In the past 3-4 years I've developed a habit of keeping numerous small cassette recorders in my house and in a bag with me so that I'm able to commit to tape memory song ideas on a constant basis.

No compression or as little as possible - that's how you get a good recording.

When the whistle blows each morning and I walk down in that cold, dark mine, say a prayer to my dear savior. Please let me see the sunshine one more time. When oh when will it be over? When will I lay these burdens down? And when I die, dear lord in heaven, please take my soul from 'neath that cold, dark ground.

Quality is timeless: It will clearly define itself.

My music is very personal. I've created it in solitude. I face a white wall and beller. I like that sound - the expression of loneliness. That's what it's all about.

As an artist, you have to maintain focus and eliminate the distraction of second-guessing yourself based on the opinions of others.

Ironically, the success I've experienced at country radio has left me ostracized from pop and other formats of radio.