Phil Vassar leaves Arista for Universal South

"Arista's been my record label from the beginning, and it's been an amazing seven years - from 'Carlene' on to last year's 'Greatest Hits' and going number one with 'Last Day of My Life,'" Vassar said in a press release. "I think that as artists change and grow musically, it's important to shake things up on the business side, too. And a career mile marker like the Hits disc just makes the timing feel right to make a fresh start."

"I have admired Mark Wright and his production for years," Vassar said of the head of Universal South. "I am excited to be able to work with Mark both as my label president and my producer. Fletcher Foster (GM of Universal Records South) was one of the people who signed me to Arista. His passion and excitement is contagious."

Wright said, "Phil has written, for himself and others, songs that have shaped the sound of country music as we know it today. His live performance and incredible vocal abilities round out the triple threat it takes to be a superstar. We're very honored that he has chosen to join the Universal Records South team."

There was no indication why Arista would release Vassar from the label after a slew of hits over the years.

Vassar and Wright are recording a new album of original material scheduled for release in 2007.