Universal Republic Records has signed Grammy Award winning recording artist, rapper, produce and entrepreneur, Lil Jon.  The deal hailed as "groundbreaking," includes his own label imprint, a recording agreement, a production arm, a digital presence, and a position as an A&R consultant at the company.  The deal was announced today by Monte Lipman, President and CEO of Universal Republic Records.

"Lil Jon is a larger than life figure who casts a giant shadow over every facet of the entertainment business," stated Mr. Lipman. "His name is synonymous with brand-building and we want him plugged into multiple Universal Republic platforms for maximum results. I view him as our Urban Music Czar! Now, if he'd only send me a couple of cases of that wine," said Lipman via press release.

Lil Jon said, "I'm excited to find a new home in Universal Republic, they've got a great team over there. A lot of big things comin' from me, get ready! I been workin' hard on my new material and it's time everybody hears it!"

Lil Jon rose to stardom with his groundbreaking 'dirty south' movement. He and his band the East Side Boyz sold more than 12 million records, with Lil Jon winning dozens of awards, including numerous BET, Soul Train, MTV and People's Choice trophies, as well as a 2005 Grammy award for Best Rap Collaboration for his contribution to Usher's smash 2004 hit "Yeah!."

Lil Jon has also become quite a businessman.  He has launched his own Crunk Energy drink, a limited edition signature line of sunglasses with Oakley, and numerous endorsement deals, including Subway, Heineken, and video game icon Tony Hawk.  Most recently he introduced a line of wines called Little Jonathan Wineries, which include a merlot, chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon.

Lil Jon expects to drop a new album in 2009 and his currently working on other artists projects, including Britney Spears' highly anticipated comeback album.

Little Jonathan Wineries' promo picture