I had all the normal interests - I played basketball and I headed the school paper. But I also developed very early a great love for music and literature and the theater.

Anyone who creates something new or does something different artistically is going to be singled out.

People in very high places suddenly fall, and we are always surprised because we don't factor in the basic element that they're humans and, therefore, they are flawed and have weaknesses.

I've never set out consciously to write American music. I don't know what that would be unless the obvious Appalachian folk references.

I was trying to do something that seemed very natural and easy but which bridged that gulf between the singing voice and the speaking voice.

I was encouraged by my mother and, to a lesser extent, by my father.

I think anything that is expressed directly and as honestly as possible will last.