[Robert Shields], who started his own label to launch his debut album last year, has signed with music publishing company Peermusic after being spotted by A&R manager and fellow Scot Steven Melrose.

In September 2005, Robert postponed university to launch his career. With funding from the Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust, he established his own record label, Black Ivory Records, to launch his debut album, Skywriter.

On Monday, Robert played live for First Minister Jack McConnell during a visit to Hollywood. Speaking after the performance, Mr McConnell said: "It's a long way from Castle Douglas to Hollywood but Robert shows that talent can take you a very long way.