Morrissey Still Insists He Was Dropped by His Label
Published Aug 16, 2014
Of the many, many, many problems indie pop curmudgeon Morrissey has created for himself this year, the latest is the most confusing. Last week, he revealed that he'd been dropped by his label, but later sources close to the matter stated he actually wasn't. According to Morrissey, that's not true, and he's indeed currently label-less. Morrissey released his most recent album, World Peace Is None of Your Business, through Capitol Records/Harvest Records. Though Moz apparently has a two-album deal with them, Morrissey has said they made it clear they won't be working with him again.
Communicating once again through the True to You fansite, Morrissey issued a statement claiming that he's definitely no longer with the label. The blurb is in direct response to Billboard's assertion that he was still with the label.
Here's the statement in full:
In response to Andrew Flanagan's incorrect report for Billboard online (15 August 2014), both Morrissey and Morrissey's lawyer are in possession of email correspondence from Steve Barnett (head of Capitol-Harvest Records), and also from Steve Barnett's personal assistant, both of whom confirm that Capitol-Harvest have ended their relationship with Morrissey. No recording Agreement with Capitol-Harvest was ever signed by Morrissey, and Morrissey retains full ownership of World Peace is None Of Your Business. Contrary to the assured Billboard report, Capitol-Harvest have very clearly stated that they would have no interest in licensing a second album by Morrissey. Russells (London), who represent Morrissey, are presently concluding Morrissey's relationship with Harvest Records. Once again, Morrissey is in search of a new label.
In other words, if you've got a label of your own and wouldn't mind some public spats, Morrissey might be the new signee you've been looking for.