What was the first concert you attended?
The band Crossroads at Metcalf Mall in KC, KS.

Where do you draw inspiration from?
My brothers.

When were you happiest and why?
Today.

What advice do you have for future contestants?
Take the time to enjoy it, not just experience it.

What do you think gives you the edge in this competition?
I don’t know if I have one, but I know that nobody can say they’ve worked harder for this or have wanted it more than me.

Who are your musical influences?
Our Lady Peace, Big Wreck.

If you have 24 hours to do whatever you wanted, what would you do?
Watch the show “24.”

Who is the person that you would most like to meet?
Keira Knightley.

Who has been your favorite Idol thus far?
Kelly Clarkson.

If you could sing/perform in any venue, where would you perform?
I’d love to sing at the new Center in KC.

What’s been your toughest obstacle in life?
Being confident enough in myself to chase this whole music thing.

Do you think the audition process was fair?
I was too busy thinking how hectic it all was.

What has been your favorite “Idol” moment in the past six seasons?
I’ve never really watched it a lot, but I do remember loving that “lemur” kid.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I’d buy some washboard abs.

How do you plan on differentiating yourself in the competition?
I’m just going to be who I am. Will it work? Tune in to find out!

What has been your proudest moment in life so far?
Graduating from college.

If you couldn’t sing, which talent would you most like to have?
The ability to fly or culinary skills.

Who is your favorite judge and why?
Simon because he’s such a smart aleck I kind of can be too.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m weird. People aren’t usually surprised by anything with me.

Do you have any lucky charms?
My left arm tattoo.

If you don’t make it on American Idol, what will you do?
I’ll probably go back home and milk the starving musician racket a little while longer.

What are your personal goals in life?
My goals all revolve around being happy. It’s all about the journey.

What album would your friends be surprised you own?
Anything from Sarah McLachlan.

Do you have any rituals or things you do before you perform?
I’ll stretch out the ol’ hamstrings a bit.

What is your most embarassing moment?
Well, I may have to wait until after Idol to adequately answer this…

What other talents do you have?
I am an expert television watcher. I can also sleep and eat like nobody’s business.

Do you have any formal singing training?
Just school choirs. Other than that, I’m just lucky.

When did you first start to sing?
In the 2nd grade, Mrs. Gentry made me sing in our Christmas pageant.

Favorite female pop artists?
Mandy Moore, but not for the music, really.

Favorite male pop artists?
Lenny Kravitz, Raine Maida, John Mayer.