News of artists leaving their labels is not really anything new, but more so than ever it seems to be the trend. Toby Keith "braved the waters" in 2005 starting Show Dog Records & since that time merged with Universal to be known as Show Dog-Universal. Once Trace Adkins got wind of this merger he wanted to be a part of it. Trace left his label, Capitol Nashville & joined up with Toby Keith. When the merger took place Phil Vassar was on the label but his name no longer appears among the the other artist's listed. So can we expect some Phil news soon? http://www.sdumusic.com/
Also in 2010 we heard news of Martina McBride leaving RCA to sign with Republic Nashville & Montgomery Gentry parted ways with their long time label Columbia, but to date have not signed with anyone else. Gretchen Wilson also branched out on her own.
Now it was announced that after 22 years and more than 43 million albums sold, Alan Jackson is parting ways with the only label he's ever known; Arista/Nashville. As of right now no new information as to what Alan's plans are with any new label or what his future will be. He is gearing up for his 2011 tour & working on a new album. I have no doubt Alan will find his way around & have continued success.
Courtesy; Philly Music Guide 2009
But the "loving & leaving" them does not end there. Chuck Wicks has just annouced he has been granted his release from the Sony/RCA records label which he has been with since 2007 giving us the hit, "Stealing Cinderella."
So hold on to your seats; this could be an even larger trend in 2011. Continued success to all these artist's who have taken steps to tread in "new waters."
Well I guess I am not a "rocket scientist." I do agree money is a big issue & I also feel many artist's are now wanting to be more in charge. Or I could be wrong all together on these two thoughts. Thanks for your comment
Posted by: Mary Kay | February 01, 2011 at 09:52 PM
Sorry I did overlook Reba...Not intentionally. There sure have been a lot of things shifting huh? Thanks
Posted by: Mary Kay | February 01, 2011 at 09:50 PM
If you look at the status of the Music Industry and many labels not having Financial backing to support the artists.....does not take rocket scientists to find out why artists are leaving labels.
Posted by: RC | January 27, 2011 at 01:55 PM
Let us NOT forget Reba leaving MCA Nashville after 34 years of dedication for The Valory Music Co!!!!!!!! Then there was Tim McGraw leaving Curb Records. I'm waiting for George Strait to leave MCA Nashville and head on over to The Valory Music Co. or something. It really wouldn't surprise me. I would mention Rascal Flatts, however they didn't "leave"............their label folded. Still, alot of big acts have left- Reba, Tim McGraw, Martina McBride, now Alan Jackson. Who will be next? I'm still going with George Strait....at least one of the next 5! LOL!
Posted by: brdgeubrn | January 23, 2011 at 12:31 PM