Wanted one recording label for Idol winner

The winner of NZ Idol has been promised a recording contract but just 10 days from the final a label is yet to jump on board.

That's not to say we won't hear the winner on the airwaves after the show. Race Records, run by Tracy Magan of Siren Records (Goldenhorse, OpShop), says it will get the winner off the starting block by recording their first single, to be distributed by Shock.

Magan said the show's producers approached her to help put out the single. When asked if she would consider a longer-term signing or to release the winner's album, Magan said, "We haven't really gone there yet. We haven't thought that far ahead."

Considering a "recording contract" could apply to a single, it's possible the winner will not release an album on a label at all.

Sony BMG withdrew its support after releasing the last two winners' albums. Rosita Vai won last year and her album All I Ask was critically praised but received almost no marketing.

Matt Saunoa and Indira Moala are the two finalists this year. Sunday night's episode will profile each of the finalists before they perform five songs each on the live episode on Monday. Then we have a week to decide who takes home the bacon - well, the $50,000, a car and a single, at least.

* NZ Idol, TV2, 7.30pm, Sunday