Does it ever worry you that the press seems obsessed with your love life?
In life what's important to me is my family, my music and my spirituality. When I read articles talking about me, that makes me laugh. As long as my family doesn't suffer, I don't see why it would make me crazy. There's something laughable about this interpretation of my life. Before, everybody said I was a cute little boyband member. Now, I've graduated to being a playboy who goes out every evening and is ready for new adventures. I love what you guys do to me. I love what you've tried to make me into. I wish it were true, but it's not.
Really?
At present I am a bachelor, and it's only been a short time I've been alone. So I do take advantage of it. And why not? I'm a kid, man! Let me enjoy myself! And I will take advantage of it until I'm not on my own any more., But don't start believing I'm this seductive guy! [Laughs] I'm a shy guy and, if you must know the truth, girls don't tend to throw themselves at me.
Are you on the lookout for that special person?
I'm not tempted to go out with anybody now. If somebody comes into my life and I get a good vibe with them, I'll take it from there. You can't plan your love life.
What kind of girls do you like?
I don't have a preference as far as hair goes or stuff like that. I like girls who like themselves. I like girls who like to have fun. But I also like girls who have their own lives, their own agendas, but also who I share interests with.
What do you wear on a date that makes you feel sexy?
I'm not a big fan of dressing up, so I'd wear jeans and a T-shirt.
So you don't have any special pulling pants?
What's that?
Over here we say, "Are you wearing your pulling pants?" if you're going out and you're wearing your best underwear. No, I don't have any of those. I think that's a girl thing, isn't it?
Guys over here say that too...
Really?
I think it's because they have a selection of pants some of which aren't very attractive, so they wear the best ones if they're going out...
Sorry, but I can't say I have any!
Do you worry about being considered a role model?
I don't see myself as a role model because it's too much pressure. I want to remain fairly normal. I do my shopping. I buy shoes because I'm crazy abotu them! I fill the tank of my new Mercedes and have a good time in my car. I go out with my pals, I drink and sometimes, yeah I get drunk.
No!
Yes it's true, I do! Like many people of my age do. Don't believe just because my picture is in a magazine that I'm different from anyone else. I refuse to play that game. And half the time the stuff you read about me in the tabloids is made up anyway!
Your new single Rock Your Body is very sexy...
I wanted to speak about things I care about and that are important to me.
Is it about someone?
Some of my songs are autobiographical, but I like people to take them for what they are and enjoy the music, humor and originality of what I'm singing about.
Did you worry about alienating younger 'NSYNC fans with your sexier sound?
There's that image question again! Why is it because I sing and write about sex it shocks people? I'm not this singer who's got this 'bad boy' thing going on. Nor have I pushed the 'good boy' look either. I'm just a young kid in today's crazy world and I'm not trying to push people to buy my stuff. I assume the responsibility for my writing and for what I sing about. This album - this is me. I wasn't forced to sing a single song for any reason other than I express my thoughts. And sex just happens to be a subject that's on the mind of a guy my age.
You've been so successful as a solo artist. Could you go back to being in a group again?
Why would 'NSYNC break up? The success of the group is huge! In a few years 'NSYNC did what few groups have ever done. The future is clear. I believe 'NSYNC will continue to be a hit. I can make my own music and be part of a group at the same time. The other members of the group are my friends and even if we never work again on another album, they'll remain my friends.So what's the latest between you and Britney?
[He rubs his head] There you go! Not bad. You're better than most other journalists. At least you waited a bit. Listen, that subject is just too personal but yes, if you want to know the truth - we have stayed good friends, but it's nobody's business but ours.
You've duetted with Nelly, Janet Jackson and Kylie. Anyone else you'd like to work with?
I'd like to sing with Lenny Kravitz and Coldplay. They make incredible music. I also love Jay-Z and Missy Elliott. I'd love to do a song with Missy.
There are rumors about you taking up acting. Is there any truth in them?
Yes, certainly. It'll happen when the time is right and I'm offered a role in something I believe in. If the right film role came along, I'd take a break from music for a while. But I don't want to do it yet. If I decide to do it, I'll do it thoroughly and that'll mean time off from singing and touring. I don't feel ready to do that yet.
Do you think you'll be doing this when you're older?
I don't want to grow older! I'll always be a kid! Sometimes I can see myself in the future, but I'm only 22. I want to enjoy myself and take advantage of my life now. My motto is : "If you don't stop to look at the roses, you'll never know how beautiful they are." Deep, huh? [laughs]