These musicians, such as these Cubans in Havana, are a part of a scene that did produce great music and great musicians. They came from this tradition, so it's a good place to look. It's like prospecting: You gotta know where to look.

If you think you fit into a situation, it's worth trying.

Los Angeles is not Mexico City, but we have many fine nightclubs and restaurants here. It is enough. One must not aim too high.

Musicians communicate in other ways. That's just something you rely on.

Musicians are not so concerned with language.

You're not born with certain skills; you have to acquire them.

You have to be able to improvise and respond to what's going on around you. Then you might get a good piece of work done.