My mom was always saying: 'Be whatever you want to be, but stick with it. Don't waver. Don't change who you are for anybody.'

Instead of going to college, I spent my time out on the road learning how to be a better musician.

Heartbreak is good fuel for country songs. And cheating.

I also have a different, softer side, and I want for people to hear that.

I was always suspicious and looking over my shoulder because that's how I was raised.

People see me as someone who doesn't take any crap from anyone -- which I don't -- but it's my shtick, and I obviously don't act like that all the time.

If you don't stand for something, how can anyone respect what you do?

I was a big shiny, glittery-type person. Now I'm a jeans and T-shirt girl, or I'll wear sun dresses and cowboy boots in the summer. But at first I had to have stylists tell me, 'That's ugly.'

The bigger you get, the more pressure you have to deal with.

I'm country through and through.

I feel like I am one of those artists that, thank god, can sing live.

For each album, I let the music that I love at that point in my life be my guide.

Texas people are really strong in their roots. I started writing and playing guitar at 17. I've always loved music, and my dad is a singer-songwriter.

My weight always fluctuates by 10 pounds.

I think I find new idols every day -- someone that says something really inspiring, is successful, has character.

My mom always says I cut my teeth on the church pew.

My music is about being strong, even in your vulnerability.

I carry a weapon. I got a death threat a few years ago and was really scared. But I don't want bodyguards. I am my own security.

My family is awesome.

I had to work at everything.