There are a lot of times when people are diplomatic about things, and I'm not that type. I'm not afraid to say exactly what I mean.

When you think back in history about producers and artists or writers who've had good synergy, a lot of times they date, or they're married, or there's a friendship and a kinship.

I have a lot of guy-like quintessential relationship qualities that I have had to work on.

I think that some people get wrapped up in their own egos. They need to see certain album sales and certain monuments.

When you take care of yourself, you're a better person for others. When you feel good about yourself, you treat others better.

I still stand behind the stuff I did early on, but I was on a record label, and I didn't have a lot of creative control. Another side of that is just being young and having bad taste. There was plenty of that, too.