Britain's Got Talent winner Jai McDowall talks about his upcoming Live at Zedel show

You won the fifth series of Britain’s Got Talent in June 2011. What was the whole experience like for you and how did it feel to win?
At the time, it felt like it was happening to someone else and it took a very long time for it to actually sink in that I wasn’t just taking a break from my everyday life. It was almost like I was waiting for the holiday to end but thankfully it hasn’t and I’ve continued on ‘being on holiday’ for over 7 years.

Before Britain’s Got Talent you had also been on X Factor and The American Idol Experience which you won whilst on holiday! What is it about these kinds of shows that appeals to you and would you ever go on another one?
The American Idol experience was just a little fun whilst on holiday in Florida but with X Factor and BGT I saw it as a way to break into the music industry and pursue my dreams.

What can people expect from your show on 20 September Live at Zedel?
Because outta the West End I have opted for more of a musical set so I have songs from The classics shows with a few current pop tunes thrown in too for good measure. My pianist Ryan McKenzie is great at adapting to different styles so we are looking changing some songs up a bit from what you’d be used to hearing.

Will there be any gossip about your turbulent relationship with Simon Cowell?
Sadly I don’t have much of a relationship with Simon so there will be no gossip from me I’m afraid. I’m always grateful to Simon and the show for the opportunities that have come my way since winning BGT and I do hope one day we will meet again.

Melissa Cavanagh is your special guest. How did you two meet and why did you choose her as your special guest?
Melissa and I met at a cathedral concert for Teenage Cancer Trust back in 2012 and we became friends and have since dueted on a few occasions, I also find Melissa extremely talented and hilariously funny when it comes to performing more comedic songs and so I’ve asked her to do just that for my show. Because people that have seen my shows know my jokes arn’t up to much so I need all the help I can get lol

What has been the funniest or most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you on stage?
I was performing in a cruise liner and one of the entertainment staff said if I rambled on whilst talking she’d signal me to stop…. her signal was the sound of a squawking bird. So I burst into laughter and then had to explain to the audience…. Who during my next “ramble” proceeded to squawk with her….

Apart from singing, what is your biggest passion?
I love to renovate properties. Every hombre I’ve ever bought has been a fixer upper and I love seeing the transformation.

Why do you think people should come and see your show on 20 September?
Hopefully not to squawk at me….lol

It’ll be a great show, with good music, lovely people and a lot of laughs…Probably at my expense lol

_____________________________________________________________