Early in my songwriting career, when I was learning a lot about writing songs, I'd force myself to sit down until I came up with something.

'Tailgate Blues' is kind of a lyrical masterpiece of a country song.

A lot of people don't have near the amount of success as I've been blessed to have, and it's all about working hard and hoping that continues.

My dad is very successful in his business. He's always been big in having hobbies and having little ways to get away. He always made time for hunting and fishing. He always encouraged me to do it.

You know, if Kelly Clarkson wants to do country albums because that’s what inspires her, then let her do it. Look at Kanye West or Ludacris ... they aren’t rappin’ and cussin’ like they were on their first few albums, so what does that make them? It’s all in the eye of the beholder and the listener. We all use our outlet to grow ourself.

When you get performance slots for award shows - that's a big deal for me.

My path is exactly where I want it to be. I'm doing my thing. I'm getting better with every album.