(AllHipHop News) Los Angeles Lakers star player Ron Artest has launched a new independent record label Artest Media Group, which will be distributed by San Francisco based label, SMC Recordings. According to Ron Artest, his new label is looking to sign established Hip-Hop acts, while developing the talent currently associated with the label, Artest’s second such venture since launch the Tru Warier imprint in 2002. “I am really happy to partner with SMC, this will be my first real shot of getting the music of myself and my new artists out,” Ron Artest said. “I love music and I love my fans so I am looking forward to sharing this with them.”Artest Media recently finished its first major project, which was the launch of www.ronartest.com, which is a multimedia website that highlights all of Ron Artest’s entertainment businesses. “Partnering with Ron Artest and his Artest Media Group puts us in an incredible position for acquiring new artists,” said SMC Records’ CEO, Ralph Tashjian. “Ron’s passion for the music and entertainment business, as well as his incredible reach to already established Hip Hop acts, makes this a perfect marriage.”Ron Artest will announce artists signed to the roster in early 2001.