I had a very strict upbringing with my dad and was very close to my mum, who was extremely loving.

We all must develop a grounded clarity for ourselves.

I use innocence in my demeanor like a Venus flytrap.

I think there's a time as a writer when you want to see the best things in life, and you go out wherever you go with your dreams as a writer or a composer.

I started playing the piano when I was about two and got a scholarship to the Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore when I was five. But I left when I was 11.

The sun is getting dim, will I pay for who I've been?

You have to be clear what your message is and what you're doing. I mean, Miley Cyrus is an amazing talent, and sometimes you kind of just want to say, 'We know you're not Hannah Montana anymore. We know that, my dear. My darling. Now, go be great.'