UK country duo The Shires have made country music history by signing a new record deal with Nashville-based Big Machine Label Group under the Dot Records imprint.
The Shires, whose second album My Universe became the fastest-selling UK country album of all time in the UK upon release, will join the likes of country heavyweights Tim McGraw, Florida Georgia Line and Thomas Rhett, on the label’s roster. They are BMLG’s first ever UK signing.
Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes of The Shires said: “We are absolutely thrilled to sign with Dot Records in the USA. The UK is our home and we are proud of our success so far, thanks to Decca Records, but it’s always been a massive goal for us to build our presence and make a name for ourselves in the USA. Scott was one of the first people to approach us as a band, after hearing our original demos nearly three years ago. His advice back then was clear, to break the UK first and come to the US with a story. We took his advice and are extremely excited to be working with him and his team in the US. It is the home of Country Music and what better label could any act ever hope to sign with than Dot Records! Scott, Chris and their team are incredible at what they do and have worked with some of the biggest names in Country music history – we can’t wait to get started.”
Scott Borchetta, president and CEO of the Big Machine Label Group, commented: “I’ve been watching The Shires closely from afar, and now the time is right to have them join the family. I can’t wait for America to experience The Shires.”
You can read our interview with The Shires here.
