you. I am not like you.

I play piano, by ear. Yes, I write songs... and good ones.

I tell you what freedom is to me: no fear.

As I got older though I wanted a life of my own. The classical training was very demanding and thorough. It was a very sheltered existence. Even though I heard blues and gospel on the radio sometimes, it was always back to the piano and study and give recitals.