I felt like I got more comfortable on "Idol" when I just started being myself and not trying to be what I thought I had to be.

I think Bruno Mars is a great example of a great voice and classic songwriting with a twist that makes it contemporary. I think he's done a great job of it. I think Katy Perry has undeniable songs for what she does, for that pop market. And, if we're talking in the truly pop market, I would say those two.

I felt like I got more comfortable on "Idol" when I just started being myself and not trying to be what I thought I had to be.

Good new songs are the backbone of the music industry. There isn't an artist out there who could survive without hit songs.

Listen to the Bee Gees and you can learn to be a great writer.

You need to understand that a skilled professional songwriter can accelerate your success as an already talented musician. These people are writing every single day, so their craft is really sharp, and it's the best songwriters who consistently get on the radio.

Songwriters tell the truth.