As expected, Marty Stuart has launched a new imprint, Superlatone Records, in conjunction with Universal South Records. This news was first reported exclusively on BillboardRadioMonitor.com February 16.

The imprint is being described as a home for music and cultural offerings from the prolific Stuart and a vessel for his interest in Southern culture. His first release will be the gospel collection, Soul's Chapel, due August 30. The 11-song collection was produced by Stuart and includes an appearance from guest vocalist Mavis Staples.

Other upcoming releases are Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives Live at the Ryman and Badlands. The first is a bluegrass concert Stuart and his band recorded at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville in 2003. The latter is a themed record about the historic and contemporary lives of Native Americans. Produced by Stuart and John Carter Cash, the 14-song collection includes one obscure song written by Cash's father, Johnny Cash. Stuart's wife, Connie Smith, makes a guest appearance.

Stuart, a country music icon, historian, songwriter and artist, most recently recorded for Columbia Records, where he did two tours of duty interrupted by a long stint at MCA Nashville in the '90s.

In a statement, Stuart says "The '90s era of country music and my participation had run its course. I was looking for broader terms, and I found it parallel to the arts, instead of just within the confines of the country music charts." Stuart also says it has become "a whole lot more important to me to be true to the art and the vision and the spirit of creativity than trying to chase a chart."

Grand Ole Opry member Stuart is managed by Marc Dottore, who joined Universal South as head of its new artist management division earlier this year. In addition to these recordings, Stuart is also working on six books, including three collections of his photography.

By Phyllis Stark