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Maria Lawson, the X Factor contestant who was controversially booted off the ITV talent show, has signed a record deal.

Maria was hailed as a star before Louis Walsh caused an outcry by choosing the Irish Conway Sisters over her.

The decision was described by fellow judge Sharon Osbourne as "a travesty" and led to a chorus of boos from the show's studio audience.

London-born Maria has signed with Sony BMG subsidiary Phonogenic after four major labels offered her record deals.

Her debut album, which she has started to write, is due out in September following the release of a single in June.

The star said: "All I promise is great songs, some with elements of pop, some with elements of soft rock, and some with elements of soul.

"I can't believe I'm doing this, I can't believe I'm going to LA to work with people I have respected for ages on my own album."

Maria, who is midway through the X Factor tour, has performed backing vocals for the likes of Gabrielle and Lemar.

The singer, who cancelled her honeymoon to take part in the X Factor, signed a deal at the age of 23 to write music for European acts.