There's a certain level of pageantry with 'Idol,' and in order to work the show, you kind of have to feed into it.

All these songs honestly explore the ups and downs of my reality.

There's a certain level of pageantry with 'Idol,' and in order to work the show, you kind of have to feed into it.

The album feels like a new era for me -- emotionally, lyrically, sonically. It feels fresh, it feels new. It's still me. It's still stuff that fans know and love but it's a new chapter 100 percent.

Bowie's been a huge influence on me. I remember early on, my dad pulling out the 'Diamond Dogs' album, and the cover alone just grabbed my attention. I think I was probably around 12.

I like 'Rocky Horror.'

Pop is a little bit theatrical. That's the whole vibe. That's the point - is that it's great music, great melodies, great hooks. But, on top of it, it's a presentation. There's a showmanship about it. And that's why I wanted to be a pop star.