Morgan Wallen Slams "Gross, Greedy" Ex-Label After 'New' Music Release

In a surprise to fans today, new Morgan Wallen music arrived on DSPs this week, but it seems that it was a surprise to Morgan Wallen himself… and he’s come out swinging.

Pleading with fans NOT to listen to the songs, Wallen reiterates that some of the songs were never meant for public release and that he has not authorised the project. Wallen has taken steps to mitigate the fallout, re-recording the lead track Spin You Around this week (prior to heading out on a duck hunting trip, no less), which will reportedly be released later today so fans will be able to enjoy the song as Wallen intends.

In a post to social media, Wallen explained:

“Back in 2014, I went to Florida to try my hand at making original music & songwriting for the first time. This led to a recording deal with a local investor & an artist management deal that I deeply regret. Unfortunately, I signed both deals without any legal representation.

“We made 13 songs. Some were ok, most were terrible as I was just learning how to write in general & figuring it all out. I was not the only collaborator, so many of these songs were not my idea nor to my standards. We deemed 5 worthy-enough to make the Stand Alone EP which includes a fan-favorite, “Spin You Around.”

“Tonight, those colleagues I parted ways with almost 10 years ago plan to release a “10th Anniversary” edition of Stand Alone against my wishes & include 8 unreleased songs, distributing it with the assistance of my former managers. 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.

“It’s gross, greedy & an example of how the dark side of the music business can suck the soul out of artists.

“I want you to know this is NOT my new music & I don’t want to see this happen to anyone else. I cringe when I listen to these songs & I’m concerned my fans may mistakenly believe this is a new release by me. I begin recording my next project at the end of February. I’m feeling inspired creatively & super excited to make more music I’m proud of.”

The cover art for Wallen’s new version of Spin You Around will also feature artwork designed by the artist while “in the woods duck hunting” and he will also be donating $100,000 from the Morgan Wallen Foundation to the Volunteer Lawyers & Professionals For The Arts (VLPA) program.

On the donation, Wallen says: “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.”

Morgan Wallen had a spectacular 2023 becoming one of the most streamed artists on the planet. Here in Australia, he surpassed Billy Ray Cyrus’ record for the longest-running #1 ARIA single with Last Night and made a trip down under for CMC Rocks.

Fans around the world look forward to the results of his February studio sessions.