RAPPER Jay-Z and R&B star R. Kelly make unlikely bedfellows – they also could make for a Grammy-winning combination.

With the announcement this year of a new Grammys category – Best Rap/Sung Collaboration – their teaming up on a new album makes them a shoo-in for a nomination next year.

The two superstars announced at a press conference at the Waldorf-Astoria yesterday that their album, “The Best of Both Worlds,” will be released March 26 and accompanied by a tour. “Honey,” the first single from the 17-song album, was released yesterday.

Between them, the pair have sold more than 30 million albums and have 10 platinum awards.