will.i.am Brings Kelis To Interscope Family

He produced a hit for Kelis' estranged husband Nas in 2006's "Hip-hop Is Dead." Now, Black Eyed Peas' frontman will.i.am signs the songstress to his will.i.am Music Group, a subsidiary of Interscope Records. After tenures with Virgin, Arista and Jive respectively, the singer discovered by another Interscope star, Pharrell Williams, is headed to the California-based imprint.

“I love that I am now a new part of the Interscope family. 2010 is around the corner and I can’t wait to put out new music and spend time with real music fans on tour again,” said Kelis in a statement. will.i.am added, “Kelis represents the kind of edge that pushes all of us not just musically but stylistically as well. She has always opened new doors for her audience and we’re ready to walk through this next one with her.” Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records concurred, “Kelis is a true artist and we’re so excited to start this new chapter in her musical life.”

Kelis' next album will be produced by will.i.am and frequent BEP collaborator David Guetta, among others, and is planned for 2010 release.

- hiphopdx.com