I think it was when I was 12 when I entered a singing competition. I sang my own original song for an audience of 1,000 people.

The things I see every day inspire my sound and lyrics, like certain people and situations that stick out in my mind. There are also certain musicians I love whose music and styles inspire me.

I wanted to give people a taste of my own music through the sound and style of my covers.

. . . . I cannot escape my life but can only use my determination and courage to make it the best I can.

It's just me and I try to be myself when I'm singing.

I get really nervous right before I go on stage. But once I'm performing, I always love it. It's like being in a different world.

My town's quite small and you kinda recognize everyone when you see them, so I definitely get funny looks from people.

I read the three Hunger Games books in a week and because I liked them so much I wrote Just a Game.

I used to play violin, but I wasn't very good! I'm starting to learn guitar.

I've never spoken to Bon Iver, but I would love to. I'm a huge fan!

I love Adele and Lykke Li. I also listen to classical music as well.

Its decision to suck up an extra helping of toddler soup would cost it dearly.

I want our government to encourage and protect freedom as well as our traditions of faith and family.

Tact is the great ability to see other people as they think you see them.

I didn't really start publishing books until I was 40 because I was busy being a McDonald's employee. So there's always a sense of trying to make up for lost time.

We have a democracy within the bounds of a constitution which provides certain guarantees related to the basic humanity of every person. I think that's the best way to go.

This life we have is short, so let us leave a mark for people to remember.

The filmmaker is really important to me: it could be their first film; it's not just about their reputation, but I have to really believe in them.

Genuine [economic] value lies in the power to sustain or enrich life

Food to a large extent is what holds a society together, and eating is closely linked to deep spiritual experiences.

I think I'll always be a theater gypsy at heart.