N-Dubz sign Def Jam record deal

Hip-hop trio N-Dubz have signed a lucrative deal with US record label Def Jam.

According to The Sun, the group's new contract ties them down to release five albums with the company, which also has Rihanna and Kanye West on its books.

Confirming the deal, Def Jam's senior vice-president of A&R Max Gousse said: "I signed N-Dubz because they're great entertainers and speak to London's youth unlike any other band. We want to bring their message to the rest of the world."

Meanwhile, band member Fazer commented: "We are really excited to be signing with Def Jam. Getting a US deal is something we've been working towards for a while and we can't wait to get out to the States and have our music heard globally. It's turning into a monster year for us."

N-Dubz had been tipped to secure a contract with Def Jam for some time after meeting label bosses earlier this year.

It is thought that the stars are now planning to fly out to Los Angeles in August to record with top songwriters Dr Luke and Jim Jonsin.