Pia Toscano scores record deal, releases single
``American Idol'' contestant Pia Toscano, whose early exit from the TV show shocked viewers, has signed a record deal with Interscope Records, the company said Wednesday.
The 22 year-old Toscano, with her dark hair and powerful singing voice, was considered one of the front-runners for the top prize on ``Idol'' this year. But she was voted off by viewers to finish in 9th place.
Toscano will release her debut single ``This Time'' -- described as an acoustic guitar and beat-driven track -- on July 12, said Interscope Records. She will release her first album later this year.
Toscano described the record deal as ``a dream come true''.
This year's ``Idol'' winner was deep-voiced country singer Scotty McCreery, a former grocery store clerk.
