Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG), the world’s leading global music publisher, today announced details of a world-wide co-publishing agreement with international breakthrough artist B.o.B., as well as an exclusive world-wide publishing deal with Alex da Kid, who co-wrote and produced B.o.B’s Top 5 single, “Airplanes.” The deal with B.o.B. was signed through UMPG’s joint venture with Eminem’s Slim Shady Music Publishing, LLC.

Said Jessica Rivera, Senior Director, Creative Affairs, Universal Publishing Group: “Both B.o.B. and Alex Da Kid are talent that we recognized early and helped develop as their music publisher. It’s rewarding to sign such amazing talent and see their efforts grow into major international pop success. We look forward to supporting their future efforts as they develop long careers making music that will be heard around the world.”

For the first time in American Idol history, all top 4 contestants from this past season have been signed to recording deals.

Danny Gokey has signed a deal with 19 Recordings/RCA Nashville and will begin recording as soon as the Idol’s Live tour is over. Although many fans didn’t expect Danny to go country, it seemed like a natural fit for Sony Music Nashville chairman Joe Galante. “We absolutely love Danny,” said Galante. “We haven’t had anybody like that (in country) since Ronnie Milsap or T. Graham Brown.”

What do you guys think of Danny going country?