I used to go to the school folk club with my songs when I was only 13 or so and say "this is a traditional folk song" and sing it with a bad Irish accent to disguise the real source.

I'm also getting an Ovation Legend, because I like them so much.

As far as being a 'player's player,' you've only got to go to Nashville or Argentina and you can forget about it. The world is full of amazing guitar players, and you know it, and I know it...it's a humbling experience.

I love Gibsons, and Nationals, too. There's something magical about them.

Each song has its own secret that's different from another song, and each has its own life. Sometimes it has to be teased out, whereas other times it might come fast. There are no laws about songwriting or producing. It depends on what you're doing, not just who you're doing.

My idea of heaven is a place where the Tyne meets the Delta, where folk music meets the blues.

I'm not a collector, however, and I have no desire to own 50 or 60 guitars.