Robertson Davies

Women tell men things that they are not likely to find out for themselves.

People will hire you and then tell you not to do what you were doing when they heard you.

I just think swing is a matter of some good things put together that you can really pat your foot by. I can’t define it beyond that.

Music gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and charm and gaiety to life.

Of the whole bunch of guys who play hollow body guitar, I think Herb Ellis has the most drive.

Jazz is the sound of surprise.

I don’t care for the music when they’re talking bad about women because I think women are God’s greatest gift to the planet – I just like music.

Playing the guitar is like telling the truth – you never have to worry about repeating the same [lie] if you told the truth. You don’t have to pretend, or cover up. If someone asks you again, you don’t have to think about it or worry about it because there it is. It’s you.

To me, singing is like talking. If it ain’t natural, it ain’t right.

I always make it a point to pick songs on which players really shine.

Jazz without the Blues is like BBQ without the sauce.

Every day I look forward to getting with my instruments, trying new things.

Music activates the brain at a high level.

For me, there wasn’t a line between working and getting paid or simply playing for fun.

I’ve been married twice. Most women would rather not be married to a traveling blues singer.

Critics get a little carried away with what someone should have done, rather than what he did.