Former American Idol Contestant With Leelanau Ties Signs Major Label Recording Contract

Slater Nalley has a record deal.

According to a report published Friday by Nashville’s Music Row magazine, the teen singer-songwriter has signed “with Warner Music Nashville/Warner Records in partnership with 19 Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television.” 19 Entertainment is the production company behind the American Idol television series, which Nalley competed on this past season, en route to a top-five finish. Prior to his stint on the popular show, Nalley was a common fixture at Dune Bird Winery in Leelanau County during the summer months, when his family would visit the area.

“Everyone in Leland is so tight. I couldn’t feel more grateful,” Nalley said in an interview with the Leelanau Ticker earlier this year. “It’s going to feel great when I get to finally go back up there to my little escape from all of this and live there for a little bit, with joy in my heart that everyone there’s been supporting me since day one.”

As part of the record deal announcement, Nalley has released his debut single, called “Foolish Pride.”

“I’m incredibly excited to release this special song. I’ve performed it for years, and after its debut on American Idol, I knew I had to share it with the world,” Nalley said. “This song delves into self-reflection and the realization that sometimes change is necessary. I’m so grateful to everyone who helped bring this song to life.”