Lee DeWyze has been busy writing and recording a new studio album, so it came as a surprise to many when links began circulating for what was billed as a “new” Lee DeWyze release in February. Fans and followers on social media were understandably confused: how could a new album already be available if Lee is still in the writing and recording process?
After some digging and conversations with other fans online, it became clear that the release in question was not a current album at all but a compilation of pre-Idol material from Lee’s former label, Wuli. The collection repackages songs Lee recorded prior to his American Idol win, and Wuli has made that material available for purchase and pre-order.
Lee himself was surprised. The American Idol season nine winner took to Twitter to explain that he hadn’t been informed about the compilation’s release and that it is not his upcoming album. He wanted to make that distinction clear to fans who were asking about a new record.
Lee wrote that the compilation, titled “What Once Was,” was something he had not heard of until fans started asking if his new album was available for pre-order. He confirmed that while the songs on that release are indeed his early recordings, he had no input on the project’s title, artwork, track selection, or release timing.
He emphasized that he supports fans listening to any of his music and that he would never discourage people from discovering his songs. At the same time, he wanted to be transparent: he did not participate in the decision to release that compilation and did not approve its packaging or presentation.
Lee added that his current focus is on completing his true new album, which he expects to release later this year. He thanked fans for their ongoing support and encouragement, noted that he’s actively writing in the studio, and expressed excitement about the project he’s working on now.
To be clear: Lee stated he did not have a say in any aspects of the pre-Idol compilation — from the title and artwork to the track list. He reiterated his gratitude for the fans’ patience and support and promised to keep them updated as his authentic new music comes together.
Lee’s fiancée, Jonna Walsh, also reacted on social media, urging fans to spread the word that the Wuli compilation is not Lee’s forthcoming album. She expressed frustration that others might be attempting to profit from older material and emphasized her commitment to protecting Lee’s interests.
Jonna encouraged fans to help clarify the situation and to support Lee’s current work rather than treating the repackaged material as his newest release.
There is a broader context to situations like this. Pre-Idol recordings can sometimes help a contestant gain recognition during a competition, and early releases may have played a role in drawing attention to Lee’s talent. At the same time, once an artist signs with a major label or rises in profile, older recordings owned by a previous label can be reissued without the artist’s direct involvement. That dynamic can create tension — the same recordings that helped build an artist’s early following can become complicated assets later on.
According to available information at the time, Wuli retained rights to those early recordings and has the legal ability to distribute them. Some reports suggest Wuli allowed Lee to pursue American Idol by releasing him from certain contractual obligations, but that historical detail is based on public accounts and should be treated as such.
For fans who want Lee’s new, officially sanctioned album, the best course is to follow his official channels for updates. Lee has reiterated that his current project is being actively written and recorded, and he’s grateful for the continued support of the fans who have followed him from the beginning and who will hear his new work when it’s ready.
In the meantime, Lee reiterated his appreciation: he loves what he does, values the people he makes music for, and looks forward to sharing new songs with his supporters. He asked for patience as he finishes the album and promised to keep fans informed as things progress throughout the year.