MUMBAI: Confirming the many speculations that arose this week, Big Machine Label Group officially signed iconic singer/songwriter Steven Tyler to its artist roster. The Aerosmith frontman previously confirmed the release of a solo album during a surprise appearance at the 90 year old Nashville country music stage concert – Grand Ole Opry. Tyler’s first project is expected to be released later this year on the recently revived Dot Records.

"There was an immediate connection with Scott and Big Machine, and Nashville seems like the perfect segue for a solo project, and Dot Records is the right fit. My earliest influences put me somewhere between the Everly Brothers and the Carter Family and this project is all about me paying homage to my Country roots. I have been working with some fucking epic Nashville songwriters, getting my feet wet with their style and groove," Tyler shared in a statement.

 "I have never met a more passionate human being than Steven. When he goes in, he goes all in, which is the culture of Dot Records and the Big Machine Label Group," said Big Machine Records President and CEO Scott Borchetta. "I truly cannot wait for the world to hear the phenomenal music that he is creating and I really feel that this chapter of his career will be among his best. He bleeds love and he bleeds music. Pinch me – it is Steven F****g Tyler!"

Tyler, along with Aerosmith, has sold more than 150 million records worldwide, garnering numerous Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards and an Emmy Award. Tyler was even inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame in 2013.

Through Big Machine Records, Tyler joins multiple award winners Taylor Swift, Tim McGraw, Reba, Rascal Flatts, Florida Georgia Line, The Band Perry, Martina McBride, Brantley Gilbert, Justin Moore, Thomas Rhett; ‘The Voice’ finalist RaeLynn, A Thousand Horses and  ‘The Voice’ winners- Cassadee Pope and Danielle Bradbery.