“It’s been up to me to inspire me.”

There’s a desire in me to express something – to match what I hear in my head.

But the guitar, when you think about it, is the most versatile, really. I mean you can pick it up and take it with you wherever you go.

And I don’t like having my picture taken. I’m almost like an old African in that sense. I think it steals a bit of the soul.

I couldn’t believe how good Jimi Hendrix was It was a really difficult thing for me to deal with, but I just had to surrender and say, ‘This is fantastic.’

I thought, ‘My God, this is like Buddy Guy on acid.’

I’ve always wanted the sound of Muddy Waters’ early records – only louder

Having lovers and friends is all good and fine But I don’t like yours and you don’t like mine.

I never set myself too high a goal. It was always tone and feeling, for me.

I wish I could write easily. I’m one of those guys who’s visited by the muse when things are dire.

Time can bring you down, time can bend your knees.

One of the most beneficial things I’ve ever learned is how to keep my mouth shut.

I saw you walking with your other man today. If I catch you one more time, I’m gonna blow you both away.

There are people these days who can do things on the guitar which are beyond my reach. There’s one guy who plays with Queen who can do things I would dream of doing. I sincerely mean that.

For me, the most trustworthy vehicle for spirituality had always proven to be music.

I’m not a big fan of lead vocalists, people who sing but don’t play. I never wanted to be in a band where the guy who was up front just sang. I’ve always thought it better when one of the musicians sings, like Steve Winwood.

Music will always find its way to us, with or without business, politics, religion, or any other bullshit attached.

The essence of the independent mind lies not in what it thinks, but in how it thinks.

Sometimes, the only hand you need to hold, is your own.

First, say to yourself, ‘I’m totally independent of the good or bad opinions of others.’ Second: ‘I’m beneath no one.’ Third: ‘I’m fearless in the face of any and all challenges.’

If you need a helping hand, you can find one at the end of your arm.

As one goes through life, one learns that if you don’t paddle your own canoe, you don’t move.

I’ve always tried to be independent. It’s just my personality. I’ve always been the type to motivate the camp. I’ve always wanted to be the fuel for something—for music, the fuel for my family, the fuel for my best friend. Helping someone with what I’m doing.

Work is about more than making a living, as vital as that is. It’s fundamental to human dignity, to our sense of self-worth as useful, independent, free people.

Begin where you are. Don’t wait for someone else to change things for you. Do it yourself.