Herbie Hancock

Music happens to be an art form that transcends language.

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

You can practice to learn technique, but I’m more interested in conceiving something in the moment.

I try to practice with my life.

Music is the tool to express life – and all that makes a difference.

Jazz is about being in the moment.

It’s just exciting to be part of something that is brand-new.

Music should never be harmless.

Today Jazz music is performed and listened to by people of all ethnicity, backgrounds, ages and creeds.

I don’t like recording studios – except my own, which is just a little room above the garage.

You have a mentor or teacher and you learn all he can show you.

My dream is to do whatever I want without any interference from the record company.

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

Keep on listening and tapping your feet.

Hell is full of musical amateurs.

People will always need love, romance, a tender touch and really personal and deeply felt music.

If the audience doesn’t hear what is going on, is it going on?

Jazz is a sideways glance at music. It’s like being an architect, knowing the basis of design but understanding that the façade can be whatever you dream. I’m a free person. I don’t want to be tied down.

The spirit of Jazz is the spirit of openness.

If I’m not saying it in four choruses or less, then I’m not saying it.

I love it. When they stop imitating me then I’ll start wondering where I’m going wrong. Every day when I sit down to play, I learn something new.