Muhammad Ali has always been a figure that I have admired and respected.  His wit was (and still is) as quick as his hands and feet, and often packed just as much power.  His hands may have slowed, but he's still got the wit - as evidenced in this funny video when he met George W. Bush.  Ali was probably the most brash, yet humble, man ever. 

I just saw a Muhammad Ali quote on Twitter recently that made me think of some musicians.  Ali always called himself "The Greatest".  When asked what great means, he responded "Great is never looking down on those that look up to you." 

This thought can translate over to musicians very well today.  A musician, hugely successful or not, should never act like they are a "rockstar" and are better than everyone else.  They may have some skills that are better than other peoples skills in that area, but the opposite is probably true as well.  I will never put up with an artist that I work with who thinks they are the "shit"...even if they are.  That being said, the right way to approach music (and life in general), is to stay grounded to your fans.  Have real conversations with them, build personal relationships, be grateful for them aiding in your success (and show it).  It is important to be brash enough to show off your skills, but be humble enough that people want to be a part of your career and help you along your path to success.  Without fans buying your music, coming to your show, buying a t-shirt, or telling a friend about your tunes, you would be nobody. 

With that, I leave you with a few more great Muhammad Ali quotes