R&B/hip-hop titan Timbaland is taking his talents to UMG Nashville as part of a new deal for his independent label, Mosley Music. The companies are said to be "actively exploring rising talent and new discoveries."

A recent Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Timbaland has previously blended rap and country sensibilities in his work with such artists as Bubba Sparxxx, For King + Country and Brad Paisley. He says of UMG Nashville, "I love their mission of taking chances on special artists to meet culture."

Adds UMGN Chair/CEO Cindy Mabe, "Over the past year, we have been working with Timbaland on the shared goal of developing great artists together as well as bridging the gaps in sound and culture in country music. I am so happy to finally announce our collaboration with Mosley Music."

Timbaland, Busta Rhymes and Ciara are currently on the road opening for Missy Elliott's first proper headlining tour, which rolls into Newark, New Jersey tonight (Aug. 9).

We're undecided how much freak we will be getting on, but clearly feeling supa dupa fly above are (front row) Mabe, Timbaland and UMGN's Charlene Bryant, (middle row) Mosley Music Group's Gary Marella, Bluestone Publishing's Eric Spence, UMGN's Mike Harris and (back row) UMGN's Lori Christian, Rob Femia and Chelsea Blythe.