Second Cup Cafe: Ryan Star

Ryan Star isn't exactly new to the music scene.

In 2006, he won the hearts of many when he competed in CBS' "Rockstar Supernova." And last year, he had the chance to tour with "American Idol" Season 7 winner David Cook, Train, and Rob Thomas, making him a star in his own right.

The New York native has released his first full-length album, "11:59," which debuted Top 10 on Billboard's Top Rock Albums.

He stopped by "The Early Show on Saturday Morning"'s "Second Cup Cafe" to perform his hit single, "Breathe," which has been hailed by Billboard as a "heartfelt, slow-burning, power-rock anthem," along with his new single, "Start A Fire."

Star ignited a fire, alright -- but in a good way, when he made his video for "Breathe." It takes a closer look at unemployment in the U.S.

The harsh reality struck a chord with Star. He wanted to put a name with a face instead of just having it be another another headline. His video for "Breathe" featured real New Yorkers looking for work.

Not only did Star highlight the issue with the video, he took it a step further by creating a website, breathe4jobs.com, so employers could reach out the individuals featured in the video to help get a job.

Pursuing a music career and being able to make a living from something you love wasn't easy for Star either.

"There have been a million hopes and letdowns to get here," Star says in his official bio. "I don't think you really choose the time as an artist, I think the time chooses you. This album is who I am."

"Breathe" has also been featured in recent promotional spots for "American Idol", "So You Think You Can Dance" and "The Biggest Loser," among others. In addition, Star's song "Brand New Day" is the theme song for the Fox hit, "Lie To Me."