Mayer Hawthorne Inks Record Deal With Universal Republic

Alternative soul singer Mayer Hawthorne has officially signed to Universal Republic Records, and he will release his sophomore album How Do You Do this fall under the Universal imprint, announced yesterday.

Along with the signing, the press release also noted that the Ann Arbor native has a new single out now called "A Long Time", which is available for preview and purchase on iTunes.

Though having been an independent artist, Hawthorne caught the attention of many due to his unique sound and approach to soul music. After releasing his self-produced debut 'A Strange Arrangement' in 2009, Hawthorne received high praises for the album from critics all over. He continued the success in the last two years by performing all over, including DJing at shows.

Earlier this year, he joined singers Bruno Mars and Janelle Monae for the second half of the "Hooligans in Wondaland" tour. Most recently, Hawthorne released his 'Impressions' EP for free, which features six cover songs from the crooner. —Connie T.