Music's been around a long time, and there's going to be music long after Ray Charles is dead. I just want to make my mark, leave something musically good behind. If it's a big record, that's the frosting on the cake, but music's the main meal.

I had to pawn my clothes just to pay my rent.

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

Don't go backwards - you've already been there.

I can't help what I sound like. What I sound like is what i am. You know? I cannot be anything other that what I am.

I always stay out of the rehearsal room you know when they first come in. Then once they had chance to play a little bit, then I walk in. Because I've seen guys fall apart.

I think that most great artists who are extremely known, as I am, would intimidate a lot of people. I don't want to do that to people, but I know I do.