To write a love song that might be able to make it on the radio, that is something that is terrifying to me. But I can definitely write a song about that chair over there. That I can do, but to sit and write a pop song out of the clear blue sky, that is very difficult and I admire the people that can do it.

I believe in my writing.

My goal was always to be involved in music that would outlive me. And maybe that's actually happening.

Everybody has to find out: who are you? What do you believe in?

You know, when I did 'American Idol' the three times, I tried to tell these kids you have to tell the story of the lyric.

No one person or material thing could ever come close to the feeling I get when the music is right.

I didn't want to be treated like a 'star.' I fought it constantly, and I think I was rude.