'Idol' bosses thwart singer's album

American Idol bosses are reportedly threatening legal action against a contestant who plans to release an LP through a rival company.

Josiah Leming, 19, appeared in last year's televised talent show but did not reach the final 24. He since signed a deal with Warner Records and is to release his debut album in January.

However, show participants are tied to contracts promising only to record music with the programme's associate label Sony/BMG.

Leming has now received a letter from show bosses threatening a lawsuit should the release go ahead, reports the New York Post.

A representative told the paper: "His mother has terminal cancer, and nothing is going to stop him from getting his music out while she is alive to share it. His album on Warner Records will be released in late January 2009."