Kris Allen to Judge Kidz Bop Talent Competition

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It will be a role reversal for American Idol champ Kris Allen, as he goes from reality show competitor to celebrity judge.
 
The singer is slated to serve as a judge and mentor for Kidz Bop’s second annual Kidz Star USA Talent search, along with Jive Records' vice president of A&R Candece Campbell. The duo will offer their talents and advice to aspiring singers ages 15 and under, one of which will walk away with a record deal from RCA/Jive.

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“I’ll be looking for obviously a great voice but also someone original and unique,” said Allen. “Someone who stands out among the other contestants and grabs my attention.”
 
The Endemol-produced competition will feature the young singers in a series of webisodes. Fans can view audition tapes and follow the competition progress on the Kidz Bop social networking site, all while voting for their favorite contenders.

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The top four finalists will be announced in September and flown to New York City, where they will receive makeovers and personal mentoring from the celebrity judges. The series is set to wrap in October, when the winner is broadcast live during the special web finale.
 
To date, Allen has landed five singles on the Billboard Charts. Having toured with Keith Urban, Maroon 5, Barenaked Ladies and Lifehouse, Allen is currently in the studio recording his sophomore album.