This thread chronicles the Season 8 winner, runner up and other alumni as they get signed to labels, make the PR rounds, get endorsements, release albums, and their sales.

Here's Kris's signing with 19/Jive PR announcement:

"New York, NY - It was announced today that 19 Recordings has signed Kris Allen, and his recordings have been licensed to Jive Records.

"Kris won the hearts of millions of Americans with his soulful voice, good looks and gracious demeanor,” stated Simon Fuller, Creator and Executive Producer of American Idol and Founder & CEO of 19 Entertainment. “However it is his passion for music and love of performing that will make sure Kris stands the test of time and makes American Idol proud.”

"As exciting as the last few months have been, I'm really looking forward to what is next,” says Kris Allen. “I'm very grateful to be working with Simon Fuller and his team at 19 Entertainment, along with Barry Weiss and Jive Records on my debut album. Everyone's been asking me what it's going to sound like. It will be very similar to what you heard from me on the show -- definitely in the pop/rock genre. I can't wait to get started!"

“Kris had a terrific run of memorable performances culminating with an incredible win,” stated Barry Weiss, Chairman and CEO of the RCA/JIVE Label Group. “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. We’re really excited to welcome him to the Jive family.”

His popular victory song “No Boundaries” currently ranks No. 23 on Billboard’s Hot 100 Singles chart. In addition, Allen has two singles on the chart from his American Idol performances, Heartless and Ain't No Sunshine. On the eighth season of American Idol, the 23-year old Conway, Arkansas, native, who is a pianist and self-taught guitar player, achieved growing popularity and enthusiastic reviews weekly from television viewers and critics alike.

Currently Kris is gearing up for the upcoming 50-city American Idol 2009 Summer Tour. The tour kicks off on July 5th in Portland, Oregon and ends on September 15th in Manchester, New Hampshire. Allen’s debut album is slated for release late Fall 2009."