Every day I lugged my backpack through the halls, waiting for the final bell. Then I'd race home and hole up in my room, playing the drums and the piano, composing music.

When I feel confused or depressed, I remember back to junior high and I silently repeat, 'This, too, shall pass.'

No matter who we are, no matter what our circumstances, our feelings and emotions are universal.

Maybe the gruffness and anger can be done with a purity of sound.

I did not practice hours a day for eighteen years to have my success attributed to a myth.

I think that my relationship with my fans has been very special from day one. It's been very special in spite of the fact that I don't think I would ever be able to call myself a press darling. I don't think there's ever been a superficial hype machine around me.

No matter who we are, no matter what our circumstances, our feelings and emotions are universal. And music has always been a great way to make people aware of that connection. It can help you open up a part of yourself and express feelings you didn't know you were feeling. It's risky to let that happen. But it's a risk you have to take-because only then will you find you're not alone.