I've always thought that a big laugh is a really loud noise from the soul saying, "Ain't that the truth."

I found this out over the years, that racism is a thinly veiled disguise over economics and money. It really is.

Did you know you would become as successful as you have? Hell, no. But you know what? You were prepared, baby.

I chose the trombone because the trombone players in the marching band got to be up front with the majorettes (because of the slides) and I loved that!

Young people should travel, and they don’t. You can’t know if you don’t go.

My grandmother had this high-tech security system - a rusty nail she used to lock the door.

I guess hip-hop has been closer to the pulse of the streets than any music we've had in a long time. It's sociology as well as music, which is in keeping with the tradition of black music in America.