JewelAs an artist, Jewel has certainly been multifaceted (to borrow a term often applied to gems of another kind). From hugely successful young pop princess to burgeoning and more mature country star, one constant has remained -- she's an extraordinary singer-songwriter who can be counted on for her ability to remain entirely unpredictable. Perhaps that's one reason her latest album, 'Sweet and Wild' (out today, June 8), showcases two distinct facets of her personality and her songs.

In this exclusive video interview with The Boot, Jewel talks about her passion for country music, reveals why she decided to contribute her autobiographical blog to The Boot, and recalls how a near-breakdown led to one of the most confessional tunes on the new album.

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