Actor-tuned-singer Terrence Howard has hit back at reports he has turned to music to become a bigger celebrity - insisting he recorded his album to help a friend launch her own music career.The 35-year-old star, who released his debut album Shine Through It this week, is desperate for record label bosses to give his new protege a chance.He claims his young friend is talented beyond words but she has been forced to endure years of rejection from music executives, who told her her unconventional looks would impede her hopes of superstardom.He says, "The main reason I did this album was, initially, I met this young girl named Ilsey Juber, who's in my band now."I tried to get her a (record) deal, but she doesn't look like Beyonce (Knowles). She's the most incredible writer and singer... The only way I could get her a deal was - go get a deal myself."And now she'll be opening for me and now she'll get her deal, because she's the truth."

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