As a kid, I did want to be an old-timer, since they were the ones with the big stories and the cool clothes. I wanted to go there. Now, I guess I want to bring that with me and go back in time.

People get frightened that success is going to take them out of life. They're no longer going to be on the corner of Bedlam and Squalor; life will only be something you can get through the mail.

Well it's hotter 'n blazes and all the long faces / there'll be no oasis for a dry local grazier

Folks who work here are professors. Don't replace all the knowers with guessors keep'em open they're the ears of the town

I took a hundred dollars from a blindman's hand.

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)

If you are recording, you are recording. I don't believe there is such a thing as a demo or a temporary vocal.