HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — American Idol winner Kris Allen has signed a world-wide publishing deal with Universal Music, the label announced Thursday.
The deal encompasses Allen's self-titled album as well as future works during the term of the agreement.
"I look forward to a long and prosperous relationship with Monti Olson and the creative staff at Universal Music Publishing Group," said the 24-year-old singer.
"I am proud that a songwriter of Kris' caliber would choose to make Universal Music Publishing Group his home. I look forward to the future with Kris," added Olson, Senior Vice President, A&R, Universal Music Publishing Group.
Allen's post-Idol self-titled album was released in November 2009 through Jive Records, hitting the Top 20 on the Billboard 200 and the Top 10 on Top Digital Albums. He collaborated with UMPG's The Script on his first single "Live Like We're Dying" and "Written All Over My Face."
Allen's path to victory on the eighth season of Idol included memorable performances of Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine," Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror" and Kanye West's "Heartless." He was praised by the judges for his original arrangements of such well-known songs.
Managed by Stirling McIlwaine, Allen joins UMPG's successful roster of artists that includes a pair of past Idol contestants - the multi-platinum Chris Daughtry and recent signing Jason Castro.
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