The new "American Idol" David Archuleta is up to release his first album after he has signed a record deal, his new producers at 19 Recordings/Jive Records said in a statement to Reuters.

With a record deal in hand, 17-year-old crooner Archuleta joins past "Idol" also-rans such as Chris Daughtry, Jennifer Hudson and Clay Aiken who have leveraged their stardom on hit television show "Idol" into record, film and Broadway fame.

Simon Fuller, creator of "American Idol" and founder of 19 Entertainment Label Group, said Archuleta instantly won over a huge audience and has a great future ahead of him.

"It was fascinating to watch David's journey through 'Idol.' He is a genuine pop star, and is a gifted singer," Fuller said in a statement.