Nick Fradiani: Inside the Heart and Mind of a Great Idol

The American Idol 2015 Season 14 winner talks about new album, Australia, favourite travel destinations and cars

Nick Fradiani, winner of Season 14 of American Idol, has finally released his debut album Hurricane. “I know it was a long wait, but it’s here! It’s not easy writing and recording a full length album, but I’m so happy with Hurricane. I worked hard on it, and I hope all of you who have stuck by me and supported me enjoy it,” Fradiani remarked. “You all are the reason today is possible for me, so thank you. You changed my life one with your votes and love on American Idol, and again today by giving me this opportunity to release my music.”

Jayson Paor chatted with Nick Fradiani to talk about Hurricane, the possibility of doing a show in Australia, and how he maintains a balance between work, family, writing and performing, and personal time.

Congratulations on the release of Hurricane. Tell us more about it, including your collaboration with Jason Mraz.

It was a long time coming! So happy it’s here. To write with Jason Mraz was a dream come true. I had been playing his music since for years so it was pretty surreal to write a song with him. The song “If I Didn’t Know You” is one of my favorites. Everyone has that one person who makes them a better person, and that’s what this song is all about.

In terms of songwriting, where do you draw your inspiration from – would say it’s personal?

I don’t really think about it much to be honest. Wherever inspiration comes is what I write about. Whatever I am feeling that day that we are writing, or whatever the vibe of the music is making me feel is where the inspiration comes from.

For a true artist whose passion is making music, I feel you want to make a change for the better, but on a bigger scale – what is your ultimate direction for yourself?

The ultimate goal is to continue making music that makes people feel something. As a songwriter, I want to do this for the rest of my life. Songwriting never has to end.

What do you hope people take away from your music and from your shows and performances?

I hope that people feel as if they want to listen to that song again, or see another performance again. I always hope that people leave wanting more (in a good way.) Leave them wanting to see another concert again, or buy another album at some point.

Right at this moment, what thrilling and extraordinary experiences do you value most in life?

I value the fans that have stuck by me for so long. They were amazing during my run on American Idol, and they continue to be amazing during the release Hurricane. [Smiles.]

How did your musical and artistic vision change after winning American Idol last year?

I think many people were surprised at the direction of Hurricane. I did a decent amount of classic rock on the show, and also never used my falsetto that often. In this album, I use my falsetto a ton, and the genre is straight up pop. There are some great singer-songwriter moments in there, but I think the album is quite eclectic in terms of genre.

How has your definition of success changed over the years?

I am a very competitive person. I always set my goals extremely high. I still feel like my music career will reach the level that I am still dreaming of. Bust still, just being able to release Hurricane felt very validating.

Can you share us some random facts about you that your new fans might be interested to know about you?

1. I think I’m great at knowing all the lyrics to random rap songs.
2. I love sushi.
3. I have an awesome dog named Jeter.
4. I’m addicted to coffee.
5. I listen to Howard Stern on Sirius every morning.

How do you pamper yourself after a tiring and long schedule?

I love to be outside. Whether it’s going on runs, or hanging on the beach. I also love to get my haircut every few weeks.

Your fans want to know, what do you sing in the shower?

Hahaha. I do sing in the shower. [But] It always changes. Whatever has been stuck in my head!

You must have tour and visited a lot of beautiful cities and countries already. But can you share us your Top 5 favourite travel destinations and why?

I haven’t traveled outside of the US that much, so that needs to change! I loved Vancouver, NYC, Boston, Arizona and Denver.

Any plans of doing shows in Australia and Asia anytime soon?

I am working with my agent to get to all of those places, so I REALLY HOPE SO. The support in those places has been incredible! [Smiles.]

When travelling, what’s your ultimate travel must-have and other items you can’t live without?

I feel like I am on my phone a lot, so I always need my Mophie to keep my phone charged up. I need to make sure I can stay in touch with all my fans and family.

If you could have your dream car, would it be a classic, sports, muscle, cruise, SUV – or all of the above?

Hmmmm… good question. After I won Idol, I was given a new Ford Explorer Sport and I LOVE it! I am happy with that for now. I’ve never been really into cars too much, but there is nothing like a nice new car. [Smiles.]

Finally, what recommendations would you make for those of us who are trying to maintain a balance between work, family, writing and performing, and personal time?

Time management. I’m not the best at it. [Laughs.] If you really look at your day, you can try your best to manage it so you get everything done that is important to you.

Did you enjoy our chat with Nick Fradiani? You can connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube; or visit his official website for the latest news, merchandise and tour dates.

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