Expect new music from Kellie Pickler soon! The singer has just signed a new record deal with independent label Black River Entertainment.

Pickler and her former label, Sony Music Nashville, parted ways back in June, leaving fans wondering her next step, but the singer assures them this is the right move for the future of her long-lasting career in the music business.

“In looking for a label partner, I was really drawn to the Black River family because they hold similar values that I do,” notes Pickler. “From our initial meeting, it was clear to me how much the entire team respects the artists’ musical vision, and I’m really looking forward to getting back into the studio to record and release new music to country radio.”

"What's not to love about Kellie?” Gordon Kerr, CEO of Black River Entertainment, said in a statement. “She's real, she adores her fans, she’s rooted in and committed to country music and she's genuine. How can you ask for more than that?"

Pickler told Anderson Cooper during a stop to his show that she's currently writing and recording with the label and that she anticipates a new album to be out next year.

The 'American Idol' famer -- who recently earned country fans' respect by shaving her head in support of a friend with cancer -- joins fellow stars Craig MorganSarah Darling, Due West and Glen Templeton on the Black River Entertainment roster.

Watch Kellie Pickler on 'Anderson Live'

More From 92.5 The Ranch