Hip Hop Press: Hip Hop Press Releases

B-C: Chasing a Dream

B-C takes hip hop Gospel to an elevated experience with his second album entitled Chasing a Dream.

(PRWEB) April 30, 2006 -- B-C takes hip hop Gospel to an elevated experience with his second album entitled Chasing a Dream.

Some albums demand attention, but occasionally one touches and overwhelms your senses. At a glance this is simply one of the most wildly creative hip hop Gospel music album ever made, glorifying God with a broad array of musical styles and provocative ideas, yet unifying them under a singular artistic vision.

What B-C has come up with is truly a groundbreaking album. Hip hop Gospel seldom gets a chance to proclaim such things. However, on this occasion there can be no doubt, “Chasing A Dream” produced by Aaron (A-1) Williams is a classic which will be enjoyed and wondered at for decades to come. Chasing a Dream is about to rock your world.

B-C’s latest release is one of the most innovative and experimental hip hop gospel projects in recent years. Part of the beauty of this release is B-C's ability to seamlessly blend in more street, hip hop and smooth beats while creating a solid original Christian album from start to finish.
B-C’s second national release, “Chasing A Dream,” released later this year with the first single entitled “Turn The Music Up” will be released to radio on June 26, 2006. Chasing a Dream was recorded and mixed in Baton Rouge LA at the Liquid Records International Recording studios.
Chasing a Dream track list

1. All I Have
2. Here We Come
3. T2 Feat. Tracy Tate and Aaron (A-1) Williams
4. My Nerves Feat. Mr. Gil
5. Runway Slave
6. Chasing a Dream
7. Turn The Music Up
8. Game Locked Feat. Aaron (A-1) Williams
9. Take It By Force
10. Win Feat Terry K
11. Letter Feat. Tracy Tate and Aaron (A-1) Williams
12. Wait Feat Mr. Gil

B-C
http://www.emorytv.com
225 768 9764


The 8th Annual Brooklyn Hip Hop History Celebration Art, Music & Battles

The yearly assembly respectfully salutes the history, culture and integrity of Hip Hop with emphasis on Brooklyn's contribution to the ethnology.

Brooklyn, NYC (PRWEB) April 29, 2006 -- Brooklyn Hip Hop History Celebration '06 will esteem the classic Hip Hop artistry of Jimmy “Super Rhymes” Spicer, Newcleus, Count Coolout and Strafe during its opening day ceremonies.

Jimmy Spicer released a number of old school rap singles during the late '70s and early '80s, including the epic "Adventures of Super Rhymes" (Dazz, 1979), "The Bubble Bunch" (Mercury, 1982), "Money (Dollar Bill Y'all)" (Spring, 1983), and the Rick Rubin-produced "Beat the Clock" (Def Jam, 1985).

Newcleus officiated their place in music history with they're hypnotic techno-fused groove,"Jam On Revenge” (The Wikki-Wikki Song) which has been immortalized unfathomably on mixed tapes. When rap music was making its initiatory emergence, Count Coolout was one of the pioneering skills-men of the genre. His "Rhythm Rap Rock" pounced on the scene with fury; viciously igniting the dance floors and blazing a permanent mark on the major music charts like Cashbox and Billboard. The boisterously funky party anthem "Set It Off" has been around for at least twenty years and is credited to the artist known as Strafe. This monstrous club classic is still setting off parties today with its infectious eternal groove. These artists will be honored with a Brooklyn Hip Hop History trophy during the awards ceremony.

A stunning urban fashion show will also grace the floor, along with a ferocious B-Boy / Mic competition hosted by freestyle champion Super Natural with breaks by King Uprock of The Dynasty Rockers. Guest DJ is Brooklyn's Jasey Jase on the remarkable wheels of steel. Opening day awards and kick off at 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 10th at, 225 Adelphi Place in Brooklyn, New York. A donation of $5 will cover the evening, of which proceeds will benefit the PS 20 School for the arts. Student discounts are also available.

Brooklyn Hip Hop History celebration also invites you to an Art, Music & Battles Exhibition featuring Duro, and The Odd Partners Brooklyn, New York.

For media passes to the events and more information
on 8th Annual Brooklyn Hip Hop History Celebration,
please call: 718.230.3320 /212.262.2556/ 212.252.2428
www.nspyouth.com or www.illbrew.com

###

Daphane Brown
718.230.3320

Brand New Heavies, Doug E. Fresh & Slick Rick, Goapele, Kindred, Loose Ends, Musiq, New Orleans and Houston Artists Added to the Stellar Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival Line-Up

Festival Also Features Mary J. Blige, Diddy and Friends, Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly and a New Edition and Bobby Brown Reunion

NEW YORK, April 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Essence Festivals LLC announced today the addition of lounge acts for the upcoming Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival. Brand New Heavies, Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick, Goapele, Kindred, Loose Ends and Musiq, as well as local New Orleans and Houston artists Captain Charles, C.O.C.O Brown & The Phat Cat Players, DJ Raj Smoove, Rebirth Brass Band, Myra Washington and Michael Ward, will perform in the Coca-Cola and Budweiser/Bud Light Lounges in Reliant Stadium. In addition, comedian Jonathan Slocumb will serve as the main stage host. This year's awe-inspiring celebration, set for July 1, 2, and 3 in Houston, Texas, will be a "bigger party with a deeper purpose."

  The night-by-night schedule of performances is as follows:

[schedule removed due to format problems]

The Coca-Cola Presents the Essence Music Festival, known as "the party with a purpose," is the nation's largest annual African-American event and the largest gathering of musical talent in the world. The Festival has become a destination of choice for families and friends as they schedule their reunions. This multigenerational Festival offers free inspirational and interactive Empowerment Seminars during the day and exciting performances at night, where Festivalgoers can dance and sing along with the biggest names in entertainment -- R&B, classic soul, hip-hop, neo-soul and jazz -- all on three stages within Reliant Stadium.

The theme for the Empowerment Seminars will be "ESSENCE Cares! A Call To Action To Secure Our Youth," and will feature Magic Johnson and Jamie Foxx.

"ESSENCE Cares! A Call To Action To Secure Our Youth" initiative is designed to help rescue vulnerable children and restore the lives of Hurricane Katrina survivors, while addressing critical issues facing Black America. From poverty and unemployment to the culture of violence, unequal educational systems and the ongoing affects of the devastation of Hurricane Katrina -- all represent a cry for help that can no longer be ignored. Magic Johnson and Jamie Foxx are joining forces with ESSENCE to challenge Festivalgoers to come, listen, learn and choose their method of support from reliable national organizations, including the NAACP and the National Urban League. Seminar attendees will also hear from other celebrities, activists, scholars, politicians, business and spiritual leaders who will work with the "ESSENCE Cares!" initiative, and make a commitment to take a united stand. The entire Empowerment Seminar schedule will be announced in a few weeks.

The Essence Marketplace will showcase artists from throughout the country who offer an array of quality arts and crafts that reflect Black culture. The marketplace will also include sponsor activities, celebrity meet-and-greets, Festival souvenirs and a book fair with author book signings.

The Festival will take place in its new interim home, state-of-the-art Reliant Park in Houston, Texas -- a city with a dynamic melting pot of cultures and a venue for world-class shopping, restaurants and nightlife.

Tickets are on sale at http://www.ticketmaster.com/, (800) 488-5252 or (713) 629-3700 in Houston. Tickets are $45, $56, $67, $72, $83, and $110. All tickets are subject to additional service charges. For hotel accommodations, call (888) 508-5731. For more information, see the June 2006 issue of ESSENCE or log on to http://www.essence.com/.

The Coca-Cola Company is the Festival's presenting sponsor for the ninth consecutive year. The Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival's major sponsors are Budweiser/Bud Light, Kraft Foods, Chevrolet, McDonald's and Verizon Communications. In addition, Level Vodka, Southwest Airlines, U.S. Army and Wells Fargo will serve as official sponsors for the Festival. Additional sponsors will be announced at a later date.

The Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival is produced by Essence Festivals LLC in association with Festival Productions of New Orleans. Essence Festivals LLC is a division of Essence Communications Inc. (ECI). ECI is also the publisher of ESSENCE magazine. ESSENCE, after 36 years, continues to be the preeminent lifestyle magazine for African-American women.

Source: Essence Festivals

CONTACT: Rhonda Evans, ESSENCE, +1-212-522-0870, revans@essence.com

Web site: http://www.essence.com/

BlakJak and Tango Join Bow Wow Wanted Tour

ATLANTA, GA (April 26, 2006) -- Universal Republic's hotly anticipated
new
rapper BlakJak and hip hop's golden boy Tango Redd have been tapped to
join Bow Wow's Wanted Tour, which kicks off April 27 in Saginaw, MI.
Also on the tour are B5, Ray J, T-Pain and Lloyd.

The tour paves the way for the release of BlakJak's debut CD "Place Your
Bets," which features the blazing first single "Ride and Swerve"
featuring
Project Pat.
Says BlakJak of the tour, "I'm very excited about this tour. I can't
wait to
get on the road with all these other hot acts and allow people to get to
know me and my music."

Tango Redd agrees. "Live performances are always fun. There's nothing
like
them. I'm looking forward to every minute of it."

Jerry Clark, whose company, 1972 Entertainment, manages both acts,
added,
"It's a great look for both artists. I∂m excited about them showcasing
their
great music for thousands of people."

Shows slated thus far for the 12-city tour are as follows:
April 27 - Saginaw, MI
April 29 - Louisville, KY
May 26 - Mobile, AL

Future stops on the tour include Dayton, OH; Richmond, VA; Charleston,
SC;
Augusta, GA; Macon, GA; Mobile, AL; Baton Rouge, LA; Savannah, GA; and
Fayetteville, GA.

Contact:
Linda Ntiamoah
Soulstice Media Group
404-484-3450

Juvenile Violence, Drug Abuse, HIV: Female Youth of the Hip-Hop Generation Finding Self-Love

Interactive Guide Teaches Women How to Embrace Today’s Female Youth

PHILADELPHIA, PA (PRWEB) April 28, 2006 -- On April 14, 2006 Lacey C. Clark!, Founder and Life Coach of personal empowerment organization for female youth, Sisters’ SanctuaryTM, released her new book Celebrate HER Now!: An Interactive Guide to Loving Ourselves and Embracing Female Youth of the Hip-Hop Generation . The book is available on the organization’s Web site, www.sisterssanctuary.org.

Based on the success of the Sisters’ Sanctuary personal empowerment curriculum created and delivered by Lacey C. Clark!, Celebrate HER Now! is a workbook and journal designed for concerned mothers, mentors, and aspiring role models who want to effectively communicate and connect with female youth (12-18 years old) of the Hip-Hop Generation. Divided into two missions, I Love Myself Because… and I Embrace Female Youth By…,” this step-by-step how -to guide offers a source of strength and motivation for action. While tackling deep issues, Celebrate HER Now! encourages readers how to make healthy and responsible choices about body, sexuality, emotions and even finances.

“We are moving into a generation of females who have learned how to survive and adapt to struggles that are overwhelming, unimaginable, and filled with the threat of redefining the concept of ‘basic needs’. This adaptation creates girls with manipulated desires and wants who demand our immediate attention. Celebrate HER Now! offers clear mechanisms for this attention,” says Stacey Redmond, a physicist instructor at Philadelphia High School For Girls.

For more information about Celebrate HER Now! visit the Sisters’ SanctuaryTM Website http://www.sisterssanctuary.org. The book is available now!

Lacey C. Clark! deemed the “Hip –Hop Oprah Winfrey” is the Founder and Lead Life Coach of Sisters’ SanctuaryTM, an onsite personal empowerment program designed to give young females of the Hip-Hop Generation the platform to speak, think and care for themselves. She resides in Philadelphia and is a motivational speaker, trainer and advocate for youth and women’s issues.

###

Lacey C. Clark!
SISTERS' SANCTUARY
http://www.sisterssanctuary.org/
215-204-6075

And the Beat Goes on With VH1 Rock Docs

VH1 Expands Rock Docs Franchise to Include Eight Additional Music-Based Documentaries Covering Heavy Metal, Hip-Hop, Classic Rock and More

NEW YORK, April 28 /PRNewswire/ -- VH1 will expand its documentary series "VH1 Rock Docs" to include eight new high-end feature-length programs. Each of the documentaries will reveal an untold story in the history of rock and hip-hop music, combining never-before-seen footage with a unique and unconventional narrative approach. The documentaries will tell some of the most unique stories of artists and music from a wide range of genres, styles, and musical perspectives.

For this new slate, which includes internally-produced and acquired projects, VH1 builds on the previously announced "Rock Docs" "DMC: My Adoption Journey," "Heavy: The Story of Metal," "The Last Days of Left Eye" and "The U.S. vs. John Lennon."

THE DRUG YEARS

VH1, in association with Sundance Channel, has produced the original documentary series "The Drug Years," a four-part look at the rise of illicit drug use and its cultural impact in the second half of the twentieth century. Spanning the 1950's to the present, "The Drug Years" explores the development of a commercial drug culture in America, using archival footage, never-before-seen film and interviews to illustrate how popular culture -- including music, movies, comedy, television, and theatre -- both shaped and reflected public perceptions of illicit drugs. "The Drug Years" also looks at how drugs became part of the nation's political landscape, from the youth rebellions of the 1960's to the War on Drugs and beyond.

MY GENERATION: WHO'S STILL WHO (Spitfire and VH1)

Authorized by The Who and directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Murray Lerner, "My Generation: Who's Still Who" is the definitive audio-visual record of the legendary British rock band, The Who. Produced by Spitfire and VH1, (Spitfire's last project was the Peabody Award winning documentary "Bob Dylan: No Direction Home") and making its television premiere on VH1, "My Generation: Who's Still Who" moves from the group's origins as a 1960s schoolboy R&B cover band, through their meteoric rise and artistic breakthroughs. The film also documents the infighting, the breakups and reconciliations, and the untimely deaths of drummer Keith Moon and bassist John Entwistle. In addition to never-before-seen private materials released by the group and its fans worldwide, the film includes interviews with prominent witnesses and personal friends. Rare and unreleased concert footage and outtakes are also featured. After its premiere on VH1, the documentary will also air on VH1 Classic.

TUPAC RESURRECTION

Making its network window premiere on VH1, Lauren Lazin's Academy-award nominated portrait of Tupac Shakur, "Tupac: Resurrection" explores Tupac's life viscerally and dramatically-through his own words and music, and through vivid images of the world as he experienced it. The first-ever documentary about Shakur's life created in collaboration with his mother, Afeni Shakur, and Amaru Entertainment, "Tupac: Resurrection" features never-before-seen concert footage, excerpts from his poetry and journals, and private home-movie material. The documentary features a soundtrack of Shakur's best-selling music, as well as the music he loved and was inspired by. Not merely a celebration of his life and artistry, "Tupac: Resurrection" explores honestly and openly Shakur's many complexities, examining his artistic gifts, passions and conflicts.

METAL: A HEADBANGER'S JOURNEY

Making its television premiere on VH1, "Metal: A Headbanger's Journey" follows 30-year old anthropologist Sam Dunn, who has decided to study the plight of a different culture, one he has been a part of since he was a 12-year old: the culture of heavy metal. Sam sets out on a global journey to find out why this music has been consistently stereotyped, dismissed and condemned and yet is loved so passionately by its millions of fans. Along the way, Sam explores metals' obsession with some of life's most provocative subjects -- sexuality, religion, violence and death -- and discovers some things about the culture that even he can't defend. Shot on location in the UK, Germany, Norway, Canada and the US, this documentary is the first of its kind. It is both a defense of a long-misunderstood art form and a window for the outsider into the spectacle that is heavy metal.

AWESOME; I F**KIN' SHOT THAT! (thinkfilm)

Making its television premiere on VH1, "Awesome; I F**kin' Shot That!" is an innovative feature film experience. The Beastie Boys handed out 50 cameras to audience members at their sold-out performance in New York's famed Madison Square Garden in October 2004. These 50 different passionate perspectives shot from the point of view of the audience take the viewer deep inside the world of a live Beastie Boys show, prismatically and kinetically capturing the experience of a live musical performance like no film has ever done.

FADE TO BLACK

Making its network window premiere on VH1, "Fade To Black" offers an intimate look at hip-hop artist Jay-Z, aka Shawn Carter, that reveals the multiple Grammy Award winning artist as never before. From his background and rise to fame to the recording of his last album, the film chronicles the legendary concert of Jay-Z's performance at Madison Square Garden in November 2003. In an unprecedented event, a hip-hop artist sold out an arena in only two hours. The event was a spectacular culmination of Jay-Z's recording career prior to his self-proclaimed retirement from solo performing. Yet this one night also defined a musical generation, showcasing the evolution and reach of the world's most popular music genre. Viewers get the rare glimpse of Jay-Z's creative process as he searches for inspiration, poetry, and perfection in his songs. Narrated by Jay-Z, this documentary takes on reflections of his entire musical career and his journey that led to this one astounding, fabled evening -- rightfully called "Fade To Black."

BOB DYLAN: NO DIRECTION HOME (Spitfire)

Martin Scorsese's Peabody Award winning, definitive documentary of the legendary singer, Bob Dylan is the first feature length film biography done on the artist. The two-part film, which focuses on the singer-songwriter's life and music from 1961-1966, includes never-seen performance footage and interviews with artists and musicians whose lives intertwined with Dylan's during that time. The film also features previously unreleased footage from Bob Dylan's groundbreaking live concerts, studio recording sessions and interviews. After its premiere on VH1, the documentary will also air on VH1 Classic.

NEIL YOUNG: HEART OF GOLD (Paramount Classics)

Jonathan Demme's highly-regarded documentary making its network window premiere on VH1. Legendary singer/songwriter Neil Young is filmed on the occasion of the world premiere of Young's "Prairie Wind" concert at Nashville's hallowed Ryman Auditorium. Young's music provides an emotionally rich view into this unique artist's relationship to family, friends, mortality, and the passage of time. Young is accompanied onstage by many long time musical companions, including country star Emmylou Harris, Neil's wife Pegi Young, and bandleader/steel guitarist Ben Keith. The documentary will also air on VH1 Classic.

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in 87 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital services including VH1 Classic, VH1 Soul, VH Uno and VH1 Country. Connect with VH1 at www.VH1.com.

VH1 is a registered trademark of MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom International Inc. MTV Networks also operates and offers joint ventures, licensing agreements and syndication deals whereby its programming can be seen worldwide.

*all times ET/PT

Contacts: Lori Hornik Scott Acord
212-846-7131 310-752-8075
Lori.hornik@vh1staff.com scott.acord@vh1staff.com

Source: VH1

CONTACT: Lori Hornik, +1-212-846-7131, Lori.hornik@vh1staff.com; Scott
Acord, +1-310-752-8075, scott.acord@vh1staff.com

Web site: http://www.vh1.com/

BET Unveils Double Dose of Sunday News and Talk Programming with THE CHOP UP and MEET THE FAITH

THE CHOP UP Premieres Sunday, April 30 at 11:00 a.m. ET/PT with Shocking Revelations into the Unsolved Murder of Hip Hop's 'Notorious B.I.G.'

CNN's Carlos Watson Helms MEET THE FAITH's Moral Point of View on May 7

WASHINGTON, April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunday morning's brunch of network news, talk and political debate has a pair of new menu items courtesy of BET News. Viewers with an appetite for national and international news served with provocative thought, in-depth analysis and engaging discussion can now turn to BET's THE CHOP UP and MEET THE FAITH twice on Sundays.

Premiering Sunday, April 30 at 11 a.m. ET/PT with a special one-hour debut, THE CHOP UP promises a weekly dissection of the places, people and issues of close connection to the African-American community. The top-shelf happenings in the world will be delivered in fast-paced, informative chunks under the skillful guidance of host tandem Jeff Johnson and Jina Johnson; with street-wise Samson roaming the community for an up-close sense of what's on the minds of BET viewers. Anchoring THE CHOP UP's opener will be startling new revelations into the still unsolved murder of hip-hop superstar Biggie Smalls, aka "Notorious B. I. G."

Produced for BET and THE CHOP UP by Emmy Award-winning journalist, producer and author P. Frank Williams, the segment entitled "Long Kiss Goodnight" peels back the layers on the nine years since Biggie Smalls was gunned down in Los Angeles. In her first television interview since winning a multi-million dollar wrongful death suit against the city of Los Angeles, Biggie's mother Voletta Wallace shares striking details about the FBI investigation of her son's murder. Also for the first time on television, Lil' Cease, a member of Biggie's Junior Mafia crew, shares a chilling eye-witness account of what happened inside the car where Biggie was riding when the fatal shots were fired.

MEET THE FAITH will use its prism of morality and spiritual perspective each week with a lively roundtable discussion of current events. CNN's Carlos Watson, noted worldwide as an informed political insider, steps into the talk show host role with an unexpected blend of guests and unusual topics. MEET THE FAITH premieres on Sunday, May 7 at 11 a.m. ET/PT, followed by THE CHOP UP in its regular timeslot of 11:30 a.m. ET/PT. Both shows will get Sunday night encore showings at 8:00 and 8:30 respectively.

"We are presenting news in a way that is unconventional and provocative, while at the same time connected to the Black experience in social, political, spiritual and intellectual terms," said Reginald Hudlin, BET President of Entertainment. "There's nothing like THE CHOP UP and MEET THE FAITH on any network today, which makes it perfect for BET."

THE CHOP UP

PREMIERE TELECAST: Sunday, April 30 @ 11:00 a.m. ET/PT (Special One Hour
Premiere)
(Encore Showing - 8:00 p.m. ET/PT)

WEEKLY SCHEDULE: Sundays @ 11:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. ET/PT

HOSTS: Jeff Johnson, Jina Johnson and Samson

BET EXECUTIVES
IN CHARGE: Reginald Hudlin, President of Entertainment
Nina Henderson Moore, Executive Vice President -
News & Public Affairs
Byron Phillips, Executive Vice President of
Entertainment

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Selwyn Seyfu Hinds

MEET THE FAITH

PREMIERE TELECAST: Sunday, May 7 @ 11:00 a.m. ET/PT
(Encore Showing - 8:00 p.m. ET/PT)

WEEKLY SCHEDULE: Sundays @ 11:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. ET/PT; May 7 - June
18, 2006

HOST: Carlos Watson

BET EXECUTIVES
IN CHARGE: Reginald Hudlin, President of Entertainment
Nina Henderson Moore, Executive Vice President -
News & Public Affairs
Byron Phillips, Executive Vice President of
Entertainment

BET PRODUCERS: Julie Anderson, Co-Executive Producer
Carlos Watson, Co-Executive Producer
Victoria L. Chapman, Supervising Producer

ABOUT BET NETWORKS

BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom, Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 80 million households according to Nielsen media research, and can be seen in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, the Number 1 Internet portal for African Americans; BET Digital Networks - BET J, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; and BET Mobile, a service venture into the lucrative world of ring tones, games and video content for wireless devices.

Source: BET (Black Entertainment Television)

CONTACT: Michael Lewellen, of BET, +1-202-608-2003,
michael.lewellen@bet.net

Web site: http://www.bet.com/

Mary J. Blige, Jamie Foxx, Busta Rhymes, Sean Paul, Three 6 Mafia, Chris Brown, T.I. and Mobb Deep Among Those To Perform at Biggest Hip Hop Concert in the World - HOT 97'S SUMMER JAM 2006

More Than 50,000 Expected To Turn Out For Most Anticipated Summer Concert Event of the Year

NEW YORK, April 28 /PRNewswire/ -- NYC's #1 Hip Hop and R&B radio station, HOT 97 FM (WQHT), today announced that it will present its 13th annual Summer Jam concert on Sunday, June 4th at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. The Queen of R&B and Hip Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige along with Jamie Foxx, Busta Rhymes, Sean Paul, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, T.I., Young Jeezy, Mobb Deep, Dem Franchize Boys, Jermaine Dupri, Three 6 Mafia, Remy Martin and The Dipset are among the star-studded lineup of Hip Hop and R&B artists who are scheduled to perform with additional performers to be announced shortly.

Now in its 13th year, Summer Jam has become the biggest Hip Hop concert in the world and the longest running urban radio station concert event. Since 1994, HOT 97's Summer Jam concert has grown by leaps and bounds, outgrowing the New York arenas and moving into the area's largest venue, Giants Stadium, for the fourth consecutive year to accommodate fans.

With a consistent record of delivering chart topping acts, Summer Jam has become a historic staple in the music community and is attended by more than 50,000 people each year. Past performers have featured a who's who of hip hop and R&B royalty including Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G, P. Diddy, Eminem, 50 Cent, Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, Missy Elliott and others.

Boost Mobile is an official partner of Summer Jam 2006 for the third consecutive year and will kick off special ticket promotions for coveted front row seats via the HOT 97 website at http://www.hot97.com/. Additional sponsors include Xbox 360, WHITEBOY, The Tobacco Coalition, and XXL Magazine. Summer Jam 2006 is produced by Trevanna Entertainment.

Tickets for Summer Jam 2006 will go on sale today, April 28 at 10 AM EDT at

all Ticket Master
outlets, by calling 212-307-7171 or http://www.ticketmaster.com/

Media Contact:
Dan Klores Communications
Andrea Ferguson (212) 981-5242/ Andrea_Ferguson@DKCnews.com

ABOUT HOT 97

WQHT-NY/HOT 97, is the world's first all Hip Hop station and has held the dominant position in New York for over nine years. HOT 97 is best known for it's celebrity on air talent, such as Miss Jones, Angie Martinez (Grammy nominated artist) and Funkmaster Flex (television host, multiple gold records), as well as being the world's premier source for Hip Hop music culture.

Source: HOT 97 FM (WQHT)

CONTACT: Andrea Ferguson of Dan Klores Communications, +1-212-981-5242,
Andrea_Ferguson@DKCnews.com for HOT 97 FM (WQHT)

Web site: http://www.hot97.com/
http://www.ticketmaster.com/

BET's 106 & PARK and Tom Cruise Travel to Harlem on Special Assignment to Launch '106: IMPOSSIBLE'

Cast Members Ving Rhames, Laurence Fishburne and Michelle Monaghan Join Tom Cruise, Kanye West and Many More on the Red Carpet for the Exclusive BET Premiere of MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE III

*Event Unleashes on Wednesday, May 3 @ 6:00 p.m. ET*

NEW YORK, April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- LIVE from Magic Johnson Theatres in Harlem, BET's flagship music countdown show, 106 & PARK, goes undercover as 106: IMPOSSIBLE to produce the most action packed, premiere of MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE III yet. Hosted by Big Tigger and Julissa with special red carpet correspondent, Terrance the ultimate mission will include a live remote taping of our Top 10 Live Countdown, a Lamborghini by way of boat arrival for Cruise, a celebrity red carpet, exclusive interviews, and an "Agent Ethan Hunt" top secret get away all occurring on Wednesday, May 3 @ 6:00 p.m. As long time friend of BET, and no stranger to "106," Cruise brings along cast members Ving Rhames, Laurence Fishburne, and Michelle Monaghan to promote their pulse racing action thriller.

ABOUT 106 & PARK

As BET's highest rated music series of all time, 106 & PARK has quickly become the leading music video countdown show on television. Live from New York City, the most energetic show on the planet comes fully equipped with an incredible audience and exclusive live performances. And there's more, 106 & PARK allows fans to vote for the videos that they would like to see on the countdown via the networks website: BET.com. 106 & PARK is compared heavily with MTV's TRL but the numbers show the two can't compete -- THE PARK is the number one slot among black households.

ABOUT BET

BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom, Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 81 million households according to Nielsen media research, and can be seen in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of businesses extensions: BET.com, the Number 1 Internet portal for African Americans; BET Digital Networks -- BET J, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; and BET Mobile, a service venture into the lucrative world of ring tones, games and video content for wireless devices.

Visit us @ http://www.bet.com/

Source: BET (Black Entertainment Television)

CONTACT: Marcy Polanco, +1-212-975-4048, Marcy.Polanco@BET.net, or
Tricia N. Newell, +1-212-975-8230, Tricia.Newell@BET.net, both of BET

Web site: http://www.bet.com/

Rap Fest 2006 - An All Day, Outdoor, Free, Gospel Hip Hop Event in The Bronx, NY

Rap Fest is an all day, outdoor, free, Gospel Hip Hop event in the Bronx, NY. Our goal is to evangelize communities through hip hop music and offer them an opportunity to trust in God as a solution to their everyday problems and help in their times of trouble.

Bronx, NY (PRWEB) April 27, 2006 -- On August 12, 2006, from 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Resurrection Christian Center in the Bronx, hosts the Twelfth Annual Rap Fest. This will be the first time that RCC hosts this powerful evangelistic event. Rap Fest 2006 will feature 26 Rap Ministries (groups) from various cities, states and countries. This year’s confirmed artists include Ason [MD], Bobby Bishop [MA], Brothers Inc. [NY], Carriers of the Cross [NJ], Crossed Out [NY], Daarinah [NJ], Daniel Johnson [NY], D.J. P. Dogg and Humble Tip [VA], Jirah [PA], K Drama [OH], Lavoisier [NY], Mark J [GA], Markilo Allen [UT], Rawsrvnt [FL], R.I.C.O.N. [NC], Richie Righteous [NY], Runaway [NJ], Shekinah [MA], Solomon Starr [NY], The Quest [MI], Todd Bangz [NY], TRUCE [NY], Urban D [FL], Viktory [IL], and Von Vargas [MD].

There will be a host of DeeJays including DJ NuMan [NY], DJ Essence [PA] and DJ Tony Tone [NY]. All participants will be displaying, not only their talents and passion for the history of hip hop, but their love for God and desire to worship Him with their gifts and abilities.

Last year throughout the course of the day, several thousand people visited Rap Fest 2005. Due to heavy promotion via the Internet through our live video stream courtesy of UnoRed.com, radio, television (past BET, WNJU and other shows) as well as great promotion spreading by word of mouth, we anticipate an even greater turnout this year. This is a free outdoor event. Press passes are available on site for all media personnel attending.

Rap Fest 2006 will take place on Marmion Avenue between 175th Street and 176th Street in the Bronx, NY.

For general questions or historical information regarding Rap Fest, Inc. events, contact: Rap Fest, Inc., 2555 Mickle Avenue, Bronx, NY 10469 Tel: (917) 687 - 2580; Web Site: http://www.rapfest2000.com

Rap Fest 2006 features 30,000 watts of sound, 26 rap ministries, and 8 Hours of non stop Gospel hip hop music, all for 1 God, Jesus Christ. The goal of Rap Fest is to evangelize communities through hip hop music and offer them an opportunity to trust in God as a solution to their everyday problems in their times of trouble.

###

Humberto Bocachica
RAP FEST, INC.
http://www.rapfest2000.com/
917-687-2580

RMD Entertainment Secures Exclusive Right to Negotiate Multimedia Distribution for "The Game, Stop Snitchin - Stop Lyin" DVD

PHILADELPHIA, PA -- (Market Wire - Apr 27, 2006) --  RMD Entertainment Group (OTC: RMDG) announced today that they have secured the right to negotiate all multimedia distribution for the controversial "The Game, Stop Snitchin - Stop Lyin" DVD. Multi-platinum rapper "The Game" is behind the project, which has been called the most controversial DVD in hip-hop history.

The DVD was a retail success, selling out in most 'brick and mortar' locations the moment it hit the shelves. RMD plans to capitalize on this by making it available in peripheral markets as well. Aside from securing the right to be the first to utilize this content in the mobile arena by making it available on their own MoTV platform exclusively, RMD is currently pursuing content agreements with media platforms like Video On Demand, Pay Per View, and traditional cable vehicles.

RMD CEO Giorgio Costonis commented, "This particular project represents the type of content we like to make available to the public through our various distribution models. Not only will this provide extremely valuable incentive for the mobile community to explore MoTV, but the people also deserve options with regard to how they view content -- which is why we would like to facilitate the availability of The Game's DVD in the Pay-Per-View and VOD arenas as well. We are here to ensure public access to the best content available. Although this content has been seen as extremely controversial, we are looking at our involvement in the project as a business decision that was made to benefit our shareholder base. Management feels this project will continue our push to bring in significant revenues in 2006 and beyond. We continue to focus our goals on a three stage program of 1. Becoming profitable for the first time in our history. 2. Making all three subsidiaries profitable. 3. Bringing in enough revenue to justify becoming a fully reporting company and consequently making a move to bulletin board status."

RMDG also announced that several other significant media content deals were being consummated at the time of this release and announcements can be expected shortly once they are completed.

About RMD Entertainment Group.

RMD Entertainment (RMD) is a cutting-edge entertainment company with a primary focus on selling hip-hop music internationally. Additionally, the company markets other Hip Hop lifestyle products to its music audience. RMD has a vast worldwide distribution network for its music to be sold to the end consumer in compact disc formats, digital downloads, and personal ring tones for mobile customers. RMD's hip-hop catalogue is exclusively distributed by Bungalo Records in North America, which is exclusively distributed by Universal Music Group -- while European distribution is handled entirely by the Pickwick Group of London England.

RMD is a company with well over 60 years combined experience in the music industry. Its staff producers have collaborated with some of the most influential names in the music scene today, such as Sting, David Byrne of the Talking Heads, George Kranz, Freedom Williams of C & C Music Factory, Steve Winwood, Robin Scott, and jazz saxophone legend Bill Evans, among others.

About Sciax Technology

Sciax Technology is an emerging company in defense imaging systems for law enforcement and military personnel engaged in counter-terrorism and other special security operations. Sciax America Inc. and Sciax Technology Inc. are wholly owned subsidiaries of RMD Entertainment Group (www.rmd-entertainment.com). This release contains forward-looking statements with respect to the results of operations and businesses of Sciax Technology Inc., Sciax America Inc., RMD Entertainment Inc. and RMD Entertainment Group, which involve risks and uncertainties. The company's actual future results could materially differ from those discussed. Risks and uncertainties of the company will be detailed from time to time in the company's periodic reports. The company intends that such statements about the company's future expectations, including future revenues and enforcement and defense imaging system earnings, entertainment product earnings, and all other forward-looking statements, be subject to the "safe harbor" provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

This release contains forward-looking statements with respect to the results of operations and businesses of Sciax Technology Inc., Sciax America Inc. RMD Entertainment Inc. and RMD Entertainment Group, which involve risks and uncertainties. The company's actual future results could materially differ from those discussed. Risks and uncertainties of the company will be detailed from time to time in the company's periodic reports. The company intends that such statements about the company's future expectations, including future revenues and enforcement and defense imaging system earnings, entertainment product earnings, and all other forward-looking statements, be subject to the "safe harbor" provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

CONTACT:
Jed Wallace
Publicist
Phone: (310) 234-3200
jwallace@mphpr.com

Mass Brawl Forces Jump Off TVs $2000 ‘Spin The Mic’ Rap Competition onto the Streets(New York)

Mon 24th April, Club TNY played host to the UKs Jump Off TV $2000 Spin The Mic MC Rap Battle Competition.  Moments before the final, a fight broke out in the audience between two ladies, which escalated into a mass brawl involving bouncers and members of different entourages.  Shortly after security had the situation under control, but the clubs management decided to close down the event.
 
Drama overshadowing Hip Hop events in New York City is nothing new, and with 5 MCs left and $2000 cash to be won, the organizers were determined that Hip Hop would come out on top and made a decision to finish the competition on the street outside the club.
 
The final saw Illmaculate(Portland) beating Quest Mcody(Detroit) to take the cash and the 5ft Spin The Mic trophy.  Full story on http://www.jumpoff.tv/news.php?SN=2006-04-27_c.  Spin The Mic 2006 DVD to be released July.

CONTACT:
Harold Anthony
harry@jumpoff.tv
+ 1 212 203 1200 (USA)
+ 44 7956 583 221(UK)
www.jumpoff.tv

SUBSTANCE ABUSE OVERPROOF (THRESHOLD RECORDS) IN STORES NOW!

"Overproof is the debut album and dammit Ill say it a 2006 classic!" -- Peak Street

"Instead of merely being nostalgic, S.A. pushes music forward by avoiding what is trendy and what has already been done by staying focused on what they love..." -- Jive Magazine (4 out of 5 stars)

As opposed to groups who either force change or resist it, the hip-hop group Substance Abuse embraces a natural progression. The trio creates earnest hip-hop music, combining equal measures of intelligence, clarity, innovation, and polish to evoke the unpretentious consciousness of the Golden Age era, while avoiding corny retro posturing. After gaining much acclaim for their collaboration with MF Doom on the infectious "Profitless Thoughts," Substance Abuse is ready to drop their long awaited full length, "Overproof," a term signifying "more than ample evidence" of S.A.'s eminent dopeness.

Group members Eso Tre and Subz grew up together in Los Angeles, where they became hip-hop fans at an early age. In high school, the duo could often be found in the audience at the legendary Unity events that have since come to define the progressive LA hip-hop scene of the early 90s. Inspired by those shows emphasis on positive _expression through creative art, the friends began working on their own music.

Substance Abuses first release was a 1998 EP with Santa Barbara's mic.edu called Brand New Crime on Rocketship Records. The project received extensive college radio airplay and critical praise, and led to the filming of a video for the track Spontaneous Egos?, directed by independent filmmaker Jesse Felsot. The clip became a favorite of underground West Coast video shows and is currently available for viewing online at Sputnik7 (www.sputnik7.com). This was followed by the filming of the video for Night on the Town? featuring Kool Keith, which can be viewed at www.threshrecs.com

Throughout the next year, Eso Tre and Subz bolstered their reputations as crowd movers with a series of performances sharing the stage with mic legends such as Souls of Mischief and Aceyalone. In turn, the group's lyrical prowess earned them a slot on Sway and Tech's Wake-Up Show, where they premiered the lead track from their debut single, "What the Fuck You Rhymin' For?" Finally, S.A. was named in URB magazines Next 100? last year as a new group to watch.
The name doesnt have anything to do with getting faded,? explains MC Eso, who adds that their name is commonly misunderstood. Abuse is a word which correlates with excess, and we are excessively concerned with interjecting substance in the music.?

Overproof includes contributions from Saafir, Kool Keith, Motion Man, Kutmasta Kurt, P.E.A.C.E., Rasco, Thes-One, and MF Doom.

For more info:
www.myspace.com/substanceabuse
www.weapon-shaped.com/substanceabuse

Overproof is available at all good retailers, including:
UndergroundHipHop.com: http://www.undergroundhiphop.com/store/detail.asp?UPC=THR6503CD
Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F8DTRS/002-2224243-7333640?v=glance&n=5174
HipHopSite.com: http://www.hiphopsite.com/search/?ITEM=42996640-05A2-4B0E-A772-B114F49D750F
TheMerchGirl.com: http://www.themerchgirl.com/suabcd.html
Rocking Horse: http://www.rockinghorse.net/rap.php
-----------------------------------------------------
Lucy Beer
Elemental Consulting
AOL IM: loulou76yo
www.elemental-consulting.com/blogger.html
www.myspace.com/elementalc
[online marketing :: music :: lifestyle :: entertainment]

BOSTON’S GOLDENCHILD, DRE ROBINSON SET TO RELEASE HIS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SOLO LP, TITLED “THIS IS ME”

SCHEDULED TO BE RELEASED BY MASS APPEAL ENTERTAINMENT ON JUNE 20TH, 2006
 
(New York, NY – April 27, 2006)  Boston native and lyrical genius, Dre Robinson is set to release his highly anticipated debut solo LP, titled “This is Me”.  Dre Robinson, a name synonymous with Boston’s underground Hip-hop community, is ready to bring his hometown to the forefront of Hip-hop.  “This is Me”, which will be released on independent label, Mass Appeal Entertainment, will hit shelves on June 20th, distributed through Universal Music Group’s Fontana Distribution.  
 
“This Is Me” is a gritty and passionate depiction of life in the ghetto’s of Boston.   Also known as “The Mass Jewel”, Dre is an underground phenom who brings an authenticity to his music that few in the industry can claim.  With guest appearances by Hip-hop favorites Mobb Deep, Jae Millz, Papoose, Remy Ma, Dancehall legend Lexxus and hometown crew The Jacob Family, “This is Me” is sure to bring Dre Robinson much deserved mainstream success. 
 
The street buzz has already begun on Dre’s debut album with the leak of “Be So Cold” featuring NYC’s hottest commodities Jae Millz and Papoose.  “Be So Cold” is an ode to the streets that is sure to please hard core Hip-hop fans around the globe. Radio stations nationwide will be serviced with the album’s official smash single “Oh Yeah” on May 1.  Dre has already received significant radio play with hitmaker Marcus “DL” Siskind produced track “Get Right” remix featuring Mobb Deep.  “Get Right” garnered attention in the clubs and on mixshow play lists of the nation’s biggest DJ’s last year.  “This is Me” will also include “No, No, No”, a collaboration with dancehall giant Lexxus and club ready “Ghetto Mistress” featuring Remy Ma.
 
“It makes me feel good to see people gravitating towards my music, said Dre Robinson.  “It’s amazing how much support I’ve been getting throughout the years with my mixtapes on the underground circuit and I’m looking forward to bringing something new to Hip-hop and sharing my music with the world.”
 
Having received major media attention with feature stories in The Source Magazine, The Boston Globe, The Boston Phoenix, www.bostonrap.com, and radio stations across the country, Dre Robinson is ready to put Boston on the map and show the world who he is.
 
About Mass Appeal Entertainment
Owned and operated by Producer/Writer Marcus “DL” Siskind (Backstreet Boys, Lauryn Hill, Queen Latifah, etc.)  Mass Appeal Entertainment is a Boston, MA based company with a multitude of artists currently signed from various musical genres.  In 2005, Mass Appeal entered into a multi-year venture with the Universal Music Group’s Fontana Distribution to distribute all projects. Mass Appeal also has divisions in Publishing (Shakertown Music is a joint venture with Sony/ATV Publishing) and a Recording facility (world class Blue Jay Recording studio co-owned with Kevin Richardson from the Backstreet Boys).  Releasing highly-anticipated albums by artists such as the legendary Lisa Lisa (from Lisa Lisa and the Cult Jam), Boston’s Hiphop star Dre Robinson, and Singer/Songwriter Ryan Toby (formerly of City High), Mass Appeal Entertainment is an independent force taking the music industry by storm.
# # # #
 
Gina Torres
Account Supervisor
5W Public Relations (www.5wpr.com)
Entertainment + Lifestyle
45 W. 45th Street, 5th Floor
New York, NY 10036
W: 212.999.5585 x 220
F: 646.328.1711
e-mail: gtorres@5wpr.com
Cell: (646) 221-9100

BlackPlanet.com Launching Nationwide Hip Hop Talent Search

The anchor feature of BlackPlanet.com’s star-studded Black Music Month celebration coming this June is Wired for Battle an online American Idol style talent contest where members will compete to be named the best Hip Hop artist on BlackPlanet.com. Beginning on April 12th BlackPlanet.com members can enter the contest by submitting an original Hip Hop song online. During the month of May the contestants will be judged by the BlackPlanet.com membership in weekly online elimination rounds. At the end of the elimination rounds the final five finalists will be flown to New York City to perform in The Final Battle on June 21st before a live audience and a music industry insider panel of judges including Styles P from Ruff Ryder / Interscope records. The event will be broadcast live over the web on BlackPlanet.com.

BlackPlanet Music Month will also feature Mary J. Blige, D-Roc from Da Muzicianz, Kelis, Saul Williams, Smitty, Pitbull and Rhymefest in weekly live online chats. More celebrity chat guests are expected to be announced.

In addition to the celebrity chats and Hip Hop talent search, BlackPlanet Music Month will present several highly engaging multimedia and interactive features designed to immerse the visitor in the world of music. Features include Double Take, an interactive “separated at birth” game and The Golden Mic Awards where members can vote for their favorite artists and songs in a variety of categories.

Early response to promotion for the event on BlackPlanet.com has been huge with the pre-launch site averaging over 100,000 visitors per week. The event is expected to break all traffic records on BlackPlanet.com which already receives over four million monthly unique visitors and is the highest trafficked African American community site online today.

For more information about BlackPlanet Music Month contact:
Greg Remillard, Director Sales Marketing
gremillard@communityconnect.com
212-431-4477 ext. 518

About Community Connect, Inc.
Community Connect is the leader in online community destinations for U.S. ethnic groups and the 18th largest U.S. web property, measured in page views. With more than 16 million registered members across our three sites -- AsianAvenue.com, BlackPlanet.com and MiGente.com -- and more than eight years of experience in building online destinations, Community Connect is the definitive source for reaching ethnic audiences. Our members return to our sites daily to interact with people of similar backgrounds and interests, to establish meaningful relationships, to find jobs and to read about the latest news in politics, culture, music, entertainment. To find out more about Community Connect, go to www.communityconnect.com.

# # #

Contact:
Greg Remillard
Community Connect Inc
Phone: 212-431-4477 ext. 518
Fax: 212-505-5483
gremillard@communityconnect.com
http://www.blackplanet.com

AT&T Blue Room Positioned to Become Online Destination for Webcasts of Top Music Events of '06

Innovative Online Music Portal Turns 1 Year Old, Offers Visitors Streaming Video of Some of This Year's Biggest Music Events and Festivals

SAN ANTONIO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 27, 2006--Don't have tickets to Coachella? Can't snag a couch in Austin to crash on for ACL this year? Mom won't let you borrow the wheels to drive to Tennessee for Bonnaroo? No worries, AT&T (NYSE:T - News) will deliver exclusive webcasts right to the comfort of your living room, bedroom or office.

The AT&T Blue Room, (http://blueroom.att.com) an online portal featuring exclusive musical content, in-studio interviews, live performances, and unedited commentary of chart-topping artists is celebrating its first birthday. This bash includes a yearlong lineup of streaming video over the Web, giving fans who can't be at the hottest shows in person the opportunity to see them in real time and at no charge.

Kicking off the 2006 season, the AT&T Blue Room will feature exclusive performances from some of the more than 95 bands taking part in this year's Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival (April 29 - 30, 2006). Following the event, much of the content will be archived on the Blue Room (http://blueroom.att.com) allowing fans to relive the festival experience. A full list of acts and additional festival details are available at www.coachella.com.

In addition, the AT&T Blue Room festival schedule will include:

* Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, Manchester, Tenn.: June 16 - 18, 2006
* Lollapalooza 2006, Chicago, Ill.: Aug. 4 - 6, 2006
* Austin City Limits Music Festival, Austin, Texas: Sept. 15 - 17, 2006

Festival lineups and specific details will be announced closer to each event. Since it launched a year ago, the AT&T Blue Room has offered more than 1,000 exclusive video music clips and delivered behind-the-scenes access to big-name music events, like Lollapalooza, Vegoose and Austin City Limits Music Festival.

"In its inaugural year, AT&T Blue Room blew away music fans with its wide range of content,-- from country music newcomers to alternative rock legends and everything in between -- and this year, as we deliver even more, we're positioned to become one of the top online destinations for exclusive music festival webcasts," said Scott Helbing, chief marketing officer, AT&T Consumer. "As we attract more and more visitors to the AT&T Blue Room, we have the opportunity to introduce AT&T products and services to a whole new generation of customers."

AT&T Blue Room is part of a strategic initiative to link the AT&T brand to premier communications and entertainment experiences, as well as to fuel sales and demonstrate how key products and services offered by AT&T such as AT&T Yahoo!® High Speed Internet and AT&TDISH Network Satellite TV can meet increasing consumer demands for value, choice and convenience.

To experience the AT&T Blue Room, visit http://blueroom.att.com.

About the New AT&T

AT&T Inc. is one of the world's largest telecommunications holding companies and is the largest in the United States. Operating globally under the AT&T brand, AT&T companies are recognized as the leading worldwide providers of IP-based communications services to business and as leading U.S. providers of high speed DSL Internet, local and long distance voice, and directory publishing and advertising services. AT&T Inc. holds a 60 percent ownership interest in Cingular Wireless, which is the No. 1 U.S. wireless services provider with 55.8 million wireless customers. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and AT&T products and services is available at www.att.com.

© 2006 AT&T Knowledge Ventures. All rights reserved. Subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. provide products and services under the AT&T brand.

Contact:
AT&T Inc.
Tiffany Nels, 512-963-6357
tnels@attnews.us
----------------------------------------------
Source: AT&T Inc.

Let the Spittin' Begin - LiveDigital and Jin the Emcee Pass the Mic to Thousands of Aspiring Battle Rappers

LiveDigital.com Hosts First Ever Interactive WebCam Freestyle Battle Rap Tournament

LOS ANGELES, April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- LiveDigital.com and Jin the Emcee are teaming up to find the next ground-breaking, raw and talented battle rap newcomer through their revolutionary interactive video event -- Spitcam (http://www.livedigital.com/contest/spitcam). Using the latest and most innovative multimedia platform on the web, LiveDigital will greatly enhance the digital lifestyle of their rapidly growing online community as hip hop hopefuls the world over duke it out for the respect of the international battle rap superstar Jin the Emcee.

Aspiring emcees who want to take their wordplay to the next level can submit their 60-second videos of verbal assault to Spitcam, and encourage their digital connections to log on and vote dope (thumbs up) or wack (thumbs down). Spitcam's tournaments provide a platform for up and coming freestylers to promote their sounds with LiveDigital's powerful broadcasting tools and become a part of the dynamic and diverse LiveDigital community.

"Over the years, battling online with audio has become its own culture," said Jin. "That's why I worked with LiveDigital to put Spitcam together. We're bringing the whole phenomenon to the next level. Now not only can you make diss audios about your opponent, but you can actually have a visual with those rhymes. Step up to the Spitcam challenge. Let the battling begin."

Each Spitcam contest winner will be awarded $1,000, a spot in the Spitcam Hall of Fame and the hard-earned respect of freestyle phenomenon Jin the Emcee (106 & Park Hall of Famer and 2 Time 50K FightKlub Champion).

Some of the biggest names in hip-hop got their start battle rapping, a competition in which two emcees stand face to face and take turns verbally attacking and spitting rhymes against the other. After going through the predetermined number of rounds, the audience decides which emcee walks away the victor.

Each Spitcam competition begins with an open call for entries for all LiveDigital community members. Using a bracket system, the top eight entries will be paired off for their first battle; the four winners of the first battle will be paired off for a second battle; and the two winners of the second battle will then face off for a final battle and a chance to win $1,000.

"The Spitcam competition is the first interactive and digital competition of its kind. Spitcam is an excellent demonstration of LiveDigital's platform capabilities to facilitate the creation of original art and self expression while fostering community," said Lawrence Ng, CEO of LiveDigital's parent company Oversee.net. "The universal appeal of LiveDigital is that it empowers, creates and fosters interaction, while providing the best multimedia tools available, allowing for communal self-expression -- ultimately enhancing a user's digital lifestyle."

About LiveDigital.com

LiveDigital's comprehensive multimedia platform, tightly integrated set of publishing, communication and networking features support and enable the social web like never before. Users can engage, create, and share their personalized content online in a multitude of ways for a more meaningful experience. For more information, visit http://www.livedigital.com/.

About Oversee.net

Oversee.net is a technology-driven media company. Headquartered in Los Angeles, the Company has over 150 employees and offices in Northern California and New York. The Company has been growing profitably since inception. To learn more, visit http://www.oversee.net/.

Source: LiveDigital

CONTACT: Will Ostedt, wostedt@ppmgcorp.com, or Landon Cowan,
lcowan@ppmgcorp.com, both of The Pollack PR Marketing Group, +1-310-556-4443,
for LiveDigital

Web site: http://www.livedigital.com/
http://www.livedigital.com/contest/spitcam
http://www.oversee.net/

Chamillionaire 'Ridin' High' With #1 Record

#1 at Rhythm Crossover

#1 of greatest gainer on R&B Mainstream building chart

#1 most played video on MTV2

#1 most played video on BET

#1 selling UMRG ringtone

#1 hip-hop video on AOL

NEW YORK, April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Universal Motown Records hip-hop artist Chamillionaire is ridin' an unprecedented tidal wave of across-the-board success, propelled by the second single "Ridin," from his debut album The Sound Of Revenge. "Ridin," featuring Krayzie Bone, is currently the #1 record at Rhythm Crossover radio, the #1 Greatest Gainer at R&B Mainstream and the #1 Most Requested Record with females across the country at urban radio. The "Ridin," video is also currently the #1 Most Played clip on both MTV2 and BET, captivating the attention of music fans nationwide.

Chamillionaire is also taking over on the digital domain, receiving more than 3 million hits on the popular fan destination site Myspace.com, and is establishing an unparalleled on-line presence by claiming the #1 most visited web site on the Universal Motown roster. The prolific rapper is also topping the surging mobile sales market, becoming Universal Music Group's #1 selling ringtone artist, as well as owning the #1 hip-hop video on AOL.

The scorching debut album, The Sound Of Revenge sales have steadily increased for the past eight weeks and is rapidly moving up the Billboard Top 200 Album chart, jumping from #43 to #20 this past week.

In addition -- the tireless Houston native recently geared up for some lyrical smack with fans as the newest celebrity to participate in the Xbox Live "Game with Fame" on-line session. Chamillionaire joined fans live on April 18 in a 'live' gaming event which gives Xbox Live subscribers the opportunity to play and chat with some of music's hottest stars. Past celebrity players include Ludacris, The Strokes, and Incubus. The energetic live performer is also rolling through the country with fellow Houston native Lil' Flip, on the Texas Boyz Tour.

On the verge of becoming a 'household' hip-hop name, and praised by tomes like the NY Daily News, for his ability to "transform himself with a range of styles," Chamillionaire told one writer, recently: " ... It's great to see fans wearing a shirt with my face on it. It's crazy how people react when you speak with purpose."

The Sound Of Revenge, which features a top-tier roster of acclaimed producers and guest-artists, such as Kool & Dre (The Game), Scott Storch (50 Cent), David Banner, Mannie Fresh, and The Beat Bullies (Big Boi/Outkast), is nearing platinum, becoming one of the most successful hip-hop debuts of the year.

Source: Universal Motown Records

CONTACT: Vickie Charles, +1-212-373-0783, vickie.charles@umusic.com, for
Universal Motown Records

Web site: http://www.universalrecords.com/

Mad Linx From BET's 'Rap City' to Host The 2nd Annual Robert S. Shumake Scholarship Relays

Who: Mad Linx From BET's 'Rap City'

What: To Host The 2nd Annual Robert S. Shumake Scholarship Relays

Where: Martin Luther King High School, Detroit, MI

When: April 29th, 2006 @ 8:00 a.m.

Why: Mad Linx Teams Up with the Shumake Relays to Award Prizes and Scholarships to Outstanding H.S. Students from Across the Midwest

DETROIT, April 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Mad Linx, the host of the popular Black Entertainment Television (BET) show "Rap City," will host the 2nd Annual Robert S. Shumake Scholarship Relays on April 29, 2006 at Martin Luther King Jr. High School (3200 East Lafayette St., Detroit, MI). Track and field teams from high schools all across the Midwest will come face to face in competition in Detroit to vie for scholarships and prizes.

"What better way to give back to the community than to get involved with the Shumake Relays, which helps talented athletes and academic achievers make their college dreams come true? What Robert Shumake has created is a dream machine and I want to be part of it," says Mad Linx. "I am looking forward to not only seeing the races, but also meeting these students -- Our next generation of leaders."

Sanctioned by the USA Track and Field Association, the Robert S. Shumake Family Scholarship Relays brings together students to compete for individual and team trophies and college scholarships.

Founded by former Detroit all-city track star, businessman Robert Shumake, CEO of Inheritance Investment Group, the event is fast becoming one of the top relays in the country. It is already the largest high school relay in Detroit. Shumake has long been committed to helping the youth obtain their dreams. Along with his many corporate contacts and connections, Robert has been able to provide scholarship funding for the relays. This unique track and field meet not only awards the winners with medals and trophies but also provides college scholarships to qualified participants. The scholarships are administered through the Detroit branch of United Negro College Fund.

To register or inquire about sponsorships, please visit the website at http://www.shumakerelays.com/ or call 248-443-0939.

For Press Information, Please Contact: S&S Associates (908) 221-1660
Tonya Payton
tonyapayton777@verizon.net

Source: Robert S. Shumake Foundation

CONTACT: Tonya Payton of S&S Associates, +1-908-221-1660,
tonyapayton777@verizon.net, for Robert S. Shumake Foundation

Web site: http://www.shumakerelays.com/

'MySpace Music Marketing' Tactics Revealed in New Book

Bob Baker Publishes First-Ever MySpace Music Promotion Guide

/24-7PressRelease/ - April 27, 2006 -- It's one of the great Internet success stories of the modern era. With more than 73 million registered users and nearly one million music acts setting up free profiles on the site, MySpace.com has become a godsend for countless independent artists -- including Relient K, My Chemical Romance, Arctic Monkeys, and Hawthorne Heights.

MySpace is now one of the top seven most popular web sites on the planet -- right up there with Google, Yahoo and Ebay in total visitors and page views.

According to author Bob Baker:

- If you're a musical artist and you aren't promoting yourself on MySpace yet, you need to start -- fast!

- If you already have a MySpace artist profile, you need to make the best use of it so you get the maximum exposure possible.

"For the past few months I've been researching MySpace and uncovering how the most successful acts use it to reach thousands of fans, make connections, and advance their music careers," says Baker, who is the author of "Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook" and editor of http://TheBuzzFactor.com/ and http://MusicPromotionBlog.com/ .

What Baker discovered along the way is that most artists misuse the many free features that MySpace offers and simply don't squeeze the most potential out of them.

"I searched far and wide for useful how-to information on MySpace music marketing ... and couldn't find any. Nothing," he says. "So I decided to publish something myself."

The result is a 68-page, first-ever, one-of-a-kind ebook called "MySpace Music Marketing: How to Promote and Sell Your Music on the World's Biggest Networking Web Site."

Sections include:

- How to Set Up a Killer MySpace Profile
- Using MySpace to Turbo-Charge Your Indie Music Career
- Artist Survey of 29 Successful Indie Musicians
- Bonus Section: 33 More Places to Network, Attract Fans, Post MP3s and Videos, Create Podcasts, and More

A paperback print version is scheduled for release in June 2006. More details can be found at http://MySpaceMusicMarketing.com/

Bob Baker is a writer, indie musician, and former music magazine editor who is dedicated to showing musicians of all kinds how to get exposure, connect with fans, sell more CDs, and increase their incomes through their artistic passions. His other titles include "Killer Music Press Kits," "50 Ways to Promote and Sell Your Music on the Internet," "What Every Musician Should Know About Self-Promotion," "Music Marketing Crash Course," "Unleash the Artist Within," and "Branding Yourself Online."

# # #

Press Release Contact Information:
Bob Baker
Spotlight Publications
Owner
E-Mail: bob@thebuzzfactor.com

MOE BETTA to host PZI model call for ladies with curves

PZI Jeans hosts model call Saturday, April 29th!
Deepside recording artist M.O.E. BETTA will join PZI jeans on Saturday, April 29th at the Compound as they search for a crop of new curvy beauties to represent PZI for the hot upcoming summer line!

Besides being featured in PZI promotional material and the hot upcoming catalog, one lucky winner will be featured in a photo shoot with M.O.E. BETTA.

GOT CURVES? PZI wants you!
* When: Saturday, April 29th
* 12 p.m until 4 p.m.
* Where: The Compound
* 1008 Brady Ave
* Atlanta, GA 30318
* Who: YOU!!

Join M.O.E. BETTA as he hosts the PZI model call and performs his brand new single "Wiggle It" (Platinum Brothers). There will also be a performance from hot new R&B singing sensation Devin Johnson, previously seen on American Idol.

You can get to know M.O.E. BETTA in the latest issue of the Source magazine, representing Fosho clothing.

Let PZI celebrate your curves, visit PZI at www.pzijeans.com, or at your nearest Macy's department store.

PZI Jeans is the ultimate fit for the woman with curves.

Learn more...
PZI Jeans

PZI jeans was designed for the woman with curves. With home offices in Stone Mountain, GA, PZI jeans has become a favorite with women everywhere. Check out our website and see stars like Tocarra (ANTM) and Trina (Atlantic) wearing PZI .
website http://www.pzijeans.com

Enchanted PR

Enchanted PR is a full service Public Relations agency that specializes in the entertainment industry. We combine creativity with public relations strategy to create customized campaigns individual to each and every client.
Website: http://www.enchantedpr.com

Enchanted PR
Christal Jordan-Mims
President
email: enchanted@comcast.net
phone: 678/499-0297

Soul Rebel Featured in Hip-Hop Play 'Samurai' and Mic Sean Selected by Motorola and Boost Mobile

Silver Spring , MD – Wednesday, April 26, 2006 – "If It Could Sing", a song written and performed by Mic Sean of Soul Rebel was recently featured in the Hip-Hop musical 'Samurai' which debuted at the University of Maryland – College Park on Thursday, April 13, 2006. Written by Jasmine Coles, 'Samurai' follows the ascent of an independent rap group. As they experience increasing success, life takes a turn for the worst when it is discovered that one of the group members is a homosexual. "If It Could Sing" is portrayed as the fictional group's lead single.

In addition to having his song featured in 'Samurai', Mic Sean of Soul Rebel was recently chosen by Motorola and Boost Mobile as one of twenty-five tastemakers from across the United States to receive an all expenses paid visit to New York City. During the visit Mic Sean took part in various panels during which he conversed with some of the industry's heavy hitters, such as Timbaland and Questlove to name a few.

Lastly, after taking some time off to focus on new recordings and other obligations, Soul Rebel is ready to touch the stage again. Actively pursuing dates through the summer months, Soul Rebel has already partnered up with The Lucky Cat in Brooklyn, NY to perform at the May 6th event entitled "love.LIFE.lyrics", and with Mirrors in Washington, DC to perform at the May 9th event "Pookie's Gallery". More information regarding both venues may be found at www.theluckycat.com and www.pookiesgallery.com respectively.

About Soul Rebel:

In 2004, Michael-Sean Spence, Jarrett Hines, and Brandon Smithson founded Soul Rebel Media, a multi-faceted media company that encompasses music, TV/film, and publishing industries with an urban and unique twist.  Spence and Smithson, also artists themselves, describe their music as soulful and honest yet uncompromised, separating them from your average rappers. Soul Rebel also includes R&B singers Devin Johnson, 19, a University of Maryland student, and Eric Lamont, 23, who is originally from North Carolina.  Their music can be sampled at www.soulrebelmedia.com

For information: www.soulrebelmedia.com
Contact: info@soulrebelmedia.com
Phone: 718-581-3164

ATL Hip Hop Film Fest hosts old-school block party, Saturday 4/29

ATLANTA HIPHOP FILM FESTIVAL BLOCK PARTY HOSTED BY 107.9's GRIFF ALONG WITH CELEBRITY GUEST JUDGES

The Atlanta HipHop Film Festival Block Party, sponsored by Fêva Management will host battle competitions in break-dancing, beat-boxing, emceeing, and deejaying. Prizes for competition include studio time at Patchwerk Recording Studios, a track produced by The Horsemen, cash and a pair of celebrity autographed boxing gloves. Competition slots are still available.

WHO:
* Griff: HOT 107.9 morning show personality & comedian
* DJ Wiz: Legendary DJ from Kid N' Play
* DJ Mars; Renowned DJ from the world famous Super Friends
* DJ Nabs: Veteran DJ, Artistic Control Director of Writer Relations
* Adonis: Grammy award winning songwriter (My Boo -Usher/Alicia Keyes)
* Dean Jackson: Disturbing the Peace, A& R Representative
* Ian Burke: Former Creative Director for the Association of Songwriters, Composers, & Producers (ASCAP) CEO of Launch Pad Entertainment

WHEN:
* Saturday, April 29, 2006
* 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

WHERE:
* The Apex Museum Grounds
* 135 Auburn Ave.
* Atlanta, GA 30303

The Atlanta HipHop Film Festival is paying homage to five elements of graffiti, breakdancing, beat-boxing, deejaying, and emceeing by offering the community a chance to celebrate the hiphop culture.

More about the Atlanta HipHop Film Festival

HipHop has captured the fascination of young people from New York City’s South Bronx parks in the 70’s to the bullet trains of Tokyo today. These youth can be seen and heard expressing themselves through the language, fashion and music that are HipHop culture. The Atlanta HipHop Film Festival is dedicated to creating an event that encompasses all these elements mentioned bonded by the common thread of social responsibility to ensure positive, beneficial messages are conveyed to HipHop’s invaluable on-screen audience. The 2nd Annual Atlanta HipHop Film Festival takes place April 27-30, 2006. For more info on the Atlanta HipHop Film Festival, visit – www.AtlHipHopFilmFest.com or call (877) ATL-HHFF.

Learn more...
Enchanted PR
Christal Jordan-Mims
President
email: enchanted@comcast.net
phone: 678/499-0297

ChatterBox Publicity
Jonnice Slaughter
President
email: jonnice@chatterboxpublicity.com
phone: (678) 438-8820

2006 Memphis in May Beale Street Music Festival Line-Up includes Three 6 Mafia, Al Kapone and More

Memphis in May is just one week away and hundreds of thousands of people are ready for this year's Memphis in May Beale Street Music Festival going down May 5-7 at Tom Lee Park in Downtown Memphis.

Memphis, TN (PRWEB) April 26, 2006 -- Memphis in May is just one week away and everyone is ready for this year's Memphis in May Beale Street Music Festival going down May 5-7 once again at Tom Lee Park in Downtown Memphis. The weekend's rap/hip-hop line-up include a Friday performance by 2006 Oscar winners Three 6 Mafia on the Memphis in May AutoZone Stage; and a Saturday performance by Memphis rap veteran Al Kapone featuring the Bo-Keys on the Memphis in May Budweiser Stage. Three Six Mafia is currently on the road appearing on show after show with their latest being a suprise appearance on MTV's Punk'd hosted by Ashton Kutcher. Al Kapone, songwriter and producer of "Whoop That Trick" (Hustle and Flow), is currently in Virginia on business according to a MemphisRap.com source, but will definitely be back in his hometown of Memphis for his performance. Also, as always, tons of other special guests totaling over 60 acts are also set to perform at the Beale Street Music Festival on both AutoZone and Budweiser stages plus the Cellular South Stage.

Other popular artists from a wide variety of genres and styles (from Blues to Gospel, Alternative to Country, Rap to Rock, and Jazz to Pop and Soul) include non-other than Little Richard, George Clinton & Parliament/Funkadelic, Jerry Lee Lewis, Memphis' own Bar-Kays, Huey Lewis & The News, Booker T. & The MG’s, the "Godfather of Soul" James Brown, of course Memphis' "King of Blues" B.B. King, Bo Diddley, The Romantics, Memphis-born rock-favorite Egypt Central and many more. Visit the Memphis In May website for the entire history-making 2006 Beale Street Music Festival Line-Up along with performance times.

Memphis never sounded better for this annual International event now known across the globe for music, entertainment and good food. Festivities this year will include not only the 2006 Beale Street Music Festival but also once again the Memphis in May International Festival which this year salutes Costa Rica, the World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest, the Suntrust Sunset Symphony and more.

Visit Memphis In May official website for more information at www.memphisinmay.org or call 901-525-4611.

# # #

D Smith
MEMPHISRAP.COM
http://www.memphisrap.com/
901-405-1851

HALFTOOTH RECORDS PRESENTS: WORDSWORTH -- MIRROR MUSIC: THE DELUXE EDITION

IN STORES NOW!!

Wordsworths latest is so good its almost hard to describe - an indie hip-hop classic.
--Music Connection

"Mirror Music is one of the better albums, independent or mainstream, heard all year."
-- AllHipHop.com

"...Wordsworth is one of the most talented emcees alive..."
-- HipHopDx.com

"Always clever with the wordplay, his talent shines from the start-off cut"
-- The Source Magazine

"Wordsworth doesn't bother with empty recitations of big questions; instead, he plays to his strengths, telling stories and drawing characters you'll recognize no matter what hood you're from...Rating: XL"
-- XXL

Oddisee may be the best producer in Hip-Hop that you probably dont know yet
--AllHipHop.com

Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition hits stores everywhere today, April 25th!

Since its initial commercial release in 2004, and following its unprecedented critical success, unsurpassable achievements on urban radio, and phenomenal reception by fans, press, DJs and taste-makers alike, Wordsworth's Mirror Music is back and better than ever! Due to popular demand, Halftooth Records is reissuing the classic debut album from Wordsworth with a fresh and exciting twist. Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition is the definitive version of the certified-classic Hip-Hop album from the Brooklyn-bred microphone fiend Wordsworth. Now packaged as a limited edition 2-disc set, Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition includes the entire 20-track original Mirror Music album from Wordsworth with guest appearance from Masta Ace, Punchline, Oddisee and Kenn Starr and production by Ayatollah, Da Beatminerz, Oddisee and more, PLUS a special bonus CD entitled Oddisee Presents The Mirror Music Remixes, featuring 10 exclusive Mirror Music remixes by producer extraordinaire Oddisee.

In conjunction with the release of Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition, and in the spirit of Oddisees Mirror Music remixes, Halftooth Records presents two opportunities for budding producers to remix Wordsworth tracks from the release. Remix contests are currently running on Acid Planet
(http://www.acidplanet.com/contests/wordsworth) and HipHopSite.com (http://www.hiphopsite.com). In both cases, entries will be evaluated by David Schrager, president of Halftooth Records, as well as both Wordsworth and Oddisee, and the winning remixes will be featured on Halftooth Records next promo sampler. Check out http://www.hiphopsite.com and http://www.acidplanet.com/contests/wordsworth for full contest details and to see the other great prizes being offered by Halftooth Records to the winners and runners up.

Listen out for Not Fair (Oddisee Remix)? featuring Punchline from Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition as it impacts radio it was the #2 most added single at Rapnetwork.com last week and #3 most added at Rapattacklives.com.

And check out Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition/Oddisee Presents The Mirror Music Remixes currently being featured on the main Hip-Hop/Rap page of iTunes.com!

Both Mirror Music (Disc One of the 2-disc set Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition) and Oddisee Presents The Mirror Music Remixes (Disc Two of the 2-disc set Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition) are NOW AVAILABLE on iTunes!

Mirror Music can be downloaded from iTunes NOW at:
http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=E3o1rxt7j9E&offerid=78941&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fphobos.apple.com%2FWebObjects%2FMZStore.woa%2Fwa%2FviewAlbum%3Fp%3D63834287%26s%3D143441%26partnerId%3D30

Oddisee Presents The Mirror Music Remixes can be downloaded from iTunes NOW at:
http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=E3o1rxt7j9E&offerid=78941&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fphobos.apple.com%2FWebObjects%2FMZStore.woa%2Fwa%2FviewAlbum%3Fp%3D131951941%26s%3D143441%26partnerId%253D30
www.HALFTOOTH.COM

Label Contact:
David Schrager | Halftooth Records
info@halftooth.com| 212.989.9858

AND 1 Partners with AEG LIVE for 2006 Mix Tape(R) Tour

PAOLI, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 26, 2006--AND 1 is taking their Mix Tape(R) property to the next level with today's announcement of their new partnership with event company AEG LIVE, the second largest live entertainment company in the world. Today Lisa Fusco, GM of the Mix Tape Tour property within basketball footwear and apparel company AND 1, announced the company will work with AEG LIVE on producing the popular AND 1 Mix Tape Tour presented by Mountain Dew, now in its seventh year as the nation's premiere playground basketball event.

"We are so proud to have AEG LIVE as our tour partner," said Fusco. "This new partnership will allow AND 1 to bring streetball to an even bigger audience by leveraging AEG's touring and marketing expertise. In conjunction with AEG our Mix Tape games this summer will be hotter and more exciting than ever before."

The AND 1 Mix Tape Tour, a summer-long tour featuring the nation's best playground basketball players, will be in 25 cities from June 4th through August 25th. The Tour features the newly signed The Air Up There, Silk, Assassin and Bad Santa, as well as living legends Hot Sauce, Main Event, Half Man-Half Amazing, AO, Professor, Spyda and others taking on the best basketball talent each city can bring, with local ballers vying for a spot on the roster and an endorsement deal with AND 1.

"We are very excited to embark on this new partnership," said Shawn Hunter, President, AEG Sports. "We believe that a property like The AND 1 Mix Tape Tour, that so effectively and successfully blends together the worlds of sports and entertainment, will continue to have great growth potential. With AEG's variety of affiliated divisions and assets, this is clearly an event that our organization will continue to invest more and more resources in the coming years."

AND 1's series of basketball videos and DVDs known as the 'AND 1 Mix Tapes' have attained cult status among hard-core ball players. After more than a year of giving away the mix tapes featuring footage of little known local players paired with new hip-hop music, AND 1 took the show on the road for a three-city test. Now, seven years later, the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour has reached close to 1 million basketball fans and elevated the Mix Tape Tour players to international icons. This summer the tour will hit 25 major cities, each hosting an Open Run, expo area and major game. In every city, Open Run participants will be vying for an endorsement contract and may be featured on the fifth season of "Streetball: The AND 1 Mix Tape Tour presented by Mountain Dew" on ESPN2 this summer.

Tickets will go on sale nationally this Saturday, April 29th; for more information check out www.and1.com. AND 1 thanks its presenting partner Mountain Dew, and additional Tour partners Boost Mobile, KFC, the U.S. Army, Finish Line, Old Spice Red Zone, Ubisoft, Greyhound, Rockford Fosgate and The Truth, as well as others to be announced.

The 2006 AND 1 MIX TAPE TOUR SCHEDULE:

1- Sunday, June 4th Los Angeles, CA Home Depot Center
2- Wed., June 7th Oakland, CA Oakland Arena
3- Sunday, June 11th Portland, OR Rose Garden
4- Thursday, June 15th Salt Lake City, UT The E Center
5- Monday, June 19th Phoenix, AZ US Airways Center
6- Thursday, June 22nd Denver, CO Denver Coliseum
7- Sunday, June 25th San Antonio, TX Freeman Coliseum
8- Wed., June 28th Houston, TX Reliant Arena
9- Sunday, July 2nd Kansas City, MO Kemper Arena
10- Thursday, July 6th Minneapolis, MN Target Center
11- Sunday, July 9th Milwaukee, WI US Cellular Arena
12- Thursday, July 13th Indianapolis, IN Conseco Fieldhouse
13- Sat., July 15th Chicago, IL United Center
14- Thursday, July 20th Detroit, MI Cobo Arena
15- Monday, July 24th Cleveland, OH Wolstein Center
16- Thursday, July 27th Louisville, KY Freedom Hall
17- Sunday, July 30th Atlanta, GA Gwinnett Center
18- Thursday, Aug. 3rd Miami, FL Bank United Center
19- Sunday, Aug. 6th Orlando, FL UCF Arena
20- Wed., Aug. 9th Raleigh, NC RBC Center
21- Sat., Aug. 12th Washington, D.C. Verizon Center
22- Wed., Aug. 16th Norfolk, VA Constant Center
23- Sat., Aug. 19th Philadelphia, PA Wachovia Center
24- Tuesday, Aug. 22nd Boston, MA TD Banknorth Garden
25- Friday, Aug. 25th New York, NY Madison Square Garden

ABOUT AND 1:
Founded in 1993, AND 1 makes basketball footwear and apparel for players with serious game. The company that first made its mark in the apparel industry with a line of "in your face" trash talk tee shirts now offers a complete product line for basketball players, including performance shoes, shorts, tees, sleeveless tees, pants, team uniforms, licensed collegiate gear, accessories and other products. Brand revenues have grown from $1 million in 1993 to more than $150 million in 2005. AND 1 footwear and apparel is sold in more than 130 countries around the world and worn by the New Zealand, Slovenian, Puerto Rican and Turkish national basketball teams. AND 1 endorsers include Marcus Camby (Denver Nuggets), Rafer Alston (Houston Rockets) and Bobby Jackson (Memphis Grizzlies) as well as the world-renown streetballers the AND 1 Mix Tape(R) Tour players including Main Event, AO, the Professor and others. For more information, visit www.and1.com. AND 1 is owned by American Sporting Goods (ASG).

ABOUT AEG:
AEG is one of the leading sports and entertainment presenters in the world. AEG, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Anschutz Company, owns or controls a collection of companies including facilities such as STAPLES Center, The Forum (as exclusive booking agent for sports and entertainment programming), Toyota Sports Center, Anaheim Arena (as preferred booking agent), NOKIA Theatre Times Square, NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie and London's Manchester Evening News Arena; sports franchises throughout the world including the Los Angeles Kings (NHL), Los Angeles Riptide (MLL) and four MLS franchises. In addition, AEG has recently developed and opened The Home Depot Center, a $150 million national training "campus" in Carson, California designated as an "Official U.S. Olympic Training Site" by the United States Olympic Committee that includes major facilities for soccer, tennis, track & field, cycling, action sports, beach volleyball, basketball and other sports. The company's live entertainment division, AEG LIVE is one of the world's leading concert promotion and touring organization. For more information on AEG, visit www.aegworldwide.com.

Contacts
AND 1 PR
Mandy Murphy, 610-249-2420
mandy.murphy@and1.com

THE STORM TOUR

ACEYALONE / UGLY DUCKLING / THE PROCUSSIONS
DIVERSE / MAYDAY! / WREKONIZE

THE BEST INDEPENDENT LABELS JOIN FORCES to bring you The Storm Tour. Spanning 40 cities, The Storm Tour is an annual Hip Hop event, showcasing the best emerging independent Hip Hop artists. Created by Airport Management, The Storm Tour’s focus is to bring together ground breaking groups with ground breaking performances. Artists on the Storm Tour represent all corners of the US. With Aceyalone and Ugly Duckling from Southern Cali, The Procussions from Colorado, Diverse from Chicago, and Mayday! & Wrekonize from Miami; a kaleidoscope of hip hop is guaranteed.

Each artist on the tour is making a national impact with recent or soon-coming album releases, and the tour will be the amalgamation of every label’s marketing efforts and support.

The Storm Tour launches May 30th, and covers the US through July 16th.

RELEASE DATES

Aceyalone – Magnificent City – Decon Records – 2/7/06

Ugly Duckling – Bang for the Buck – Fat Beats Records – 4/11/06

The Procussions – 5 Sparrows for 2 Cents – Rawkus Records – 5/30/06

Diverse – Round About – Chocolate Industries – Fall 06

TOURDATES

May 30 – Jul 16

5/30    San Diego, CA     Belly Up
5/31    Los Angeles, CA  Safari Sam's
6/1      San Jose, CA       TBA
6/2      San Francisco, CA  Mezzanine
6/3     Sacramento, CA     Stoney Inn
6/4     Eugene , OR         TBC
6/6     Seattle, WA         Chop Suey
6/7     Portland, OR         Berbati's Pan
6/8     Boise, ID             Nerolux
6/9     Salt Lake, UT     Urban Lounge
6/10   Jackson Hole, WY Mangy Moose
6/11   Denver, CO          Marqui
6/12   Boulder, CO         Fox Theatre
6/13   Colo. Spgs, CO    Black Sheep

The Following Cities Are TBC:
Lawrence, KS
Omaha, NE
Minneapolis, MN
Milwaukee, WI
Chicago, IL
Cleveland, OH
Toronto, CAN
Montreal, CAN
New York, NY
Boston, MA
Providence, RI
Hartford, CT
Brooklyn, NY
Philadelphia, PA
Washington DC
Raleigh, NC
Atlanta, GA
Orlando, FL
Miami, FL
New Orleans, LA
Austin, TX
Houston, TX
Albuquerque, NM
Phoenix, AZ
Long Beach, CA

CONTACT
General - Mike Merriman - Airport Management
213-481-8324 / adict@theprocussions.com
Booking - Jason Swartz - Commission Agency
323-938-4205 / j.swartz@ix.netcom.com

Tupac Amaru Shakur Center for the Arts Announces Open Auditions For 2006 Summer Performing Arts Camp

Sunday, April 30, 2006 from 2:00 – 8:00 PM

Audition Information
Date:
Sunday,
April 30, 2006

Time: 2:00pm-8:00pm

Location: 5616 Memorial Drive, Stone Mountain, GA 30083

Criteria:
Age: 12 - 18
Must come prepared for the following:

Dance:
- Learn and perform choreography (8 count) in Hip Hop
- Learn and perform choreography (8 count) in Modern
- Freestyle (Optional) Must bring your own music

Vocal:
- Must perform 8 bars of a song of your choice
Drama:
- Must perform a monologue, poem, or spoken word piece. No longer than 2 minutes.

Will be judged on originality, personality, pizzazz, skill, etc.

[ATLANTA, GA.] – The Tupac Amaru Shakur Center for the Arts (TASCA) is excited to announce an open call to fill the coveted remaining slots for this year’s annual Performing Arts Program. (The open call will be held on Sunday, April 30, 2006, from 2:00 – 8:00 PM at the Tupac Center for the Arts – located at 5616 Memorial Drive in Stone Mountain, GA. 30083. The program is open to teens ages 12-18.

Founded by Afeni Shakur in 1999 initially as a Summer Camp, the Performing Arts Program has grown to a year-round program, offering top-quality training and support for youths wishing to develop their creative talents. Art disciplines have included Acting, Creative Writing, Dance, Vocal Training, Set and Stage Design, Entertainment Business and Video Production.

The skills acquired by the students throughout the Program’s intensive training period culminate in the realization of a Theatrical performance. This year’s play titled ‘Shoulder’s Of Giants,’ is scheduled for Saturday, July 29, 2006 at the Rialto Center for the Arts. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Center at 404-298-4222.

The TASF Performing Arts Program has become a major force in performing arts training around the world. The TASF students have performed on Fox’s Good Day Atlanta, the 2002 Source Awards, with Grammy award winner Regina Bell, and at many festivals & community programs.

www.TASF.org
www.2PAClegacy .com
Gorgeous PR

7551 Melrose Avenue
Suite 7
Los Angeles, California 90046

versa@gorgeouspr.com
http://www.Gorgeouspr.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Celina Nixon or Carlos Cole