UGK back to reclaim throne.

Some say southern rappers are killing hip-hop, but the Houston-bred veteran duo UGK strongly disagrees on its first album in five years, Underground Kingz.

With member Pimp C incarcerated until late 2005, Bun B became one of the most prominent figures in hip-hop, working with artists ranging from Lil’ Jon to Beyonce . UGK hopes to ride that wave of fame into the release of its new record on Dec. 19.

Underground Kingz is set to feature production from Pimp C, in addition to Lil’ Jon, Scarface, Sleepy Brown, Jazzy Pha and Swizz Beatz. The album will also feature an eclectic mix of guest artists, including southern staples Three 6 Mafia, Slim Thug and Rick Ross, conscious New Yorker Talib Kweli, and British grime artist Dizzee Rascal.

UGK’s Web page features several new songs available for streaming, including “The Game Belongs to Me” and “Quit Hatin’ The South.” Additionally, XXL Magazine posted audio of “Up Next,” which features hip-hop veterans Big Daddy Kane and Kool G. Rap and production by the legendary Marley Marl.