Name: Jared Cotter

Crème Magazine: How was it growing up in a family of musicians?

Jared Cotter: It was great! I would wake up to my father playing piano and singing on most weekends. He really made music a part of our lifestyle and the support that I get from him and my mother couldn't be better.  It’s always nice to have in the back of my head, the notion that my great-grandfather was in the first African-American to perform at Carnegie Hall.

Crème Magazine: What was it really like to not only be a contestant [but] a finalist and perform on American Idol?

Jared Cotter: It was surreal to be in that situation. It’s instant notoriety or "fame."  As an artist it’s something I’ve always wanted [and] got it within a matter of weeks being part of the show. American Idol is such a huge deal to so many people.  I was happy to be part of it. It’s launched my career like nothing else would.

Crème Magazine: You have to give us your take on the three amigos plus one; Randy, Paula, Simon and Mr. Seacrest; how are they really off camera?

Jared Cotter: They’re all very normal off camera. What people don't understand is that it’s a TV show and they play characters. They know how to portray their roles very well, especially Simon. Ryan is an incredible host. I have even more respect for him now that I host as well. It’s not as easy as it looks!

Crème Magazine: So, I turn to Fuse one day and there you are hosting "The Sauce" tell us a little about that?

Jared Cotter: The Sauce is a really great show that I'm very excited about. We have great guests that stop by all the time from 50 Cent and Jessica Alba to Fall Out Boy and Maroon 5. It’s on Fuse and airs every weekday from 6-7pm EST.  I co-host with Holly and Steven. It’s a lot of fun!

Crème Magazine: What's a day in a life like for you over at Fuse TV?

Jared Cotter: Basically, just going over the script for that day, do research on whoever we are interviewing, wardrobe, rehearsal, then off to make TV magic!

Crème Magazine: Are you currently working on any new music?

Jared Cotter: Music will always be part of my life, so yes, I'm still working on it. The Sauce takes a lot of my time [but] I'm definitely still working towards being on the radio and in your cd players, ipods, or whatever else you have lol.

Crème Magazine: What has been your biggest challenge thus far?

Jared Cotter: The biggest challenge for me has been making the transition from being an artist and me being somewhat the focal point, to letting the show be the focal point as well as anyone who I’m interviewing.  That and the teleprompter. (laughter).

Crème Magazine: Give our readers 5 tips on becoming a great artist? Jared Cotter: Write as much as you can, sing as much as you can, go to all the industry parties, network and get your stuff on the Internet Crème Magazine: Give our readers 5 tips on becoming a great host? Jared Cotter: Know who you’re interviewing, let your personality come out, relax, get used to the teleprompter and have fun! www.myspace.com/jlcotter