I definitely don't ever want to burn out at my job.

When I got a record deal I said, 'I'm only wearing jeans. I'm not wearing frilly dresses.' Dancing around in sequins is just not who I am. I wanted to be heard, not seen.

People naturally change a lot during their 20s, so my songs reflect that progression.

I also have a different, softer side, and I want for people to hear that.

There's just a lot of really, really great male artists right now, and it's good, too. And there's so many different influences in country right now, too, like hip-hop and rock 'n' roll and some blues. So I feel like if you turn on country radio, you will find something you'll love because it's so diverse right now. And that's a great thing.

If you are a young girl who wants to be a country singer, just don't try to do it too early. Be a high school kid, be a cheerleader, do your thing. And also, just know who you are; know what you want to say and stick with it throughout.

I think I find new idols every day - someone that says something really inspiring, is successful, has character.