America is deeply rooted in Negro culture: its colloquialisms; its humor; its music.

I have always been a person who is concerned with the dignity of jazz music and the way jazz musicians have been treated and are treated, and the fact that the music has not been given the kind of due that it deserves.

There have been many great musicians that, Clifford Brown is one great example, I mean he died very early, 25.

Even the most jingoistic person would have to admit that even American cultural music comes from Europe. That's what classical music is, real European music.

I feel that L.A. has not always been my strongest base for support. That can be for various reasons.

I feel that Jazz improvisation is the ultimate. You have to create on the spot, the essence of this music.

Many jazz artists go to L.A. seeking a more comfortable life and then they really stop playing.