Alan Jackson Splits From Label After 22 Years

CMT reports that it’s splitsville for Alan Jackson and Arista Nashville. Jackson was with the label for an astounding 22 years and sold more than 50 million copies during that time frame. Jackson’s '34 Number Ones' was released on Nov. 22 and served as his last album with the label. At the time of release, Jackson said he was exploring other recording options.

The parting of ways appears amicable, given the way both sides are publicly treating the matter.

"I've had a great run with Arista, going all the way back to the beginning of my career when I signed with Tim DuBois," Jackson says. "I've gotten to work with some real great people along the way, and we accomplished a lot. It just seems to me like the time may be right to change things up a bit and see what comes next."

The label issued a similar press statement regarding Jackson’s exit from their roster, saying,  "Sony Music Nashville wishes to thank Alan Jackson for their long association and the many hit records achieved as a result of that association." That “association” began in 1989 when Arista launched its country division and Jackson was the first artist signed to the fledgling label.

For now, it’s onward and upward for Jackson, who will hit the tour circuit on Feb. 1. He will eventually end up in Australia -- making it his first ever tour Down Under. He remains busy writing songs for a new album, but has yet to reveal if he has signed on to another label.