I like to play things that people understand, or maybe tunes that they could recognize. And so — I play for the people, just as much as for myself. Because, as I say, I still like to play.

Like every other place, I guess, Kansas City was quite a different city when I was a youngster there. They had quite a few clubs, and we had what we used to call jam sessions every night.

If you try all different styles that are in vogue, I think you con yourself. Me, I just stick by my guns; I don't want to play out of another man's bag.

I don't want to play out of another man's bag.

Do you never get exhausted being so wholly unbearable?

If your thoughts are not right, your actions won't be right.

You know how you get rid of tears?” I asked. He shook his head. “You find somebody you love and you hug them.

I guess it's the curse of our generation, having to put aside our lives to do the right thing.

We think our leadership has been too timid to go after corruption, and often times, they bow to the liberal progressive demands of the White House instead of standing up for our values.

Sometimes when we're flying or in the hotel, I might run over songs, or in the bathroom.

Yeah, I've always been different. I tried being normal once. It was the worst five minutes of my life.

I've been known to preach.

What is the fire that burns in your heart? If you are lucky enough to discover it, than by all means fan the flames and let the fire be the guiding light for a life worth living.

I made my Broadway debut in the revival of Hair and followed it up with the bus and truck tour of Grease.