Texas people are really strong in their roots. I started writing and playing guitar at 17. I've always loved music, and my dad is a singer-songwriter.

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.

A lot of people tell me, once they get to know me, that they're surprised that I'm nothing like they think I'll be.

Miranda Lambert! She not only has amazing music, but she is an awesome role model for females and rescues lots of animals!

For each album, I let the music that I love at that point in my life be my guide.

Currently I'm not a crazy ex-girlfriend, but I can't promise I won't be one again.

I think the more emotional you are, the better. I'm sort of writing [songs] as I go and I can never tell how it's going to be or how it's going to feel until I get into the studio. But I definitely think it will. I probably can't help but have the emotions in my voice.