Performing is an experience, for me, that is as humbling as it is energizing.

For most entertainers, there is a single experience, one defining moment, when confidence replaces the self-doubt that most of us wrestle with.

The tastes of country music fans are not limited to the narrow range defined by consultants and programmers and record company moguls.

It used to be that if you had a pretty good record, you could stop by a station in Little Rock or Atlanta and let the DJ listen to it. No way something like that can happen now.

The time I spent thinking about how I was better than somebody else or worrying about somebody else's attitude was time I could put to better use.

I finally came to terms with manic depression and lithium. I've taken lithium regularly for the past few years and have had no further bouts with manic depression.

Fans are what make a performer and I've always taken them seriously.

A fan will grab you and hug you and will not let go. When that happens, you wish it could be that way all over the world.

There only have been two people on this earth that I was nervous around: Chet Atkins and Mickey Mantle. It's because of the respect I have for them.

No one had ever told me that whites were supposed to sing one kind of music and blacks another - I sang what I liked in the only voice I had.

I learned to tune a guitar by ear. That method has served me pretty well.

Follow your inner voice to let people follow you.

What you love loves you back.

Congress has mandated an annual report on street gang, outlaw biker, and domestic extremist activity in the military since 2008.

I have this side of me that is a very European flamboyant; I won't say queenie, but it's borderline - could be perceived as homosexual.

Never give power of attorney.

I think we want to make the sport bigger and better and leave a good legacy for the next generation that comes through.

The more bad choices you make, the less bad your choices seem.

Life can change in a moment, so we must appreciate every single day we are given.

In the week before a race, I try to stay away from germ areas. I keep disinfectant wipes in my bag for when I have to use a supermarket trolley or something like that.

I derive a tremendous amount of pride in developing places that everyday people can experience. I like to create beauty in everyday lives.