Singer Anthony Hamilton’s new album “Love Is The New Black” was released on Sept. 24, and the highly-anticipated album features guest artists such as Jermaine Dupri, Lil Jon and Rick Ross. “Love Is The New Black” is Hamilton’s first album in five years.

Hamilton and Dupri first worked together 18 years ago. Dupri’s label So So Def Records produced several of Hamilton’s albums, including “Comin’ From Where I’m From,” his first platinum record. The new album also features a track from powerhouse singer Jennifer Hudson.

The “Do You Feel Me?” singer said that he initially planned to make an album with a political message after the murder of George Floyd in 2020 but ultimately decided that he wanted people to celebrate life after the coronavirus pandemic.

“As the world started to open,” said Hamilton. “I wanted to lessen the heavy load and allow everyone to celebrate again. We still got a little bit of that, because it’s not going away, and we’ve gone through a lot. That side will be heard, but we’re taking from a bunch of experiences now, getting through it, and taking a turn. I feel like that’s what people need right now.”

Hamilton also said that he wanted to make people feel at peace while listening to his new album. The singer posted about the album on Instagram with a video and caption.

“When creating this album, I wanted people to feel,” he said. “I’m going into a new era and mindset, expecting greatness, love, and peace. I wanted this album to feel like what was missing throughout the pandemic. This is the restoration. We’re making this thing called life, sexy, beautiful, and powerful again.

“This album is long awaited and inspired by my love for love. Making music that sticks to the gut and gives you a reason to yearn for life — it’s all I’ve ever wanted to give.”

“Aquarius Energy ✨✨ click the link in my bio and join my exclusive Anthony Hamilton fan club now @sessionslive and keep streaming my brand new album #LOVEISTHENEWBLACK @applemusic @amazonmusic @spotify @pandora 🖤✨ #RealLove ft. @richforever produced by @9thwonder #LITNB #AHLITNB.”

The Grammy-award-winning Hamilton is also taking his show on the road in honor of So So Def’s 25th Anniversary on Oct. 14. The tour begins in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 14 and will end in Los Angeles on Nov. 2. Artists Bow Wow, Da Brat, Xscape, Jagged Edge, Bone Crusher and Dem Franchize Boyz are also part of the tour.