Kris Allen has signed his first record deal after winning American Idol.

Billboard reports that Kris has signed with 19 Recordings, a division of Jive Records, and his album will be released later this year.

Kris released a statement saying: “As exciting as the last few months have been, I’m really looking forward to what is next.”

He revealed that his album would contain tracks “definitely in the pop/rock genre”.

The chairman and CEO of Jive, Barry Weiss, said :

“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,” he said of the Arkansas native.