I remember thinking, "This girl's got it all, and then some!". Unbelievable voice, great dancer and so very beautiful. Without a doubt, she's one of the most talented artists the world has ever seen or heard, and I think she's going to continue to amaze us for many, many years to come.

People ask me who is my favorite country artist. I say, you mean besides George Jones.

There's so much about Dolly Parton that every female artist should look to, whether it's reading her quotes or reading her interviews or going to one of her live shows. She's been such an amazing example to every female songwriter out there.

The worst evil which can befall the artist is that his work should appear good in his own eyes.

I always say I wanna work with Alicia Keys. I'm in awe of her.

Suffering is a big informer, a big catalyst for creation. You take your sadness, your despair, your sense of injustice, and you put it in your work.