Wingham's James Johnston will be performing at Taree's Bean Bar Cafe on December 19, launching his new single 'How Am I To Know' in his home region.

The former Australian Idol finalist released his new single on Tuesday, a song born out of life on the road.

"I actually wrote 'How Am I To Know' on our 50 Gigs in 50 Days tour last year," he said.

"I guess the song is really about breaking out and doing whatever you want to do, and I was inspired by life on the road and travelling around the country playing music.

"And this song captures that story."

The 50 Gigs in 50 Days tour saw James living up to his tour reputation as he performed throughout the country over two months.

"We got to travel all over the country, from the islands of Northern Queensland to the plains of Uluru," he said.

"And I drew a lot of inspiration of writing songs from the tour."

With his Taree single launch on the horizon, the 23-year-old was looking forward to spending some long awaited quality time in his hometown.

"I haven't been back home to Wingham in over two years, as I've only just passed through," he said.

"I'm actually spending Christmas on the farm and after a busy time over the last two years I'm looking forward to the break."

James said his fondest memories of Wingham came on his property and experiencing the ultimate welcome home.

"I'd say my favourite memories would probably still have to be the farm, and when I was top 3 in Australian Idol they had a concert for me where the whole town came," he said.

"It was just one of those amazing moments and I was so inspired to see how much support I had from the town."

The rising star said his Australian Idol experience was only the beginning of his journey as a professional musician.

"I leant a lot from being on television, but I actually learnt a lot more going out on the road," he said.

"I think there's a lot of stuff behind the scenes that people don't see, as there's a lot of business and promoting involved and I've learnt a lot about this just from working and touring."

James Johnston plays the Taree's Bean Bar Cafe on December 19.