'American Idol' 's Alejandro Aranda Writes 'One Song a Day' During Hectic Production Schedule

He may be busy trying to become the next American Idol, butAlejandro Aranda‘s main priority is staying true to himself.

After Sunday’s episode ofAmerican Idol, the 24-year-old musician opened up to PEOPLE about what hereallydoes when he has down time during a hectic production schedule.

“I love writing music so I wanted to keep true to that and the show allowed me to play my own songs,” he said. “I try to write a song a day. It’s kind of hard being on this show. But that’s what I’ve been doing.”

“You can find the time if you really love it,” he added. “I’ve written a lot. There are a lot of bad ones about pancakes and stuff. I just get ideas out.”

Alejandro Aranda.ABC/Disney

During Sunday’s episode, the Pamona, California native gave incredible performances to Bob Marley’s “No Woman, No Cry,” Elton John’s “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word,” and an original song called “Blesser.”

While acknowledging the contestant’s real-life heroes for the night, Aranda dedicated his original song to mentor and musician George Lewis Jr., aka Twin Shadow, and revealed he was the reason he never gave up his dream.

Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie.ABC/Disney

During Sunday’s episode,Wade Cotaand Laci Kaye Booth were eliminated, leaving Aranda, Madison Vandenburg, and Laine Hardy in the Top 3.

TheAmerican Idolfinale will air Sunday, May 19, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

source: people.com