50 Cent Cosigns Maino, Helps Rapper Land Deal With Atlantic

Brooklyn rapper Maino has just signed a new deal with Atlantic Records, after 50 Cent placed a call on the rapper's behalf.

In a statement released yesterday (August 27) that revealed support from two of the hottest MCs in hip-hop, it was announced that Maino has been signed to a major label deal with Atlantic.

"With the help of 50 Cent's personal phone call to Craig Kallman (CEO of Atlantic Records), Maino has found a new home at Atlantic Records," read the statement. "This new venture has cultivated a strong alliance with label mate T.I. and his Grand Hustle team, which allows Maino to explore the opportunity of expanding his Hustle Hard brand."

The long-time Lil Kim affiliate, and winner of last year's Most Consistent Artist on a DVD Award from DVD Magazine, has made the move from an underground staple to a major label artist. Maino is currently in the studio at work on his debut album Death Before Dishonor, which is scheduled for an early 2008 release.

Maino is also expanding his business horizons, having recently established Hustle Hard Publishing, that will publish books aimed at the street audience. The book publisher's first title Gangstas Don't Die is expected to be on shelves later this fall.