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Paul Potts, Port Talbot's opera-singing Britain's Got Talent winner, has split from Simon Cowell's record label.

Syco Records, a subdivision of Sony, had worked with Potts since the 2007 competition, but the parties have separated prior to the release of his third album, Cinema Paradiso.

had reported that Potts and Cowell had fallen out, quoting an 'industry insider' as saying, "As soon as Susan Boyle came along it was bound to be curtains for Paul. SuBo captured the world's imagination and it was hard to compete."

We spoke to Potts' management. Their statement reads: "For over three years, Paul has enjoyed a successful collaboration with Simon Cowell and his record label Syco. He treasures his time with them and feels he learnt a lot from everyone there. Contrary to a report made last week, there was never a case of Paul and Simon not seeing 'eye to eye'.

"Paul continues to enjoy success across the globe. His third album Cinema Paradiso, a movie-themed release, has been recorded with Hollywood producer, Simon Franglen. Simon has worked on the production of many blockbuster soundtracks including Titanic, Moulin Rouge and Avatar.

"Many major labels around the world continue to show their commitment to Paul. Japan (Sony Music) has been chosen to launch Cinema Paradiso next month. Other countries will quickly follow on with releases in places such as Germany, Canada, Asia and Australia (as well as other European territories). A UK release is hoped for late March 2011.

"Paul says, 'I am looking forward to the next stage in my career as a recording artist - I honestly think this is my best album yet and I look forward to performing these amazing songs all over the world to my loyal fans who have been with me since my career began with those exciting moments on Britain's Got Talent'."

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