Melanie Amaro, Winner of "The X Factor" $5 Million Sony Music Recording Deal, is Signed By Epic Records

NEW YORK, Jan. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Announced today, Epic Records signs Melanie Amaro to a recording contract following her triumphant win on season one of "The X Factor." Her new home with Epic Records places her under the leadership of legendary music executive, Epic Records Chairman/CEO and The X Factor judge, Mr. Antonio "L.A." Reid. As part of holding the coveted title, Amaro wins $5 million, the largest prize in television history, and is set to star in an iconic Pepsi commercial. Season one of Fox's highly successful talent competition crowned powerhouse vocalist Amaro its winner under the mentorship of Simon Cowell during its nail-biting season finale.

"I joined The X Factor to be able to discover undeniable talent such as Melanie," comments Mr. Reid. "I am pleased that she is now signed to Epic Records because I believe we have only scratched the surface on uncovering her talent and her inevitable journey to super-stardom."

Simon Cowell adds, "We all agreed that Epic would be the right fit for Melanie. L.A. made it clear that he wanted the opportunity to work with her and with his track record, you can't say no to that."

"I am so excited to start recording my debut album for Epic under the guidance of L.A. Reid and Simon Cowell," says Amaro. "This is a dream come true for me."

After an impressive battle for America's vote, Amaro defeated runners-up Josh Krajcik and Chris Renee for the title, with a dominating performance of Beyonce's "Listen." Although it was not an easy road to victory, Amaro was sent home prematurely by her mentor during the "judges homes" competition, however, Simon Cowell quickly realized his mistake and brought Amaro back in which she claimed her rightful place in the live shows. Throughout the season she gave consistently beautiful performances with her "gigantic, pitch-perfect and incredibly supple vocals" (according to The Los Angeles Times).

Amaro entered The X Factor competition after persuasion from her mother whom earlier in her childhood had sent her off to live with her grandparents in the British Virgin Islands. With her family struggling for financial stability, Amaro used music as an escape from her pain and singing in church as her outlet. Now 19 years old, Amaro resides back in Sunrise, Fl. with her family.

The X Factor was created by Syco Television and is produced by Syco Television and FremantleMedia North America. Rob Wade and Siobhan Greene are executive producers for Syco Television. Cecile Frot-Coutaz, Richard Holloway and Andrew Llinares serve as executive producers for FremantleMedia North America.

SOURCE Epic Records