Despite success, Swift seems genuinely grounded, mature

Her songs are chart-toppers. Her new album, "Fearless," was just named "Album of the Year" by the Academy of Country Music.

And her first headlining tour this year has sold out in all cities where tickets are available, including here in Salt Lake City, where she stops Tuesday for a one-night performance.

Life is good for Taylor Swift.

But despite all her success, the 19-year-old country music sensation appears genuinely grounded and mature.

In a recent interview, she talked about her work ethic, why she doesn't compete with other young county stars and how she has maintained control over her music, image and the details of her tour.

Swift became widely known in 2006 when she released her self-titled debut album, "Taylor Swift." Recognition spread. Swift performed as the opening act for countless stars, including Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, Kenny Chesney and Rascal Flatts.

She also sold more albums in 2008 than any other recording artist in any other genre.

Still, she said she has never felt entitled and continues to work hard.

"I know things are really good now, but I know if I don't work and plan ahead and think about the moves I make, I know I could become irrelevant," Swift said.

From her perspective, she has been very lucky in her career. Swift has been writing most of her life, saying she was glad her career didn't "kick into overdrive" until she was about age 17 and almost out of high school.

"I was never in that 'child star' box people have to break out of," she said.

What is unique about Swift is her confidence in approaching her job. At age 15, she turned down a major record deal because she wouldn't be allowed to sing her own songs. Instead, she signed with an independent label, Big Machine Records, and maintains control over her musical identity.

"I don't feel like I'm in an image mold," Swift said. "I've been able to wear the clothes I like wearing. They don't try to straighten my hair. And I get to write my music."

Swift either wrote or co-wrote every song on both her debut album and "Fearless." Most of her songs are relevant to her age and time in life: Swift writes primarily about love and relationships and oftentimes offers detailed insights into her life and dreams.

Consider the song, "Love Story," the first single off her "Fearless" album. It's a modern story about Romeo and Juliet and how they find love. Other popular songs include "White Horse," which is about the hurt of a broken heart.

"I really am fascinated by human emotions and how we treat each other and how we make each other feel," Swift said. "That's at the forefront of what I've always found interesting."