January 12, 2012 – (Burbank, CA) — Hollywood Records has announced the signing of American Idol Season 10 finalist Stefano Langone.
“We are very excited to have Stefano on our roster,” remarked Ken Bunt, Executive Vice President, Disney Music Group and Hollywood Records. “He’s an incredibly talented vocalist and songwriter. His story is very inspiring and we are looking forward to helping him achieve his goals.”

Stefano began singing and playing piano during childhood in his hometown of Kent, Washington. His talent was such that Bellevue College granted him a full-ride scholarship.  In 2009, Stefano’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, Stefano was wheelchair-bound for months. The accident only made Stefano stronger and more determined to fulfill his dreams of walking and playing piano again, and, ultimately, to become a recording artist.  Fast-forward to Season 10 of American Idol, and Stefano was well on his way.

While on American Idol, Stefano was a clear favorite of new judge Jennifer Lopez as her “wild-card” pick, and his performance of Stevie Wonder’s “Lately” brought her to tears. Stefano 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 Stefano’s career continues expanding, he makes a point to give back to those who are less fortunate. Showcasing his passion for philanthropy, Stefano has become a celebrity supporter of Eva Longoria’s “Padres Contra El Cancer” organization. “Padres” is a health & education curriculum designed to be culturally-relevant, family-centered and community-based.

This past summer, Stefano reached new and passionately engaged fans alike when he 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, his management at 19 Entertainment team set out to secure Stefano a record deal, and found their home with Hollywood Records.

Stefano 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, 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”.

Contact:
Lillian Matulic
Hollywood Records
Lillian.matulic@disney.com

Natalie Geday
19 Entertainment
Natalie.geday@19entertainment.com