Indian origin Sanjaya Malakar, an "American Idol" contestant, seems to have impressed Sub Pop Records, a recording firm in the US, even though most Americans say he cannot sing.

The record company is based in Seattle, Sanjaya's hometown, and has recorded the likes of Nirvana and The Shins. And Stuart Meyer, an artist and repertoire representative, feels that being able to sing is not the only quality a pop star needs, reports www.hollywood.tv.

"He has a charm about him that is key to being a pop star. Some of the biggest pop stars like Madonna and Britney Spears aren't exactly the best singers," Meyer said.

He feels Sanjaya has "a bright future ahead" and is sure that someone will sign him because "he has personality".

Lastly, "you have to give him credit for getting out there and singing live", Meyer added. "A lot of the biggest pop stars out there today rarely do that."