March 30, 2002 — David Bowie has signed a multi-record deal with Columbia Records through his ISO Records. Bowie will release Heathen, his first studio album in three years, on June 11. The album marks the artist's first studio collaboration in more than two decades with producer Tony Visconti, who has worked with Bowie on numerous albums throughout his career, including Young Americans, Low, Heroes and Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps).

Regarding his signing to Columbia, Bowie said, "I can't think of a better home for the music that will be made for ISO than Columbia. After my first couple of meetings with the people at Columbia, it was apparent that their enthusiasm for what Tony and I are doing right now borders on boundless."

According to Columbia Records Chairman Don Ienner, "David Bowie is simply one of the most distinctive, influential and exciting artists of our time, and 'Heathen' is a remarkable addition to his incredible body of work. The album is filled with amazing songs and performances that evoke vintage Bowie without ever looking backward, and I think it's the album that his worldwide audience has been waiting for. Music needs David Bowie right now, and we couldn't be more proud that he has chosen Columbia as his new home."

Following the release of Heathen, Bowie is expected to perform on a series of European and American festival dates this summer. He will also act as curator of the Meltdown Festival in London during June.