Danny Gokey: ‘I Am Open This Year to Meeting Someone’

Danny Gokey is sharing something that he has told few others. When asked about the status of his love life, the country singer tells Taste of Country, "I am open this year to meeting someone. I really am."

As fans and 'American Idol' watchers know, Gokey's wife Sophia lost her battle with heart disease at age 27. On July 9, 2008 -- four weeks before he auditioned for 'Idol' -- his wife passed away due to complications of routine surgery for congenital heart disease.

The couple had been together for 12 years, and the country singer has said she was the reason he even tried out for 'Idol' in the first place.

Her death left a big hole in Gokey, and as for seeking a new relationship, Gokey explains, "It’s like, ‘You know God, bring me the right one. I’m going to need a really good one. She’s got to understand I’ve got a whole non-profit in my late wife’s name [Sophia’s Heart] and my whole story is based on my wife. She’s got to be really gracious and understanding and not be jealous, but be willing and ready to help and assist with it."

On the Sophia's Heart website, Gokey writes, "On November 16 2009 I began a promotional tour for my new single entitled 'My Best Days Are Ahead of Me.' It truly speaks of where I feel I am at this point in my life. I have been given the glimmer of hope that I’ve longed for through my music career and Sophia’s Heart. I have already experienced better days since the darkest season of my life, and I understand now that there are better days to come; my best days!"

Gokey is inviting fans to come spend Valentine's weekend in Nashville with him when he sings on the Opry on Saturday, Feb. 12.