Big Machine Signs Comedienne Melissa Peterman

Pictured L to R: Big Machine Records President & CEO Scott Borchetta, Melissa Peterman and manager Darris Hatch. photo credit: John Russell

Big Machine Records has signed actress Melissa Peterman and is planning a spring release for her debut comedy album. Peterman played ditzy home wrecker “Barbra Jean” on Reba and was the host of CMT’s 2009 The Singing Bee.

“I have always wanted to be a recording artist mostly because I really want a tour bus. I hear those things are a party on wheels,” says Peterman. “The truth is I love what I do and to get a chance to share my stand-up with fans who haven’t had the opportunity to see me live is very cool. And the great part of having your own comedy CD is I am already done Christmas shopping. I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of the BMR team and am so excited about releasing my first comedy CD on a label with such a great track record.”

“I’m a huge fan of Melissa’s and I’m thrilled that she’s going to join us,” says Scott Borchetta, President & CEO of Big Machine Records. “She’s been cracking up America for years. Now it’s time to record it!”

Peterman 

has also appeared on numerous other television shows, the hit Coen brothers film Fargo, and most recently starred in the independent comedy Dirty Politics. In addition, the Minnesota native has performed in a number of stage productions, including the commercially and critically acclaimed, Tony ‘N Tina’s Wedding.

Peterman is currently performing at arenas across America on tour with George Strait, Reba and Lee Ann Womack. The comedy star previously opened for Reba and Kelly Clarkson on their Two Worlds, Two Voices Tour. She is managed by Darris Hatch and represented by the APA agency.

In more Big Machine news, the soundtrack for box office smash Valentine’s Day scanned over 28,000 units in its first week. The eclectic soundtrack, which debuted at No. 2 on Billboard’s Top Soundtracks chart and No. 20 on the Billboard Top 200, features new music from Big Machine/Valory artists Taylor Swift, Jewel, and Steel Magnolia. Over 40% of first-week soundtrack sales were designated as digital purchases, likely enhanced by an aggressive viral marketing campaign for the film and soundtrack. The film brought in over $63 million in its  opening weekend box office, becoming the week’s No. 1 movie.  The all-star cast includes Swift in her first feature film role.