I didn't wake up one morning and not be in the Replacements. We're all that forever, and I've just grown older. I mean, I haven't lost anything. I've gained a few things.

People like to see human error when it’s honest. When people see you swing and miss, they start to root for you.

I try to write for highest common denominator. I don't write for dumb people. I figure if everybody doesn't get it, that's OK. Someone bright enough will get it, and that's who I write for. It's probably not the way to make million-sellers. What can I say? I won't apologize for trying to write for smart people.

It's like, it's up to the people to fall in love with the song. The record company can only do so much.

It's fun, but the fun is where it always was. I mean, it's still fun to strap on my Les Paul in the basement and turn up the Marshall amp. I'm still 15. I still enjoy that as much as I ever did.

The hack songwriter will write the absolute truth every single word, whether it makes a great song or not.

I'm beyond caring what anyone expects of me anymore.