Former Little Mix singer Leigh-Anne Pinnock has dramatically parted ways with her record label and announced she will independently release her long-awaited debut solo album. The move comes after Virgin Music Group allegedly told the star they did not have the budget to put out the record themselves.
Taking the Reins: A New Chapter Begins
Pinnock shared the significant career update with her followers via an Instagram post on Tuesday 30 December 2025. In a candid video, she explained that the label had ultimately declined to release her first solo project, titled 'My Ego Told Me To'.
"So, long story short, the label have said no basically," Pinnock stated. "They don't have the budget to put my album out, so I'm ready to take the reins. It will be a new chapter and I just can't wait. I'm leading this s***."
A Journey of Label Changes and Self-Belief
This marks the second record label the performer has left within a year. She was initially signed to Warner Records in 2022 when she first embarked on her solo career. In 2025, she moved to Virgin Music Group, where she has already released several singles.
Her debut album was scheduled for release in February 2026. Despite the setback, Pinnock's message was one of defiant optimism and self-empowerment. In her caption, she wrote: "Proof that when you trust and back yourself, doors open. If you needed a sign, this is it. You are capable. You are powerful."
She promised fans the album would still arrive, heralding 2026 as a year for her "headline tour, more love, more life and more success."
Fan Support and Little Mix Alumni Success
Followers flooded the comments with messages of support and excitement for her independent venture. One fan declared, "It’s your year, so so proud of you and can’t wait to see your takeover 2026," while another vowed, "We are going to be STREAMING and supporting you so hard!!!"
The news follows successful solo debuts from her former bandmates. Jade Thirlwall released 'That's Showbiz Baby' in September 2025 on RCA Records, which soared to number three on the UK chart. Similarly, Perrie Edwards saw her self-titled album on Columbia Records also reach number three in the same month.
Leigh-Anne Pinnock's decision to go it alone underscores a growing trend of artists seeking greater creative and commercial control, turning a professional challenge into a powerful statement of artistic independence.
