Nelly Helps Design New Ford Mustang GT

Nelly has put his recent home burglary on the back burner and shifted the focus to his upcoming Spring 2010 album. The Los Angeles-based rapper recently unveiled the subject of his forthcoming LP cover -- the new, tricked-out 2011 Mustang GT. Nelly teamed up with Ford Motors and DUB Magazine to add a glossy black paint job, black racing stripes and several other features to the American staple, and unveiled the new design at the 14th Urban Wheel Awards in Detroit.

Nelly said the decision to put the GT on his album cover was an easy one, as he's always been a fan of the Ford muscle car. "I don't care where you grew up, everyone knows the Mustang. At some point, you've had a conversation about a Mustang -- and it was probably one about you wanting to get behind the wheel of one," he said. "I've always loved the Mustang; the vehicle has power to the point where you can't help but want to hit the pedal. And the newest one? More power, hotter style."

Nelly first got the idea to use Mustang GT when he spotted it in Ford's design studio over a year ago. After partnering with the company to launch the 2009 Ford Flex, the rapper collaborated with Ford's design team and DUB Magazine to customize the Mustang to his liking. Other new features include tinted taillights, a billet griller and angel eyes headlights.

Besides being the centerpiece of the new album cover, Nelly says he is also excited to put his new GT to work. "I'm itching to get behind the wheel of my Mustang and really take it out on the streets," he said. "This vehicle being a part of my album artwork is just a reflection of the direction and feel that the album has. To be able to partner with Ford again on another vehicle that is going to change the automotive game is exciting."

Nelly's album is tentatively scheduled for a June 24 release.