NASHVILLE, TN (October 28, 2016) – UK Country duo THE SHIRES make music history today by signing a ground-breaking record deal with the Nashville-based Big Machine Label Group under the historic 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 three weeks ago, today joined the Big Machine Label Group alongside Tim McGraw, Florida Georgia Line, Thomas Rhett and more by signing an exclusive recording deal with the leading US Country music record label. The Shires are BMLG’s first ever UK signing.
Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes of The Shires stated: “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!”
“I’ve been watching The Shires closely and from afar, and now the time is right to have them join the family,” said BMLG President/CEO Scott Borchetta. “I can’t wait for America to experience The Shires!”
The Shires have already had significant success on both sides of the Atlantic. In the US, they have graced the stage at the famous Grand Ole Opry, adding their names alongside Dolly Parton, Hank Williams, Garth Brooks and a veritable who’s who of Country music who have all played at the famous Nashville landmark venue. Regulars to Nashville, The Shires have already worked with top Country music writers, and their current album was recorded at Sound Stage Studios, one of the most prestigious recording studios in Nashville, which has cut records for other Country superstars such as Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw and Lady Antebellum. For the latest updates, visit TheShiresMusic.com.
