A gentleman is someone who can play the accordion, but doesn't.

Most people don't care if you're telling them the truth or if you're telling them a lie, as long as they're entertained by it.

The blues is like a planet. It's an enormous topic. You can't ignore the impact that it has had and continues to have on the whole musical culture. It's a tree that everyone is swinging from. Without it, I don't know where I would be. It's indelible and indispensable.

Misery is the River of the World

Got 27 children I never see.

The Universe is making music all the time.

Anton brings the camera. I'll bring a tuba, wear black, not shave, and take us to a burned-down Chinese restaurant. (On being photographed by his longtime photo collaborator Anton Corbijn)