US gospel artist Tonèx announced last week at the Urban Network Summit in California that he has officially come out of retirement and made amends with Verity Records.

The news was revealed at a poolside gospel showcase featuring artists from the Zomba Gospel label group.

In his closing remarks, label president Jazzy Jordan introduced Tonèx to deliver the announcement.

In January 2007 the singer abruptly announced his exit from the industry on KJLH-FM radio in Los Angeles and on his myspace page. Embittered, he wrote, "Tonèx is not leaving 'gospel' to go sing the dreaded 'R&B.' Tonèx is retiring from an industry and religion that has completely stripped and cut and scarred his heart to the point he feels there's no repair."

In May of 2006, Verity records filed a lawsuit against the artist. Both Jordan and Tonex say all legal issues are resolved. Tonex said he is "happy" with the agreement. The ink was barely dry on the contract, as their re-marriage took effect less than a week before it was announced.

Fans can expect new music by this May and a new wave of energy coming from the Verity camp. Jordan, who was integral in the careers of such artists as R Kelly and Salt N Pepa hopes stated, "My leadership will make a difference because my indoctrination, my background comes from secular ... now I can do it my way."

More details on Tonèx's new album are forthcoming.