Kelsea Ballerini Renews Label Deal With Black River Entertainment

Kelsea Ballerini has renewed her deal with her longtime label, Black River Entertainment. Ballerini first signed with Black River in 2013; over the ensuing decade, she has earned five No. 1 hits on Billboard‘s Country Airplay chart, including “Legends,” “Love Me Like You Mean It” and the Kenny Chesney collaboration “Half of My Hometown.” Variety first reported the deal renewal.

“It is with great pleasure and true excitement that Black River continues to partner with Kelsea as well as Jason Owen,” Black River Entertainment president/CEO Gordon Kerr said in a statement. “I find myself constantly blown away by Kelsea’s artistic vision and musical excellence. And to know Jason as my friend and brother in music is nothing short of humbling and electrifying all at the same time. What a team we make, what history we write, what a story we tell!”

“Over the past few years, Gordon has become a dear friend to me and he and the Black River team remain the best partners to Kelsea and Sandbox for so many reasons,” Owen, Sandbox Entertainment Group founder/CEO, said in a statement. “Black River isn’t afraid to take risks, always leaning in with us on ideas that challenge the status quo, including with this groundbreaking recording agreement that rightfully honors Kelsea’s art and her impact in the marketplace.”

“Black River has always handled my music with the utmost care since signing with them over a decade ago,” Ballerini said, according to a release. “They’ve never wavered in respecting my vision as an artist, offering me the freedom to be creative and push boundaries. We share our wins and successes like a family, and our renewed agreement reflects just that.” 

Ballerini’s most recent album, Rolling Up the Welcome Mat, garnered the singer her fourth Grammy nomination with a nod for best country album. Ballerini’s “Half of My Hometown” has also earned Country Music Association Award wins for musical event and music video of the year.