“All guys get into music because they love music and they also want to get the girls.”

I don’t remember feeling love.

Count Basie practically adopted me at 13. We became closer and closer and I ended up conducting for him and Sinatra.

I’m a great believer in letting lyrics just flow out, wherever they come from.

I started imagining this whole different world. It was a society of musicians, a family I hoped I could belong to one day.

I never felt like I had a mother.

Did you know you would become as successful as you have? Hell, no. But you know what? You were prepared, baby.

China’s got a billion people and a hit record over there is a million records. You know that ain’t right.

A song should have all the color and beauty of every rose.

My dream is to put together a performance of the evolution of black music with Cirque du Soleil . I would also like to do street opera and children’s books. But even as I work toward these things, I want to simplify my life.

My earliest memories are being pinned to a fence with a switchblade.

The process is the most beautiful part.

I found this out over the years, that racism is a thinly veiled disguise over economics and money. It really is.

It’s the attitude about life, man. Looking at the light instead of the dark. Looking at love instead of fear.

Young people should travel, and they don’t. You can’t know if you don’t go.

My grandmother had this high-tech security system – a rusty nail she used to lock the door.

The only music I don’t like is bad music.

I do love all types of music. I could be in a session for eight hours, and when I leave, I’ll instinctively go to the radio or put on my favourite songs.

Show a little faith there is magic in the night. You ain’t a beauty, but hey you’re alright, and that’s alright with me.

People say time heals, but only love heals.

Loving yourself + others is a magically addictive sensation.

That’s what careless words do. They make people love you a little less.

Sweet springtime is my time is your time is our time for springtime is love time and viva sweet love.

Even if someone isn’t with you, you still have love in your heart. You will always have this love because no one can take away what’s in your heart.

Love is a travel. All travelers whether they want or not are changed. No one can travel into love and remain the same.