‘American Idol’ Winner Caleb Johnson On Runner-Up Jena Irene: “We Had a Weird and Amazing Connection”

By Shannon Seibert

At the age of 23, this year’s winner of American Idol, Caleb Johnson, has a unique story to conclude his journey on the show. Having auditioned twice before, the third time was definitely the charm. The rocker, notable for his booming voice, projected decibels beyond the rest of the competition, making him a fan favorite throughout the season.

Related Link: ‘American Idol’ Runner-Up Jena Irene On Prom With Winner Caleb Johnson: “I Still Don’t Have a Dress!”

The Asheville, North Carolina native started his career in 2010 as the lead vocalist of Elijah Hooker. The singer actually auditioned in two different cities for American Idol in 2011. “I was out in shows with my band three to four times a week, doing gigs, hustling, and writing,” he explains. “I took time off to write and tour with my band. I thought, ‘Let’s give this one more shot. Let’s see what happens and go all out with guns blazing.’ It’s crazy I took the title home. It’s insane.”

Johnson is the first hard rock and heavy metal singer to win the show. He brings an energized vibe to the stage with every performance, rarely disappointing the audience. Don’t let this fool you though — he isn’t indestructible. Right before the Top 3 episode, he suffered a “minor vocal cord hemorrhage” causing him to lose his voice. He was able to power through it and sweep the audience off their feet once again; however, he’s still in recovery. ”I have to not go 100 miles an hour. This whole process has prepared me for what’s to come. I have to take it very gently and not overdo it and conserve my energy and strength. I’m in the big leagues now and have to take care of my instrument.

Now that the show’s 13th season has come to a conclusion, the winner promised runner-up Jena Irene Asciutto that he would attend prom with her at North Farmington High School in Michigan, where Asciutto is a senior. “It’s going to be really funny and a little bit awkward, but it’ll be a blast,” he shares. “It’ll be a night I’m not going to forget — and she won’t forget it either.”

The pair bonded really well over the course of the show, becoming extremely close friends. ”She’s a phenomenal singer and performer and has a huge, huge heart,” he says of his competitor. “We had a weird and amazing connection and had so much fun together. “

Related Link: ‘American Idol’ Contestant Alex Preston Says His Girlfriend Kept Him Going

Johnson’s upcoming album is scheduled for release on August 12th. It’s no surprise that the performer is ecstatic for it’s debut. ”My record will have a heavy, soulful, powerful rock ‘n’ roll sound. I love full albums, not a single, pop-based record but a legitimate rock ‘n’ roll, all-killer, no-filler record.” He already has goals for himself to set him apart from previous American Idol winners too: He’s looking to form a “band of brothers” to release a powerhouse record of original songs.

Of course, the newly-minted champion has advice for anyone trying out for the show. “Rest and sleep and be prepared,” he says. “Have a couple songs in your back pocket; they could ask you to sing up to four songs. Have no nerves and kill it.” He especially encourages all potential rising stars to retain their individuality. “Believe in yourself 100 percent and keep yourself grounded and stay focused. Make sure your artistry comes through. Whatever passion you have, you should max it out.”

American Idol may be over, but you can still catch Caleb on the summer tour! Until then, keep up with him on Twitter @CalebPJohnson.

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