INTERVIEW
 -Taken from the July issue of TV HITS.

How does it feel to be the most famous teenager in the world?

It's overwhelming! Just two years ago I was a completely normal teenager doing normal things, and now it's crazy! I'm doing so much, and
traveling all over... but y'know, I'm so thankful for everything.

Did you expect to do this well?

To be honest, I just wanted to get into the Top 40 in the US - so when my single and album went to Number One, I couldn't believe it! It was
like, 'Oh my goodness!'

So what makes you different to everyone else?

People have said it's just my image, but it's not - I mean, it helps, heh heh. But even before seeing me, people were bought my single. Then
when my video was played, people loved it 'cos it showed a teenager doing something they wanted to do. Teenagers can relate to me about to
me and what I'm singing about.

What's your philosophy, then?

To be confident and know what you want out of life. Y'know, you don't need a guy - just be confident with yourself. That whole girl power thing is
so on with me.

Is it hard to keep your friendships going now?

It is, 'cos I'm never really home,  but we always keep in touch by phone - you should see my phone bills! I always want to know what the
gossip is. You have to don't you?!

How do fans treat you?

They've been really sweet, but I haven't had my own concert yet. I opened for 'N Sync, but the fans were there for their guys, not me. At the
beginning the crowd were a little iffy about me as I was opening for the guys they were in love with...but they warmed to me!

How normal is your home life?

Well, I still have to do the dishes, if that's what you mean! But yeah my mom still tells me what to do - I have to do my share of the housework
and stuff.

Who are you closer to, Backstreet Boys or 'N Sync?

'N Sync, 'cos I toured with them. They are just the sweetest guys and this business hasn't fazed them at all. They are so nice - really nice.

Do you know how much money you've made so far?

No, but I know how much I'm supposed to have made by the end of the year. How much is that?
(laughing) Hey, now that's a secret!

How in control of your career are you?

Very. I'm really lucky I work for an independent record company. It's nice 'cos everyone knows everyone, and every opinion I have gets heard.

You're surrounded by 'yes-men' all the time - does anyone ever say no to you?

Well, I don't really ask to do ridiculous things - I don't throw tantrums or anything like that! But my mom still says no to me. Like, if I want to
stay out late, she's, 'No, you're coming in early.' And that's that!

You're adored by men of all ages - would you date an older man?

You know what, I really like older guys! I think as I get older I'll like men the same age. It's just girls my age are a lot more mature than guys of
my age - if you see what I mean!

Are there any famous men you fancy?

(eyes light up as she whispers) I met Ben Afflek! He was a hotty - he's so beautiful and he broke with his girlfriend. I want to marry him!

Were you prepared for all the tabloid traumas you've suffered?

Not at all. Before I went to Japan I saw a bunch of rumours written about me,  but I just blew it off. But when I came back it got way out of
hand. I'd be lying if I said it didn't hurt me. You know, I'm so sensitive, I'd go home crying 'cos I couldn't understand why these older people
would want to badger a 17-year-old. But you have to realise this is how the business works.

So how tough are you?

Well, you have to be tough in this business. Before, if things went wrong or I didn't like something, I would've kept it to myself, but now I speak
up. It's a fickle business to be in, but you can still enjoy it.

You've conquered the music world - what's next?

Music will always be a part of my life and I'll always continue with it. I want loads of Number Ones - that's my goal. But hopefully I'll make a film
- I'd really love that. What? With Ben Afflek? (laughing) Who knows...