Eight months after her victory on The X Factor, Melanie Amaro has released her first single, "Don't Fail Me Now."
The song, written by Livvi Franc (who's also written for Britney Spears, Michael Jackson) and produced by Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins (a veteran of Lady Gaga and Britney Spears tracks), is the first song from her soon-to-be released debut on Epic Records. It is described as an uplifting account of Amaro's road to success, with the lyrics: "I've paid my dues, I've paid the price, I've prayed for you almost every night...I've walked the longest road so don't fail me now, feet don't fail me now."
The 20-year-old, who won the $5 million prize as well as a record deal with Epic Records/Syco, collaborated with several producers, including Tricky Stewart (Beyonce, Rihanna, Mariah Carey, and Justin Bieber), on the project.
"I am really proud to have Melanie Amaro on the Epic Records rosted," said L.A. Reid. "As the winner of the first season of The X Factor she is a proven champion who is destined for success."
Simon Cowell echoed Reid's sentiments, and predicted big things for the Virgin Islands vocalist.
"She's someone who can sell records all over the world, and I think she's got longevity," he said. "She's got that star ability, and she's tough."
Since winning the singing competition, Amaro appeared in a Pepsi commercial alongside Elton John as she belted Aretha Franklin's "Respect." Amaro was also nominated for a Teen Choice Award in the category "Choice Female Reality TV Star."
The X-Factor returns Sept. 12 with new judges Spears and Demi Lovato.
Listen to the new track, an upbeat pop tune (with a bit of auto-tune) below: