Clay No Longer Achin

Clay Aiken has finally set a release date of May 6 for his first album of original material in five years.

For those keeping score, On My Way Here is technically Aiken's fourth studio release. But it's only his second to feature new songs. Since releasing the multiplatinum smash Measure of a Man following his runner-up finish on 2003's American Idol, Aiken has failed to match the success with his subsequent albums, compilations of Christmas carols and cover songs, respectively.

According to an announcement Friday touting the release date, the new album will be reflective of a more mature Aiken, with the songs touching on the life lessons racked up by the singer in the years since his reality show stint and subsequent fame.

"I thought if we could find songs that relate to what's gone on in my life over the past five years and address what I've learned from my experiences, it would be a great concept for my album," Aiken said, adding that the album's title came from the title of a song written by One Republic frontman Ryan Tedder.

"Since I got into this business, I've learned so much about myself. I think this album covers how far I've come, personally and professionally."

Aiken has been hitting the recording studio since January, squeezing sessions in during the day before his nightly performances in Spamalot. The album's release coincides with the end of Aiken's Broadway run.

While a full track list has not yet been released, the cover track and a song called "Ashes" are among those expected to make the final cut. Aiken is expected to hit the road for a nationwide tour this July.