Joe McElderry to keep clothes on

Joe McElderry won't strip off to promote his career, as he thinks it is a "gimmick".

The 'Ambitions' singer said he lacks the confidence to strip for a magazine, and he thinks there are other ways to be sexy without taking your clothes off.

When asked if he'd strip off, Joe, 19 - who rose to fame through UK star search show 'The X Factor' - said: "I'm not going to do that gimmick. It's fine if other people want to do it but I wouldn't feel comfortable taking my clothes off. I'm not that confident. There are other ways to be sexy rather than taking your clothes off."

Joe - who came out earlier this year - also gave his support to other aspiring young gay pop stars, saying they shouldn't worry about being who they are.

He added to The Metro newspaper: "I was nervous about it but I'm glad I've done it and I can now move forward and get on with the rest of my life. I wasn't pressured into doing it. It was all my own decision. My advie to anyone else would be to just talk about it when you feel ready. When you make that decision, just go for it."

Joe's debut album, 'Wide Awake' is released on October 25.