MUMBAI: E1 Music has signed Brian McKnight to its diverse roster of artists. Under this universal deal, McKnight will release two albums. E1 Music will also release a single from McKnight, the R&B group featuring Brian McKnight Jr. and Niko McKnight.

The first album is slated for release in September 2009 and will feature music legend Stevie Wonder and Jill Scott.

About this new deal, McKnight states, "I am so excited to join the E1 family and even more excited to see my sons release their first CD under the same umbrella. There has been tremendous change in the music business, and I feel confident that E1 has positioned itself as an industry leader while continuing to foster and develop a great understanding of true artists."

Alan Grunblatt, Executive VP and General Manager of E1 Music, adds, "We are thrilled to be working with Brian McKnight. Expect to hear his music over the airwaves all summer long."

Brian McKnight has released 11 albums throughout his career, 7 of them having gone Platinum, and has sold over 20 million albums worldwide. He has toured successfully for over a decade and has collaborated with performers across every genre including Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey, Puffy, Christina Aguilera, Rascal Flatts, Nelly, Vanessa Williams, Willie Nelson and Kenny G.

Additionally, Brian McKnight has a syndicated urban radio show "The Brian McKnight Show," which can be heard in 47 markets. He also hosts a Top 5 rated show 2 years running with "The Brian McKnight Morning Show," on KTWV The Wave Smooth Jazz radio.

"The Brian McKnight" late night television talk show will debut on September 26th, 2009 and will by syndicated in over 200 U.S. markets. McKnight was also a contestant on this season’s Celebrity Apprentice and has been a red carpet host for Extra!