Did Oliver Tree's former label threaten his life? Truth about viral rumour following singer's death

A viral social media claim alleging that Oliver Tree said Atlantic Records warned him to “watch my back” after leaving the label has been debunked following the singer’s death.

The rumour gained traction after an X account reposted one of Tree’s final videos and attached a quote claiming the artist feared for his safety after parting ways with Atlantic Records.

The post alleged that Tree had said, “They told me to watch my back and that I will regret leaving them. I just wanted better for my career.”

However, the quote does not appear anywhere in the original video. The clip instead shows Tree discussing professional frustrations with the label and announcing that his album, Love You Madly Hate You Badly, had been cancelled before his departure from Atlantic Records.

In the video, Tree said, “I just got word that my album is no longer coming out. Love You Madly Hate You Badly is officially cancelled and I am parting ways with Atlantic Records.”

He went on to criticise the label’s handling of his music, claiming there was no marketing support and alleging that some songs were not properly released. Tree added: “I have made them tens of millions of dollars, but they don’t remember that.”

While he voiced disappointment over the relationship, Tree made no mention of threats or warnings from Atlantic Records.

The artist signed with Atlantic Records in 2017 and released several successful projects through the label, including Ugly is Beautiful, Cowboy Tears and Alone in a Crowd.

Following his split from the company in April 2026, he independently released Love You Madly Hate You Badly through his own imprint, Alien Boy Records.

Tree died on June 14 at the age of 32 after two helicopters reportedly collided over Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the accident, which also claimed the lives of five other people.