Big Machine signs comedienne Melissa Peterman

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 – Comedienne Melissa Peterman signed with Big Machine Records, the label announced Tuesday. Peterman, host of CMT's "Singing Bee," is the first comedy performer to sign with the label of Taylor Swift. Peterman, a star of film and television, will release her debut comedy album this spring.

"I have always wanted to be a recording artist mostly because I really want a tour bus...I hear those things are a party on wheels" said Peterman. "The truth is I love what I do and to get a chance to share my stand-up with fans who haven't had the opportunity to see me live is very cool. And the great part of having your own comedy CD is I am already done Christmas shopping. I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of the BMR team and am so excited about releasing my first comedy cd on a label with such a great track record."

"I'm a huge fan of Melissa's and I'm thrilled that she's going to join us," said Scott Borchetta, President & CEO of Big Machine Records. "From "Fargo's" 'Hooker #2' to Reba's 'Barbra Jean' to the host of CMT's #1 show 'Singing Bee', she's been cracking up America for years. Now it's time to record it."

Peterman played the role of ditzy home wrecker Barbra Jean on "Reba." She has also appeared in television shows including "Surviving Suburbia," "Rita Rocks," "Just Shoot Me," "Living With Abandon," and has hosted CMT's "Comedy Stage" as well as the Hollywood Bowl's Sound of Music Sing-A-Long. She appeared in the hit Coen brothers film, "Fargo," as Hooker #2, the Method Man film, "How High" and most recently starred in the independent comedy "Dirty Politics."

Peterman is currently performing at arenas across America on tour with George Strait, Reba and Lee Ann Womack. The comedy star previously opened for Reba and Kelly Clarkson on their Two Worlds, Two Voices Tour.