American Idol star to join Jennifer Lopez on tour

Jennifer Lopez has invited one of her favorite American Idol contestants to join her on tour as a back-up singer.

Pia Toscano was voted off the 10th season of the talent show, but has remained close to her mentor Lopez ever since.

Hours after she joined the superstar and fellow Idol stars Jessica Sanchez and Allison Iraheta for a performance on the most recent 13th season of the show, she was offered the chance to tour with the Jenny From the Block hitmaker.

Toscano will embark on a six-date trek with Lopez on Friday (30May14).

The young star tells The Hollywood Reporter, "I have to pinch myself a little bit that I am in the same room with her now... Originally it was just two (shows), and now it's six."

She believes touring with Lopez will set her up for her own career: "Jennifer is really loyal and welcoming and such a good mentor. I feel like she has almost taken me under her wing a little bit and has given me an incredible opportunity where I can now watch her work and see what it takes."