When I want to get inspired, I'll put a Pixar movie on silent and listen to Nas.

If I can show people how vulnerable and how flawed I am, maybe others will relate.

I came to the realization that I'm a child of God, and that's my identity. If this all goes tomorrow, I don't have the proverbial rug under me that can be pulled out. I'm taken care of, and there's someone who loves me.

I'm not afraid to have my music digestible by different ages.

I'm born and raised Long Island. Billy Joel, Paul Simon, Ben Gibbard - melody-driven guys... They shaped me, molded my music.

I don't view any of the hits I've ever written as the climax of my career. They're just minor stepping stones.