The history of all big jazz bands shows was, first they played for dancing, and then they played for singing.

I'm concerned with trend. I don't know where jazz fans will come from 20 years from now.

When I was doing jazz concerts in America, I would use the biggest names I could find.

Jazz was uplifted by what I did.

My function at Verve was that of a genuine producer in artists and repertoire.

I still continue to do at least four concert tours a year, and in many cases, as many as six.

I don't want to sound as if I'm doing something tremendously special. But I am a jazz fan.