I think it has a lot to do with determination. I treat people the way I want to be treated and believe if you work hard you can have the things you want in life.

Yeah, playing anywhere from three to five gigs a week definitely [helped]. I think all the practice throughout the years and doing what I do paid off.

I'm not trying to be evasive, but when I say yes and no, I say 'yes' because there are narrow-minded people that won't look past the logo and 'no' because 'American Idol' put me in front of millions of people and I would not have a career without 'Idol.

I think America did a great job. I think Carrie Underwood fits the bill of American Idol. She's a wonderful girl, and she's gonna have a great career.

I was so happy and content with in life playing music. Music was always my first job and my day gig was my second job.

It's not just about waking up and trying to be a star... It's practice, practice, practice.

I try to be a better dad and husband than I do pretend rock star.