I need honor in my life from somebody playing for keeps.

Reba McEntire came through town when I lived in Texas. She had this amazing theatrical show with, like, 13 different wardrobe changes. I was eight and I was like, Wow, I wanna do that!

I signed my deal when I was 11, and the success I had, no one could explain that to an adult, what's about to happen to them, much less a kid. There's not many people around who've experienced that.

We definitely set out to make a great 'radio' record. We set out to write great hooky choruses-but with verses that said something.

I believe above the storm, the smallest prayer will still be heard. I believe that someone in that great somewhere hears every word.

I'll get into conversations with other people, and all of a sudden they will say something that sparks that... either the titles to me, or just the conversation itself will spark an idea for a song.

Living life, I mean, my two stepsons, my husband, I think every day - today interaction inspires me - as far as music goes - inspires my art.