An intellectual says a simple thing in a hard way. An artist says a hard thing in a simple way.

An intellectual says a simple thing in a hard way. An artist says a hard thing in a simple way.

Genius can probably run on ahead and seek out new ways; but the good artists who follow after genius - read more

Genius can probably run on ahead and seek out new ways; but the good artists who follow after genius - and I count myself among these - have to restore the lost connection once more.

The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing
without work.

The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing
without work.

Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing.

Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing.

An artist is always alone - if he is an artist. No, what the artist needs is loneliness.

An artist is always alone - if he is an artist. No, what the artist needs is loneliness.

Good artists copy, great artists steal.

Good artists copy, great artists steal.

I've been relying very heavily on my instincts as of late, and my songwriting has come to depend on my read more

I've been relying very heavily on my instincts as of late, and my songwriting has come to depend on my ability to surrender to the inspiration whenever it strikes. When I clear my mind and let the music take over, my hands seem to move on their own, and my voice utters words I haven't premeditated. This is pure instinct. It's like riding a wave. You just take a deep breath, hop on, and hang on as long as you can. That's basically how I songwrite when I'm composing impromptu pieces. It's a lot like channeling. Or free associating. And it's super fun, because anything can happen! It's pure creativity.

Give me a museum and I'll fill it.

Give me a museum and I'll fill it.

Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.

Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.