Being an 'American Idol' runner-up may not be so bad after all. David Archuleta has just scored a record deal with 19 Recordings/Jive Records and will potentially release his debut album this year!

Like finalists Clay Aiken and Jennifer Hudson, it would be no surprise if the 17-year-old crowd pleaser had a widely successful career despite losing to David Cook this season. "It was fascinating to watch David's journey through 'Idol,'" 19 Recordings founder Simon Fuller said. "He is a genuine pop star, and is a gifted singer."