"Idol" Changes Labels

The summer of change continues for “American Idol”…

The news became official today that “Idol” is changing record labels. 19 Entertainment and Universal Music Group announced today that they have entered into a multi-year agreement.

According to the official press release, the Idols will be handled by Interscope Geffen A&M. In the release, “Idol” guru Simon Fuller said, “With ‘Idol’ celebrating our 10th season I wanted to inject some new power and weight behind our brand. We have been quietly delivering hits relentlessly for nine seasons and Lucian Grainge (Co-Chief Executive Officer of UMG) and Jimmy Iovine's (Chairman, Interscope Geffen A&M) ambition, commitment, and determination to push the boundaries and go even further with ‘Idol’ was very compelling. It is exciting to have the world's biggest show partnered with the world's biggest music company.”

I still have to believe that Sony’s partnership with Simon Cowell had something to do with this decision. Or perhaps the poor sales of “Idol”-related albums over the past few years made them rethink things as well.