I always want to have a personal relationship with everybody that works for me.

American Idol allowed us to find Carrie Underwood.

I wouldn’t necessarily say she is a country artist. I mean, obviously Taylor Swift started in country, but she morphed into somewhat of a cultural icon, so, who am I to judge what she is?

People hear me talk and they know my background and they immediately stereotype me as being a real, real country guy, and that's the right stereotype. But you also want people to know you're a little broader than that, too.

It's pretty cool to see how far music can take you.

I think 'Country Girl' is one song that can veer into country or hip-hop or rap. You can listen to it and enjoy the humor and the fun in it.

Our crew guys, it's amazing what they have to go through to make a show happen every night.