Kellie Pickler Signs Deal, Sets Release Date

One minute you're trying to be the next American Idol and the next you have a country music deal, including a set release date for your first single and album. Welcome to the world of American Idol "loser" (which is kind of an oxymoron) Kellie Pickler. According to a press release reprinted by USA Today, who reports that Kellie Pickler's first CD will be released on November 14th with a single in September, "Season Five American Idol finalist Kellie Pickler has signed a record deal with 19 Recordings/BNA Records. BNA is a label under the SONY BMG Music Entertainment umbrella in Nashville, TN."

"The 20-year-old native of Albemarle, North Carolina, was an instant fan favorite with her quick, down-home wit and personality. Singing since "before she could talk," Kellie will have a single at country radio in September with her debut album coming on November 14. Currently on the American Idols Live! Tour 2006, Pickler will record the album in between tour dates."

Kellie Pickler was quoted in the statement and press release as saying, "I’ve always dreamed of getting a record deal so now my dream has come true! I’m really excited about making my first album and giving something back to the fans who supported me on American Idol."

The press release, reprinted on USA Today's website went on to detail the company response to Kellie Picker joining the team, with SONY BMG Chairman Joe Galante saying, "We are very excited to have signed Kellie. The recognition she received from Idol is a huge advantage in launching a new artist and her sense of humor and humility are endearing. It’s not very often when someone with that personality and talent comes along and she will bring instant attention to her music and our format."

Kellie Pickler becomes the fourth American Idol contestant from this year alone to land a recording contract, following deals by Taylor Hicks, Chris Daughtry, and Katharine McPhee. Both Katharine McPhee and American Idol winner Taylor Hicks also have an album preparing to drop on November 14th - which can apparently be called American Idol day. The competition will be fierce. Although maybe it should be called American Idol season, as Clay Aiken's third album hits stores on September 19th, Ruben Studdard's smooth soul comes back for a third time on September 26th, and Fantasia Barrino's second album drops on October 17th. It's an American Idol world this fall.

[Additional Sources: USA Today, E Online]