'British Rihanna' Tamera Foster signed by Simon Cowell's record label Syco

The singer will start recording her debut album later this month

Tamera Foster has been signed to Simon Cowell's record label Syco (Getty Images)

X Factor 2013 contestant Tamera Foster has signed a recording contract with Syco Music, the label has confirmed.

The 17-year-old, from Gravesend, Kent, impressed viewers with her powerful voice, but was voted out of the competition after continuing to forget her lyrics.

Now, the singer has been signed to Simon Cowell’s record deal, after the music mogul said he hoped she might be Britain’s answer to Rihanna.

Foster came fifth in last year’s X Factor, losing out to Rough Copy, Luke Friend, Nicholas McDonald and Sam Bailey, who went on to win the competition.

The teenager, who is currently on a nationwide X Factor tour, will begin her album later this month.

Speaking about her record deal, Foster said: “I’m having an amazing time on tour but even more now, because I know straight after I can get into the studio and start to work on some new music for everyone who supports me!

“I’m very very lucky to have this chance as my first ever hob and I’ve got so much to look forward to this year, exciting times ahead!”

The singer joins a number of X Factor runners-up who have signed to the Syco label, including One Direction , Rebecca Ferguson and Ella Henderson.

She tweeted yesterday: “Just wanted to thank you all for the lovely things you have said and all your support, I love you all & I will work hard 2 make you proud.”