To me, humor is part of a conversation with an audience.

A great show means we have to connect; we have to prove to [the audience] that we do something great or blow their socks off, but it has to be with them if it's going to be sustained for any length of time.

In the music world, when we're making work, we are obligated to no longer be completely free from what we are to someone else - sort of like an athlete, where you become a role model to someone.

I think everyone on the planet is a fan of a painting because everyone is a fan of visual stimulation, but I've had freedom in the world [of painting] because I've kept it to myself.

We have to continue to grow within and outwardly. We have to keep going.

Someone like John Prine can write a song that tears into your soul, turn it over, and write a song that makes you laugh and feel light as a feather. With someone like him, you're getting a real picture of a person, a real expression.

When it comes to performing and entertaining, the art removes itself from the writing.