Who belonged to no one, who belonged to everyone. Who had nothing, who wanted everything.

It's not like I think my art is inspirations from icons strung together. They're just sort of people who others talk about. I am definitely interested in the masters of different genres, they're talented and popular for a reason.

I entered a songwriting competition, I didn't win, and one of the judges on the panel was an A&R man at a record label that had no other acts and I signed to them. We sent my demo out to five people and David Kahne got back to me that day, and said I think you're amazing I want to start with you tomorrow. He was like my Harvard reach school, I couldn't believe it. I was really excited. It was the first time anyone of any importance said I was good and I ran with that validation for a long time.

What other people think of me is none of my business. Sometimes, it hurts my feelings, but I have to just keep going.

I pretend I'm not hurt, I walk about the world like I'm having fun.

I'm not really interested in a ton of female musicians but there is something about Britney that compelled me - the way she sings and just the way she looks.

Who belonged to no one, who belonged to everyone. Who had nothing, who wanted everything.