It doesn't matter to me what is going on today because my music encompasses every kind of mood that exists in human beings. That's my stick.

We have ordered things so long in a certain way, we are numb. Nobody dares question it. This is what is wrong, symbolically, with America.

It's time to take a look at my failures and stop calling them successes. Now I can start working at something that can use me best.

I was not reluctant to become a singer. Singing has been an activity I've done my whole life, without thought.

You don't have to live next to me / Just give me my equality.

Jazz is a white term to define black people. My music is black classical music.

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.