American Idol Alum David Hernandez

For those of you who don't remember, David Hernandez is not only one of the hottest contestants ever to grace the "American Idol" stage, he is also one of the most talented. His beautiful voice and handsome looks made him one of the highlights of Season 7 for this "American Idol" fan or fanatic, they both fit. What I didn't know was what a nice and fun soul he is. David sat down with Hotspots Magazine for this exclusive interview.

When was the first time you sang in private and in public? Do you remember the songs?

I was six years old and I wouldn't shut up, so my mom and grandfather took me for an audition for a theater company and I sang "I will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston. I killed it and I got the job. That's when I got the acting/singing bug. However from the age of nine until 17 I lived with dad and the music thing kind of took a back burner. We didn't have a lot of money and when I started going to school, a lot of kids teased me for wanting to be in the performing arts. It was not considered a very "manly" thing to do so I followed in my brother's footsteps and played sports. Hated it...lol.

What professional singing experience did you have before "American Idol?"?

I didn't really, I was self-taught until 19 and then I started taking Speech Level training with Satyam Patel. I was signed to Universal Records, but that only lasted for two years. The deal fell through because we didn't share the same vision. Shortly after that I auditioned for "Idol," and that was the catalyst for my career.

What made you audition for "American Idol?"

I didn't want to audition, but my manager at the time convinced me to. I was in a dark place, due to the record deal falling through, but the thought of being exposed to 35 million people convinced me to give it a shot. Obviously I am glad I did; I made the top 12 and have been able to use that platform to make and release music.

How did "American Idol" change your life, and who are you still close with from the show?

I have met some of the most amazing people through "Idol." Michael Orland, Debra Byrd & Dorion Holley were instrumental in guiding me through the beginning stages of my career. Mikalah Gordon had a crush on me is now one of my best friends. Haha! I am also friends with Brandon Rogers, Syesha Mercado & Ramiele Malubay to name a few.

What have you been up to the last few years?

I have been touring a lot and putting music together. I released an EP, "I Am Who I Am," a few years back and also joined a production cast which kept me busy for a while. I have grown so much personally and musically since then so my music changed. I am excited for this new single, "Beautiful," and also the album.

I hear you are now out and proud, so are you single or taken?

I am currently dating someone, but I like to keep it private for obvious reasons.

How did you meet the person you are dating?

We met in New York at my best friend's wedding and he recently moved here to Los Angeles. We are taking it slow.

I was able to get an early preview of your new single "Beautiful." What a great anthem this is going to be. How did this song come together?

The song was pitched to me by my booking agent, Stephen Ford. Stephen was approached by Joe Fontaine, who had pitched a couple songs for me to record, and this one stood out. Mark Grilliot was the producer and he also co-wrote the song. It just immediately spoke to me and I could see how people would relate.

The Video for "Beautiful" is also amazing. Tell us about the making of the video?

First, I was very excited that Printz Board of the Black Eyed Peas directed the video. In the video I wanted to show that different races, ethnicities, etc. can come together and be accepted. I also wanted to show different shapes and sizes of people and how they are all beautiful. All the actors in the video volunteered their time. The main message of the video is love and acceptance and just being true to who you are regardless of your flaws. I think the world needs more of that.

What do you do for fun?

What I do for work is fun for me, but when I do have some downtime from work, I enjoy going to shows. However, I cannot think of a better job to have.

What's ahead for David Heranadez??

I am currently in the studio in hopes of making a full length album. I would like to get back into acting class and have some opportunities for film. However, right now I am focusing on the single and music video, as I think it has such an important message for everyone. We are all on this Earth for such a short time....we might as well accept and love one another.

For more information on David, got to: DavidHernandezOfficial.com or follow him on Social Media at: Insta or Facebook.com/dhernandezmusic