People of the Year 2004: Adam Levine

Maroon 5's Songs About Jane has been in Billboard's Top Fifty for more than eighteen months. It's three-times platinum -- not bad for a bunch of white boys playing rocked-up soul. But the touring schedule left the band ragged. "In 2005, I'm gonna take the power back," says singer Adam Levine, who's single again after splitting with model Kelly McKee. "We're gonna start doing things our way."

Best year ever?

Far and away the best year of my life. For obvious reasons and for personal reasons. I just learned a lot about being a human being.

Like what?

Well, the romantic side of my life has been up and down and will continue to be for a while. That's a known beast. But as far as my own, selfish personal life -- God, I've been chasing my dreams since I was ten years old and achieved everything I ever wanted within one year. I've been so incredibly humbled and amazed and astonished at what we've achieved.

Where did you get the most fucked up this year?

Shit. I was at this little bar in Ohio, right around the corner from Riverbend Arena. I was fucking completely destroyed; Jack Daniel's is not my friend. I don't remember much. I got into a slapping contest with our drummer. I start to get physical when I get too drunk, so I remember punching a lot of people. But it's more brotherly and rambunctious-sweet.

Sounds like it's annoying to everyone except you.

It bothers everybody. But I don't get drunk that often. I woke up with bruises and scars all over my body.

What's the best sex you've had recently?

It was actually last year, during the blackout. My girlfriend at the time and I came back to our hotel. We lit candles, because we were physically unable to see. That made it really legit, and even hotter. We had sex for hours and sat around naked and drew pictures of each other and had more sex.

But you'll top that in 2005?

I will work hard.

Next: Franz Ferdinand