TGtS Meets...Jahmene Douglas (Again)

Despite coming a close second to James Arthur during last year's X Factor Grand Final that hasn't stopped Jahmene Douglas from pursuing a career in music.

Having topped the charts earlier this year with his debut album, 'Love Never Fails,' Jahmene is already hard at work on his second. 

TGtS' Daniel Flay chatted to Jahmene about life after The X Factor, Nicole Scherzinger, his new album and how he plans to spend Christmas:

What have you been up to since we last spoke?

That's a BIG question! It's been a crazy busy year for me, my life has been a whirlwind since appearing on The X Factor, I'm truly blessed to be where I am and I can't believe how far I've come in such a short space of time. Most recently I've been travelling; Indonesia and Dubai were incredible, plus I've also been recording the new album.

Congrats on your number one. What was your reaction when you found out?

I took it my stride and headed straight back to the studio. Because of how much time and energy went into recording the album by the time it hit ITunes I already had itchy feet and wanted to get stuck into working on new material.

Do you have a favourite song off of the album?

"I Look to You" is probably the track that meant the most to me. As well as singing it at my brother's funeral I also covered it during live shows as part of 'Songs for someone special' week. Although the album was made up of covers, I'd like to think this song gave audiences an insight into who I am. 

What was it like collaborating with Nicole?

Nicole and I sang 'Greatest Love of All' on the final show, so we thought, why not record it too. Nicole has an amazing voice and after the whole microphone incident last year it felt great being able to do the song justice. 

Do you have plans to work with any other X Factor contestants?

You'll have to wait and see, James Arthur and I still keep in touch, he's a hugely talented guy and I'm a massive fan of his album. It would be great to get in the studio sometime to write and record together. 

What do you think of this year's X Factor?

I like Hannah Barratt for her tone, Sam Bailey for her control, Tamera for her overall package as a star and Luke Friend for proving himself week after week. Much like James Arthur, Luke is the artist of this year's competition; with his messy hair and mad guitar skills. 

We heard that you've been working in the studio in America? Tell us about that...

You heard correct, I've been over in the States laying down tracks for the new album, I'm heading back over to LA to finish it off in December. Over in the US it's a totally different vibe, in the UK there's alot of control by the record label - over there it's a totally different world. There's so much more freedom to make great soul, gospel and jazz music.

When can fans expect to hear your own material?

If all goes to plan, the new album will be out by next summer. I can't wait for fans to hear the tracks and to finally introduce the REAL sound of Jahmene Douglas.

Will you be branching out into any other genres?

There are so many genres on the new album, having a covers album; it's hard to like your work because it isn't truly your own. I know this album is going to be good, because we've made it from scratch and if the critics slate it; I don't care because I'm proud of it and it's a better reflection of who I am and the artist that I want to be. 

How will you be celebrating Christmas this year?

I thought I was going to have family time but it looks like I'll be in LA for Christmas. This is the first opportunity that I've had since the show to have a break. It'll be great to have a bit of 'me' time and to get healthy again - I've been slowly deteriorating as the years gone on. I need some chill out time! 

What are your aims for 2014?

To get in shape; my cheeks are getting a little too chubby and I'm not just talking about the ones on my face.