Rodney Jerkins Signs Megan Rochell

R&B singer Megan Rochell has officially parted ways with Island Def Jam and signed a new record deal with producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins. Rochell’s management and Jerkins met with lawyers last week to finalize details that will allow them to continue making hit records together.

The two parties have been discussing a potential partnership since mid-September. They finally signed off on October 15th. Darkchild had this to say: “The year 2009 will be a great year—a new president for America and a new voice for the world, Miss Megan Rochell. Get ready! Winning is easy when you have nothing to lose.”

The 23-year-old’s 2006 single “The One You Need” featuring Fabolous was produced by Darkchild and peaked at No. 42 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart while she was signed to Def Jam. She never released an album on the label.

“I signed Megan because she has a very refreshing voice, reminds me of an early Brandy,” said Jerkins. “I also signed her to a publishing deal because I believe she can be developed into a great songwriter.”

Rochell has a new look to match her new sound and is eager to share it with fans. “We are going to shock the world. We both have huge statements that we want to make and us working together is the perfect way to do it.”