>> been in ten movies, six albums, four broadway shows. 25 hotels with donatella. >> reporter: it's notto catch quincy jones not busy. performing, producing, arranging. busy has been what his life has been about. in town for the kennedy center honors this weekend, he stopped by to appear on stage at the african-american museum of history and culture. that's where i sat down with him as he tried to grab a bite to eat in the green room. he's not ready to slow down as he continues to live out his dream. >> i had only one fear in my life. that fear was not being prepared for a great opportunity. so i made sure i had my stuff together, you know. back then, they call it paying your dues, you know. i paid my dues. >> reporter: he was born in chicago in the depression years. the family moved to washington when his father found work what gave quincy jones the inspiration to learn music? >> i didn't have a mother, i didn't have a mother. straight jacket when i was 7 years old. it freaks you out. >> reporter: he said mastering music nurtured his spirit. >> if i don't have a mother, i'll let music