John McLaughlin

Only in spontaneity can we be who we truly are.

Indian music is very soulful and the only other school that develops improv to the high degree you find in Jazz.

All the music that was ever heard came from the inner silence in every musician.

Music is born out of the inner sounds within a soul.

You can have the greatest player in terms of mastering an instrument and be yawning your head off.

Once you start collecting records you learn more and more about Jazz and Blues.

Eliminating the piano means that I’ve always worked closer with the bass than most players.

It’s the same for listeners. If you can’t stand your girlfriend, can’t take it anymore, put on your headphones and escape into another world.

Whatever else has been said about me personally is unimportant. When I sing, I believe I’m honest.

Well, if you find a note tonight that sounds good, play the same damn note every night!

Hipness is what it is. But sometimes hipness is what it ain’t.

When we were at the Apollo, Holiday was a block away. I asked her for her autograph.

I think that it is important to try to sound like someone, especially early in your development.

Jazz is not background music. You must concentrate in order to get the most out of it. You must absorb it.

Music was our wife and we loved her. We stayed with her, clothed her and put diamond rings on her hands.

I learn something new every day.

You’ve got to be willing to put stuff on the line, otherwise it doesn’t have much meaning.

If you don’t live it, it won’t come out of your horn.

Creativity and artistic endeavors have a mission far beyond just making music for the sake of music.

Three months. I was playing the organ for three months. It was a challenge for me in the beginning.