Jennifer Lopez leaves Epic label

Jennifer Lopez has parted ways with her longtime label, Sony's Epic Records.

The singer was close to finishing her seventh studio album Love? at the time of the split, which was reportedly amicable.

"Jennifer had a wonderful relationship with the Sony Music Group," E! Online quotes her manager Benny Medina as saying. "They have shared many successes together, but the time was right to make a change that best serves the direction of her career as an actress and recording artist. She is grateful and appreciative to everyone at Sony for all that they accomplished together."

Lopez is reportedly negotiating a deal with a new label and hopes to keep the original April due date for her new release.

Reports have alleged that Sony dropped the star due to a lack of creative productivity, while it has also been suggested that her contract had simply expired.

Lopez will appear as host and musical guest on Saturday Night Live this weekend.