Charles Hamilton is back.

The Harlem rapper, songwriter, and producer has signed a deal with Sarah Stennett’s label Turnfirst in conjunction with Republic Records, and is readying his debut album for release later this year.

The critically-acclaimed MC broke his three-year silence last month with a snippet of his song “Correct.”

His new single “New York Raining” with Rita Ora will be featured on the season finale of Fox’s hit show “Empire,” airing March 18.

“Charles is back and the excitement for his return is immeasurable,” said Monte Lipman, Co-Founder & Chief Executive, Republic Records. “The enthusiasm in the marketplace is overwhelming and we are thrilled to participate in the evolution of his career.”

He will perform new music during an intimate show at Sayers Club in Los Angeles tonight (Feb. 18).

Hamilton, who appeared on the cover of XXL‘s 2009 Freshmen issue, was signed to Interscope Records before being dropped in 2009 prior to the release of his debut This Perfect Life.