Clay Aiken is back and he’s ready to hit the stage! The former American Idol favorite sat down with Astra from Hollywood Hamilton and the KTU Morning Crew and opened up about his brand-new album, Rewind, and his first solo tour in 15 years. The new album is especially meaningful for Clay, marking his first collection of original music in 18 years and giving him creative control over the songs and the story he wanted to tell. “This is very personal to me,” he shared. And while recording hasn’t always been his favorite part of the job, he says performing live is where he truly comes alive.
Fans can expect a mix of new music and longtime favorites when the Rewind Tour hits the road, including stops in Englewood on February 27 and Red Bank on March 2. Clay says he’s excited and admittedly a little nervous about getting back onstage solo after so many years. His top three songs for fans to check out first? The title track “Rewind,” “Way Out,” and “Kyrie,” which has a special place in his history after being the opening number of his first tour with Kelly Clarkson.
Of course, we had to talk American Idol! Clay recently returned to the show to perform “Rewind” and got a firsthand look at just how much things have changed since his 2003 season. His biggest observation? The production! “Our set was made of papier-mâché,” he joked. “They used flashlights. Times have changed.” We also reminisced about his Broadway days, including Spamalot and his 2018 Christmas run with Ruben Studdard. Would he return to Broadway? Never say never! He joked that he could see himself taking on Chicago or even Wicked.
After more than 20 years, Clay Aiken is entering this next chapter with plenty of nostalgia, new music and his signature sense of humor. And for anyone discovering him for the first time in 2026, his advice is simple: “Don’t Google.” Instead, just press play on Rewind and come along for the ride!