Luke Friend says being on the X Factor helped him to become a stronger person.

The singer found fame on the TV talent show in 2013 after finishing third.

Speaking to Digital Spy, the musician said that the competitive element of the X Factor gave him lessons in self-confidence and strength.

Friend said: "X Factor teaches you a lot. I think one of the main things it did teach me was confidence. Like, don't be afraid to stand up for what you believe in and what you want to do. Don't be easily changed.

"What's great about The X Factor is that it really tests how strong of a human you are, and I didn't want to change for anything or anyone. I'm so glad people like me being myself, because there's nothing worse than having to be something you're not."

The singer meanwhile will release his first single 'Hole In My Heart' on March 29.

Friend will then go on to tour the UK. Check out the full schedule below:

• Sat April 18 2015 - Totnes Barrel House Ballroom
• Sun April 19 2015 - Manchester Deaf Institute
• Mon April 20 2015 - Leeds Metropolitan University
• Tue April 21 2015 - Glasgow King Tut's
• Wed April 22 2015 - Bristol O2 Academy 2 Bristol
• Thu April 23 2015 - London Borderline

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Watch Luke Friend's first music video below: