Toronto-based singer-songwriter Charlotte Cornfield announced Tuesday, January 13, that she has signed with Merge Records. Her sixth album, Hurts Like Hell, is scheduled for release on March 27.
New Album and Collaborations
Hurts Like Hell is Cornfield’s first album with Merge Records and follows her 2023 alt-folk project, Could Have Done Anything. The title track features vocals from Buck Meek of Big Thief.
In addition to Meek, Cornfield collaborated with Feist, Christian Lee Hutson, and Maia Friedman, who contributed backing vocals to the album. Phillip Weinrobe produced Hurts Like Hell.
Industry Developments
The announcement comes after Secretly Group—the parent company of labels including Dead Oceans, Jagjaguwar, Saddest Factory, and Secretly Canadian—acquired a 50 percent stake in Merge Records in 2025.
This move may also indicate a broader trend of consolidation within the independent music industry, as labels seek to strengthen their positions in a competitive market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Charlotte Cornfield’s sixth album called?
Charlotte Cornfield’s sixth album is called Hurts Like Hell.
When will Hurts Like Hell be released?
Hurts Like Hell is scheduled to be released on March 27.
Who collaborated with Charlotte Cornfield on Hurts Like Hell?
Buck Meek, Feist, Christian Lee Hutson, and Maia Friedman all contributed to Hurts Like Hell. Buck Meek provided vocals for the title track, while Feist, Hutson, and Friedman provided backing vocals.
What impact will this new chapter have on Charlotte Cornfield’s artistic evolution?
