I was always a dreamer, in childhood especially. People thought I was a little strange.

Fans are what make a performer and I've always taken them seriously.

There were very few black people in Montana but we never felt out of place.

I try to keep my feet on the ground. Even though I appreciate the fame and adoration, I remember once I used to pick cotton, and I felt like even then I was somebody. I have the same feet, hands and heart like everyone else. I'm just also blessed with a good voice.

I realize I was more of a curiosity to the older Nashville artists than the new ones.

Fans will praise you, scold you, and offer helpful advice. Fans will also defend you.

I might have become a minor celebrity but royalty checks were a long way off.