No one could play like Bud; too difficult, too quick, incredible!–Thelonious Monk
Bud is a genius.–Charlie Parker
Bud is a genuine genius.–Duke Ellington
He laid down the basis of modern jazz piano.–Dizzy Gillespie
He was the foundation out of which stemmed the whole edifice of modern jazz piano; every jazz pianist since Bud either came through him or is deliberately attempting to get away from playing like him.–Herbie HancockBud was the most brilliant that a spirit might be, a unique genius in our culture.–Max Roach
If I had to choose a single musician according to his artistic merit and the originality of his creation, but also for the greatness of his work, it would be Bud Powell. Nobody could measure up to him.–Bill Evans
…and you just know she loves Bud Powell.–Alan Broadbent to Gene Lees, on seeing a beautiful girl pass by.