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Maroon 5 front man Adam Levine, 29, is famous for his falsetto vocals
and for writing lyrics that are equal parts steamy and sensitive. It's a
combo that clearly appeals — the band's second album, It Won't Be
Soon Before Long,
has gone two times multiplatinum and certified
Levine as one of music's most influential singer/songwriters. As our
interview reveals, the guy definitely has a way with words.

You're the lead singer of a hot band. Does that automatically make you cocky?

A little, but in a playful, not arrogant way. My mother has been giving me shit about it for years.

Are you as articulate in relationships as you are in
your songs?

Of course not! In real life, I am emotionally confused,
which enables me to write songs. I'm a Pisces, and they say that
Pisces are very sensitive. If men were just honest with themselves,
they would see that they all have that side.

Why do guys cheat?

Instinctively, monogamy is not in our
genetic makeup. People cheat. I have cheated. And you know what?
There is nothing worse than the feeling of doing it.

Would you rather be smart or funny?

Funny. I'm intelligent enough to survive happily and be compassionate. If I were
too smart, I would realize all the ills of the world.

What do you think is your best feature?

My ability to detach
myself — it's also my worst feature. I let myself off the
hook to the point where it's a bad thing. People are hard on
themselves. I'm not.

Next: Aaron Eckhart