I know what it's like to be shoveling to pay bills. I know what it's like to not have a job.

I love knowing that people are connecting to my lyrics, my music and me.

I know who I am as an artist. I've always known who I am as an artist.

I'm not here to change the music world, but I'm definitely here to show what I can do and express myself through my music.

There are so many good venues in Chicago.

My music comes from my emotion, always.

I will always appreciate 'American Idol,' and I never forget about where I come from.