Bob Seger was a huge inspiration.

I've always thought, it's the artist that write the songs and make the records. And it's our responsibility to set the tone for what's happening in the industry. And I take that seriously.

Funny how a melody sounds like a memory.

There's just a lot of people that hold on to what country means to them. I love fiddle, I love steel, but I don't think it should be a rule that it has to be used in every song. I think that's not what defines or makes country music.

Country fans are the best fans out there because of the loyalty, and the way that they apply your music to every aspect of their life.

If I was concerned about my legacy, there’s no way I would ever sit there [and be a reality-show judge]. Once your career becomes about some¬thing other than the music, then that’s what it is. I’ll never make that mistake.

It's always the roughest path, but I think it's got the most reward at the end.