Releases Debut Single “Foolish Pride” Today
(LISTEN HERE)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (October 17, 2025) – 18-year-old American Idol finalist Slater Nalley has inked a major label record deal with Warner Music Nashville / Warner Records in partnership with 19 Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television. Nalley is also celebrating the news with the release of his debut single, “Foolish Pride” (LISTEN HERE).
“I’m incredibly excited to release this special song. I’ve performed it for years, and after its debut on American Idol, I knew I had to share it with the world,” Nalley stated. “This song delves into self-reflection and the realization that sometimes change is necessary. I’m so grateful to everyone who helped bring this song to life.In addition, I am overjoyed to announce that I have officially signed a record deal with Warner Music. Their team and staff genuinely care about the power of music and truly believe in me. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us! Thank you to all who made this possible.”
Earlier this year, the young Georgia native found himself among the top five finalists on season 23 of American Idol. He wrapped up his time on the show performing alongside country music stars Carrie Underwood and Cody Johnson for a vocally-stunning version of their #1 duet “I’m Gonna Love You.” Nalley can’t remember a time when he didn’t naturally gravitate towards music. In middle school, the Atlanta native opted for participating in musicals over sports—something that often made him feel like an outcast among his peers who’d question his nonconforming interests. Armored with a gravelly and soulful twang, Slater focused on his natural talent despite it all, teaching himself to play piano by ear and learning guitar chords on YouTube by age 14.
After a series of original songs caught the attention of millions via social media, Nalley began really honing his craft, eventually using his talents to help others. When his high school English teacher experienced the tragic loss of her son, Nalley was inspired to write “Traces of You,” which helped both his teacher and members of the community heal. Motivated to share music that can move the masses, his performance of the song during his audition for Idol secured his Top 5 placement in the competition.
Drawing from artists like Jason Isbell, Tyler Childers, Sturgill Simpson, and Chris Stapleton, Slater’s sound is steeped in authenticity. Backed by multi-platinum songwriter Dallas Davidson’s Play It Again Music and now signed to Warner Music Nashville/Warner Records, Slater is primed to introduce more of his original music to the world soon.
About 19 Entertainment 19 Entertainment, a part of Sony Pictures Television, is led by executive producers Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman. In addition to its global hit “American Idol” for ABC, 19 Recordings has launched the music careers of platinum artists, including Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Daughtry, Fantasia, Phillip Phillips, Lauren Alaina, and more recently, Gabby Barrett, Chayce Beckham, Iam Tongi, and Jamal Roberts
