Jamie Lynn Spears to release country music album

Jamie Lynn Spears is to release a country music album.

The 17-year-old star - the sister of Britney Spears - is keen to make the move from acting to singing and has already started work on a series of tracks in Nashville.

A source said: "Jamie Lynn has quietly been working on a country album since last fall."

Jamie has been living in Mississippi since the birth of her daughter Maddie last June, but has recently decided she is ready to step back into the limelight.

However, the star - who sang the theme tune to her Nickelodeon TV series 'Zoey 101' - is yet to land a recording contract.

Another source revealed: "Her family are trying to get her a record deal."

In 2002, Jamie admitted she was keen to follow in the footsteps of her older sister by releasing an album.

She said: "I'll probably do a lot of acting first, then go to singing, but I am going to definitely sing someday. So when I do start singing, buy my album!"

Jamie's representatives have not commented on the claims she is pursuing a career in music.