Bill Evans

It bugs me when people try to analyze Jazz as an intellectual theorem. It’s not, it’s feeling.

I’m believe that all people are in possession of what might be called a ‘universal musical mind.’

I’m using the insides of sounds to move around in a very subtle way which, I think, ends up being inevitable. I feel its the only solution to that particular problem that I presented myself.

It bugs me when people try to analyze jazz as an intellectual theorem. It’s not. It’s feeling.

Technique is the ability to translate your ideas into sound through your instrument. This is a comprehensive technique . . . a feeling for the keyboard that will allow you to transfer any emotional utterance into it. What has to happen is that you develop a comprehensive technique and then say, forget that. I’m just going to be expressive through the piano.

You give up your own personality when you imitate somebody.

External instruments are only extensions of the biological instrument.

We open our minds, stretch forth, take chances and venture out musically to arrive at something new and different.

Miles Davis was a part of my life from 1947 on. I was born in 1941 and I first heard him in 1947 on a 78 rpm. And then I followed his career, starting with his first solo album in 1951. He was an icon and inspiration and a mentor to me.

I only knew classical music, which to me was the only true music. The only way I could survive at the bar was to mix the classical music with popular songs, and that meant I had to sing. What happened was that I discovered I had a voice plus the talent to mix classical music together with more popular songs, which at the time I detested.

Sometimes there are no gigs, but the main thing is still the music.

When you are studying Jazz best thing to do is listen to records and live music as much you can and absorb everything.

I’m always looking to create new avenues or new visions of music.

[on B.B. King] He is without a doubt the most important artist the blues has ever produced, and the most humble and genuine man you would ever wish to meet. In terms of scale or stature, I believe that if Robert Johnson was reincarnated, he is probably B.B. King.

My fans are the best in the world! They’ve grown up with me and stayed with me through this entire journey.

You never master the instrument. You always just strive to get better.

Some people feel the rain. Others just get wet.

Improvisation is the ability to talk to oneself.

Listening is the key to everything good in music.

I expect the audience to come up to my level.

Each time I have the opportunity to play, it’s another chance to tell the truth.