Tying the 2nd place on Forbes' Breakout Stars of 2008 list with David Archuleta.

Ranked 6th on Entertainment Weekly's Breakout Stars of 2008 list.

Rushed to hospital due to heart palpitation and high blood pressure a few hours after American Idol aired on April 1, 2008 but only go to ER after the show ended.

Signed an endorsement deal with shoe giant Skechers in July 2008 to advertise its line of casual footwear.

Only days after his crowning as American Idol winner, his single 'Time of My Life' tops the iTunes chart.

His winning song, "Time of My Life" was written by American Idol Songwriting Competition winner Regie Hamm.

Starting from the Top 12 week, he wore an orange wristband in support of a 7-year-old fan Lindsay Rose who suffers from leukemia.

Almost missed American Idol audition because he planned a trip to China.

Before winning American Idol, he had won several competitions with his debut independent album "Analog Heart" in 2006.

Said that his favorite quote is "Pain don't hurt" from Patrick Swayze's line in "Roadhouse".

Cited his musical influences as Our Lady Peace and Big Wreck.

Joined Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity while in college.

Was an avid baseball player while in high school.