I was raised in Chicago and I guess that was one of the special breeding grounds for gangsters of all colors. That was the Detroit of the gangster world. The car industry was thugs.

Greatness occurs when your children love you, when your critics respect you and when you have peace of mind.

I went with Lionel Hampton for three years. Out of that came a trip to Europe.

Not one ounce of my self worth depends on your acceptance of me.

Let's not get too full of ourselves. Let's leave space for God to come into the room.

You Make Your Mistakes To Learn How To Get To The Good Stuff

I learned real early why God gave us two ears and one mouth, because you're supposed to listen twice as much as you talk.

Imagine what a harmonious world it could be if every single person, both young and old shared a little of what he is good at doing.

The process is the most beautiful part.

I've always thought that a big laugh is a really loud noise from the soul saying, "Ain't that the truth."

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

When they see us dance. When they see how you look at me. When they see how I smile at you.

I'd rather be called immature in those little moments, than be mature and live the rest of my life with those little regrets.

I was used to being perceived as having a good attitude. Self-control, self-effacement, self-denial. People like this, especially in girls.

A happy life is made up of little things ... a gift sent a letter written a call made a recommendation given transportation provided a cake made a book lent a check sent.

My daughter emails me. When your daughter starts to email you instead of talk to you... It's horrible. You cannot forget human communication.

I don't think just being skinny means necessarily anorexic.

You can accept or reject the way you are treated by other people. But until you heal the wounds of your past, you are going to bleed.

To be human is to seek perfection, and find joy in never attaining it.

To hear complaints is wearisome alike to the wretched and the happy.

I don't talk about my personal life. But the relationships I've had have usually been with other musicians. It's just easier that way.