NEW YORK, NY -- With the humor of Biz Markie, the lyrical viciousness of Kool G Rap and the storytelling brilliance of Slick Rick, Grammy Award winning rapper Rhymefest is confirmed to release his highly anticipated major label debut album Blue Collar on July 11 on Allido/J Records.

Since winning a Grammy in 2004 for co-writing Kanye West's "Jesus Walks," along with the release of his first single (and Dave Meyers-directed video) "Brand New," -- and countless exclusive mixtapes in between -- Rhymefest has been dubbed the "one to watch" by critics and fans alike. Now with the July 11 release of Blue Collar, Rhymefest will showcase his lyrical veracity and versatility and live up to the accolades.

Representing the everyday working man -- from the office clerk to the construction worker -- Blue Collar is an opus of real stories for and about everyday, real people. Rhymefest offers a thought provoking and sometimes humorous look at today's society with topics ranging from the war in Iraq ("Bullet" featuring Citizen Cope) to failing relationships ("All Girls Cheat" featuring J Records label mate Mario). Other stand out songs includes "Fever," "Devil's Pie," "Dynomite," "Sister" and "Build Me Up" featuring the late Ol' Dirty Bastard. Producers on Blue Collar include Mark Ronson, Kanye West, Just Blaze, NO-ID, Cool & Dre, Mike Payne & John Henry (Animal House Productions) and Emile.

Rhymefest kicked of the summer performing on a handful of dates in support of Blue Collar with Method Man and Little Brother and Common, with more dates to be announced soon.