American Idol Champ David Cook Reflects on 17-Year Music Career

In 2008, David Cook emerged victorious from season 7 of the hit singing competition American Idol, with David Archuleta as the runner-up. Now, 17 years later, Cook looks back on his Idol journey and the remarkable career that has followed.

Cook admits that he wasn't a "religiously" devoted Idol viewer before competing on the show, but the experience proved to be "extremely exciting" and "very new" for him. Despite the grueling 16-20 hour workdays, Cook formed close bonds with his fellow contestants, many of whom he still keeps in touch with today.

Since his Idol win, Cook has released four studio albums and recently dropped a three-song EP called The Hero. He says his songwriting has evolved to better reflect his life experiences over the past 17 years, including getting married and starring in the Broadway musical Kinky Boots.

While Cook initially tried to distance himself from his Idol success, he now embraces it, ensuring that fan-favorite songs like "Time of My Life" and "Light On" are always part of his live shows. He credits his loyal fanbase for helping shape his performances, noting that their feedback allows him to keep his shows unique and engaging.