Singer-songwriter K. Michelle has signed with BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, home to artists including Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson and Jason Aldean, the company announced today (July 29).

Tennessee native Michelle grew up absorbing the music of artists ranging from Whitney Houston to The Judds. She’s released six albums so far, including her 2013 debut Rebellious Soul and 2016’s More Issues Than Vogue, both of which reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200. With 2023’s I’m The Problem announced as her final R&B project, Michelle has begun the process of releasing her debut country album, and putting her full expanse of musical artistry on display. She then issued songs including “Tennessee” and introduced her alter-ego, Puddin.

Michelle’s signing to BBR/BMG Nashville comes as several Black country artists continue to reach new career heights. Most notably, Shaboozey‘s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” recently topped Billboard‘s country radio-focused Country Airplay chart, and has logged multiple weeks atop Billboard‘s all-genre Hot 100, and also topped the charts in multiple radio formats. Shaboozey was among the country artists featured on Beyoncé‘s country-influenced Cowboy Carter project, which heralded both Black country music trailblazers including Linda Martell, as well rising Black country artists Willie Jones, Brittney Spencer, Reyna Roberts, Tanner Adell and Tiera Kennedy. Beyoncé’s own “Texas Hold ‘Em” dominated the Hot Country Songs chart for 10 weeks.

K. Michelle was recently featured on the project A Tribute to the Judds last year, singing the Judds’ signature “Love Can Build a Bridge” with Jelly Roll and the Fisk Jubilee Singers. They also performed the song live at the 57th annual CMA Awards in November. Last month, Michelle also performed at CMA Fest for a second time, making her Nissan Stadium debut as well performing at the Chevy Vibes Stage.

“When we first met K. Michelle, she radiated her passion for country music,” said Katie Kerkhover, vp of A&R at BMG, in a statement. “It’s the fabric of who she is because the lyrics represent truth. She’s built an incredible fanbase with her unique vocals anchored with storytelling at its heart and that is what transcends genres.”

“I have been ready. I am grateful for this moment,” Michelle said in a statement. “Rebels and Real Outlawz, it’s time! I am excited and want to thank my BMG Team. I am happy to finally sing the music I grew up on. I am a country girl at heart and can’t wait to share my country music with you.”