Steven Tyler Will Reportedly Sign Solo Deal With Country’s Hottest Label
It appears that Steven Tyler's upcoming country-influenced solo album has a home. Word is that the Aerosmith frontman will soon sign with Big Machine Label Group, the fittingly named company responsible for such incredibly successful acts as Brantley Gilbert, Cassadee Pope and Florida Georgia Line.
Billboard cites an insider as expecting the deal to be announced "anytime" with it likely happening "before the summer." It's possible Tyler tipped his hand earlier this week on American Idol, where he was part of a recorded segment about label head Scott Borchetta, who is serving as the mentor for this season.
The article also notes that Tyler has been collaborating with songwriter Brett James and another Big Machine act, Jaren Johnston of Cadillac Three, on material. Both writers have proven track records of country hits.
Tyler announced his decision to record a country album, which is expected either towards the end of this year or at some point in 2016, during a Q&A last October. He cited his lifelong love of the Everly Brothers as turning him in that direction, saying, "I’m not sure what kind of country that is, but it’s got the fifth harmony, and anyone who knows who the Everly Brothers is — it’s those kinds of melodies that are just so, so good.” It should also be remembered that country star Carrie Underwood, who got her start as an Idol contestant, sang on "Can't Stop Lovin' You," which appeared on Aerosmith's 2012 album, Music from Another Dimension!
While the possibility of another full-length Aerosmith album remains up in the air, guitarist Brad Whitford believes that Tyler getting this out of his system could be good for Aerosmith. "I think a good deal of inspiration may come out of that," he pointed out last month. "He may want to continue to write."
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