Those hoping to hear more from 'American Idol' star Pia Toscano won't have to wait too much longer. As expected, the reality show cast-off has officially signed a record deal with Interscope Records and will drop her first single, 'This Time,' on July 12. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed the deal, and Toscano's debut album is expected to drop later this year.
"I am thrilled to be joining the Interscope and 19 Recordings family. [Interscope Geffen A&M Chairman] Jimmy Iovine was an amazing mentor during my time on 'Idol' and I'm looking forward to working with him and everyone at Interscope Records and 19 Recordings. This is a dream come true," Toscano said in a statement.
The singer, who was ousted in ninth place from the 10th season of 'Idol', will work on the album with producer Rodney Jerkins, who says fans can expect a "big diva-sounding record."
Though her early exit from 'Idol' left some people in shock -- she was considered a front-runner to take the 'Idol' title -- news of a record deal isn't. The singer was reportedly approached by Interscope almost immediately after her elimination.
"Starting [Thursday] night, after the show, Interscope told her they wanted her, and first thing [Friday] morning, Interscope brass started calling every top songwriter and producer in town to get an album together and rush release it," a source revealed earlier this year.
