Kellie Pickler, the folksy, season five "American Idol" finalist, has signed a record deal with 19 Recordings and Nashville-based BNA Records, an imprint of Sony BMG Nashville.
The first single from the 20-year-old North Carolina native is due at country radio in September. Her as-yet-untitled debut album will follow on Nov. 14. Pickler is recording the album with producer Blake Chancey in between dates on the current American Idols Live tour. Sony BMG Nashville is also home to season four "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood, who signed with 19 Recordings and Arista Nashville following her win last year.
Billboard