The first time the world saw William Hung, he was dancing with his arms in the air singing “She Bangs” on “American Idol.” Since then, he has made three albums and a DVD, “Hangin’ with Hung.” He has become a controversial pop idol – both loved and hated – that has appeared in TV commercials, interviews and even movies. Pulse caught up with him to discuss his appearance on “American Idol,” his musical career and his guest appearance as the master of ceremonies for Veishea’s Cyclone Idol.

Paul Nemeth: How did you get interested in music?

William Hung: I liked music as a child. I liked it as a hobby.

PN: Who are your biggest influences in music?

WH: Probably Elton John, Phil Collins, Ricky Martin and Barry Manilow.

PN: What made you want to audition for “American Idol?”

WH: I just wanted to get my chance, like hundreds of thousands of people every year.

PN: Why did you choose to perform Ricky Martin’s “She Bangs?”

WH: I thought it was the most unique song that’s been around for a while. I felt it was very unique and special.

PN: What are your feelings toward Simon Cowell?

WH: He’s okay. He’s a judge and he was just doing his job.

PN: How did you feel after the audition?

WH: I didn’t expect [to become an] overnight celebrity out of it. I just thought the audition didn’t work out like everybody else, but I am very grateful for what has happened to me in the last two years.

PN: Were you ashamed or embarrassed after watching the show?

WH: I didn’t know they were going to show it on TV for millions and millions of viewers. I was surprised. I never thought of it.

PN: Would you ever consider auditioning for “American Idol” again?

WH: Probably not, because I’m – actually – I am under contract.

PN: Tell me about the music video.

WH: The music video is partly for my record company. We worked together. We just kind of put it all together. I liked the whole thing. It was very exciting. I got to hang around many beautiful girls.

PN: After being on “American Idol,” were you ever afraid of people laughing at you for not getting in?

WH: No. I understand it’s a competition, and in any competition there’s only one winner.

PN: What do you think is your biggest strength as a singer?

WH: I believe I work hard, and I keep improving myself.

PN: Do you think of yourself as an inspiration to others?

WH: I think I do [inspire others], because I feel [I have] an attitude that if you never give up in life, then you can succeed. If you don’t succeed, then keep trying.

PN: How have your albums done on the charts?

WH: I’ve made three albums so far. The first one was the No. 1 independent album at one point at [the] Billboard [charts]. My Christmas CD and my most recent [album] did all right.

PN: What do you want people to take away from your music?

WH: My goal as an artist and a singer is to make other people happy, so as long as I accomplish that, I feel good.

PN: What do people say to you on the streets?

WH: They say, “Oh, it’s William Hung!” or “Oh, it’s the ‘She Bangs’ guy!”

PN: Do you have a problem being known as the “She Bangs” guy?

WH: It’s fine, because not everybody has been exposed to the other stuff I’ve done, like some of the commercials, the interviews and movies in Asia.

PN: I’ve seen you in quite a few commercials. How much advertising have you done?

WH: I’ve actually done quite a bit in the last few years. I did [commercials for] Cingular Wireless, Jack in the Box and Askjeeves.com.

PN: What would you like to say to an aspiring singer?

WH: Keep working hard. Always try to improve yourself. That’s basically it.

PN: How did you get involved in Veishea and Cyclone Idol?

WH: Well, my parents, and I got contacted from the Iowa State University by e-mail. I’ve actually been to Iowa State once, but this time it’s really to perform for everybody and have a great time.

PN: What brought you to Iowa State the first time?

WH: I dropped by because I was nearby. One more thing: I would like to thank my fans all around the world for supporting me.