When did you decide to become a songwriter?

I was about to turn 30 years old and was having a bit of a crisis, going through a break-up with a woman who was my first serious relationship. I was lucky that the guitar found me and helped me through it.

How did your first song Winter end up in Scrubs?

My friend, Zach Braff saw a guitar sitting in my apartment and asked me if I could play it, so I played him my first song. He then asked if I could record a demo of it so he could send it to Bill Lawrence, the creator of the show, and a few weeks later Bill called and asked if they could use the song. The response from the show’s fans was so great, I decided to continue writing and recording.

Is there any negative side to being featured on so many high profile TV shows such as Scrubs, Grey’s Anatomy, American Idol, Cougar Town and One Tree Hill?

I don’t think so. It’s provided such amazing exposure for my songs worldwide.

What inspired your new album Onwards and Sideways? I hear you wrote it to woo a lady!

That’s exactly true.

Any advice on writing a love song?

Make yourself more vulnerable than you think you could ever be.

Which of your songs was hardest to write?

Too difficult to say... so many wounds and so many songs acting as bandages.

Best ever gig?

The Roundhouse in London stands out. What a room. The audience that night was pretty close to perfect.

What was it like performing at Ellen DeGeneres’s wedding?

Surreal.

Is there somewhere you are looking forward to seeing when you are here?

I just enjoy walking the streets of London. I never know what I’ll find.

How did you puncture your eardrum?

Too many ear infections as a small child. The perforation just formed.

How does it affect your music?

I don’t hear very well, but I think that it makes me sing in a way no other singer does.

Does age matter in the music industry?

Yes. There is no possible way I could write the songs I write had I started at 14. I’m glad I got a late start. It’s keeping me young.

What was it like working with Sheryl Crow?

She is a consummate professional. She’s a one take kind of artist. And she is extremely kind. I was so honoured to collaborate with her.

What’s on your iPod?

Mostly soul songs and Motown.

Best advice you’ve ever been given.

You make a record to achieve one goal: to be able to make another one.

KOKO, Camden High Street, NW1, Wednesday, April 22, doors 7pm. Details: 020 7388 3222, koko.uk.com