Lauren Alaina to return to 'country roots'

Lauren Alaina wants to tap into her country music roots after signing a new record deal.

In an interview with Billboard , the former American Idol contestant announced that she has signed with Nashville-based Big Loud Records.

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Although details of her deal have not been released, Lauren revealed that she has been writing

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writing her own songs and working with Big Loud Publishing on projects by other songwriters. The Road Less Traveled singer reflected on her ultimate goal,

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explaining that she would like to tap into her "country roots." If you go back and watch me on American Idol,

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I'm a country girl through and through," she insisted. In the chat, Lauren also expressed her desire to continue acting and write a book.

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And Big Loud CEO Seth England is thrilled to have the Georgia native on board. "We feel that Lauren is absolutely one of the best singers,

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, male or female, in this city. Sure, she's had success, but we humbly think she's barely scratched the surface of what we think we can do together,"

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