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You want to sell records, but if you want to call yourself an artist, your job is how you express yourself.

A record deal doesn't make you an artist; you make yourself an artist.

You know, when I put out records that may not work or connect with the audience, it's because I'm pushing myself as an artist creatively, because I'm just bored doing what everyone wants me to do.

It's like whether you're in a huge movie or you've just recorded an incredible album you've got to do the next thing, and that's part of being an artist.

If only the people around you know you're an artist, then you're doing something wrong.

The only way for me to be an artist is to be honest in my craft. If I veer from that, I'm not giving the investors what they want. Sometimes it's my job as an artist to know what I want to do, even when the fans tell me different.

Believe it or not, most people think of me as a recording artist, but actually the way I think of myself and the way I earn my living is as a performing artist.

Art is basically communication, and I think everyone who's a music lover has had that experience where a record or a recording has kept you company when no one else is around. And I think that is what I'm hoping that people get out of my music.

Part of being an artist is that you are always concerned you don't have what it takes. It... keeps us honest.

You know, the record business is much different than being artist on stage.