File this under: It’s never too late to score a hot record deal if you’re an American Idol alum. Do you remember Leah Labelle? She was an Idol finalist wayyyy back in season 3. She was eliminated in 12th place, so she didn’t even have the opportunity to tour. Her performances were generally cringe-worthy pitch-fests, but she was also only 17 at the time.
To jog your memory further-her mom was a pop star in Bulgaria. During one of mom’s tours, the family made the decision to defect to the west.
The point is? Eight years later, Leah has a shiny record contract with Epic, where producers Pharrell and Jermaine Dupri have taken her under their wing.
Her first major label single is “Sexify”.
That’s got kind of a cool, catchy throw-back vibe doesn’t it? Kinda 90’s?
So, if your Idol fav isn’t signed yet? Don’t lose hope. Leah and Chris Richardson are examples of what can result from Idol exposure and a little perseverance.
Leah sings “You Keep Me Hanging On” after her elimination.
Look who’s sharing the bottom 2 with Leah. There ya go.