As I sat in McDonalds eating everything from the breakfast menu I saw this in the newspaper!

SO UNBELIEVABLY EXCITING FOR ME!!!!!!!! A new album plus signing to a major label means a potential tour!

On his website:

“Darren Hayes Signs to Mercury Records Australia

UK based Australian singer songwriter Darren Hayes is set to release his fourth solo studio album with a new label, Mercury Records Australia / Universal Music Australia later this year.

With over 25 million albums sold worldwide, as one half of Savage Garden and from his solo works, Hayes’ new offering has the industry abuzz.  Already touted as a return to form album, it enlists an alluring array of contributors.

Hayes has co-written the album with writers and producers including Steve Robson (Taylor Swift/Leona Lewis), Swedish producer Carl Falk (Nicole Scherzinger ‘Don’t Hold Your Breath’), Walter Afanasieff (Darren Hayes/Mariah Carey), Brian West (Nelly Furtado) and Phil Thornally (Pixie Lott). 

The album was mixed by Robert Orton (Lady Ga Ga) and mastered by the legendary Bob Ludwig.  Alongside a modern pop production the album also features live orchestras recorded in Sydney and Stockholm by celebrated arranger Larry Muhoberac (Elvis, Streisand) and Swedish arranger Mattias Bylund – of the family famous for putting strings on all the classic Abba albums.

“I feel incredibly excited to be launching a new era of my career with the biggest record company in the world.    In the past having my own independent label was a personal milestone. The decision to join forces with Universal today has allowed me to maintain all of the creative freedom I have enjoyed but now with the support and enthusiasm of a major label who want my new album to reach the widest possible audience.  As an artist, this is a dream scenario.  Universal respect my past but believe strongly in my future. Their enthusiasm for my vision coupled with their reputation as market leaders makes me proud to call Universal my new home.” says Hayes.

George Ash, Universal Music – President, Australasia adds, “It is an honour for us to be able to work with Darren Hayes. There are few artists that have had the creative and commercial success that Darren has enjoyed throughout his career; his partnership with Mercury Records will bring a new chapter to his music. Darren is one of the world’s greatest songwriters, whose beautiful voice has touched us all, we couldn’t be more excited to bring Darren’s new music to the world.”

Stay tuned for further single, album and tour announcements.”

(Source)