How did it feel to write your memoir?
It was a roller-coaster ride, right?
A lot of places it got emotional going back over different things but it freed my soul.
Was it harder than writing a song?
Oh man, it was easy, because I know all the parts.
It just came to me automatically.
I took it year by year, from being born all the way up to now.
I wanted to be the one to tell my story.
Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self?
Do not use heroin at 16.
Do not go steal cars and burglarize and stuff like that.
Live on the straight and narrow.
How are you feeling in your 80s?
I feel that, like they say: Age is a concept made up by man.
So how old would you be if you didnt know how old you were?
Who are some of your favorite musicians?Nat King Cole, Sam Cooke, Bob Marley.
I like Bob Dylans stuff.
All of the doo-wop.
Im a doo-wop from way back.
Do you miss anything about touring on the road?
I miss the people, but I dont miss the traveling.
I dont miss the airport.
It seems youve traded life on the road for life on your farm in upstate New York, right?
I call it an enchanted forest.
And all kinds of birds.
Its enchanting, its peaceful.
I get up in the morning, go out to do my little chores.
Sarahs got these flowers on the deck.
They smell so good, and first thing in the morning, all the birds are singing.
I go out and water the plants.
While Im out there, I eat maybe about 20 or 25 of those little cherry tomatoes.
We also see your rescue dog, Apache, by your side on your social media posts.
How is he doing?
Hes a little boy in a dog suit.
He lets us sleep in his bed.
You and Sarah have been married for almost 13 years.
Whats the secret to a happy marriage?
Its respect and love, and I always have the last word: Yes, dear.
