You released a song shortly after Thursday night’s show called, “The Last Song,” and that was the same song that you performed in your final audition in front of the judges, right?
Yeah, like I said I was working on a full-length album before Idol happened, and that was the first song we recorded. It’s actually going to be on my record that’s coming out in September. I’m actually going to be just giving that song away, just as a thank you.
The biggest part about my story is that I’ve always given back. Prior to Idol, I was doing a lot of stuff for Susan G. Komen For the Cure. I recorded a song and gave them all the profits from iTunes. I wanted the show to be about my talent, but I want people to know now is that I love giving back. The first thing I want to do is give back and give [the fans] the first song from the record. I was just really encouraged by the amount of support I got. I’m so excited to keep playing shows and getting back on the road.
On the topic of your fan base, is it easier to keep in contact with everyone through Twitter, Facebook and all that?
Yeah, it’s crazy. I’ve always loved communicating with people. Twitter and Facebook, I’ve just naturally gravitated towards them. Even before Idol, I was able to just build up a fan base, because I do the one on one thing. If somebody takes the time to send me a message, well obviously with the Idol thing I can’t respond to everything, because it’s crazy how many people have reached out to me during it. I really do my best to try and stay connected with people who are on Twitter and Facebook. Even today, I’ve probably already responded to 10 or 15 tweets.
I really value connecting with people. I think that in this age, especially with the digital music business, you’ve got to do that. You’ve got to connect with people on a more individual basis. I think it’s really important.
With your album coming out in September, and “The Last Song” being released, what else can we expect to see from you?
Article comments
1 - Adam
Actually, John Mayer did not co-write Streetcorner Symphony with Rob Thomas, that distinction belongs to Matt Serletic. But Halperin is correct, Mayer did play guitar on the track. It's a great song so props to Halperin for attempting it.
2 - handyguy
I was a little taken aback to hear that the top 24 [and this week's top 13] performances were pre-taped. I thought Idol was all live once the voting weeks started. Wonder if any of the vocals were 'sweetened'?
And MTV reports that executive producer Nigel Lythgoe referred to people complaining about the pre-taping as "morons." Nice.
3 - Kirsten
The semifinals are usually pre-taped. From what I read from someone who attended the tapings, the contestants performed like it was a live show, no do-overs, but mentioned possible editing of the critiques.
There were reported technical difficulties again this week, which is why they pre-taped again. The show is supposed to be live next week.
4 - handyguy
They seemed to be scrambling for time during the live results show Thursday. It was odd only calling half the contestants to the 'spotlight of fate' and then telling all the others they were safe. I would think they would have things pre-timed to the second, but it seemed clumsy.
5 - Kirsten
Thursday's show was live, Wednesday's show was pre-taped.