I started on drums when I was 13 and played them for two years. Then I went to guitar for a year, played keyboards for a year and a half, and went back to guitar.

I'll hear something in my head, then eventually play it. But it's a subconscious thing. Most of the time I really don't know what I'm playing.

My first joint I smoked onstage in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I smoked my first joint live.

When I'm with Purple, I'm totally with Purple; when I'm doing my thing, I'm totally doing my own thing.

I have my own style, but it's different for each kind of music. There are certain little characteristic things every player has.

I can't do anything but play guitar.

You're in direct contact with the music by having the strings under your fingers. It's not mechanical like a piano.

If you're not having fun it's not worth doing.

I came in with a completely new perspective. I would write songs and they would pick tunes they felt were in the Purple vein.

I don't like English bands. They're too structured.

When you come from the Midwest, you have a more open mind than if you come from the West Coast or the East Coast.

The blessing of knowledge becomes a curse when we pervert it.

That’s what marriage was at its best: You didn’t have to tell your partner to look out, that you were falling. They were just there to catch you.

Whenever I wrote songs - particularly back then - it would always be for a particular artist.

If you are telling the truth, then you can speak gently, and your words will have power.

As you commit your life to follow the Lord, He begins to plant His desires in your heart, then guides you according to His plan

I don't get insomnia, but I do get the odd night when I can't unwind.

Generally speaking, I, like anyone else who does anything publicly, like it when people like what I do, and would like to hear as much.

I have ever loved to repose myself, whether sitting or lying, with my heels as high or higher than my head.

Faith must always pass the test of discouragement.

You're immortal as long as you live.