Tyler Hilton has that elusive “it” that Hollywood A & R’s crave.

“It” could be in Hilton’s clean looks, his smooth vocals or crossover appeal. Hilton even has the perfect story. He’s a kid from a musically talented family, and he began writing and performing his own songs at 13. He called a radio show to win concert tickets and got his big break — an invitation to perform live at the station’s Christmas show.

Fast forward two years and Hilton, no relation to the hotel family, has a big label deal with Madonna’s own Maverick Records and released his first CD, “The Tracks of Tyler Hilton” last week.

The 20-year-old, Palm Springs native wrote every song on his debut album except, “Kiss on,” which he co-wrote.

Even more impressive are Hilton’s instrument credits. He plays acoustic guitar on every song, and electric guitar, piano and percussion on five of the 11 tracks. Because of Hilton’s age and his personal creation of each track, many do not reach the depth of an experienced artist, but considering this is his first shot, he’s clearly given his all.

The folk-pop sound of “The Tracks of Tyler Hilton” is reminiscent of John Mayer, an influence Hilton lists along with Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra. Hilton, who shares Elvis’ strong jaw line and hairstyle, was cast to play the singer as a young boy in the upcoming movie “Walk the Line.”

Hilton is currently filming a series of six guest appearances on the WB’s One Tree Hill where he will perform songs from his album.

The album’s lead single “When It Comes” is an upbeat, radio-ready song that deserves singing along with. The songs on the CD are well arranged and his musical talent is evident.

Unfortunately, Hilton’s lyrics lack depth and maturity. Do not expect this youngster to reach beyond his years on subject matter. Hilton’s lyrics rarely go deeper than finding words that rhyme.

The sounds from his CD range from pop to country. On the pop-ballad “Our Time,” Hilton reminisces over a past relationship and shows his best vocal capabilities. Hilton quickly switches gears into rock ‘n’ roll mode with the electric guitar infused “Kiss On.” This flip-flop of styles is evident through out the album, leaving the listener to decide what musical style they prefer Hilton in.

If Maverick executives are banking on a new star, they’ve got him. He follows in his label-mate Michelle Branch’s footsteps — young, good looking and very marketable.

Hilton was recently named one of America Online’s breaking artists, an honor AOL gives to a handful of new artists each year. Hilton’s appeal has already spurred dozens of fan Web sites, AOL buddy icons and photo spreads in teen magazines such as YM and Teen Vogue.

His official Web site’s, www.tylerhilton.com, message boards already have 772 registered users and Hilton himself frequently updates them with messages about being on the road.