Castro’s First Time

Castro’s top billing comes with a good reason. The former American Idol contestant’s much-anticipated, self-titled debut album lands in stores April 13. Meanwhile, the first single from the album – “That’s What I’m Here For” – is getting plenty of radio airplay.

Castro’s debut album is as much a group project as it is a solo effort. Produced by Eric Rosse (Sara Bareilles, Tori Amos), the album’s material includes songs written by such folks as Marc Roberge of O.A.R., Gregg Wattenberg, Zac Maloy and Norwegian songwriting/production team Espionage.

The tour begins in Dallas at The Loft April 17, plays Chasers in Phoenix April 22 and hits San Diego’s House Of Blues April 23. Other gigs include West Hollywood At The Troubadour April 25; Chicago at Lincoln Hall April 28; Columbus, Ohio, at The Basement (May 2); Atlanta at Vinyl At Center Stage May 4 and New York City at Joe’s Pub May 12. Last stop is West Chester, Pa., at The Note May 16.

Back when he was climbing the “American Idol” ladder to success, Castro became involved with Malaria No More, a non-profit organization dedicated to wiping out Malaria in Africa by 2015. The organization is working with Castro to give his fans a shot at winning a pair of tickets to one of his shows. For more information on how you can attempt to snag these ducats, visit MalariaNoMore.org. For more Castro info, visit his Web site by clicking here.