I was a nerd academically. But I was also an athlete and a musician. I never wanted to be shut out of any situation. I think it was that more than anything.

I don't care how small the game. I want to win.

Back in college, when I got kicked out of school, I was still in school, I'd just written the song that got me my record deal. If I hadn't gotten kicked out of school I wouldn't be where I am now. Three months after that, I got my record deal and the rest is history.

I was brought up to be a gentleman. That means you know how to walk, talk and dress the part.

People don't like when you point out to them and remind them that they're not very smart.

The hardest thing to do in this business is to still be around. When music changes, when labels' resources have dried up, it becomes harder and harder to continue to make a living at this.

I think I've tried to stay true to my music since the beginning. It's kind of hard because of the access and technology but I just do what I do.