When I'm sick of myself, and when I don't know what to say as a solo artist, I can write a song for a movie. When I don't know where to turn musically, being in a band - Rilo Kiley or Jenny & Johnny - the collaborative nature is really exciting.

I never envisioned myself as a solo artist; I was always part of a band.

I really wasn't planning on being a solo artist.

I get a little sick of myself as a solo artist. I get a little bit bored.

That is the true joy of being a solo artist. I can do whatever I want. I can go wherever I want. I can show up with my guitar and my song, and it can sound a hundred different ways. That's the freedom of being on your own. The flipside is: That's you on the cover. If it sucks, it's your fault.

I'm competitive with anyone who writes a good song - I don't care if it's a band or solo artist or whoever.