For this episode, we've ventured (just) outside the '90s and '00s to discuss Joe McElderry's 2010 single, 'Ambitions'. And we've bent the rules with good reason because the man himself joins us to look back at his first post-X Factor release.

Joe gives us all the background on the song's origins as a chart-topping hit for the Norwegian band Donkeyboy and how it helped shape the sound of his debut album, 'Wide Awake'. We discuss the making of the music video (including that iconic choreography) and how the record label reacted to the commercial performance of 'Ambitions'. 

Joe also talks to us about his subsequent success becoming a triple-reality TV show winner, the inspiration behind his recent material, honouring George Michael's musical legacy and much more. 

We hope you enjoy listening to the episode — and discovering what life is like inside and outside the X Factor bubble — as much as we did recording it. 

Joe McElderry is currently touring with Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat until the 10th of August 2025. Tickets for the remaining dates are available at: https://uk.josephthemusical.com/

Joe will also be touring later this year. For tickets and more information, head over to: https://www.joemcelderryofficial.com/

You can follow Joe McElderry on Instagram: @joemcelderryofficial and TikTok: @joemcelderryofficial

You can also follow us on Instagram: @mat_atkins9, @cantstop_thepop and TikTok: @cantstopthepoppodcast, @cantstop_thepop