James Brown is the reason I play guitar.
After a while I thought it didn’t make any sense to use a pick. It’s kind of like typing with one finger on each hand instead of using all your fingers.
I thought people cared about music in a deep way, so I was writing to that spirit in people and in myself. It was me, thinking I knew what was up. Youth, who else can change the world?
In most places that are rich in guitar culture, everyone uses their fingers, like in Spain or Africa. In Japan there are string instruments played that way. It is not until you get in the States that you find people using picks.
I had the fortunate experience to play with people from different schools of music. Sam Rivers is from the fundamentalist school of music.
I love both my parents dearly.
I want someone who is open-minded, dedicated to whatever she is doing and isn’t afraid to say I love you. As for looks, she shouldn’t have three heads. I want a regular human being.
My love life is like everyone else’s – great, and then terrible.
I was playing violin for a long time, about 6 years. It takes a while. You need very patient people in your house when you have a violin.
I wish I could sing. I love singers, but I am way too shy. Scares the hell out of me.
I really worked with icons in the music business, which really had a strong effect on me. It wasn’t just pick-up gigs.
The simple things in life ground me and keep me focused so Im able to do a good job with what is in front of me.
I feel very honored to be playing with Bill Pierce. He’s such a great musician.
I can pay my rent now. I guess I could always do that, but now I can get an apartment with heat.
I am blessed to have Mom and Dad.
I really live a simple life and don’t need very much to feel good and happy. Don’t get me wrong; I believe you should get what you earn. Sometimes you have to fight for it.
The worst part is doubt. When you doubt yourself, which we are taught to do, you get lost.
Dad made it to Gold Shield Detective, so he always busted Robin, my oldest brother, and me. Always got caught, whatever we were doing.
Serious musicians are finding it harder and harder to have a voice in the world of music these days.
Sometimes I wonder if I got lulled into not wanting things because I grew up black in this country.
The things I really learned, I learned from watching my parents. They take care of business. Always have.