I turned down many chances to be on TV before 'Pop Idol' because I really wasn't interested in being famous. I didn't need it and didn't want it.

My dad said to me, 'Work hard and be patient.' It was the best advice he ever gave me. You have to put the hours in.

You didn't beat the compotition you crushed the compotition!

I've never liked the idea you have to be a certain age to be a pop star. I like the idea that anybody can enter, anybody can compete.

Music should always be polarizing. What one person likes, somebody else hates. And I hate that kind of snobbery in pop music. The fact that so many people are getting upset over this one song is hysterical. And if people like it, that's great.

My advice would be if you want to pursue a career in the music business, don't.

I actually don't understand a word Paula's saying anymore. It's like a new language.