Scotty McCreery Parts Ways With Label
Scotty McCreery and his record label, Mercury Nashville, have parted ways. The singer's artist page for Universal Music Group has been removed from the record company's website.
A representative for UMG Nashville confirmed that the label is no longer representing McCreery, which the singer echoed.
"I enjoyed being on Mercury Nashville / Interscope and I appreciate all the great people who worked hard on my behalf while I was there," McCreery tells Taste of Country in a statement. "I am excited about what the future holds and the opportunities being presented to me."
The young singer signed with Mercury shortly after winning Season 10 of American Idol in 2011. He has released two studio albums and one Christmas album, each debuting at No. 1 with combined sales of more than 2.5 million copies. In 2011 he won the ACM Award for New Artist of the Year, and in total he delivered six singles. "See You Tonight" was his highest-charting song, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
Despite not having a huge radio hit, McCreery always enjoyed strong sales — until recently. Four of his singles were certified platinum for one million sales, as was his debut album. His last single on Mercury was "Southern Belle." The song peaked at No. 45 on the Airplay chart. It's not clear if the album "Southern Belle" was a part of will be released. McCreery has not commented on his future.
The decision seems to have been made recently, as UMG Nashville tweeted about McCreery's upcoming book on Jan. 27. In mid-January the singer talked enthusiastically about his upcoming album, telling the New England Patriots website that he'd cut 10 songs and planned to record a few more. He also said he'll be a part of American Idol's final season.
The 22-year-old is the last country singer to win the reality show and the last to enjoy significant commercial success afterward. Season 10 runner-up Lauren Alaina is still listed on UMG Nashville's website.
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