Sean “Diddy” Combs and dancehall label VP Records have announced a deal to market and distribute a new album by Elephant Man.
Elephant Man, born O’Neil Bryan, signed with VP Records in 2003 and hit the charts with the single “Pon Di River,” and has collaborated with artists like Mariah Carey, Lil’ Jon, Busta Rhymes, Shaggy, Mya and others.
“Elephant Man is one the greatest entertainers in his genre of music,” Sean “Diddy” Combs said in a statement. “When I saw him at Madison Square Garden ripping down the stage, I knew that he was the one. He will be a great addition to our team.”
The performance at Madison Square Garden also helped Elephant Man land a slot on Diddy’s upcoming Press Play world tour, which kicks off in Feb. 2007.
“Ya know we are excited to work with P. Diddy, the vibes are there, and with this combo we are gonna take dancehall to another level,” Elephant Man said. “I’m looking forward to dropping (the album) and the promotion, cuz Diddy is creative, and with him and the Energy God together…It’s gonna be madness!”
Elephant Man’s lyrics have been a magnate for controversy in the past.
In 2003, gay activists sought to ban Elephant Man, Beenie Man and Bountie Killer, claiming that UK’s Offences Against the Person Act law permitted the prosecution of artists who call for violence against homosexuals.
Elephant Man’s untitled Bad Boy/VP release is scheduled to hit stores in Spring 2007.
