As far as piano players are concerned, Oscar Peterson is my very favorite. I also like McCoy Tyner. I think that the big jazz stars, both now and in the past...how shall I say it? These guys are as great as Bach, Beethoven; all of them. People don't know it yet. If jazz survives and is put on a pedestal as an art form, the same as classical music has been through the years, a hundred years from now the kids will know who they were, with that kind of respect.

You've got to learn to leave the table When love's no longer being served".

I feel what they feel. And people who listen to me know that, and it makes them feel like they're not alone.

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

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

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

It's logical that people from bad times will reflect their feelings in their communication. Music is part of the communication. If you lived it, you can do it.