My way of communicating with God as a boy (and often even now) was through the lyrics of a song. . . . So I didn't have the problem some people do who say, "I don't know how to pray." I used the songs to communicate with God. . . . To me, songs were the telephone to heaven, and I tied up the line quite a bit.

Because you're mine, I walk the line.

Some gal would giggle and I'd get red, and some guy'd laugh and I'd bust his head. I tell ya, life ain't easy for a boy named Sue.

People ask me who is my favorite country artist. I say, you mean besides George Jones.

All music comes from God.

They're powerful, those songs. At times they've been my only way back, the only door out of the dark, bad places the black dog calls home.

Now that I know that I've needed you so, help me, Jesus. My soul's in your hand.