American Idol eighth-season champ Kris Allen has signed a recording contract with 19 Recordings/Jive Records and is set to start working on his debut album, which is currently scheduled to drop this fall.

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"As exciting as the last few months have been, I'm really looking forward to what is next," said Allen.

"I'm very grateful to be working with [Idol creator] Simon Fuller and his team at 19 Entertainment, along with Barry Weiss and Jive Records on my debut album. Everyone's been asking me what it's going to sound like. It will be very similar to what you heard from me on the show -- definitely in the pop/rock genre. I can't wait to get started!"

Allen's recording contract announcement comes a few weeks after he won Idol's eighth-season crown, defeating Adam Lambert -- who had been widely considered to be the competition's frontrunner.

"Kris won the hearts of millions of Americans with his soulful voice, good looks and gracious demeanor," said Fuller. "However it is his passion for music and love of performing that will make sure Kris stands the test of time and makes American Idol proud."

The 23-year old Conway, AR native is the second Idol champ to sign with Jive -- following in the footsteps of sixth-season champ Jordin Sparks, whose self-titled debut album was released in late November 2007.

"Kris had a terrific run of memorable performances culminating with an incredible win," said Weiss, the Jive Label Group chairman. "He's a super-talented singer and all-around gifted musician who has that rare common touch which will give him the ability to connect with the broadest possible audience. We're really excited to welcome him to the Jive family."

Allen's debut single "No Boundaries" -- a new song co-written by Idol judge Kara DioGuardi -- currently ranks No. 23 on Billboard's Hot 100 singles sales chart. He is scheduled to participate in Idol's annual summer tour, which is slated to kick-off July 5 in Portland, OR.
About The Author: Christopher Rocchio
Christopher Rocchio is an entertainment reporter for Reality TV World and has covered the reality TV genre for several years.