AJ Michalka

We had experienced so much as kids, and I kind of feel like we learned a lot about the industry that put a little bit of a bad taste in our mouth, whether it was a couple of people we worked with or whether it was just trying to find the right inspiration or what have you. ”

I think we felt like we'd done so much as young kids that we didn't know how to top ourselves. We were like, 'Is this where it ends? Is this as good as it gets? Maybe we're done. Throw in the towel.' ”

If God is first, and you kind of center everything else around Him being the main focal point, you really can make decisions that will not only mold you, but God will see exactly how you're making your decisions and then will bless you for it. ”

Status doesn't matter; fame doesn't matter. You have to be really, really grounded in who you are and feel good as a person inside. ”

I think you have to be guarded but not closed off. ”

So many people grew up in the church, and you can have an awesome upbringing, but I made a personal conviction; I made a personal decision when I was very young. I enjoy going to church without my parents. On Sunday mornings, I want to go. Bible studies on Wednesdays... I have a relationship - not just through my parents. ”

We love U2, adore their music, just blown away by who they are as artists. They just seem like really good people. ”

The Distance' is the most visceral for me because I was in a long-distance relationship for two years, and that wears on you for sure, whether you're in the industry or not, traveling and trying to get to that other person. ”

For me, I just want to continue telling stories - whether it's musically or theatrically, this is what I love to do. So, I want to create more. ”

It's amazing what happens when you're confident as an artist. The writing completely changes, and you're no longer depressed about your sound or what it's going to be or if people are going to like it. ”