Morgan Wallen Condemns Former Label Panacea Records for Releasing Unwanted Music, Counters with Own Re-Recording
A Tale of Creative Control and Industry Exploitation
In a scathing Instagram post, country music sensation Morgan Wallen denounced his former record label, Panacea Records, for releasing a decade-old album against his wishes. The album, titled “Stand Alone (10th Anniversary Deluxe Edition),” features 8 previously unreleased songs, but Wallen vehemently expressed his disapproval and accused the label of greed and exploitation.
Wallen, one of country music’s biggest stars, rose to fame with his chart-topping hits and captivating performances. However, his career took a tumultuous turn in February 2021 when a video surfaced showing him using a racial slur. The incident sparked outrage, leading to the temporary removal of his music from radio stations and the suspension of his recording contract with Big Loud Records.
In the midst of this controversy, Panacea Records, a label Wallen had parted ways with nearly 10 years ago, decided to release the “Stand Alone” album without his consent. Wallen expressed his deep disappointment and concern that fans might mistake the old music for a new release. He described the situation as “gross” and “greedy,” highlighting the dark side of the music industry that can exploit artists for profit.
Seeking Creative Freedom and Artistic Integrity
Wallen’s journey with Panacea Records began in 2014 when he ventured to Florida to pursue original music and songwriting. He signed a recording deal with a local investor and an artist management agreement that he later regretted. Without legal representation, he found himself in a situation where his creative freedom was compromised.
The songs recorded during that period were a mix of good and bad, as Wallen was still honing his songwriting skills. However, he deemed only 5 of them worthy enough to be included on his 2015 EP, “Stand Alone.” The remaining unreleased tracks, in his view, did not meet his standards or reflect his artistic vision.
For months, Wallen explored various avenues to acquire the rights to this old music and maintain the quality of his catalog. He emphasized the importance of artists retaining control over their creative works and preventing such situations from happening to others.
Releasing “Spin You Around (1/24)” and Supporting Aspiring Musicians
In response to Panacea Records’ actions, Wallen took matters into his own hands. He released a re-recorded version of his hit song “Spin You Around,” titled “Spin You Around (1/24),” asserting his creative ownership and reclaiming his artistic integrity.
Furthermore, Wallen demonstrated his commitment to supporting aspiring musicians by donating $10,000 from his Morgan Wallen Foundation to the Volunteer Lawyers & Professionals for the Arts (VLPA) program. This donation aims to empower young artists with legal resources and guidance, helping them navigate the complexities of the music industry and protect their creative rights.
Industry Precedents and the Fight for Control
Wallen’s situation is not unique in the music industry. Other artists, such as Taylor Swift, have engaged in similar battles with record labels over the rights to their music. Swift famously re-recorded 4 of her previous albums after Big Machine Records, which held her back catalog, was sold to Scooter Braun in 2019.
These disputes highlight the ongoing struggle between artists and record labels, where creative control and ownership of music catalogs are at stake. Artists often find themselves in situations where they surrender creative freedom in exchange for opportunities and support. However, as Wallen’s case demonstrates, artists are increasingly asserting their rights and seeking greater control over their work.
Moving Forward: Redemption and Continued Success
Wallen’s journey since the racial slur scandal has been marked by both controversy and redemption. After issuing a heartfelt apology and meeting with Black leaders and community members, he gradually rebuilt his career. His performances at major events and continued chart-topping hits indicate his resilience and determination to move forward.
Wallen’s condemnation of Panacea Records and his subsequent actions underscore the importance of artistic integrity and creative control for musicians. His efforts to support aspiring artists and raise awareness about industry exploitation demonstrate his commitment to creating a more equitable and empowering environment for musicians to thrive.