Morgan Wallen warns artists after old album dropped

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Country music star Morgan Wallen is warning younger artists to not make the same mistake he did after an album he recorded 10 years ago was re-released against his will, according to an email shared by the artist.

Wallen shared the email with fans Friday morning, explaining that the record was made in 2014 and stemmed from a recording deal that he now regrets.

While trying his hand at making original music and songwriting in Florida, he signed a record deal with Panacea Records, which he said, was made without any legal representation. From the deal, Wallen and other collaborators made 13 songs, most of which he said were “terrible.” The album was then cut with five songs deemed “worthy enough” to create the “Stand Alone EP” that included the song, “Spin You Around.”

Now, 10 years later, Wallen said the album is being re-released with the assistance of his former managers as a “10th Anniversary” album, against his wishes with eight unreleased songs.

“For months I’ve been exploring every avenue possible to acquire the rights to this old music & keep the quality of my catalog consistent with songs I choose to release & believe in,” Wallen wrote. “It’s gross, greedy & an example of how the dark side of the music business can suck the soul out of artists.”

Wallen added that he cringes when he listens to the songs and this is something he doesn’t want to happen to anyone else. Additionally, he said he is concerned his fans may believe the album is a new release from him.

In response, Wallen seemingly took a note from Taylor Swift and re-recorded “Spin You Around (1/24)” in Nashville this week, which features artwork he created himself while duck hunting, and released it Friday. He expressed thanks to Joey Moi and Bryan Sutton.

Wallen also shared that he is donating $100,000 from the Morgan Wallen Foundation to the Volunteer Lawyers & Professionals For The Arts program.

“I hope young aspiring musicians read this story & know they should never have to give up their creative freedoms for an opportunity in this business,” Wallen said.

If that wasn’t enough for his fans, Wallen added he would begin recording his next project at the end of February, and when new music is ready, he’ll let them know directly.

“I’m feeling inspired creatively & super excited to make more music I’m proud of,” he added.

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