Crews 
Day26 is officially entering an exciting new chapter alongside one of the architects of its signature sound.
The platinum-selling R&B group announced Saturday night, July 25, that it has signed with Illustrate Music, the new label founded by Grammy-winning songwriter and producer Bryan-Michael Cox.
The announcement was made during Day26’s concert at Center Stage Theater in Atlanta, where Cox served as a special co-host. The group had teased that major news would be revealed during the show but kept the details under wraps until taking the stage.
Cox joined the members onstage and told the crowd:
“I wanted to make an announcement tonight. Day26 is now signed to my new label, Illustrate Music.”
The news was met with loud cheers as the group celebrated the new partnership with its longtime collaborator.
The signing is a full-circle moment for Day26 and Cox, whose creative relationship dates back to the beginning of the group’s career.
Cox played a major role in shaping Day26’s self-titled 2008 debut album, helping create the polished harmonies, emotional ballads and contemporary R&B sound that introduced the group to the world. He also co-produced the fan-favorite single “Since You’ve Been Gone.”
The debut album entered the Billboard 200 at No. 1 and established Day26 as one of the standout acts to emerge from MTV’s Making the Band franchise.
Day26—comprised of Robert Curry, Willie Taylor, Michael “Big Mike” McCluney, Brian Andrews and Qwanell “Que” Mosley—was formed by Sean “Diddy” Combs during the August 26, 2007, finale of Making the Band 4. The group later released fan favorites including “Got Me Going,” “Imma Put It on Her,” “Stadium Music” and “Perfectly Blind.”
After lineup changes, hiatuses and industry challenges, all five original members reunited and began rebuilding the Day26 brand independently. The group returned with its long-awaited project, Day Ones, and has continued performing for the loyal fans who have supported them since their debut.
Signing with Illustrate Music now gives Day26 the opportunity to build on that momentum with a trusted producer who already understands its voices, chemistry, and musical identity.
The partnership also suggests Cox may take a more active executive role in shaping the group’s next era rather than simply contributing individual songs.
Cox has created hits for artists including Usher, Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige and Toni Braxton. His reunion with Day26 has already generated excitement among R&B fans who have long wanted the group to reconnect with the producers behind its original sound.
Nearly 20 years after being formed on national television, Day26 continues to prove that its story is far from over.
With all five members reunited and Bryan-Michael Cox helping guide the next phase, the group may finally be preparing to deliver the comeback its loyal “Day Ones” have been waiting for.
Get into the announcement below.
