“The first time I ever heard the blues, my parents had a stack of recor...” — Ato Essandoh Quote

“The first time I ever heard the blues, my parents had a stack of records that they weren't using anymore. I found them when I was ten; I didn't know what it was. But I found Lightnin' Hopkins.”

“I have the softest beard in the world. As far as growing it, it doesn't itch, and it's so non-intrusive. But I am so sick of hair on my face and on my head.”

“The first time I was onstage, I felt like the audience was breathing with me. I don't know if I was good or not; I just knew I was having a ball, and for the first time, I felt I belonged somewhere.”

“I've listened to blues my whole life. I know it, I play it, I understand it.”

“What did we play in the Harry Dean Stanton Band? It was old blues and country - all covers. I never wrote anything.”

“If it wasn't for blues and gospel, I don't think I would be who I am.”