‘American Idol’ Contestant Lauren Alaina Balances School, Kissing Up to Steven Tyler

When chatting with Showbiz Shelly, 'American Idol' favorite Lauren Alaina addressed the stresses of keeping up with her studies while in the throes of competition.

"We go to school every day," Alaina said about herself and fellow contestant Thia Megia. "It's distracting when you are trying to focus on singing and school at the same time, but you have to graduate high school. I am a sophomore so I've gotta work hard."

Alaina was an early-on favorite, even called "The One" by judge Steven Tyler. We all know she's got one of the best voices in this competition, but her bold move singing with Tyler during her audition round didn't hurt either.

When asked about it on B96, she apologetically says, "Steven Tyler is the man, I am just saying. I sang with him because he is the man and some people said I was sucking up to him, but hey whatever, I am in the top 13, so hopefully it keeps working out for me."

It's sure working, girl!

Watch Lauren Alaina Sing With Steven Tyler During Her 'American Idol' Audition