I'm really lucky to have some super-talented friends.

I feel like I am in turbo mode as a student of entertainment.

I build an entire fort out of pillows. I need at least four pillows. I need on each side, I need one normal usage pillow for the back of my head, and I need another pillow just in case.

No matter what does, or doesn't, happen for me in the music industry, getting to play the Opry as a kid was always be a highlight of mine.

Things have always happened better for me than I could plan them to.

My earliest musical memory was getting to watch my dad play drums in a local band. He's a banker by trade, but a drummer at heart. I remember seeing the guitar player do the solo from Werewolves of London with his teeth, and that was the moment that had me hooked.

Playing the Opry, when I get the opportunity - it's one of the coolest honors for any musician in any genre, but especially for a country musician.

Things just always seem to lead to the logical next step.

I would say, my influences go back a little further than some folks. I think what your influences are can certainly help you. It's like a tree with really deep roots the firmer they're planted in the ground, the better foundation you have to build upon.