It seems impossible that it has been 7 years since Clay Aiken delivered A Thousand Different Ways to the world. The CD was released on September 19, 2006. The 1st week sales number was 211,234 sold and the album was certified Gold in October, 2006.
As part of the promotion for the album, Clay had three days of coverage on Good Morning America. On September 19th, Diane Sawyer introduced Clay and, along with his band, Clay performed Without You and A Thousand Days for the public.
The fans lined up hours before the taping, hoping to snag a spot in the small studio in New York. The studio was packed and the fans got to see Clay and his band warm up and do the sound check. According to fans in the audience, Clay was set up and out “on stage” for a long while as Diane continued with the show. He was watching what she had to say on the monitors and encouraging his fans to keep it quiet.
As in other performances, Clay interacted with the audience and, although unable to talk to them, used his hands and face to let the crowd know he was aware they were watching him and ready to support him in this important performance.
But, the two-part interviews on September 20th and 21st were serious and heart-breaking to hear and watch. Thinking back to what was happening to Clay at that time; I am amazed that he was able to participate in these interviews. But, Clay sat down and drew a line in the sand with Diane Sawyer and all the tabloid press.
Clay said he was bewildered by the negative attention.
“Even though stuff about me that I read in the magazines isn’t true, it still makes me…lose sleep. I hurt, not just for my mother who has to watch it happen and who hurts for me. At least when I was in middle school…I understand why they picked on me.”
The intense interviews also covered Clay’s panic attacks, his use of Paxil and his dream to have a talk show.
The interviews produced many conversations throughout the Clay Aiken message boards. Some people were angry at Diane, feeling she was asking questions that were too invasive. Others were concerned that Clay didn’t clear up the question of his sexual orientation and felt he should have said more. But, the overall feelings about the interviews were supportive of Clay and concerned for his health and happiness.
What about Clay? How was he feeling?
“I hope…people like me for my singing. I hope I sing well enough for people to stick around. Sometimes I wonder myself, but, you know, that’s what I want to do.”
I have included three videos with this article. They are important to watch, especially in hindsight. Knowing all we know now, it makes the interviews even more amazing.
That was one of the most interesting interviews. There sure was a lot of drama about it at the time. Clay always held his head high and just rose above all the negative. I’m glad he is so much happier now.
To go back and relive this is painful. How strong he is!
This brought back some wonderful memories. We came from a CD release party from NJ and went straight to Good Morning America. I was with my niece together with a bus full of fans. We got in and were all all ecstatic even with no sleep. My niece took over two hundred pictures of Clay!
They were amazing interviews, good for Clay, he knows how to answer them and love the song Without you. Thanks Musicfan xox
Watching the last video with Clay and Diane just made me cry. My heart just hurts for this wonderful young man, who has had to endure so much. I have never seen such bullying. Journalists, reporters were relentless with him. He was out promoting ATDW, and all they could talk about was his orientation. They should be ashamed of themselves.
I am so glad that Clay endures, and is stubborn. There is not a voice out there like his…He is unique.
Thanks Musicfan for putting up these videos again…It’s good to be reminded.
Hugs,
Judy
You are so right,clayitagain
Not seeing intense debate to sign in with. What the heck?
I also totally agree with you clayitagain!
they sure were amazing intervews good for you clay he knew how to anser questions
I am both happy and sorry that I missed this part of his career. I get so angry when folks pick on Clay or have nothing nice to say. I know he says to ignore the meanies out there but it's hard. He is such a sweet man and we love him so much!!
I am sad b/c it seems like it was magical and a fun time to be a fan despite what the clowns had to say!
The part that Diane Sawyer said she was just getting her hearing back b/c of the Claymates was cute though!
I remember that interview. Since Clay and Diane had seemed to have gotten along so well previously, I wondered whether Clay was aware of any of the questions being asked before the interview. I don't see Diane as being one of the "mean spirited" hosts but that interview was certainly sad to watch.
He gave interviews with her after that date-when Parker was born for example. So it is hard to know what the real situation was at that time. Clay always does do great at interviews, even when asked very hard questions.
Clay would be the first to say that which doesn't kill u makes you stronger. But watching that you still know how it hurt. He is by far one of the best entertainers out there. To this day has endured more bullying/fodder, than he ever deserves and anyone else would have crumbled. He is someone I will always admire and I for one will stand beside him and support him in all he does. He has given so much and deserves the very best of everything. Blessings to u always Clay.
Painful to watch. It was painful then and it still is. However, I see the pain in him now in a different light. No one should have EVER been put in that position. Her questioning was cold-hearted.
He is a strong man! I will always support him. He has given me so much over the years. I love him a Thousand Different Ways…for sure!
God Bless you Clay!