[On his heroin addiction:] I did it to myself. It wasn't society...it wasn't a pusher, it wasn't being blind or being black or being poor. It was all my doing.

Music to me is just like breathing. I have to have it. It's part of me.

Music is my life, professionally, for nearly 60 years. To be recognized by the academy is still the highest honor.

Live each day like it's your last, 'cause one day you gonna be right

The role of the designer is basically that of a good host, anticipating the needs of the guest.

Many times during auditions, I was told that I couldn't carry a note with a bucket, and that I sure couldn't play the piano.

Dreams, if they're any good, are always a little bit crazy.