Hollywood Records has signed Kent’s Stefano Langone, a finalist in season 10 of “American Idol.”
“We are very excited to have Stefano on our roster,” said Ken Bunt, executive vice president of Disney Music Group and Hollywood Records, in a Jan. 12 media release from the Burbank office. “He’s an incredibly talented vocalist and songwriter. His story is very inspiring and we are looking forward to helping him achieve his goals.”
Here’s what the media release said about Langone, 22, a Kentwood High School graduate, who placed seventh last year on Idol.
Langone began singing and playing piano while growing up in Kent. Bellevue College granted him a full-ride scholarship for music.
In 2009, Langone’s life was nearly cut short after being hit by a drunk driver. The accident left him with two broken arms, a fractured pelvis and other life-threatening injuries. With a murky prognosis, Langone was wheelchair-bound for months.
The accident only made Langone stronger and more determined to fulfill his dreams of walking and playing piano again, and, ultimately, to become a recording artist, according to the media release.
While on “American Idol,” judge Jennifer Lopez picked Langone as her “wild-card” pick, and his performance of Stevie Wonder’s “Lately” brought her to tears. He continued to impress the Idol judges with his interesting and challenging covers, and his incredibly soulful rendition of “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” prompted judge Steven Tyler to say, “You survived that accident for a reason.”
While Langone’s career continues expanding, he makes a point to give back to those who are less fortunate. Showcasing his passion for philanthropy, he has become a supporter of Eva Longoria’s Padres Contra El Cancer organization. Padres is a health and education curriculum designed to be culturally-relevant, family-centered and community-based.
Last summer, Langone toured with American Idol LIVE! 2011, honing his breathtaking live performance and furthering his musical style of pop with R&B influences.
When the tour finished, Langone’s management at 19 Entertainment team set out to secure Langone a record deal and found their home with Hollywood Records. Langone has nothing but high praise and excitement about working with Hollywood Records.
“I feel blessed to have gotten this opportunity with Hollywood Records,” he said. “I think it is a great fit for me and I’m so excited and hungry for what’s to come.”
Iain Pirie, president of 19 Entertainment commented, “When our partners at Red Light presented the option of Hollywood Records and Stefano, it felt like the perfect fit. We’re really looking forward to working with Ken Bunt, Jon Lind and the entire Hollywood Records team to help Stefano launch his career.”
Langone told USA Today that his music will be pop/R&B with an eye toward the Latin market. Hollywood is looking to release Langone’s first single this spring, with an album following in the summer, according to USA Today.
For more information about Langone visit: http://www.facebook.com/stefanolangone and https://twitter.com/STEFANOLANGONE.
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