Lee 'Scratch' Perry, musician

Before and after a gig at the Jazz Cafe, London NW1.

I like to give something special to people: that's why I tour. I go because the people believe in God, and there is no other God coming but me. I'm not working because of the money; I'm working because the people believe that God is going to come to save them. I give them a sweeter soul and take away the bitter souls. Save them from pain and save them from cocaine.

I am never nervous before a gig. I am the people's servant: how can I get nervous? I am as brave as a doctor. They are the patients. I must be very fit, very pure, very sure and 100% positive. I don't feel no pain, I don't feel no strain, I don't feel no weakness. I feel like Superman.

When I'm on stage, I'm in heaven. I am like Inspector Gadget, with two long legs and two extended arms. I am the God robot. I stand up in the club and I stand up in heaven.

After a gig, I drink water, and sometimes a sip of champagne. But no drugs. God won't allow me to take cocaine: that's for selfish people. Then I go home and write. I am writing books about my life – about everything. Sometimes I write until it's almost light.