I always think I'm going to record a lot on tour but it's always hard to fit it in the schedule, and there's a whole lotta' other extra curricular activities that happen on the road.

I am involved in every step of the process [musicmaking]. Whether it is the production or the mixing or the visuals and music videos. I'm involved in every step of the way as far as the creative, directing and merchandise . Just making sure everything that falls in line with my brand is portrayed a certain type of way. It all about quality control and attention to detail, and making sure anything you put your name on is on point.

I think the special stuff [music] still finds a way to be heard, as long as you pair it with a good release strategy.

When you put a tour together you really just think about who you'd like on your bill, who would make sense and who you would want to live with basically for a couple months and be around with and work with.

It's important to push yourself to get better at your craft - whatever that is. It's important to grow and evolve with each project.

In a sense, touring is crazy. You go city to city playing the show over and over again. But there's something magic about being in front of people, so it's not like going through the motions every night. It's a different experience.

If you push yourself to stay hungry, you're always working towards at least taking steps forward. If you're taking steps forward, then you're making progress.