"Where I am now compared to two years ago is like the flip side of the coin. It was hard work, but worth it," he says.

And next week he releases his new single from his album Dive In, called Girl In The Moon. "It's the track I dedicate to all the people who have supported me," he says. "It's a ballad with a really summery feel. It's my favourite on the album and I'm very excited about it."

He's hoping for another smash-hit success, like Colourblind, after his country-wide tour and he still can't believe he has so many fans. "I never thought I could have my own UK tour at 22 and I'm still getting my head around the fact that thousands of people bought tickets just to come and see me," he says.

The triumphant tour is testimony to just how hard Darius has worked to shake off his cheesy reputation.

Although he's had the last laugh now, he certainly hasn't forgotten his humiliation on Popstars. He's even writing a book that promises to tell all about his experiences.

"It's called Sink Or Swim and will be out later this year," he says. "It's about what I've learnt in the last three years and the reality of reality TV shows."

When he isn't carving out what promises to be a long and successful career in music, Darius is hanging out with friends or spending time with his brothers, Cyrus, 8, and Aria, 19. "Aria is a part-time model and whenever we go out he gets all the female attention. He's very handsome," laughs Darius. "Lucky git."

Darius's new single, Girl In The Moon, is out on June 9

Just a few hours to go before he faces hundreds of fans at the Brighton Centre. "I'm really happy now, this is all I've ever wanted," says Darius.

Despite the cold wind, Darius insists on a walk on Brighton beach before he gets back to work. "I don't feel the cold. Come on, I'm Scottish!"

Every night, Darius picks one lucky girl to join him on stage. "During a show it's my goal to look at everyone's face at least once. It's a big job, but it's fantastic to connect with the audience."

Darius loves every minute of performing. "I've always wanted to do it the best it can be."

It's not all glamour. "I eat in catering with the rest of the crew. They're my mates and we always have a really good laugh."

"I'm involved in everything from the stage logo design to song running orders. I'm no control freak, but it's my show and I want it perfect."

During the concert Darius performs his whole album - plus a few surprise covers. "I do a whole range because I want people to know that's what I'm about musically."

During the sound check, Darius spends time doing impressions of Ali G and winding up his band. "Is it 'cause I is famous?"

Darius always makes time to open all his fan mail. "Some letters I get are really harsh. People read into my lyrics and write to me about being bullied, like I was. I always try to send something back."