Jussie Smollett Announces New Album 'Break Out' in Partnership with Rowdy Records
Jussie Smollett's upcoming album 'Break Out' represents a significant return to his musical roots through a creative partnership with legendary producer Dallas Austin's Rowdy Records, marking an important career evolution for the multi-talented artist.
Award-winning actor and singer Jussie Smollett has revealed the key art for his highly anticipated new album Break Out, produced through his new deal with the recently relaunched Rowdy Records. The project, produced by David Michael Ott under Smollett's arrangement with the iconic label founded by Grammy-winning executive producer Dallas Austin, is scheduled for release on September 30, 2025.
Break Out signifies a new era for Smollett as he returns to his musical origins with an album that blends soul, R&B, and raw storytelling. The album represents a joint release from Music of Sound, Smollett's independent label, and Rowdy Records, the trailblazing label that has championed innovative music for over three decades. The newly unveiled key art captures the album's bold, unapologetic spirit, setting the stage for its forthcoming debut across all major streaming platforms.
This collaboration matters because it represents a strategic partnership between an established multimedia artist and a legendary production house at a pivotal moment in Smollett's career. Smollett described the album as incredibly special, noting that significant love was invested in its creation. He emphasized that the music focuses on themes of freedom and timeless love, stating that working with Dallas Austin and Rowdy Records has been an incredible creative partnership that he's grateful to share.
Dallas Austin praised Smollett's musical abilities, noting that the artist embodies classic R&B with an effortlessly smooth and uniquely expressive voice that brings rich, old-school soul to the fresh new project. Austin described the experience as incredible to be part of Smollett's artistic journey. The implication of this partnership extends beyond the album itself, potentially signaling renewed industry confidence in Smollett's musical career following his acting work on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and BET+ | Tubi.
The timing of this album release coincides with Smollett's continued visibility across multiple entertainment platforms. He currently appears on Fox's Special Forces: World's Toughest Test, which premiered September 25, while maintaining his acting presence through films available on streaming services. This multi-platform approach demonstrates the strategic importance of the album in solidifying Smollett's position as a versatile entertainer capable of succeeding across different media formats.
The relaunch of Rowdy Records through high-profile collaborations like this one signals the label's continued commitment to breaking boundaries and amplifying authentic voices in the music industry. For Smollett, the album represents not just a musical project but a statement about artistic freedom and creative expression at a time when the entertainment industry continues to evolve rapidly. The partnership's success could influence how other artists approach collaborations between independent labels and established industry powerhouses.