My mom just understands about stuff. We have a really good trust, and she knows I can take care of myself.

I've been producing records, and as early as my late teens, early 20s, I put out a hip-hop record and then the Ringside stuff. You know, I just feel like I want to spend these years realizing all of my ambitions. I feel like we live in an age in which you can chase your dreams with focus and a vision.

It's been such a group effort. When you're a new band and you have limited resources, you end up getting people that are there because they love what you do, and that's great.

Even in my darkest times I knew I had a good future ahead of me.

Hearing the record and seeing the response is affirming that it was the right time and right choice.

Even the great bad guys in cinema history, they're likable.

I like to challenge myself and give myself a timeline. It pushes me to be more creative and actually do these things, not just dream about them.