The musical hotbed of Atlanta is once again introducing another one of its own to the industry, as R&B singer/songwriter Myko (pronounced Mee-ko) has secured a deal with SRC/Universal Records through New York Jets running back Thomas Jones’ imprint label, Outta Pocket Entertainment.

SRC founder Steve Rifkind signed the newcomer on the strength of his two singles “Late Nite Creep” (produced by the late Static Major) and “Spend Dis Bread” (featuring Rick Ross). “Give It 2 U” is the lead single from Myko’s forthcoming SRC/Universal debut album, and is currently impacting major radio stations.

As the flagship artist on Outta Pocket Entertainment, Myko is benefiting from his relationship with the football star, garnering numerous opportunities for promotion. Most recently, Myko performed at Jones’ Pro Bowl party in Hawaii, and is slated to perform at the Sony Ericsson Open tennis tournament in Miami on Sunday, March 29.

In addition to his upcoming album with SRC/Universal, Myko is also working on an independent project titled Options.

After Lyfe Jennings released his debut album 268-192, earning critical acclaim and platinum sales, the singer/songwriter has remained a constant figure in the R&B market. No longer signed to Sony Entertainment, the Ohio native has recently inked a label deal with Warner Bros. Records for his Jesus Swings imprint and fourth album.

Continuing with the theme of change, Jennings has also parted ways with his former management team, and is now being led by Manny Halley, CEO of Imani Entertainment and manager of R&B songstress Keyshia Cole.

“Manny is the first manager who I really feel gets me,” says Jennings. “And just like he’s done great things with superstar Keyshia Cole, we’re gonna do great things together; for music and our communities.”

“It isn’t every day, let alone in an economy such as the one we have, that an artist can leave a label, ink a multi-million dollar deal and do it all with a positive message,” declares Manny Halley. “It’s a pleasure to witness good still reaping good.”

Currently, Lyfe Jennings is working on his new album on Warner Bros. Records, tentatively scheduled for a summer release date.