Mark Haze lands Universal record deal

Cape Town - Idols 7 runner-up Mark Haze has signed a recording agreement with Universal Music Group just two months after wrapping up the popular TV show.

A difference of 1% in the final votes saw 29-year-old Haze lose the Idols 7 title to 21-year-old Dave van Vuuren in October 2011.

Benjy Mudie of Universal Music said in a press statement on Wednesday: "Mark lives and breathes music, a true musician and bone fide rock star.

"His uncanny ability to mould his phenomenal voice to a wide range of genres and his commitment to his craft makes him a natural to sign to the label," said Mudie.

Mark Haze played in the Cape Town-based rock band 12th Avenue before entering Idols, and now performs with his band under the name Mark Haze.

Speaking of the record deal, Haze said: "I am extremely honoured and proud to be joining the Universal Music Group family.
"To be signed by the same label as so many of my heroes is a dream come true."

Artists such as Elvis Blue, The Arrows and Dave van Vuuren are signed to Universal.

Mark will begin recording his debut album in January 2012.