There's such a thing as too much happiness and sadness. What I'm after is contentment.

The important thing is to feel your music, really feel it and believe it.

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

I'd like to think that when I sing a song, I can let you know all about the heartbreak, struggle, lies and kicks in the ass I've gotten over the years for being black and everything else, without actually saying a word about it.

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 sing what I sing true. Each night I sing it the way I feel that night.

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