Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Six years ago, Chamillionaire's life changed for the better when he learned Universal Records was interested in signing him. In 2005, he signed a lucrative deal with the label and released The Sound of Revenge. Surprisingly, the album did very well and Chamillionaire had the biggest hit during the summer of 2006 with "Ridin.'"
The beautiful marriage began falling apart soon after Chamillionaire topped the charts. Universal Records wanted Cham to re-enter the studio and release another album in 2006. The only problem was the fact that Chamillionaire wanted to record the best album he could. He did not have adequate time to release an album in 2006.
Instead, Chamillionaire opted to wait until 2007 to release his next album, Ultimate Victory. The album featured a new style, one not supported by Universal Records. Because they did not like the direction of the album, Universal Records did not promote the release. Chamillionaire takes full credit for the number of copies he did manage to sell because he had no backing from his label.
Despite Universal Records' lack of interest in his music and the explosion of Lil Wayne and the addition of such acts as Busta Rhymes, Chamillionaire was confident he could release an album in 2008. The material he submitted was accepted, but held until it was no longer relevant. In 2009, Chamillionaire promised his next album would be released right before the holidays in December. However, the December date came and went, despite his promise.
Last year, Chamillionaire filmed videos and began promoting an album for a 2010 release. Even with him building his own buzz, Universal Records did not support Chamillionaire. Now, with Young Money and Nelly being the top priority of the label, Chamillionaire has decided to leave. It has been four years since he released an album, so Chamillionaire is leaving and returning to the independent hip hop scene. He knows he will have to work harder, but at least his music will be heard.
Chamillionaire is currently recording for his third studio album, which he hopes to release this year.