Revered rap producer Dr. Dre today (February 25) announced his new partnership with beverage giant Drinks America.

As part of their agreement, Dre will help Drinks America identify, develop, and market premium non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages.

The deal marks the first time an artist has partnered directly with a beverage company in an equity arrangement to jointly develop and market products.

The first two premium beverages to be  released via the partnership will be a super premium cognac selection and a unique new to market sparkling vodka.

“I'm always down for a new challenge,” Dr. Dre said via a statement.  “When Drinks Americas approached me about going into business with them, I knew there was a lot of competition out there but it was the same way when I started doing music.  I'm going to put the best product out there, because that's what I do.”