At 21, singer/songwriter/actor McCartney is already a veteran, and he's making the transformation from teenybopper to mature recording artist. He co-wrote several songs on his new R&B-flavored album, "Departure," and, in the process, co-penned the Leona Lewis hit "Bleeding Love."

"Departure" shows an edgier side of McCartney compared to his first two solo records: 2005's "Beautiful Soul" and 2006's "Right Where You Want Me."

"'Departure' represents a new start for me, a new sound and this is a part of me the fans haven't been exposed to yet," McCartney said in a statement.

The album, which debuted at No. 14 on The Billboard 200 last month, has spawned the hit single "Leavin'," the super-sexy video for which is streaming at McCartney's website.

"American Idol" winner Sparks, who recently completed a stint on the Alicia Keys tour, continues to support her eponymous debut, which peaked at No. 10 on The Billboard 200 in December. A few tracks from the set, including pop hits "Tattoo" and "No Air" featuring Chis Brown, are streaming at Sparks' MySpace page.

The 18-year-old singer recently garnered recognition with an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding New Artist and a BET Award for the song "No Air."

McCartney and Sparks are both in the running for honors at next month's Teen Choice Awards on Fox-TV.