John Michael Montgomery photo courtesy of johnmichael.com
November 12, 2007 — John Michael Montgomery takes on the role of CEO with the creation of his own independent record label, Stringtown Records, which will release his upcoming 10th studio album.
John Michael cites the appeal of creative control, the current success of Indie labels and the ability to nurture country music's future artists as reasons for starting Stringtown Records. "I have always been intrigued with the production side of this business and I want to give others an opportunity like I've had," he says. "Every aspect of my career has prepared me for this new venture."
John Michael will return to the studio this fall with producer Byron Gallimore to create a flagship album for the label. The two also worked on John Michael's 2004 album, Letters From Home. Once he wraps up his new album, John Michael will begin looking for other promising artists to sign.
Stringtown Records was named after a small community in Mercer County, Kentucky, near John Michael's home. "The town has all the necessities a guy like me would ever want — a place to fix your truck, a few other amenities and neighbors to help you out if you need it," he says. "That's how I'd like my label to be — a nice community with people who care about what they're doing. As I traveled back and forth to my farm, it always crossed my mind that it would be a great name if I ever started my own label."