For the past decade now, Sony/BMG (Sonys music division) had been the exclusive record company behind the hit show American Idol. Now like Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Ellen, Sony BMG and American Idol will be parting ways. For the past decade, Sony BMG was the record company behind all the season winners and finalists, putting out albums by the likes of Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Chris Daughtry. Of course, the show was not just about the winners as Sony BMG also handled the released music on iTunes, as well as the tour music provided by the contestants; once the season was over and they would head out for a nationwide tour.

 “With ‘Idol’ celebrating our 10th season I wanted to inject some new power and weight behind our brand,” “Idol” creator Simon Fuller told the Los Angeles Times. “We have been quietly delivering hits relentlessly for nine seasons and Lucian Grainge and Jimmy Iovine’s ambition, commitment and determination to push the boundaries and go even further with ‘Idol’ was very compelling.” 

With the new season of American Idol on the horizon, the show will now be dealing with Universal Music Group to help distribute the winner and finalist albums. The deal is expected to last for 3 seasons. Of course, if this does not work, American Idol has to either self publish or go back to Sony as the two are the only real music publishers left in town.