Pia Toscano Inks with Interscope

PIA TO INTERSCOPE: As had been rumored, American Idol’s Pia Toscano, co-managed by 19's Iain Pirie and Red Light Management's Mark DiDia, has inked a deal with Interscope Records and will release her debut single, “This Time,” on July 12, while performing the song during this summer’s American Idol Live! tour. The track was penned by co-producer Brian Kennedy and Esther Dean, who wrote “S&M,” “Rude Boy” and “What’s My Name” for Rihanna and is currently featured on Nicki Minaj’s hit, “Superbass.” Toscano also worked on three tracks with co-producer Rodney Jerkins. In a huge upset, Toscano was voted out on Idol before the final eight. Said Pia: “I am thrilled to be joining the Interscope and 19 Recordings family. Jimmy Iovine was an amazing mentor during my time on Idol and I’m looking forward to working with him and everyone at Interscope Records and 19 Recordings. This is a dream come true.” Last month, it was reported that Toscano, Haley Reinhart and James Durbin had all signed with Pirie and DiDia. The Idol summer tour kicks off July 6 in Salt Lake City, Utah, and runs through Sept. 10 in Rochester, NY. (7/5p)