Just days after graduating from high school — a ceremony he attended over FaceTime while performing on the “American Idol” season 23 finale — Slater Nalley officially began his music career.
On May 23, 2025, it was announced that the 18-year-old singer from Atlanta signed a management deal with Play It Again Music (PIA), a Nashville-based agency founded by Dallas Davidson. Davidson is a longtime friend and collaborator of country star Luke Bryan. The agency is named after Bryan’s 2013 hit song “Play It Again,” co-written by Davidson.
Slater first caught the public’s attention with his powerful “American Idol” audition, where he performed an original song called “Traces of You.” The song was inspired by the tragic loss of the audition accompanist’s son and quickly went viral on TikTok, gathering nearly 6 million views. As he advanced through the competition, Slater’s southern rock style and genuine personality won over fans and judges alike, earning him a spot in the top 5.
Dallas Davidson, a multi-platinum songwriter behind many of Luke Bryan’s number-one hits, expressed strong confidence in Slater. “This young man checks all my boxes when I’m looking at an artist,” Davidson said. He praised Slater’s raw talent, kindness, and professionalism, noting that at just 18 years old, Slater carries himself like a veteran musician. “His parents have done an incredible job raising him,” Davidson added.
In a recent statement, Davidson welcomed Slater to the PIA family: “Welcome to the PIA family, Slater Nalley! I can’t wait to start making music with him. He is going to have an immediate impact on music, not just in the country genre but globally. PIA is proud to represent Slater on his exciting journey ahead. Time to get to work!”
Slater Nalley also shared his excitement about the partnership: “The past few months of ‘American Idol’ have been a blessing, and I’m more inspired than ever to create music that speaks to my fans. I’m thrilled to work with the Play It Again Music team — their belief in me has given me new confidence. I can’t wait to see what we will accomplish together. Stay tuned, y’all.”
The deal connects two strong music roots: Nashville, where Davidson and Bryan have worked for decades, and Georgia, where Slater and his family live. Both Davidson and Bryan continue to support music programs and education in Georgia.
Slater’s first single, “Traces of You,” was released on the night of the “American Idol” finale through the show’s label partner, 19 Recordings. Fans are eager to see what songs he will release next as he embarks on this promising new chapter.
