DB: Do you still go to church?
TM: Not as much as we would like to. Or need to, especially for the kids. I’m not home a lot. But, yea, I grew up in a strong Baptist background.

DB: Was that from your mom’s side?
TM: No, everyone. Where I grew up everyone went to church. It was part of the life, part of society.

DB: Did you ever think you would be in movies?
TM: I grew up watching movies. I don’t think there is a kid out there that does think that would like to be up there on the screen. So, I was like any other kid, I think. But I was so wrapped up in sports growing up as a kid, that I think I was going to grow to be a pro ball player. But I found out real quick that was not going to happen.

DB: Musically. What’s that like for you these days?
TM: I love producing. I have been producing some acts and starting a label.

DB: Could you talk a little about helping with the Katrina disaster?
TM: Well we did a show down there. A fundraiser show and some charity. We really wanted to put some dollars where it would really help.

DB: You were pretty critical of the government in its response.
TM: Well, I think everyone was. And I think they were critical of themselves, so…yeah, I think things could have been done a lot better. And hopefully it will be next time.

DB: I was thinking of your fan base and what they think. You remember the Dixie Chicks? Are there people around you that say you shouldn’t say that?
TM: No, I don’t have any one around me like that. You know, just because you are an artist does not mean you are a citizen. That’s what makes this a great country. Everyone should have their own opinion and be able to voice it. No matter what it is. Of course, that does not mean your opinion is always right. But, you’re certainly entitled to your opinion.

DB: What do think should be done there?
TM: Getting kids back in routines and infrastructure of course. Getting schools up and running. You know these kids had been sleeping in their beds all their lives and suddenly that was all gone. They will never sleep there again. The kids are important.

DB: What would you say to America at this time?
TM: I would say that 97% of everything in life we agree on. You know on the important things like respect for others.  Most everything in life we all agree on. It’s the 3% we chose to fight about too much. And there is a place for that. But, I think we should focus on the 97% that we agree on.

DB: Have you ever thought of running for office?
TM: Hey, I am from Louisiana and politics runs in the blood. I have thought about it, but that’s down the road right now. But, I think being a public servant is a noble calling. Life has given me a lot. I like to return some of that, but writing just a check does not quite do it for me.

DB: McGraw for President?
TM: Naw, there are too many skeletons in that closet.