Showing his talent

While it catapaults many to stardom, some struggle to shake the label of ‘talent show reject’.

One man who has been proving the judges wrong for almost a decade is Chris Daughtry.

Now a multi-platinum recording artist, Daughtry was a contestant on the fifth series of American Idol — and he’s on a new UK tour (his first since 2010) following the release of fourth full-length studio album Baptized.

The man who finished behind Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson in 2005 now fronts the rock band Daughtry, and he can lay claim to being the third-biggest selling American Idol alumnus around the world.

While his talent show counterparts often fall victim to monotony, Chris has surrounded himself with a diverse group of songwriters for his latest studio album, which he believes takes the band in a new musical direction.

“I needed a change,” admits Chris. “I started hearing these new sounds over my voice, and it was so inspiring.

“There wasn’t just one style either. It was a completely different vibe all around. I really wanted to pursue that to the fullest.

“This is probably one of the most inspiring records I’ve ever done.”

Chris refuses to rest on his laurels, despite being on somewhat of a hot streak since his 2006 self-titled album became the fastest-selling rock debut in Soundscan history — and was certified four times platinum in the US.

He experienced similar success when 2009’s Leave This Town gave the group their second consecutive number one on the Billboard Top 200, and when they achieved another four no.1 hits in the US (and 9 top 10s).

They also achieved four Grammy Award nominations, four American Music Awards wins, six Billboard Music Awards, and seven BMI Award wins. Meanwhile, sales exceeded 7.5 million albums and 17 million singles.

Baptized certainly signals a rebirth for Chris and the band.

“I want fans to keep an open mind about it,” he added. “The songs are very much what I do lyrically and melodically.

“I’ve always been a sucker for a great melody. That’s what song-writing is all about. Can people relate to this? Is it real? Is it honest?

“That’s what everyone should take away. It’s real and authentic. This is where I am right now.”

Chris is ready to proclaim that statement in front of the packed crowd at 02 ABC on Saturday alongside longtime bandmates Josh Paul (bass), Brian Craddock (guitar), Josh Steely (guitar), Robin Diaz (drums) and new addition Elvio Fernandes (keyboards).

For tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.co.uk or phone 844 844 0444.