Blake Shelton has left Warner Music Nashville, his record label home of more than 20 years. Yesterday (3 September), the pair announced they were “amicably parting ways.”
In a statement seen by Variety, Shelton began: “I moved to Nashville when I was 17 to sing country music and get a record deal.”
Adding that his “dreams came true” with the support of Warner, Shelton expressed his gratitude to the Warner Music Nashville family: “It’s impossible to name everyone who has had a hand in all the success we enjoyed, but a huge and heartfelt thank you to the Giant Records, Warner Bros. Records and Warner Music Nashville staff and family.”
A representative for Warner Music Nashville added, “Working alongside Blake these past 23 years has been an honour and a privilege.”
Shelton enjoyed a “record number of hit songs, sold-out tours, and award wins” with Warner, the statement continued. “Blake’s talent is undeniable, but that wit of his, and the countless moments of laughter he’s given us remind us how fun this business of music can be. While our time together has come to an end, we count ourselves amongst his biggest fans and are grateful for the ride with this true gentleman and icon.”
In 2001, Shelton was transferred to Warner Music Nashville after the label he initially signed to, Giant Records, closed. Warner was the parent company of Giant Records.
From 2003, Shelton’s run of albums under the Warner banner began. The singer-songwriter released eleven albums under the label, including the US #1 records Red River Blue (2011) and Bringing Back The Sunshine (2014). He also released numerous hit singles with Warner.
Earlier this year, Blake Shelton teamed up with an unlikely star to release yet another hit: Post Malone on Pour Me A Drink. The pair made their live debut at CMA Fest back in June.