A self-declared "Word Nerd," it's not surprising that David Cook is able to express his thoughts on his CD, his career, and life in general. As he puts it on his
official web site, "There’s a lot I haven’t shown the world, just as far as who I am and what I’m about. I have several layers as an artist and those layers are out there on this record. I don’t see myself ever writing an autobiography; I’m just going to let the music speak for itself.”
The part of
David Cook he showed us during season seven was certainly effective. His use of creative arrangements of some popular songs, like the amazing rendition of Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean," resonated with fans everywhere. He not only came up with some original arrangements on his own, but he knew enough to pick songs that fit his style to a tee. Ironically, David originally came to support his brother, Andrew, when he auditioned for AI in Nebraska, and only tried out at his brother's urging.
His post-Idol work has already caused quite a stir in the business, and he's even broken records formerly held by music legends. One week after winning, David had 11 of his songs debut on Billboard's Hot 100 chart, which is the highest number of new entries in a single week by an artist since The Beatles in 1964!
The song David sang at the finale,
"The Time Of My Life," led the way, making its debut at an impressive #3 on the Hot 100. That same week, David broke the record for the most debuts on Billboard's Hot Digital Songs chart, with 14 entries. The previous record had been set by Bon Jovi, with six in 2007.
The best part is David has been able to do this while working with his musical legends, and putting his own spin on everything he's done. As he also stated on his web site, "This is my first major-label release and that gave me some room to be a bit of a chameleon and try different things." Legendary producer Rob Cavallo helped David hone his skills, and he allowed the songs to fit David as opposed to the other way around. Some of the musical greats he was able to collaborate with on songwriting were Soundgarden and Audioslave frontman Chris Cornell, Johnny Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls, Nixons singer/guitarist Zac Maloy, and one of David's personal idols, Our Lady Peace singer Raine Maida.
Having a hand in the songwriting, David was able to tell stories that have personal meaning in his life. David wrote the song "Permanent" for his brother, Adam, who is battling brain cancer. According to David's web site, it took them two takes to record this song, and there wasn't a dry eye in the house when it was finished. As David put it, "As a musician, any time you can create something where the end result is exactly what’s in your head, well there’s a heaviness to that moment and it overwhelmed me."
Despite his hectic schedule promoting his album and performing all around the nation, David took the time to sit down with us and talk about his success.
Watch the video! Also, make sure to check out the amazing, extended version of the American Idol season eight promo, featuring David!
