Fast-rising country star Casey James debuted his new single 'The Good Life' on 'American Idol' Thursday night (April 4), coming back to the place where it all began.

James competed on the ninth season of the iconic reality singing competition, placing third. He released his debut album in March, and he's off to a strong start. “This is a dream come true,” says James. “To be returning to the show as an artist, to sing and play music that I wrote, co-produced and poured myself into, it doesn’t get any better for me! I think ‘The Good Life’ is such a fitting song too.”

The song is an up-tempo, electric guitar-driven track that's almost reminiscent of one of Keith Urban's pop-rock hits. It's a perfect summertime single, and James delivered it with a lot of energy, displaying his instrumental chops by bursting into a sudden guitar solo to bring the song to a close.

The thoughtful musician hasn't forgotten what it's like to sit and wait to hear your fate on live TV; he went out and got gifts for the current contestants that would remind them of their homes, remembering how tough it was for him to be away from his familiar surroundings during his stint on the show.

Watch Casey James Perform 'The Good Life' on 'American Idol'

[HD] Casey James - The Good Life - American... by IdolxMuzic

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