Cassandra Wilson

“Storytelling is the most important thing for me.”

“The past is always present in the music.”

“I always want to do something different. I'm always looking for a new challenge.”

“The spirit of jazz is the spirit of freedom.”

“I don't believe in categories. I believe in music.”

“The blues is the foundation for a lot of things. It's not just a style of music.”

“I want to make music that is timeless.”

“I think the voice is the most expressive instrument of all.”

“You have to be open to what the music is telling you.”

“You can't be a jazz musician if you're not a risk-taker.”

“I'm always trying to find a new way to express myself.”

“I don't think in terms of genre. I think in terms of sound and texture.”

“My father told me, 'You should do what you love.' He was a musician.”

“Authenticity is everything. You have to be true to yourself.”

“Every time I go on stage, I feel like I'm telling a story.”