Usually the kids are portrayed as very one-dimensional. Like these mindless animals that just have three things on their minds: getting laid, getting drunk, and driving real fast over Mulholland Drive.

I don't have control over how people choose to perceive me. The only thing I have control over is my writing.

In life, there is always that special person who shapes who you are, who helps to determine the person you become.

People feel like they grew up with me.

When I was a little kid I thought I would grow up to be black and sing jazz in nightclubs.

I've done kissing scenes with people who have been loaded. I'd think, 'Do you actually have to drink that Jack Daniels to kiss me?'

Jazz is my comfort music, like comfort food.