Ilium Records, the student-run record label within the Music Industry Program at Troy University’s John M. Long School of Music, announces the signing of Chance Stanley, a rising singer-songwriter from Marietta, Mississippi.

Stanley brings a distinct blend of classic country, Americana, and Red Dirt influences, grounded in strong storytelling and a clear Southern identity. A full-time touring artist since 2017, he has built a consistent national presence through an aggressive performance schedule and direct audience connection.

As part of the signing, Ilium Records released Stanley’s new single, “Next Town,” on Friday, April 4, marking his first official release under the Ilium label. The release of the single establishes the beginning of Stanley’s rollout with Ilium Records and reinforces the program’s commitment to bridging education and industry through real artist development.

“Ilium Records is focused on developing artists in a real-world environment that connects directly to today’s music industry,” said Dr. Chandler Bridges, Music Industry Coordinator at Troy University. “Chance Stanley is exactly the kind of artist we want to build with. He’s authentic, hardworking, and already connecting with audiences across the country.”

Through this partnership, Ilium Records will support Stanley’s recording, production, marketing, and distribution strategy while integrating Troy University students into every phase of the label process. Students will participate directly in release planning, promotional campaigns, and content development, gaining hands-on experience in a working label environment.

More information about Ilium Records is available by contacting musicindustry@troy.edu.