X Factor perfect pop apprenticeship says Young
Will Young has claimed that shows like Pop Idol and X Factor provide a great education for a successful music career.
The 30-year-old was the winner of the first Pop Idol contest in 2002 and has since gone on to enjoy a music career including four number one singles and two number one albums.
"I've always said I think Pop Idol was the best apprenticeship ever, because you got to learn about what it is to be a pop star," Young told The Press Association.
Young appeared in this year's X Factor, helping judge Cheryl Cole to pick her finalists as well as singing on the show.
"It's different then to how it is now. I think there was more of a polarising reaction to it then," he said, adding: "It was terrifying, I don't think I could do it now."
Today (November 16th) sees the release of the singer's greatest hits album entitled 'The Hits' and includes number ones 'Evergreen' and 'Leave Right Now'.
Young will be on tour in the UK this November with dates including Liverpool, London and Birmingham, finishing at The Brighton Centre on December 6th.
