What movie and series have you (honestly) seen more than any other?

— For movie, it’s probably The Searchers by John Ford. It’s the only thing John Wayne ever acted in and it’s quite stirring to see. It’s a standard-bearer for an adventure story, with an impressive spectrum from manic drama to screwball comedy. Also the shots are just *chef’s kiss.* Natalie Wood running down that sand dune is crazy. … For television, it’s probably Martin but it’s close. From a pure, comedy standpoint, the show is one of the most underrated in television history. Sincerely, I think Martin Lawrence’s performance is on par with Lucille Ball in I Love Lucy. That’s king and queen (of TV comedy), for me.

Picture yourself driving on a scenic road. It’s night; the weather is warm and the windows are down. Pick two songs to cruise to.

— First, I’m gonna go with “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. I discovered this song around the time I learned to drive. I can remember my friend Lewis and I, at 16, cruising down Highway 64 on a Summer night to Tarboro (NC) to see a girl we both liked, belting out this song. It was nice; neither of us got the girl. … Next, I’ll roll into “Good to Me As I Am to You” by Aretha Franklin. I guess I’m trying to float up to heaven on my drive. For the song, look, it’s over. Some things just won’t be passed. Michael Jordan, maybe, one day. But Aretha Franklin in the Lady Soul era is insurmountable. This song is the final bolt in place. *