I never wanted to be famous. I only wanted to be great.
Interpretation
The quote expresses a desire for greatness through achievement rather than seeking fame.
Ray Charles emphasizes that his primary goal was not to attain fame, which often comes with attention and scrutiny, but rather to achieve greatness through his craft and contributions. This highlights a distinction between external recognition and internal fulfillment, suggesting that true success lies in dedication and excellence rather than in public level acclaim.
In practice
During a motivational speech to aspiring musicians, this quote could inspire them to focus on their craft rather than external validation.
I suppose I've always done my share of crying, especially when there's no other way to contain my feelings. I know that men ain't supposed to cry, but I think that's wrong. Crying's always been a way for me to get things out which are buried deep, deep down. When I sing, I often cry. Crying is feeling, and feeling is being human. Oh yes, I cry.
To me, music is entertainment - what else can it be? In fact, it's the only language I know of that's universal.
Just because you can't see anything , doesn't mean you should shut your eyes.
Any artist, when he goes in to record, should have the feeling that any song he records can be a hit. This may sound egotistical, but it makes sense.
When I started to sing like myself - as opposed to imitating Nat Cole, which I had done for a while - when I started singing like Ray Charles, it had this spiritual and churchy, this religious or gospel sound. It had this holiness and preachy tone to it. It was very controversial. I got a lot of criticism for it.
The important thing is to feel your music, really feel it and believe it.
In sport, if you want to be the best you have to compete against the best - I would much rather have come tenth and be judged against everyone than come first and be judged against just a few.
What is the recipe for successful achievement? Choose a career you love. Give it the best there is in you. Seize your opportunities. And be a member of the team.
The most successful men in the end are those whose success is the result of steady accretion.
How great are the dangers I face to win a good name in Athens.
Success is always dangerous, and we need to be alert and avoid becoming the victims of our own success. Will we influence the world for Christ, or will the world influence us?
Not the maker of plans and promises, but rather the one who offers faithful service in small matters. This is the person who is most likely to achieve what is good and lasting.
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