Start enjoying the things you like about yourself, and if there are things you want to change, either get to work on it or get over it.

We want to give kids something to hope for. If one kid says, "Your cd helped get me through this year," that's all it takes.

All the best songs are, I think, the easiest write because they just come out.

Things have changed. I almost feel like it's more adaptable, and you can decide your own career now. I feel artists have so much more of a voice and so much more power now. It's really inspiring to see how a lot of the young artists use their platforms.

Don't let anyone make you feel like you're not good enough, smart enough or cool enough. Do your own thing.

Start enjoying the things you like about yourself, and if there are things you want to change, either get to work on it or get over it.

I need a little criticism while I make a record so that I kind of feel like: okay, I know that I'm doing the best that I can do because someone is actually here challenging it.