AUTHOR Martina Cole has branched out into the music business, but even this venture has a “crime” angle to it.

The writer, 50, who has sold more than three million crime fiction books worldwide, has formed her own record label, Hostage Music.

The writer, who started out as a struggling single mum, was inspired to set up the company after becoming a huge fan of the British band Alabama 3.

The group shot to fame when their song “Woke up this morning” was chosen as the theme tune to the US TV drama, the Sopranos.

Her label will now produce and release the band’s new album Revolver Soul.

Martina made the decision to get involved after watching Alabama 3 perform at the Camden Roundhouse.

She said: “They rocked the room. I bonded easily with lead singer Larry Love and we started discussing ideas for tracks and soundtracks and all sorts.

“So when they invited me to get involved in their new album, Revolver Soul, it felt like the most natural thing in the world.

“Alabama 3 are one of my favourite bands.

“I love their music, I love the fact that they combine so many influences within a party paradigm.

“I had come across their acid-house-country fusion when their song made the theme to the TV series The Sopranos, which is one of my favourite programmes.”

Martina, who has lived in Benfleet and Thurrock, said music has had a massive influence on her life and career. She said: “Throughout my time I have always had a soundtrack raging in my head.

“When I look through my record collection it's almost a diary of me and my family.”

Martina explained how music has inspired her to pen some of her bestselling novels, including Dangerous Lady and the Take.

She added: “When I wrote the Take in 2005, I listened to a lot of music. I write at night generally. I have two children with 20 years between them, and so my writing time has always been when the kids have gone to bed and I can concentrate and let my imagination run.”

Revolver Soul is the first release on Martina’s label and features guest appearances from Razorlight’s Johnny Borrell, and ex Pogues singer Shane MacGowan.