Jason Derulo Says Jordin Sparks Is His ‘Backbone’

Jason Derulo is still recovering from a broken neck, but through the process and the pain, his girlfriend Jordin Sparks has been his backbone. While there was some curiosity when the singing duo first went public with their romance, with a whole mess of "Are they or aren't they?" rumors abounding, the self-aware Derulo admits that being with Sparks has changed him … and for the better.

"Being in a relationship has changed me a lot," Derulo, who suffered what's known as a "hangman's break" while rehearsing for his tour, breaking the same bone that snaps when someone is hanged, said. "When I feel lonely, I can pick up the phone and she’s there for me. It’s really cool to have that backbone."

Derulo's injury could have been fatal, but he got lucky and he knows it. He's also fortunate that he has the lovely and talented Sparks by his side.

He recalled the genesis of their relationship to The Daily Star, saying, “Jordin came to my show when I was performing in Phoenix about three years ago. Her mom dragged her to my show. We met after and became friends."

The "Sparks" didn't fly until later. Derulo continued, "It wasn’t until we were performing together in the Bahamas that things began to hot up. We got to talk more and more. We’ve been together happily for seven months now."

The singer/dancer said that his lady love is an excellent cook with near photographic memory. He reveled, "If a song plays on the radio she can sing it back to you – her memory is ridiculous. I wish I had some of that." Cooking skills and memory aside, Derulo paid his girlfriend further compliments, saying, "Jordin herself has a voice like no other as well – you don’t hear those voices all the time. She has one of those spectacular voices that people will know for years to come.” America has a similar opinion, as it voted her the 'American Idol' during Season 6, which aired in 2007.

Another person that supported Derulo through his injury is pop star Jessie J. The British diva broke her foot last year, which sidelined her from performing, so she knows exactly what he is going through! "My accident brought us together because she understood what I was going through," he said. "She was able to give me some advice and help me through the situation. Jessie is a sweetheart and has been really helpful."

With Jordin Sparks and Jessie J in his corner, Derulo will back on his feet in no time. He is actually remaining busy during the latest leg of recovery, working to create a song with 'American Idol' viewers that will be performed on the Season 11 finale in May.