I just wanted to go out and make a record that I've always wanted to make since I was a kid.

Every time I make a record, it's make-or-break time. I hope I always have that mentality - that's what keeps me fired up.

For me, '52nd Street' is quintessential Billy Joel. I bought that record as a kid and listened to it so much.

I'd work with Charles Kelley anytime. I'd go do a 'Pancho and Lefty' record with Charles. He is class, man.

I'm a kid who grew up in an all African-American neighborhood and got into schools and aspired to just be me, and didn't worry about labels or anything. Just wanted to be a success at what I did.

I expect to make a career out of country music.