Shaq may not have a shoe endorsement deal anymore, but the NBA star knows he's always got his music.

Los Angeles Laker Shaquille O'Neal has lost out as on a new contract as a paid spokesman for Reebok, but has chosen not to waste any time mincing words with the shoe manufacturer, and will release a new album, "Respect," on September 15.

"Respect" will be issued on Twism Records, O'Neal's joint imprint with A&M Records. DJ Quik and Peter Gunz come out for guest appearances on "The Way It's Goin' Down," the first single from the new album.

Shaq also stepped up for a new role when he helped co-direct the video for the "Down," which was shot on location last week at the Los Angeles International Airport with several of Shaq's friends, including Magic Johnson, Cuba Gooding Jr., Oscar De La Hoya and Jodeci.

O'Neal will be taking his music to the road for a short promotional tour in July and August before he is scheduled to join his Laker teammates for fall training. Current plans call for the "Respect" mini-tour to culminate with an August 22 concert in Hawaii with Puff Daddy, Lil' Kim and Mase.