I think Madonna has a great deal of intelligence and capability. I have a lot of respect for her. She's taken her career and maximized it with intelligence and creativity.

When I was younger, I was kind of fearless. I think it takes more courage to do things when you know more. I was completely naive, and I was like, why can't I do anything I want to do? You know, go for it.

Sometimes I get a lyric, and the lyric, you know, comes off the page, and goes into my brain and comes out with a melody. Other times, I may create a melody first.

I still believe that everyone is beautiful in some way and by seeing the beauty in others we make ourselves more beautiful.

I used to hate the sound of my voice.

Today's records, even though they may be lyrically repetitive and not saying anything particularly heavy, they have energy.

I went to the High School for Performing Arts in New York for acting. I've studied it on and off for years and have done some theater and film.