It was officially announced Wednesday that R&B singer Kelly Rowland will no longer be recording under Columbia Records as a solo artist. Rowland cites the need to explore new directions, challenges and freedoms outside of her own comfort zone as main reason for the amicable departure with the label.

“Because Columbia Records has been my home base as an artist for more than a decade, the decision to move out on my own required a lot of soul-searching,” said Kelly Rowland. “As a solo artist, I felt the need to explore new directions, new challenges, and new freedoms outside my comfort zone and my friends and family at Columbia have been incredibly understanding about my evolution. I want to thank everyone at Columbia for the love and support they’ve shown and I will never forget how many good times we’ve had over the years.”

Rowland will continue her relationship with Columbia Records as a member of Destiny’s Child.