Great classic music that I've been turned on to has not only inspired and influenced me, but it has had an effect on my songwriting.

The thing is, unfortunately, I write the best songs when I'm miserable.

Music, as many people have said, is the universal language. Of course points are made which make you think about things, but ultimately it makes you feel. And that's why people remember more songs that have meant something during their life than films. They start to define periods in your life, and that's kind of the beauty of it.

It's got big riffs and really it's a rock and roll album. I think Stone Temple Pilots and Velvet Revolver fans will relate to that

I want my ex-wife and children to be happy.

As I've gotten older, I've found that I'm not afraid anymore to throw my influences into making a record.

I suffer from manic-depressive disorder, and I've chosen not to take medication for it. Because of that, every once in a while I go through manic episodes and really depressed episodes.