Blake Shelton and his label are splitting up after 23 years.
The country star had been with Warner Music Nashville ever since the release of his 2003 album The Dreamer. That project was the second that Shelton ever put out, as his debut album (the self-titled Blake Shelton) was put out in 2001 underneath Giant Records (which was soon after absorbed into Warner Brothers Records).
As far as artist-label relationships go, Shelton and Warner Music Nashville had one of the longer running partnerships in all of music. To go over two decades with only one label is becoming less and less commonplace, and relations must have been good even during the split, because it’s been stated that both parties parted ways “amicably.”
Blake Shelton released an official statement on the end of the 20-plus-year partnership, saying:
“I moved to Nashville when I was 17 to sing country music and get a record deal. Along with the support from Warner, my dreams came true, and then some. 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.”
And Warner Music Nashville also had only nice things to say about their partner-in-music for the last 23 years. Their official commentary on the matter read much like what Shelton had to say, recognizing all of the success and hits that they managed to produce together:
“Working alongside Blake these past 23 years has been an honor and a privilege. Together, we’ve celebrated a record number of hit songs, sold-out tours and award wins. 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.”
Thank you, @blakeshelton ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Y89sEQSO0Y
— Warner Music Nashville (@WarnerMusicNash) September 3, 2024
Together, Shelton and Warner Music Nashville put out 28 number one country hits. There’s no word as to where Blake Shelton could end up after this split, though he’s said in the past that he has more interest in making songs than albums these days – and his last full-length record with Warner Music Nashville, Body Language, was released back in May of 2021.
With as much as Blake has going on these days, it’ll be interesting to see if Blake even signs with another label. But either way, it’s the end of an era.