John Mayer Launches New Label Sob Rock Records

John Mayer has taken a significant step in his career by founding a new record label named Sob Rock Records, inspired by his recent album of the same title. This venture is in partnership with Mercury Records, marking a fresh chapter in his professional journey following his departure from Columbia Records in 2022.

The alliance between Mayer and Mercury Records is described as a highly collaborative and creatively fulfilling experience. Mercury’s Chairman and CEO, Tyler Arnold, has expressed enthusiasm about supporting Mayer's artistic direction through this new label. The partnership aims to streamline the process from creative conception to release, indicating a shared vision between the artist and the label.

Mayer is set to introduce Sob Rock Records with the release of his new single "Tom and Jerry," his first original track since the 2021 Sob Rock album. The single is scheduled to drop at midnight this Friday, preceded by a day-long premiere on Mayer’s Sirius XM channel, "Life With John Mayer." This strategic rollout reflects Mayer's ongoing commitment to engaging directly with his fanbase through multiple platforms.

The recording of "Tom and Jerry" took place at Chaplin Recording Studio and features contributions from notable musicians including bassist Pino Palladino, drummer Aaron Sterling, percussionist Lenny Castro, and organist Larry Goldings. Blake Slatkin co-produced the track alongside Mayer, highlighting a collaborative production effort.

In the days leading up to the release, Mayer shared glimpses of the song through social media, offering fans an intimate look at the creative process and emphasizing the collective dedication of the musicians involved. These teasers included studio footage and lyrical snippets that build anticipation for the single’s official release.

Alongside his label launch and new single, Mayer has announced an ambitious residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas, scheduled for April 2027. This engagement will feature three distinct performances: a solo set, a band set, and a showcase with the John Mayer Trio. This residency underscores Mayer’s versatility and sustained presence in the live music scene.

Mayer’s transition to Mercury Records and the creation of Sob Rock Records signify a strategic move to gain greater control over his music production and distribution. This development could impact his creative output and career trajectory, offering him a platform to explore new directions while maintaining alignment with a major label’s resources.

Details about the long-term plans for Sob Rock Records remain limited, but the initial collaboration with Mercury Records and the release of "Tom and Jerry" provide a glimpse into Mayer’s evolving approach to his artistry and business ventures. Observers and fans alike will be watching closely to see how this new chapter unfolds.