John Mayer has announced his departure from Columbia Records, the label with which he has worked since his 2001 debut LP, Room For Squares. The singer-songwriter made the announcement on Instagram last week that he would not renew his contract following 2021’s Sob Rock.

“After 21 years, eight studio albums, and some wonderful personal and creative relationships, I have decided not to renew my recording agreement with Columbia Records,” the guitarist wrote. “Hard as it is to say goodbye, I’m excited to pursue new avenues of making music, both of my own and with other artists.”

Columbia Records was Mayer’s home for most of his career, with the label releasing all eight of his albums. He first signed with the Sony Music subsidiary back in 2001 following a set at South By Southwest. After the release of Room For Squares, the label went back and reissued his first EP, Inside Wants Out, in 2002.

“I love music more than ever, and I believe some of my best work still lies ahead,” he concluded. “With gratitude and enthusiasm, John.”

Related: John Mayer Welcomes Questlove At MSG After Band Members Test Positive For COVID-19 [Photos/Videos]

Mayer garnered 19 Grammy nominations in his 21 years on Columbia, winning seven. He delivered the label three consecutive multi-platinum albums with 2003’s Heavier Things, 2006’s Continuum, and 2009’s Battle Studies. A mutually beneficial relationship ensued between Columbia and Mayer as he pumped out commercially successful albums including 2012’s Born and Raised, 2013’s Paradise Valley, 2017’s The Search for Everything, and last year’s Sob Rock.

Mayer is currently out on the road promoting his new album, set to return to the stage on March 11th in Las Vegas following a positive COVID test. For tickets and a full list of tour dates click here.

 

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