Ke$ha says a poor upbringing helps her keep her feet on the ground now that she has an international hit single.

“I can’t stand pretentious people. I think growing up without money has taught me not to take myself seriously,” she explained. “I’m the same person I when I was selling clothes to buy a taco for dinner, I just have a few extra bucks.”

The “Tik Tok” singer also said that when she got her first paycheck after becoming famous, she didn’t splash out on any lavish or expensive gifts for herself.

“I bought a 1998 Honda car, which I needed. I don’t believe in wasting money when there are people in the world who can’t eat. If I earn a lot of money, I’ll treat myself, but I’m not going to be ridiculous. I think it’s kind of gross,” she said. “I don’t like spending money on stuff. I may buy some instruments though.”