Hip Hop Press: Hip Hop Press Releases

You Know What Time It Is? The #1 Rated Series on VH1 Is Back for Another Season as 'Flavor of Love 2' Premieres Sunday, August 6 At 10pm

Catch The Full Premiere Episode on VSPOT at VH1.com Beginning Wednesday, August 2, Four Days Before The On-air Premiere

NEW YORK, July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Set your clocks as VH1's smash hit "Flavor of Love" returns for its second season on Sunday, August 6 at 10:00PM on VH1. Can't wait until this Sunday? Beginning Wednesday, August 2, the full premiere episode will be available on VSPOT, VH1's broadband channel at http://vspot.vh1.com/.

In the extended 90 minute season two premiere viewers meet the twenty new ladies competing for Flavor Flav's heart. Even more outrageous and sexy, these girls are brassy, bold and determined to get their man -- at any cost.

Throughout the episode Flav gives all the girls his trade mark nicknames and spends quality time getting to know them to determine who gets a clock and whose "time is up." From the first five minutes to the final thirty seconds, this is a series premiere that cannot be missed!

"Flavor of Love 2" on VSPOT and VH1 Mobile

In addition to the VSPOT sneak peek of episode one, each episode will be available on VSPOT in its entirety for 48 hours every Wednesday following its Sunday night broadcast. VSPOT and VH1 Mobile will also host "extras" each week including, never-before-seen footage from the show and aftershow segments hosted by "Goldie" from season one of "Flavor of Love."

VH1 Mobile is also giving viewers a chance to participate via their mobile phones with instant episode-driven polls. Each week viewers can text their answers to a question asked at the beginning of the show. The results will be dynamically generated and displayed at the end of each show.

During its first season, "Flavor of Love" was the highest rated series in VH1 history, with three of its ten episodes making VH1's top ten rated commercial telecasts of all time. For its 90-minute season finale, "Flavor of Love" again made VH1 history by becoming the network's top rated telecast of all time (adults 18-49 rating of 3.51).

VH1's "Flavor of Love" is executive produced by Mark Cronin, Cris Abrego and Ben Samek for Mindless Entertainment and 51 Pictures, who also produce the ongoing successful series "Surreal Life" and the highly rated "My Fair Brady: The Wedding Special!" Jeff Olde, Jill Holmes and Michael Hirschorn oversee the series for VH1.

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 nearly 84 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.

51 Minds Entertainment is a dynamic reality television production company established by Executive Producer Cris Abrego of 51 Pictures and Executive Producer Mark Cronin of Mindless Entertainment. Mark and Cris came together to create the pop culture hit The Surreal Life, which has wrapped its sixth season. Because of the success of this show and their previous track records, VH1 offered them an unprecedented output deal for creating original programming for the channel. Fueled by the success of the shows provided by 51 Minds, VH1 created "Celebreality" -- a themed night which consists of celeb-based reality programs. The "Celebreality" 51 Minds programming launched VH1 into their highest ratings ever.

* all times ET/PT

Contacts: Chris Delhomme/VH1 Maura Wozniak/VH1
310-752-8635 212-846-7325

Source: VH1

CONTACT: Chris Delhomme of VH1, +1-310-752-8635, or Maura Wozniak of
VH1, +1-212-846-7325

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

SKILLZ OF THE TRADE PRODUCER SEMINAR & WORKSHOP

New York City October 6th, 7th, & 8th, 2006

@ NYC Seminar and Conference Center
71 West 23rd Street
New York, NY 10010

Skillz of the Trade is a hip hop production seminar that educates would
be producers on the nuances of being a well polished producer within
the genre of hip hop. Attendees are educated within a "hands-on"
environment by actual producers who have worked with Wu-Tang, Roc-a-fella
Records, Def Jam, Jive, Motown and Grammy award winning mastering engineer
Don Grossinger. It is your opportunity to learn and network with some of
the best in the business. Some of the topics that will be addressed are
music production, creative sampling techniques, the best equipment to
use, where to get your sounds, creating a signature sound, sampling
laws, music theory, how to get in the door, mixing, mastering and so much
more.

Speakers and Instructors INCLUDE

Sadiiq – Sadiiq is the Executive Vice President of WuTang and previous
worked with the legendary Bomb Squad of Ice Cube and Public Enemy fame
in addition to holding several A&R positions and being the personal
manager of Inspectah Deck of WuTang.

Heatmakerz – The Heatmakerz are known for their hard hitting platinum
beats. The Bronx based superstar production crew consists of Rsonist,
Weatherman, and Thrilla. They have produced hits for Fat Joe, Cam’Ron,
Diplomats, Jim Jones, Juelz Santana, Junior Mafia, M.O.P, CNN, Lil Flip,
Twista, and I-20 of Ludacris DTP Label.

Wonder Arillo - Engineer, T.I.: "U Don't Know Me", "Motivation"
LUDACRIS: "2 Miles an Hour" BOYZ N DA HOOD: "Don't Put Ya Hands On Me"
Producer/Engineer T.I.: "What You Know".

Easy Mo Bee - The legendary Easy Mo Bee has crafted Gold and Platinum
classics with Tupac, Notorious B.I.G., Alicia Keyes, Busta Rhymes, Lil
Kim, Jennifer Lopez, and secured a few Grammys along the way.

Terrance Fleming – Terrance Fleming is a well respected producer who
has worked with artists from Universal Records, Jive Records, Def Jam,
and Black Collar Entertainment. He also runs www.todaysbeats.com an
instructional site for aspiring music producers.

Cadinze – Cadinze is an engineer and producer for Black Collar
Entertainment and WuTang Clan He is also a Hip Hop artist and is the author of
the Hip Hop Producers Bible and a technical reviewer and evaluator for
many of the pro audio products on the market today.

Don Grossinger - Don Grossinger is passionate about mastering. He has
mastered CDs and records that have sold tens of millions of copies in
all styles of music. His experience encompasses 25 years of mastering.
Work Don has participated in has charted on almost all Billboard
Magazine's charts. He has won RIAA Gold and Platinum Record awards and has
mastered Grammy Award winning albums and singles. Among his clients have
been Pink Floyd, Bruce Springsteen, Tears For Fears, Sade, Tony Bennett,
Metallica, Elvis Costello, The Kronos String Quartet, The Grateful
Dead, Public Enemy, Mariah Carey, Lou Reed and Journey among many others.

Hands-on Seminar Courses

How to produce hip hop tracks (multiple styles), How to tune your
drums, How to add thumping baselines, Creative sampling, How to remove
music, How to remove vocals, How to chop samples, How to deal with
producer's block, How to give your tracks professional polish, Mixing,
Mastering, and much much more!

At the Conference

- Exhibitor's Hall: take a look at some of the products on the market
that are changing how we make music.

- Listener's Lounge: Play your music for some of the major's top A&R
representatives and have an opportunity to network with them. They came
specifically to deal with you!

- Producer's Seminar: Learn from and meet some of the industry's
leading producers and engineers. Certificates of completion will be given.
This is the hands on training you have been waiting for from some of the
industry's best!

- Sound Design Seminar: Learn from one of the best hip hop sound
designers ever how to create original sounds that make your tracks astound!

- Panel Discussions: Learn how to promote yourself, How to promote
your music, How to create your company, How to distribute your product
yourself, How to stay relevant, How to generate revenue.

- Giveaways from the companies you want products from!

- and so much more!

Events

Welcoming Party

King of the Ring Beat Battle - Compete with other registrants to win
the Open Labs MIKO portable work center.

To purchase online visit: www.SkillzOfThetTrade.com

ALL Contact:
WellConnected@OptOnline.net

PRE$$URE BURSTS ONTO RAP SCENE WITH DEBUT ALBUM

The pressure is on the rap community to keep up with the debut album from PRE$$URE, the artist, under the management of Upliftment Records, who has been gaining international and college radio appeal through the release of collaborations and select singles.

/24-7PressRelease/ - FAIRFIELD, CT, July 30, 2006 - The pressure is on the rap community to keep up with the debut album from PRE$$URE, the artist, under the management of Upliftment Records, who has been gaining international and college radio appeal through the release of collaborations and select singles.

The first full-length album from PRE$$URE, Destined For Greatness, will be released by Upliftment Records in September 2006. Singles from the album have already started to gain airplay in select U.S. markets and college radio stations. The CD features the singles Go Head, a current hit in Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean, and ABC Love, a song that guests the smooth vocals of fellow Upliftment labelmate T.C., who hooks the track's radio-friendly chorus.

Since he was signed by Upliftment in 2004, PRE$$URE has been working with other artists on the label while recording the 16 tracks that are featured on Destined For Greatness. Upliftment, which has a focus on positive message and spiritual music, has been careful with PRE$$URE in preparations for his solo album. After nearly two years of distributing singles and guest vocals, Upliftment has a righteous path for the artist to make a claim for his self-assured title, Destined For Greatness.

"Right now, we are really backing PRE$$URE with a national marketing campaign, publicity blitz, and promotion for the album," Leonard Mitchell, president and co-founder of Upliftment, said. "We are making plans for a tour to support the album."

Reminiscent of breakthrough classic rap artists, PRE$$URE unloads an original style that pushes the boundaries of formulaic urban music to set a standard with Destined For Greatness. With his deep, daunting lyrics that float through Golden Bridges combined with his versatility on the album's most adventurous track, Polly-Olly, PRE$$URE paints portraits of everyday life and the affect everyday decisions can have. Through well-crafted metaphoric messages that hang closely to the hip harmonies supplied flawlessly on several tracks by T.C., Destined For Greatness puts PRE$$URE in a leadership role for pushing positives in today's culture. Without any explicit lyrics and focused on anti-violent solutions, Destined For Greatness is blessed spiritual experience for listeners of all ages.

Currently, a six-song E.P taken from Destined For Greatness is available through various online retailers until the album is released. CD Baby and Tower Records.com carry the full EP and singles from the album are also available for electronic download on various music sites. Samples of the songs, as well as singles from T.C. are available through Upliftment Records' online concert date booking kit at Sonic Bids.com, the My Space.com Upliftment Records profile page, and the company website at www.upliftmentrecords.com

PRE$$URE was born Tai H. Thergood in 1985 in Bridgeport, CT and was raised in the P.T. Barnum section of the city.

Established in Bridgeport, Connecticut in 2003, Upliftment Records is an independently owned record label with a focus on consistently fashioning high quality, distinctive music styles that infuse affirmative themes that can be enjoyed by all ages of listeners. Upliftment prides itself on offering "uplifting" music and positive messages delivered through lyrical expression. The company's signed talent is lead by R&B and rap artists, PRE$$URE and T.C., and the reggae world music of Johnny Lemon. Each Upliftment artist is a registered ASCAP member.

For Upliftment Records, contact:
Leonard Mitchell or Lloyd Cowan, Upliftment Records, P.O. Box 110661, Trumbull, CT 06611; T: 203-258-8297
E-Mail: info@upliftmentrecrods.com; Website: www.upliftmentrecords.com

About Walsh Public Relations
Walsh Pr is a full service public relations agency specializing in marketing PR, new product introductions, and product awareness campaigns.

Contact Information:
Gregory Walsh
Walsh Public Relations
President
303 Linwood Ave.
Fairfield, CT
USA 06824
Voice: 203-292-6280
E-Mail: greg@walshpr.com

Red Hot Chili Peppers and Shakira Top '2006 MTV Music Awards' Nominations With Seven Each

Madonna and Panic! At The Disco Follow With Five Nominations Each, Christina Aguilera Grabs Four Nods

Beyonce, Justin Timberlake, T.I., Panic! At The Disco, Ludacris and The Killers Scheduled to Perform

For the First Time Ever, Viewers Will Have Access to All Nominated Videos on MTV Overdrive

23rd Annual Awards Show Will Broadcast Live From Radio City Music Hall In New York City on Thursday, August 31st at 8:00 P.M. (Live ET/Tape Delayed PT)

NEW YORK, July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- From the historical and scenic Top Of The Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center, MTV today announced the nominees for the "2006 MTV Video Music Awards." Shakira and The Red Hot Chili Peppers topped the list with seven nominations each for "Hips Don't Lie" and "Dani California" respectively. Madonna's "Hung Up" and Panic! At The Disco's, "I Write Sins Not Tragedies," follow with five nods while Christina Aguilera received four nods for "Ain't No Other Man." It was also announced that Beyonce, Justin Timberlake, T.I., Panic! At The Disco, Ludacris and The Killers are scheduled to perform on the big show. In addition, it was announced today that The Raconteurs will provide the soundtrack for the VMA's live throughout the show. Host, additional performers and presenters will be announced shortly.

The "2006 MTV Video Music Awards" will broadcast live from Radio City Music Hall in New York, NY on Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 8:00 PM (LIVE ET/Tape Delayed PT).

"The VMA's is the first place you'll see Justin Timberlake perform, an all new show stopping performance from Beyonce, the much anticipated return of The Killers, T.I., hip hop's newest mega star and the breakout band, Panic! At The Disco," said MTV President, Christina Norman. "This is the beginning of what will no doubt be the most star-studded event and the hottest ticket of the year."

"New York City is proud to welcome the MTV Video Music Awards back to its rightful place at Radio City Music Hall and we are certainly happy that this year's show is expected to generate more than 25 million dollars in economic activity for our hotels, restaurants and other attractions," said Mayor Bloomberg. "MTV has transformed music and popular culture unlike any other medium before it and since its birth. It's no coincidence that MTV started here in New York City and catapulted itself and modern music into homes all across the globe. MTV's is a quintessentially New York story, and we're glad to have the VMA's back."

This year, for the first time, viewers will have access to all nominated videos on MTV Overdrive (http://www.vma.mtv.com/). The ballots for "2006 MTV Video Music Awards" were sent out to an exclusive industry group and viewers who determined the nominees for the telecast. Approximately 2,000 viewers and individuals including record labels, production companies, and management firms selected the nominees for awards categories encompassing wide-ranging contemporary music forms rap, dance, R&B and rock. Also, for the first time ever, voting for the General Categories will be open to all music fans and not just a select group of viewers and industry professionals. Viewers can start voting on the General Categories (excluding Viewer's Choice) starting July 31st through August 20th. Voting for "Viewer's Choice" begins August 7th through August 31st. Viewers can vote by visiting http://www.vma.mtv.com/.

In addition, this year there will be two new categories for the Online Gaming community to vote on through Gametrailers.com at http://www.gametrailers.com/vma/ and Xfire at http://www.xfire.com/cms/xf_mtv_vma. Gamers will vote for "Best Video Game Soundtrack" and "Best Video Game Score." Winners will be announced live on http://www.vma.mtv.com/ on August 31st during the MTV Overdrive broadcast.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP is the official business advisor of the "2006 MTV Video Music Awards."

Salli Frattini and Dave Sirulnick are the Executive Producers for the "2006 MTV Video Music Awards." Ian Stewart and Summer Strauch are Producers. Hamish Hamilton is Producer/Director. Kathy Flynn is Event Producer.

Following are the nominees for the "2006 MTV Video Music Awards":

GENERAL CATEGORIES

VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Christina Aguilera
"Ain't No Other Man"
Back To Basics
RCA
Director: Bryan Barber
Producer: William Green
Production Company: F.M. Rocks

Red Hot Chili Peppers
"Dani California"
Stadium Arcadium
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Tony Kaye
Producer: Rachel Curl
Production Company: Above The Sea

Madonna
"Hung Up"
Confessions On A Dance Floor
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Johan Renck
Producer: Lene Bausager and John Winter
Production Company: RSA Films

Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean
"Hips Don't Lie"
Oral Fixation Vol. 2
Epic Records
Director: Sophie Muller
Producer: Grant Jue
Production Company: Oil Factory

Panic! At The Disco
"I Write Sins Not Tragedies"
A Fever You Can't Sweat Out
decaydance/Fueled By Ramen
Director: Shane C. Drake
Producer: Brandon Bonfiglio
Production Company: Red Van Pictures

BEST MALE VIDEO
Busta Rhymes featuring Mary J. Blige, Rah Digga, Missy Elliott, Lloyd
Banks, Papoose & DMX
"Touch It (Remix)"
The Big Bang
Aftermath/Interscope Records
Director: Benny Boom and Busta Rhymes
Producer: Joyce Washington
Production Company: F.M. Rocks

Nick Lachey
"What's Left Of Me"
What's Left Of Me
Jive Records/Zomba Label Group
Director: Ray Kay
Producer: Clark Jackson
Production Company: Rockhard Films

James Blunt
"You're Beautiful"
Back To Bedlam
Custard Records/Atlantic Records
Director: Sam Brown
Producer: Kat Armour-Brow
Production Company: Flynn Productions

T.I.
"What You Know"
KING (The Album), ATL (The Movie)
Grand Hustle/Atlantic Records
Director: Chris Robinson
Producer: Melissa Larsen
Production Company: HSI Productions

Kanye West featuring Jamie Foxx
"Gold Digger"
Late Registration
Roc-A-Fella Records
Director: Hype Williams
Producer: Hype Williams
Production Company: Naaila Entertainment

BEST FEMALE VIDEO
Christina Aguilera
"Ain't No Other Man"
Back To Basics
RCA
Director: Bryan Barber
Producer: William Green
Production Company: F.M. Rocks

Nelly Furtado featuring Timbaland
"Promiscuous"
Loose
Mosley Music/Geffen Records
Producer: Ron Mohrhoff
Production Company: HSI Productions

Kelly Clarkson
"Because of You"
Breakaway
RCA
Director: Vadim Perelman
Producer: Rhonda Vernet
Production Company: Tate USA

Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean
"Hips Don't Lie"
Oral Fixation Vol. 2
Epic Records
Director: Sophie Muller
Producer: Grant Jue
Production Company: Oil Factory

Madonna
"Hung Up"
Confessions On A Dance Floor
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Johan Renck
Producer: Lene Bausager and John Winter
Production Company: RSA Films

BEST GROUP VIDEO
All-American Rejects (The)
"Move Along"
Move Along
Interscope Records/Doghouse Records
Director: Marc Webb
Producer: Marcienne Friesland
Production Company: DNA

Panic! At The Disco
"I Write Sins Not Tragedies"
A Fever You Can't Sweat Out
decaydance/Fueled By Ramen
Director: Shane C. Drake
Producer: Brandon Bonfiglio
Production Company: Red Van Pictures

Fall Out Boy
"Dance, Dance"
From Under The Cork Tree
Island Records
Director: Alan Ferguson
Producer: Valerie Romer
Production Company: Anonymous Content

Red Hot Chili Peppers
"Dani California"
Stadium Arcadium
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Tony Kaye
Producer: Rachel Curl
Production Company: Above The Sea

Gnarls Barkley
"Crazy"
St. Elsewhere
Downtown/Atlantic Records
Director: Robert Hales
Producer: Coleen Haynes
Production Company: HSI Productions

BEST RAP VIDEO
50 Cent
"Window Shopper"
From "Get Rich Or Die Tryin'" The Motion Picture
G-Unit/Interscope Records
Director: Benny Boom
Producer: Adam Witaker
Production Company: F.M. Rocks

T.I.
"What You Know"
KING (The Album), ATL (The Movie)
Grand Hustle/Atlantic Records
Director: Chris Robinson
Producer: Melissa Larsen
Production Company: HSI Productions

Busta Rhymes featuring Mary J. Blige, Rah Digga, Missy Elliott, Lloyd
Banks, Papoose & DMX
"Touch It (Remix)"
The Big Bang
Aftermath/Interscope Records
Director: Benny Boom and Busta Rhymes
Producer: Joyce Washington
Production Company: F.M. Rocks

Yung Joc featuring Nitty
"It's Goin' Down"
New Joc City
Block Ent./Bad Boy South
Director: Lenny Bass
Producer: Helen Urriola
Production Company: DNA

Chamillionaire featuring Krayzie Bone
"Ridin'"
The Sound of Revenge
Chamillitary/Universal Music
Director: Life Garland
Producer: Hagai Shaham
Production Company: Lotus Filmworks, Inc./Terrero Films

BEST R&B VIDEO
Beyonce featuring Slim Thug & Bun B
"Check On It (Pink Panther)"
Destiny's Child #1's
Music World/Sony Urban/Columbia
Director: Hype Williams
Producer: Matthew Stillman
Production Company: Stillking Productions

Mariah Carey
"Shake It Off"
The Emancipation of Mimi
Island Def Jam Music Group
Director: Jake Nava
Producer: Ron Mohrhoff
Production Company: F.M. Rocks

Chris Brown
"Yo (Excuse Me Miss)"
Chris Brown
Jive Records/Zomba Label Group
Director: E. White/Chris Brown
Producer: Roger Ubina
Production Company: F.M. Rocks

Mary J. Blige
"Be Without You"
The Breakthrough
Matriarch/Geffen Records
Director: Matthew Rolston
Producer: Nina Grossman
Production Company: HSI Productions

Jamie Foxx featuring Ludacris
"Unpredictable"
Unpredictable
J Records
Director: Hype Williams
Producer: Matthew Stillman
Production Company: Stillking Films

BEST HIP HOP VIDEO
Black Eyed Peas (The)
"My Humps"
Monkey Business
A&M Records
Director: Fatima Robinson and Malik Sayeed
Producer: Tony McGarry
Production Company: Black Dog at RSA Films

Kanye West featuring Jamie Foxx
"Gold Digger"
Late Registration
Roc-A-Fella Records
Director: Hype Williams
Producer: Hype Williams
Production Company: Naaila Entertainment

Common
"Testify"
BE
G.O.O.D./Geffen Records
Director: Anthony Mandler
Producer: Lou Miguel
Production Company: Box Fresh Pictures

Three 6 Mafia
"Stay Fly"
Most Known Unknown
Hypnotize Mind/Sony Urban/Columbia
Director: Bernard Gourley
Producer: Jeff Brown
Production Company: Immigrant Film

Daddy Yankee
"Rompe"
Barrio Fino En Directo
El Cartel Records/Interscope Records/HHH
Director: Jessy Terrero and Carlos Perez
Producer: Meredith Welsch
Production Company: Lotus Filmworks, Inc./Terrero Films

BEST DANCE VIDEO
Madonna
"Hung Up"
Confessions On A Dance Floor
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Johan Renck
Producer: Lene Bausager and John Winter
Production Company: RSA Films

Sean Paul
"Temperature"
The Trinity
VP Records/Atlantic Records
Director: X
Producer: Craig Fleming
Production Company: HSI Productions

Nelly Furtado featuring Timbaland
"Promiscuous"
Loose
Mosley Music/Geffen Records
Producer: Ron Mohrhoff
Production Company: HSI Productions

Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean
"Hips Don't Lie"
Oral Fixation Vol. 2
Epic Records
Director: Sophie Muller
Producer: Grant Jue
Production Company: Oil Factory

Pussycat Dolls featuring Snoop Dogg
"Buttons"
PCD
A&M Records
Director: Francis Lawrence
Producer: Lynn Zekanis
Production Company: DNA

BEST ROCK VIDEO
30 Seconds To Mars
"The Kill"
A Beautiful Lie
Virgin Records America
Director: Bartholomew Cubbins
Producer: Alexander Moon and Douglas Friedman
Production Company: A Common Thread, Inc.

Panic! At The Disco
"I Write Sins Not Tragedies"
A Fever You Can't Sweat Out
decaydance/Fueled By Ramen
Director: Shane C. Drake
Producer: Brandon Bonfiglio
Production Company: Red Van Pictures

A.F.I.
"Miss Murder"
Decemberunderground
Interscope Records
Director: Marc Webb
Producer: Marcienne Friesland
Production Company: DNA

Red Hot Chili Peppers
"Dani California"
Stadium Arcadium
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Tony Kaye
Producer: Rachel Curl
Production Company: Above The Sea

Green Day
"Wake Me Up When September Ends"
American Idiot
Reprise Records
Director: Samuel Bayer
Producer: Tim Lynch
Production Company: RSA Films

BEST POP VIDEO
Christina Aguilera
"Ain't No Other Man"
Back To Basics
RCA
Director: Bryan Barber
Producer: William Green
Production Company: F.M. Rocks

Pink
"Stupid Girls"
I'm Not Dead
LaFace/Zomba Label Group
Director: Dave Meyers
Producer: Joseph Sassone
Production Company: Radical Music

Madonna
"Hung Up"
Confessions On A Dance Floor
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Johan Renck
Producer: Lene Bausager and John Winter
Production Company: RSA Films

Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean
"Hips Don't Lie"
Oral Fixation Vol. 2
Epic Records
Director: Sophie Muller
Producer: Grant Jue
Production Company: Oil Factory

Nelly Furtado featuring Timbaland
"Promiscuous"
Loose
Mosley Music/Geffen Records
Producer: Ron Mohrhoff
Production Company: HSI Productions

BEST NEW ARTIST IN A VIDEO
Angels And Airwaves
"The Adventure"
We Don't Need To Whisper
Suretone/Geffen Records
Director: The Malloys
Producer: Dave Robertson
Production Company: Black Dog at RSA Films

James Blunt
"You're Beautiful"
Back To Bedlam
Custard Records/Atlantic Records
Director: Sam Brown
Producer: Kat Armour-Brow
Production Company: Flynn Productions

Avenged Sevenfold
"Bat Country"
City Of Evil
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Marc Klasfeld
Producer: Rachel Curl
Production Company: Rockhard Films

Panic! At The Disco
"I Write Sins Not Tragedies"
A Fever You Can't Sweat Out
decaydance/Fueled By Ramen
Director: Shane C. Drake
Producer: Brandon Bonfiglio
Production Company: Red Van Pictures

Chris Brown featuring Juelz Santana
"Run It"
Chris Brown
Jive Records/Zomba Label Group
Director: E. White
Producer: Roger Ubina
Production Company: F.M. Rocks

Rihanna
"S.O.S."
A Girl Like Me
Def Jam/SRP
Director: Chris Applebaum
Producer: John Hardin
Production Company: Reactor Films

VIEWER'S CHOICE
Chris Brown featuring Juelz Santana
"Run It"
Chris Brown
Jive Records/Zomba Label Group
Director: E. White
Producer: Roger Ubina
Production Company: F.M. Rocks

Rihanna
"S.O.S."
A Girl Like Me
Def Jam/SRP
Director: Chris Applebaum
Producer: John Hardin
Production Company: Reactor Films

Fall Out Boy
"Dance, Dance"
From Under The Cork Tree
Island Records
Director: Alan Ferguson
Producer: Valerie Romer
Production Company: Anonymous Content

Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean
"Hips Don't Lie"
Oral Fixation Vol. 2
Epic Records
Director: Sophie Muller
Producer: Grant Jue
Production Company: Oil Factory

Kelly Clarkson
"Because of You"
Breakaway
RCA
Director: Vadim Perelman
Producer: Rhonda Vernet
Production Company: Tate USA

PROFESSIONAL CATEGORIES

BEST DIRECTION IN A VIDEO
10 Years
"Wasteland" Version 2
Autumn Effect
Republic/Universal Records
Director: Kevin Kerslake
Producer: Dave Robertson
Production Company: Merge @ Crossroads Films

Gnarls Barkley
"Crazy"
St. Elsewhere
Downtown/Atlantic Records
Director: Robert Hales
Producer: Coleen Haynes
Production Company: HSI Productions

A.F.I.
"Miss Murder"
Decemberunderground
Interscope Records
Director: Marc Webb
Producer: Marcienne Friesland
Production Company: DNA

Red Hot Chili Peppers
"Dani California"
Stadium Arcadium
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Tony Kaye
Producer: Rachel Curl
Production Company: Above The Sea

Common
"Testify"
BE
G.O.O.D./Geffen Records
Director: Anthony Mandler
Producer: Lou Miguel
Production Company: Box Fresh Pictures

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY IN A VIDEO
Christina Aguilera
"Ain't No Other Man"
Back To Basics
RCA
Director: Bryan Barber
Producer: William Green
Production Company: F.M. Rocks
Choreographer: Jerri Slaughter

Sean Paul
"Temperature"
The Trinity
VP Records/Atlantic Records
Director: X
Producer: Craig Fleming
Production Company: HSI Productions
Choreographer: Tanisha Scott

Madonna
"Hung Up"
Confessions On A Dance Floor
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Johan Renck
Producer: Lene Bausager and John Winter
Production Company: RSA Films
Choreographer: Stephanie Roos

Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean
"Hips Don't Lie"
Oral Fixation Vol. 2
Epic Records
Director: Sophie Muller
Producer: Grant Jue
Production Company: Oil Factory
Choreographer: Sho-tyme

Pussycat Dolls featuring Snoop Dogg
"Buttons"
PCD
A&M Records
Director: Francis Lawrence
Producer: Lynn Zekanis
Production Company: DNA
Choreographer: Mike Mindon

BEST SPECIAL EFFECTS IN A VIDEO
Angels And Airwaves
"The Adventure"
We Don't Need To Whisper
Suretone/Geffen Records
Director: The Malloys
Producer: Dave Robertson
Production Company: Black Dog at RSA Films
Special Effects: Jack Effects

Pearl Jam
"Life Wasted"
Pearl Jam
J Records
Director: Fernando Apodaca
Producer: Eddie Vedder/Jason Mueller
Special Effects: Fernando Apodaca

Beck
"Hell Yes"
Guero
Interscope Records
Director: Garth Jennings
Producer: Nick Goldsmith
Production Company: Anonymous Content
Special Effects: Hammer & Tongs (Garth and Nick)

U2
"Original Of The Species"
How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb
Interscope Records
Director: Catherine Owens
Producer: Catherine Owens and Katie Manning
Production Company: Spontaneous
Special Effects: John Leamy & Lawrence Nimrichter

Missy Elliott
"We Run This"
The Cookbook
From Touchstone Pictures and Spyglass Entertainment's "Stick It"
Hollywood/Gold Mind/Atlantic Records
Director: Dave Meyers
Producer: Barbara Benson
Production Company: Radical Music
Special Effects: Louis Mackall

BEST ART DIRECTION IN A VIDEO
10 Years
"Wasteland" Version 2
Autumn Effect
Republic/Universal Records
Director: Kevin Kerslake
Producer: Dave Robertson
Production Company: Merge @ Crossroads Films
Art Director: Trae King

Red Hot Chili Peppers
"Dani California"
Stadium Arcadium
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Tony Kaye
Producer: Rachel Curl
Production Company: Above The Sea
Art Director: Justin Dragonis

Common
"Testify"
BE
G.O.O.D./Geffen Records
Director: Anthony Mandler
Producer: Lou Miguel
Production Company: Box Fresh Pictures
Art Director: David Ross

Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean
"Hips Don't Lie"
Oral Fixation Vol. 2
Epic Records
Director: Sophie Muller
Producer: Grant Jue
Production Company: Oil Factory
Art Director: Laura Fox

Panic! At The Disco
"I Write Sins Not Tragedies"
A Fever You Can't Sweat Out
decaydance/Fueled By Ramen
Director: Shane C. Drake
Producer: Brandon Bonfiglio
Production Company: Red Van Pictures
Art Director: Lindy McMichael, Jamie Drake, Erin Wieczorek

BEST EDITING IN A VIDEO
All-American Rejects (The)
"Move Along"
Move Along
Interscope Records/Doghouse Records
Director: Marc Webb
Producer: Marcienne Friesland
Production Company: DNA
Editor: J.D. Smyth

Red Hot Chili Peppers
"Dani California"
Stadium Arcadium
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Tony Kaye
Producer: Rachel Curl
Production Company: Above The Sea
Editor: Peter Goddard

Angels And Airwaves
"The Adventure"
We Don't Need To Whisper
Suretone/Geffen Records
Director: The Malloys
Producer: Dave Robertson
Production Company: Black Dog at RSA Films
Editor: Clark Eddy

U2
"Original Of The Species"
How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb
Interscope Records
Director: Catherine Owens
Producer: Catherine Owens and Katie Manning
Production Company: Spontaneous
Editor: Olivier Wicki

Gnarls Barkley
"Crazy"
St. Elsewhere
Downtown/Atlantic Records
Director: Robert Hales
Producer: Coleen Haynes
Production Company: HSI Productions
Editor: Ken Mowe

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY IN A VIDEO
A.F.I.
"Miss Murder"
Decemberunderground
Interscope Records
Director: Marc Webb
Producer: Marcienne Friesland
Production Company: DNA
Cinematographer: Wells Hackett

Prince
"Black Sweat"
3121
Universal Records
Director: Sanaa Hamri
Producer: Nicole Acacio
Production Company: Anonymous Content
Cinematographer: Checco Varese

Ashlee Simpson
"Invisible"
I Am Me
Geffen Records
Director: Marc Webb
Producer: Hagai Shaham
Production Company: DNA
Cinematographer: Jeff Cutter

Red Hot Chili Peppers
"Dani California"
Stadium Arcadium
Warner Bros. Records
Director: Tony Kaye
Producer: Rachel Curl
Production Company: Above The Sea
Cinematographer: Tony Kaye

James Blunt
"You're Beautiful"
Back To Bedlam
Custard Records/Atlantic Records
Director: Sam Brown
Producer: Kat Armour-Brow
Production Company: Flynn Productions
Cinematographer: Robbie Ryan

VIDEO GAME CATEGORIES

BEST VIDEO GAME SOUNDTRACK
Final Night Round 3 (Electronic Arts)
Burnout Revenge (Electronic Arts)
NBA 2K6 (2K Games)
Driver: Parallel Lines (Atari)
Marc Ecko's Getting Up (Atari)

BEST VIDEO GAME SCORE
Hitman: Blood Money (Jesper Kyd)
Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter (Tom Salta)
Dreamfall: The Longest Journey (Even "Magnet" Johansen)
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (Jeremy Soule)
Electroplankton (User Generated Soundtrack)

The "2006 MTV Video Music Awards" will be available to a potential viewing audience of more than 1.3 billion people via MTV's global network of 50 channels reaching 481.5 million households around the world as well as through syndication. Its convergent and original online programming will reach the entire interactive community, via MTV's 43 Web sites around the world.

The official sponsors of the "2006 MTV Video Music Awards" are Acuvue, Chevrolet, Dodge, Herbal Essences, JC Penny, Pepsi, Taco Bell and Virgin Mobile USA.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 95 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV

CONTACT: Jennifer DeGuzman, +1-212-846-7175,
jennifer.deguzman@mtvstaff.com, or Melissa Barreto, +1-212-846-7226,
melissa.barreto@mtvstaff.com, both of MTV

Web site: http://www.mtv.com/
http://www.vma.mtv.com/

MTV Overdrive to Broadcast Live Behind the Scenes Feed of the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards

'VMA Live: Backstage Uncensored' Gives Fans Access to Stars, Drama, and All the Backstage Action They Never Get To See

MTV Mobile to Offer Real Time Video Updates Featuring Clips of Performances and On Stage Antics to Fans

Star Studded Awards Show to Live On-air, Online, and on Mobile on August 31st

NEW YORK, July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time ever in awards show history, MTV will expose fans to the insanity on and off the stage at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards. While the VMAs are airing live on MTV, Overdrive, the network's broadband channel, will air "VMA Live: Backstage Uncensored", an unprecedented live view of the ALL the action behind the scenes and backstage viewers have never gotten to see. In addition to the television and broadband experiences, MTV Mobile on all wireless carriers will also offer updates and recaps of the VMAs within minutes. This year's multiplatform experience builds on MyVMAs 2005 where there were more than 14.7 million streams of VMA content from MTV Overdrive. The star studded awards show will air live from Radio City Music Hall on Thursday, August 31st at 8:00PM (Live ET/Tape Delayed PT).

"Always looking to innovate, we knew we had to find an experience to address the fact that young people are simultaneously watching the VMAs and online chatting in real time with their friends about the unexpected moments and speculating about what's going on backstage," said Christina Norman, President of MTV. "So, we decided to deliver the access they crave by bringing them behind the curtain."

Additional VMA programming elements on MTV Overdrive, accessible at VMA.MTV.com, will include a live simulcast of MTV News' pre-show, interviews with talent, more music, more interaction with the MTV VJs and MTV News correspondents both live during the television broadcast and on-demand after the show. VMA.MTV.com will also get viewers prepped for the biggest night in music with highlights from past VMAs, performance playlists, VMA NYC tour, Bling Report, just to mention a few of the shows. Past VMA Overdrive shows will also be featured on VOD.

During the show, viewers will be able to email photos of themselves and their VMA experience to VMA.MTV.com. A few lucky viewers' photos will be chosen to be displayed onto the large video screens onstage, as the VMAs help give a face to the viewers watching at home.

"VMA Live: Backstage Uncensored" then turns into MyVMAs beginning immediately after the show. Every performance and celebrated moments from the stage will be available on demand to our viewers. The backstage experience will also be available in case they miss any parts when it was streamed live. "MyVMAs" users will be able to customize their own VMA experience on MTV Overdrive. "MyVMAs" will allow viewers to re-live and re-mix their own VMA experience by combining their favorite moments from the star-studded night with exclusive, bonus segments, all available in an a la carte, on-demand menu. "My VMAs" puts control in the hands of music fans and allows them to experience the VMAs the way they want.

In addition, MTV2 will have a live simulcast of the VMAs. MTV2 will also feature live hits throughout the event with MTV2 VJs providing colorful commentary on everything that's going on, replays of outstanding moments and performances that are worth a second look, and forecasting upcoming performances and awards, as well as getting VMA dish from celebrities that stop by. The winner of the MTV2 Award will be presented with a Moonman during the live hits. During the show, mtvU will feature videos of nominees, performers and presenters who were once regulars on the college channel and "graduated" to MTV. During this special VMA music block from 8PM - 11PM, mtvU will go live twice an hour to college student correspondents and mtvU VJs giving updates from the show, as well calling out upcoming performances and awards. mtvU will feature several hours of college-themed VMA coverage in the run up to the show, including a special installation of "Dean's List" hosted by a VMA-nominated artist that started out on mtvU, reports from a college student serving as a VMA seat filler, and college professors using their academic powers to predict who will take home the coveted Moonmen.

Also, MTV Networks high-definition channel, MHD: Music High Definition, will have the first-ever VMA simulcast presented in HD. MTV World will also bring the action to their own channels - MTV Desi, MTV K, MTV Chi with a live simulcast of the show. Additionally, the World channels will have their own correspondents on site to provide a customized point of view of the 2006 Video Music Awards, for their audiences, re-airing the show at a later date with new red carpet perspective.

Additional elements on MTV Mobile include the launch of a mobile boutique on MTV.com featuring ringtones from VMA nominees and wallpapers. The MTV Mobile VMA experience doesn't end when the live show does. Enjoyed Justin Timberlake's live performance? Fans of MTV Mobile video will also be able to enjoy backstage, red carpet and additional VMA coverage. Presented by Virgin Mobile USA, the leading youth wireless network, MTV will be introducing the first-ever Ringtone of the Year award this year, where fans will be able to vote on their favorite ringtone. Virgin Mobile users will be able to "vote" for the Ringtone of the Year by downloading free tones from the nominees as announced on TRL the week of the VMAs. The winning ringtone will then be available as a free download on Virgin Mobile over the weekend following the VMAs. In addition, Virgin Mobile users will be able to vote exclusively for the "Viewer's Choice" award from their phones.

Last but not least, URGE, MTV Network's digital music service, will be launching a VMA homepage on August 1st, including exclusive editorial content on this year's nominees, and playlists of each category's nominees and past winners dating back to the very first VMAs. To access all VMA coverage, users can visit www.URGE.com to download the service for free.

The "2006 MTV Video Music Awards" will be available to a potential viewing audience of more than 1.3 billion people via MTV's global network of 50 channels reaching 481.5 million households around the world as well as through syndication. Its convergent and original online programming will reach the entire interactive community, via MTV's 43 Web sites around the world.

The official sponsors of the "2006 MTV Video Music Awards" are Acuvue, Chevrolet, Dodge, Herbal Essences, JC Penny, Pepsi, Taco Bell and Virgin Mobile USA.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 95 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV

CONTACT: Jennifer DeGuzman, +1-212-846-7175,
Jennifer.deguzman@mtvstaff.com, or Melissa Barreto, 1-212-846-7226,
Melissa.barreto@mtvstaff.com, both of MTV

Web site: http://www.mtv.com/
http://www.vma.mtv.com/
http://www.urge.com/

MobiTV and CHUM Interactive Announce New Entertainment Channels for Canadian Line-up

Popular New Channels Target Young Adults With Premier Music & Entertainment Content

EMERYVILLE, Calif. and TORONTO, July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- MobiTV, Inc., the global leader in television and digital radio services for cellular, WiFi and broadband enabled devices, and CHUM Limited, Canada's premier media company and content provider, today announced the addition of four new music and entertainment channels for the MobiTV(TM) Canada line-up. The channels bolster the existing content, with an emphasis on programming that appeals strongly to viewers of mobile television, who are interested in compelling "bite-sized" content such as music videos and entertainment news.

"CHUM's content is perfectly suited for MobiTV Canada's viewers, who can tune in Live anytime, anywhere to catch the best music videos or get up to speed on the latest celebrity gossip," said Erik Smith, Vice President of Business Development and Programming for MobiTV.

"We are constantly looking at new ways to reach our audiences with our exclusive and engaging content. With MobiTV, audiences on the go can now watch some of their favourite CHUM stations via their cell phones," said Maria Hale, Vice President, Content Business Development, CHUM Limited.

Available today in the MobiTV program guide in Canada, subscribers will find the following new channels:

MuchMusic: An integral part of today's pop culture landscape, "The
Nation's Music Station" has been delivering fans an unparalleled music
television experience since 1984. Direct from our famed streetlevel
studios in downtown Toronto, each and every program day not only hits the
best in top musicvideo, but creates a destination where fans can stay
connected to exclusive live performance and interview from today's hottest
musical artists and celebrity guests, the latest entertainment buzz and
specialty programming. Check out Canada's favourite web destination for
teens, www.muchmusic.com .

Star!: Canada's only specialty television channel dedicated to the world
of entertainment news and information. Star! brings you all the latest in
the world of show biz, including red carpet coverage and in-depth
interviews with the biggest names in entertainment. www.star-tv.com

MuchVibe: Designed to superserve urban music fans across Canada, MuchVibe
is the source for top music videos, interviews, concert specials, concert
listings and classic clips from the CHUM music video archive. Hip hop, rap,
r&b, old school, reggae and more -- MuchVibe has it covered.
www.muchvibe.ca

MuchMoreRetro: Dedicated to the music videos of the 80s and 90s,
MuchMoreRetro is uniquely styled for those who grew up watching their
music on television. From the artform's early, experimental years to the
big-budget extravaganzas of the last decade, MuchMoreRetro is the source
for 24/7 classic video flow from artists from Madonna to Nirvana and more.
www.muchmoreretro.com

The addition of the CHUM properties for MobiTV Canada follows the launch of other key programming content earlier this summer: The Learning Channel, Toonworld TV Classics, FOX Sports, Comedy Time, MAXX Sports, MAXX LOOK and SPEED Channel were made available to viewers in May and June of this year. This now brings the total number of channels to 22, ranging from news, sports and weather to premier music and entertainment content, available on 16 handsets on the three major carriers in Canada.

About MobiTV

MobiTV, Inc. is the first mobile television and digital radio service provider for cellular, WiFi and broadband enabled devices worldwide. The MobiTV(R) service for mobile is available in the US through Sprint, Cingular and Alltel; in the United Kingdom through 3 and Orange UK; to Canadian customers through Bell Canada, Rogers and TELUS Mobility; through America Movil in Latin America; and other regional carriers around the world. MobiTV can be accessed on laptops via the AT&T WiFi network. The Emmy(R) Award winning service has more than one million paying subscribers and offers many popular TV channels from content providers such as MSNBC, ABC News Now, CNN, Fox News, Fox Sports, ESPN 3GTV, NBC Mobile, CNBC, The Discovery Channel, TLC and The Weather Channel, along with cartoons, music videos, comedy and more. Founded in 1999, MobiTV is a privately-held company headquartered in Emeryville, CA. For more information please visit www.mobitv.com .

About CHUM Limited

CHUM Limited (TSX: CHM/CHM.B, www.chumlimited.com ), one of Canada's leading media companies and content providers, owns and operates 33 radio stations, 12 local television stations and 21 specialty channels, as well as an environmental music distribution division. Through international format licences and program sales, CHUM's original content is seen in over 130 countries worldwide and is distributed via new media platforms, including interactive television, wireless services and exclusive CHUM-branded Internet properties.

Source: MobiTV, Inc.

CONTACT: Barb Matheson of CHUM Limited, +1-416-591-7400, ext. 2599, or
barbma@chumtv.com; or Susan George of SutherlandGold Group, 1-866-262-7373,
ext. 113, or sgeorge@sutherlandgold.com, for

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

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

"Damn," Shawnna's new hot single: Produced by Cold City Productions

The Next Chitown Movement
 
Shawnna's new single "Damn" is moving up the charts every week. With her video in rotation on BET and appearances on shows like CD Now.  But who's behind the scenes making things pop? Chicago's newest and hottest production company, Cold City Productions. Three of the hardest workingmen in entertainment,
B-Crucial, Big Face & Tony DiNero brings to the table new skool flava and old skool beats. Don't sleep, you know Shawnna's hot, and Cold City has been working with her and DTP for several years now .   Producing other singles off of her debut album Worth Tha Weight like "My Chicago Parts 1 & Part 2" and "So Real So Right" . "Damn" isn't the only thing Cold City has been working on, and Shawnna isn't the only artist. They are currently in the studio working on Young Jeezy and GLC new projects.
 
Bump J, who signed with Atlantic Records in 2004, has had a relationship with Cold City for many years. Bump J knew B-Crucial from the underground days prior to signing, before anyone knew the name Bump J.  His first single "Set It Up" and a mix CD coined Live from Bedrock was Bump J and Cold City's first collaborations.   With history behind them, Bump J and Cold City are creating new grand slams for Bump's highly awaited album.  
 
On the table, is a documentary about the Chicago underground music scene, Stand Up , with a soundtrack composed by Cold City .  The trio is in negotiations to produce for Chitown's own Twista, and Syleena Johnson as well.  Keep your eyes open for Cold City : they may be fresh on the scene, but not new to the game.
 
About Cold City
 
Cold City Productions, established in November 2002, is a strong Chicago music production company with a full catalog of music and a state-of-the-art studio, located 10 minutes from the Southside of Chicago. The team of B-Crucial, Face & Dinero come together to create music using some of Pro Tools' finest production equipment, the HD and Control 24 soundboards. The teams' recent investment into their studio offers an environment for artists looking to lease studio space to create their own music, as well as for those looking for the smash hits Cold City is capable of producing.  Cold City Productions is moving to dominate the Midwest , southeast, and east coast urban / hip-hop music markets.  

For more information on Cold City Productions, please contact Tamica Fields, LadyBug Inc. , 917 204-6076 ,
tfields1@gmail.com

ProPayne Of End of the Weak Releases Solo LP

Deep Blue, the long awaited album from ProPayne is now available.

July 28, 2006
Deep Blue is an expression of the diverse and rich experience a man gains growing up in the LES. Deep Blue is wisdom, creativity, intelligence, and determination fused over an array of diverse production. With his lyrical prowess, complex textures and poetical form, Pro paints vivid lyrical pictures on songs like "Chasing the Star" and "Moondiya". Although this is his debut solo album, ProPayne is a veteran who has paid his dues for years, presenting: Deep Blue

ProPayne also known as Prolific Wone, is a key founding member of End of the Weak, the worlds longest running weekly Open-Mic. Pro has invested thousands of hours on stage, in the studio and on the grind, molding himself into a phenomenal performer, song writer and entrepreneur. With multiple releases under his belt with EOW, and an Independent Music Award for "best hip hop album" (Three Kings), His debut solo album Deep Blue is the culmination of years of hard work and remarkable talent.

Born and bred in Manhattans infamous Alphabet City, ProPayne is truly a man who has seen it all. Pro spent the early part of his childhood in New York City's public housing, before moving into one of the worst tenements on the Lower East side. Pro grew up in an environment where the drug culture and the art culture coexisted for a decade; breeding violence and creativity, life and death. This early experience with life has made Pro an MC who is wise beyond his years; one who can see into the Deep Blue

Contact: Omar Lopez
917-363-1221
prolific@endoftheweak.com

Celebrating musical legends

New York, ny, august, 2006:  Ghettosoul Jeans Company
celebrates musical legend Flavor Flav.  A package including a customized box detailing the autobiography of Flavor Flav (William Drayton) will contain a T-Shirt of Flavor Flav with his signature symbol 'the clock'.  Packages will be available to the public at www.flavorflavshirt.com on a limited basic at the time the second episode of the 'Flavor of Love 2' airs.
 
Ghettosoul will continue to celebrate other legends on an ongoing basic.  These legends epitomize the struggle that people in the ghetto must endure before becoming successful.  They are role models in their own rights and deserve the honor considering their accomplishments despite the harsh environment in which they have shaped their success.  
 
The logo of Ghettosoul is the letter “S” within a “G” with a “Star” at the opening of the “G”.  This symbolizes the soul emerging from the ghetto becoming a star shaped by the circumstances of their environment.  Hence their motto “A history of legends makes you a star . . . embrace yourself”.
 
Their website features a flash presentation of cultural icons and pictures scrolling at a rhythmic pace to the background music while using an abundant use of rich fabrics and textures, their styling, inspired by this spirit of resilience – to catch a classic and timeless piece of history.

Contact: Lewis Smith
Phone: (484) 223-5330
Email: lewis@ghettosouljeans.com
http://www.ghettosouljeans.com

Tupac Shakur Legacy: An Interactive Biography

An Intimate Portrait of Hip-Hop's Most Famous Legend
By Jamal Joseph

Ten years after Tupac's tragic death, Jamal Joseph presents the story of rap artist, political spokesman, poet, actor, writer, humanitarian and entrepreneur Tupac Amaru Shakur

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TUPAC SHAKUR LEGACY is far more than just a book. As a unique and special tribute to the memory of Tupac’s irreplaceable genius, becker & mayar and Atria Books have put together a hands-on, interactive, portable museum that’s not just a portrait of the artist, but a knowing, revealing glimpse into the world – and mind – of one of hip-hop’s most revered poets.
Jamal Joseph, the author of the book, worked closely with Shakur’s aunt, Gloria Cox, and Molly Monjauze, one of Tupac’s best friends and trusted confident of the Shakur family, are to reveal a personal side to Tupac that’s rarely been seen by the public. Both Cox and Monjauze are story consultants on the book and worked for years to gather Tupac’s never before seen personal articles for inclusion in the book.

“My sister, Afeni Shakur and I feel it’s time to share his personal memorabilia with his ardent fans who are so devoted and are constantly seeking a deeper connection to him. This book gives them a glimpse into Tupac’s life through his eyes, in a different more special way,” says Tupac’s aunt and Afeni Shakur’s sister, Gloria Cox.

Using recovered and removable exact replicas of documents, including everything from a 1984 playbill for a Harlem festival featuring a very young Shakur to the infamous handwritten contract with Death Row Records, TUPAC SHAKUR LEGACY stands alone in revealing the superstar as he saw himself: both supremely confident and supremely vulnerable.

Far from superfluous, the documents (and the audio CD that also accompanies the book) serve as reminders that before he was known as an amazing artist, Tupac was already an extraordinary person.
In stories only known to his closest friends and family, TUPAC SHAKUR LEGACY covers everything, from his early childhood in Harlem, to his quick rise to stardom, through his incarceration and subsequent release, to his last, triumphant years in the eyes of his adoring public,. In this unusual scrapbook, TUPAC SHAKUR LEGACY tells of a singular life, one full of grittiness and heart – and one imbued, at its core, in honesty and passion.
About the Author: Jamal Joseph is a writer, director, producer, poet, activist and educator who credits his time spent in prison as the inspiration that forged his creativity. Jamal earned two college degrees, wrote five plays and two volumes of poetry while incarcerated. He is currently an associate professor at Columbia University’s Graduate Film Division and the artistic director of the New Heritage Theater in Harlem. Jamal Joseph was also the youngest Black Panther whom Afeni Shakur met when he was only 15 years old when she was the section leader in the Bronx.

Atria Books; Hardcover, 50 b&w illus; 50 color illus; 20 removable features; 60-min. audio CD; $45.00; 0-7432-9260-X; August 29, 2006

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Versa Manos
Gorgeous PR
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email: versa@gorgeouspr.com
web: http://www.Gorgeouspr.com

Physically Challenged Rapper Starts Tour

MTV Background Music Artist Stizz Aggression is starting his first tour in the mid-west.

(PRWEB) July 28, 2006 -- MTV Background music artist Stizz Aggression is getting ready to embark on his first tour. The physically challenged rapper, who was turned down by a major record label because they felt he would be difficult to market with his "handicap" will be embarking on his first tour in October, before starting work with Double Empack as a music producer when not on tour.

Stizz started his career as a DJ, then developed an interest in music production, then writing his own songs, then decided to become involved in the performance end of the business. Stizz Agression's music can be heard on MTV's Pimp My Ride, Making the Band, and other MTV programs. Stizz also sold music to Midway Games and has sold beats to other artists and other producers as well. After winning local various competitions during 2000/2001 this young entertainer has been chosen to open for various major artists such as Ludicriss, Noreaga and Cadillac Tah.

After holding a crowd with his first major performance at the New York Festival in Brooklyn, 2001, Stizz proved himself and was invited to perform shows in NY and PA as a featured entertainer for large major venues.

Between 2001-2002, Stizz was named Artist Of The Month by a local CT video and entertainment company, and, by a New Jersey television producer, DTV3.

In Jan 2004, Stizz entered an artist/management agreement with Git It Ryte Records. After a performance during a showcase in December 2004, Double Empak, then one of the in-house production companies with Def Jam, wanted to sign Stizz as one of their producers. That fell through when Double Empak was laid off in Jan 2005 by the new president of Def Jam. Double Empak manages Dame Grease. Double Empak was highly impressed with his skills as a producer, writer and performing artist.

After realizing that Stizz had the talent to excel in this industry, his management encouraged him to keep producing and performing. In the meantime, his management submitted Stizz’s music to MTV.

Stizz was informed that fifteen tracks was chosen to be featured on several MTV programs this season. Stizz's music is featured on PIMP MY RIDE, THE OSBORNS, THE NEWLYWEDS, TRIPPIN, N.E.X.T, DATE MY MOM, and MAKING THE BAND. This young artist/producer is now being called upon for performance in NY, NJ, PA, GA, FLA, and STL.

Debra Albright
GIT-IT-RYTE RECORDS
http://www.pgironline.com/
7572245288

RISHI RICH Debut Album 'THE PROJECT' Out Aug 06.

The highly anticipated album from UK producer Rishi Rich titled 'The Project' is out on 7th August 2006.

/24-7PressRelease/ - UK, July 28, 2006 - Rishi Rich - the UK Asian super producer who shot to fame through his innovative fusion of Asian and urban sounds - releases his eagerly anticipated debut album 'The Project' through 2Point9 Records on August 7th. The first single from the album - 'PUSH IT UP (AAJA KURIEH)' features Jay Sean and Juggy D.

Rishi is already one of the leading lights on the UK music scene and is well established through his previous work producing and remixing the likes of Mary J Blige, Britney Spears, Misteeq and Craig David. He has created a unique sound that brings together traditional Indian sounds and hip-hop infused beats. These sounds have, over the past few years, influenced many renowned artists including Missy Elliot, Timbaland and Dr Dre.

Shortly after joining 2Point9 Records in 2003, Rishi formed the Rishi Rich Project, a collective aimed at showcasing new artists. The first single 'Dance With You ('Nachna Tere Naal)' introduced R&B singer Jay Sean and Punjabi vocalist Juggy D, and went to No.12 in the UK charts. Jay Sean's Rishi Rich-produced debut album 'Me Against Myself' followed, spawning 2 UK Top 10 singles, going multi-platinum in India and selling over 300,000 units worldwide.

'THE PROJECT' is the ultimate showcase for Rishi's diverse production style, and is a testament to his ability to both nurture new talent and collaborate in fresh and innovative ways with established artists.

The culmination of a year in the studio with an global roster of artists, the album includes collaborations with some of the UK's brightest stars (So Solid Crew hype man JD aka Dready and Jay Sean) and introduces a new line-up of international talent (including Reggaton artist Mr Phillips, French-Canadian R&B vocalist Chhaya, Bajan singer Alison Hines, USA singer Mana from Timbaland's camp, UK Urban artists Baby Blue and J2K & Norwegian-Pakistani vocalist Rafaqat Ali Khan). With 'The Project' Rishi's trademark fusion of bhangra, traditional Indian music and urban beats has been extended to take in dancehall, reggaeton and soca, alongside lyrics in Punjabi, Hindi, French & English.

A groundbreaking blend of Bhangra, Hip Hop and Reggaeton - with additional production from the Luny Tunes camp, the hit-makers behind Daddy Yankee's world-wide hit 'Gasolina' and leading lights on the burgeoning Reggaeton scene - 'Push It Up (Aaja Kurieh)' and follow up future hit 'Stomp' perfectly reflect the album's global flavour. It's also an upfront taster of what's in store for Autumn 2006, when Rishi Rich & Luny Tunes release their collaborative album 'Bhangraton', through 2Point9 Records UK & Mas Flow/Machete Records US.

'The Project' is released on 2point9 Records on August 7th and will be available from all good record shops (HMV, Virgin etc) The single 'Push It Up (Aaja Kurieh) can be pre-ordered from [urlwww.2point9.com[/url] or by texting RR to 81330

For further press information please contact FNIK PR:
Rakhee: Rakhee@fnik.com or + 44 (0) 7830 275 275

NEWS RELEASE FROM NUMARK/ALESIS/AKAI VIA LEWIS GLOBAL P.R.

The high-tech music revolution isn't only coming - it's calling!

As you know, Milestones, the gala event and launch pad for Numark,
Alesis
and Akai's high-tech musical revolution is September 22. In
anticipation of
Milestones, July 1 will kick-off a search for unsigned DJs, MCs,
songwriters, performers and producers who can show the world what true
musical talent and innovation sounds like. Competition prizes include a
roundtrip to Milestones, $10,000 worth of Numark, Alesis and Akai
studio
gear and more!

Check out the details below and stay tuned for more Milestones updates.
We’d
love if you’d get involved, whether it’s through event attendance,
editorial
coverage or merely spreading the word to your readers.

Milestones NewsFlash #2 – Musical Innovation Idol – Submit to Win!

What:
Numark, Alesis & Akai Professional Musical Innovation Sweepstakes - A
competition to find unsigned DJs, MCs, songwriters, performers and/or
producers.

Contest Website - http://www.milestones2006.com/contest.php

Who:
All unfound, unsigned talent looking for recognition and prizes! Two
winners
will be selected by a panel of Berklee music scholars, Numark, Alesis,
and
Akai Professional industry insiders, and a panel of renowned celebrity
judges.

Where:
Sweepstakes entry can be completed online at
www.milestones2006.com/contest
or via email at milestones@numark.com.

When:
Submit entries from July 1 through August 30, 2006. All entries must be
received no later than August 31, 2006. Winners to be announced on
Wednesday, September 6th, 2006 on www.numark.com, www.alesis.com and
www.akaipro.com

Why:
Milestones, the high-tech music revolution will launch in September and
what
better way to compliment the launch than with a competition to find and
honor music innovators.
2 Grand Prize winners
• An all-expense paid trip to the Milestones Event held at Berklee
College
of Music, September 22, 2006.
• Milestones Studio Gear package provided by Numark, Alesis, and Akai
Professional ($10,000 in gear).
• A select scholarship to Berklee Music.com online extension school.

5 Second Prize winners
• Milestones Studio Gear package provided by Numark,Alesis, and Akai
Professional ($2,000 worth of gear!)

How:
Judging will be based on complete performance, arrangement and
production
quality. Performances should be limited to a maximum of three minutes
and/or
5 MB MP3 file size.

The buzz is growing! Next week’s installment will offer more Milestones
event information on artists, contests, after party details, etc.
http://www.milestones2006.com

If you have questions, want to get involved in this event and/or want
to
give your readers tickets please contact me. I can do the legwork to
set up
interviews with the talent, as well as with Numark, Alesis and Akai,
the
companies in the music audio, studio electronics and professional DJ
equipment space who are spearheading this event.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Lewis Global Public Relations
Holly Dewar 617-226-8897
numark@lewispr.com

Las Vegas Rapper, Lil' Tone, was Arrested Thursday Morning (July 20) in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Three Different Felony Charges

The 18-year-old rapper (real name: Tony Richardson) was taken into custody by the Las Vegas Police early Thursday while at home and charged with two counts each of robbery, burglary and use of a deadly weapon (which has since been dropped).

(PRWEB) July 28, 2006 -- Las Vegas rapper, Lil' Tone, was arrested Thursday morning (July 20) in Las Vegas, Nevada, on three different felony charges.

The 18-year-old rapper (real name: Tony Richardson) was taken into custody by the Las Vegas Police early Thursday while at home and charged with two counts each of robbery, burglary and use of a deadly weapon (which has since been dropped).

The rapper's label, Las Vegas-based Runnin' Madd Records, insists that the arrest is nothing but harassment by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), citing discrimination as the culprit, and even stated that Lil' Tone was working the night in question.

"I treat Lil' Tone like a little brother. I do everything I can to keep him out off the streets and in the studio," said Jayiisa, Runnin Madd CEO.

According to the label, the police have begun to discriminate against local rappers after one of their own fell victim to a unrelated shooting. In the press release, Runnin' Madd Records accuses the LVPD of "operating under martial law" and "operating much like a gang to shut down any rapper in their path."

Richardson is currently being held at the Clark County Detention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, with bail set at $40,000. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 3.

The LVMPD was not available for comment at press time.

In related news, Lil' Tone has just released his first mixtape with the Cali Untouchable DJs' DJ Strong, titled Welcome To The Hood Of Las Vegas. Proceeds from the sales of the new mixtape will help pay for the rapper's attorney fees.

The mixtape is available at HipHopWest.com.

Stronghouse -
STRONGHOUSE RECORDS LLC
866-754-6588

Full Sail Graduate Serves as Creator and Owner of Successful Independent Record Label and Recording Studio

Full Sail Real World Education congratulates graduate, Timothy "Tip" Wyman, for his extraordinary success opening the independent record label and recording studio, Wyman Records, based in Los Angeles, CA.

Winter Park, FL (PRWEB) July 30, 2006 –- Full Sail Real World Education congratulates graduate, Timothy “Tip” Wyman, for his extraordinary success opening the independent record label and recording studio, Wyman Records, based in Los Angeles, CA.

Wyman graduated from Full Sail with a degree in Recording Arts in 2003 and Wyman Records was founded in 2005. Within one year of operation, Wyman has expanded to 10 employees and two office locations. The company has instantly achieved success working with major artists such as: Kayne West, Three 6 Mafia and Paris Hilton. Recently, Wyman Records recorded and mixed Academy Award winning track, “Hard Out Here for a Pimp,” for Three 6 Mafia. MTV has also filmed on location in the studio, as well as an episode of the popular television series, “The Simple Life” which airs on E! Entertainment.
    
"Full Sail taught me the engineering skills that qualified me for a start in a professional studio. Similar to our class schedule, things happen at odd times and places in this business and I was prepared for long hours and hard work. I never knew what that meant until it happened for me."

Wyman also stated, "Full Sail stressed that the times change fast and that today is obsolete so don't ever stop exploring. My studies at Full Sail gave me an awesome tease to the music industry and jump started my ability to create a career for myself in this ever-changing and challenging business."

Wyman Records is negotiating a distribution deal with most major distributors and is being supervised as a label under Universal Music Group’s Monte Lipman. In addition, they are a certified vendor for Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, Sony/BMG and Capitol Records.

“Full Sail is extremely proud of Tip and his great success with Wyman Records,” said Garry Jones, President of Full Sail. “His accomplishments both at Full Sail and within the industry are an example of the outstanding hard work and dedication our students and graduates exhibit each and every day.”

Since 1979, Full Sail Real World Education, a college outside of Orlando, FL, has been an innovative educational leader for those pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. With over 20,000 alumni, graduate credits include work on Oscar and GRAMMY-winning projects, best-selling video games, and the #1 grossing U.S. concert tour five out of the last five years. Full Sail's 91-acre campus proudly welcomes over 5,000 students from all 50 states and 37 countries worldwide. Currently, Full Sail offers degrees in the following disciplines: Computer Animation, Digital Arts & Design, Entertainment Business, Film, Game Development, Recording Arts, and Show Production & Touring.

Students experience a “real world” education, with a professional class structure of 8-12 hours per day, and a 24-hour round the clock schedule which earned Full Sail the “Most Innovative Program” Award by the Florida Association of Postsecondary Schools and Colleges. Full Sail has also been named one of the top three entertainment media colleges by Shift Magazine alongside the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (No. 1) and New York University (No. 2); Electronic Gaming Monthly named Full Sail one of the Top Five Game Degree Programs in the world; Rolling Stone Magazine recently named Full Sail one of the “Best Music Programs” in the country, in addition to one of the “Best Music Business Departments” in the Schools That Rock: The Rolling Stone College Guide, and UNleashed Magazine has named Full Sail one of the Best Film Programs in the country.

Kristin Weissman
FULL SAIL REAL WORLD EDUCATION
407-679-0100

On Hip Hop Press & ProHipHop Sp@m Charges Related to Goldmark

I've had some recent concerns about sp@m touting Goldmark Entertainment's stock (PINK SHEETS:GDKI) that some folks thought came from me, apparently because I reprinted two Goldmark press releases that ran on Business Wire.

Here's some of the backstory:
ProHipHop and Hip Hop Press Emails Being Spoofed

Instead of removing the press release pages entirely, I've left up slightly modified headlines with the pr text removed and replaced by my initial response:

Goldmark Industries, Inc. Announces Its Emergence as an All-Inclusive Urban Entertainment Company Positioned to Become a Leading Force Worldwide [Hip Hop Press Disclaimer]

Goldmark Signs Platinum Selling Artist Frost as Vice President of Its Music Division [Hip Hop Press Disclaimer]

As noted, I currently am not claiming that Goldmark is the source of this spam but I will no longer be posting Goldmark related press releases until I feel this matter is resolved in a manner that does not undermine my own business activities.

Furthermore, I cannot and do not give investment advice, all related statements should be taken for educational purposes only because education is my intent.

While I do intend to dig deeper into this matter, pending an upcoming minor announcement that I do not wish to currently discuss publically, I'm holding off on that particular topic.

Let me reiterate that I do not knowingly send sp@m and that I do everything I can to respond to even minor concerns because I take such issues extremely seriously.

Given my rather intense critiques of such practices, there's no way I could maintain my credibility without taking such an approach.

More soon but not right away.  Fortunately, I'm guessing that you're not holding your collective breath over this one!

On a related note:
I've just discovered that some banner ads are appearing on Hip Hop Press that I did not intend to have appear on that site.  It's actually due to my not understanding some things about how my current ad service works but I'm trying to stay on top of that and they should be gone soon.

Houston Rapper Wine-O Inks Deal with Universal Records

Los Angeles, July 27, 2006:  Houston rapper Wine-O has inked a deal with Universal Records to distribute his late-September release Hate Me.

Wine-O’s first single, "Pop My Trunk" has exploded and is in heavy rotation an all major radio stations in Texas, and is also the number one club song in Texas.  The single has been spreading to other cities in the South, and has been in the Billboard Top 100 R&B/Hip Hop singles for the past 12 weeks.
 
Wine-O is by no means new to the music business.  He’s had an extensive career as both an artist and a producer, and has worked in several different genres of music including hip hop, rock, blues and country formats.  He recently worked with Mike Jones, producing tracks for him, and is currently collaborating with Slim Thug and Scarface.  Wine-O also produced the remix for Letoya Luckett’s single, “Tear Da Club Up.”
 
Wine-O promises to be a force to be reckoned with in the music world as he delivers a style and sound that are as unique and compelling as his story.  Hate Me features 18 tracks, and the first single, “Pop My Trunk,” illustrates Wine-O’s keen ear for catchy beats and his distinctive, infectious voice.  Wine-O’s inspiration and music come from his life experiences - the trials, hard times, death and disappointments he has gone through, as well as from the successes he has achieved in life.  His music touches on many different aspects of the human experience and has an inimitable sound that comes straight from his heart.  Wine-O previously released over a dozen albums under the name Nu Wine.
###
 
For Press Inquiries, bio, publicity images and music please contact Heidi Buech, Crescendo Public Relations, at heidibuech@comast.net or 310.869.4010

KOCH RECORDS ALONG WITH 3 STORY MUZIK AND STREET CRED TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM BY BIG RICH

E-40 PRESENTS BIG RICH FILL MORE RICH TO BE RELEASED ON OCTOBER 3RD, 2006

July 27th, 2006
(New York, NY) Big Rich, a rising star rapper/producer from San Franciscos Fillmore district, is set to record his first solo album to be released by KOCH Records in conjunction with Rich's imprint label 3 Story Muzik and Street Cred Music Group.

Big Rich's debut solo album, E-40 Presents Big Rich Fillmore Rich, will be released on October 3rd, 2006. The album features appearances by San Quinn, E-40, Hell Rell of The Diplomats, D-Blocks J-Hood and Sheek Louch, Mistah Fab, Turf Talk, J. Valentine, Bailey, Clyde Carson of the Team, Stress of the Federation, Fully Loaded, Ya Boy, and Devo and production by EA Ski & CMT, Sean T, Droop E (E-40's son), Mal Amazing, D-Cyde, Rashaad Wiggins, Cello Mac, King Cydal.

Big Rich was born and raised in the Fillmore district of San Francisco. Rapping since the age of 12, Rich went on to form groups Fully Loaded and The Done Deal Fam. With The Done Deal Fam, Rich changed the Bay Area rap scene forever with the single "Welcome to the Bay," a response to Jermaine Dupri and Ludacris' smash hit "Welcome to Atlanta.

A video was just filmed in the Bay Area for the first single, Thats the Business, and will be serviced to radio and video outlets shortly.

Here is a video stream for your convenience:

E-40 Presents Big Rich "That's The Business"

Streaming Video Links:
Windows Media
hi-res: http://boss.streamos.com/wmedia/kochent/bigrich/thatsthebusinesshi.wvx
Lo-res: http://boss.streamos.com/wmedia/kochent/bigrich/thatsthebusinesslow.wvx

Real Media
hi-res: http://boss.streamos.com/real/kochent/bigrich/thatsthebusinesshi.smi
Lo-res: http://boss.streamos.com/real/kochent/bigrich/thatsthebusinesslow.smi

Please be sure to check out Big Richs Myspace.com page!!
http://www.myspace.com/bigrich

For more info, please contact: Giovanna Melchiorre at 212-353-8800x257 / gio@kochent.com or Matt Conaway at 410-360-5957 / matthewbrn@aol.com

Hierocast Episode V: Opio In The Hot Seat

Opio Answers Fan's Burning Questions, Debuts New A Plus Track

(Brooklyn, NY- July 27, 2006) Souls of Mischief member and solo artist Opio hosts the latest edition of the Hieroglyphics Podcast. Opio whips up a playlist of some of his favorite Hiero family tracks, including Casual, O.C., and his collaboration with Pigeon John. The real sonic treat of Hierocast V is the debut of the track "Patna Please" by fellow SOM member A Plus. The track will be officially released on A Plus' forthcoming debut solo album, My Last Good Deed.

This episode marks a further evolution of the Hierocast format. For the first time fans were able to submit questions for Opio via the Hieroglyphic's official message boards, Hiero Hoopla (www.hieroglyphics.com/hoopla2). Between songs, Opio answers these burning questions in his signature Oakland accent. The questions range from the serious; "What producers would you like to work with in the future?" to the hilarious; "Who would win in a fight between Tajai and Pep Love?" Of course the Hierocast would be nothing if it weren't for the tunes, in which Opio showcases his own recent work on his solo album Triangulation Station.

Marking another "first" for the Hierocast, Hiero Imperium teamed up with iKEY-Audio (www.ikeyaudio.com), a division of Gemini Sound Products, to offer podcast listeners a chance to win an iKEY Portable USB Recorder. The device allows you to record digital audio directly to virtually any portable MP3 player. Fans can enter the contest by answering a Hierocast trivia question at Hiero Imperium's official site: www.hieroglyphics.com.

Hiero Imperium Records is an artist owned and run label based in Oakland, California. Hiero's artists have sold over 1 million units and the label was one of the first record companies (indie or major) to embrace technology as a new way to connect with fans and disseminate music.

Track listing:
A Plus - "Patna Please" from the forthcoming album My Last Good Deed
Opio featuring Pigeon John - "Granite Earth" from the album Triangulation Station
Casual - "Bitin & Freakin'" from the album Casual Presents: Smash Rockwell
O.C. - "Shorty" from the album Smoke and Mirrors
Opio - "For Those Who Don't Know" from the album Triangulation Station

The podcast can be downloaded from the following sources:

iTunes Podcast subscription link:
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=82611816

Link to Enhanced version: (Requires iTunes)
http://www.iconocastic.com/audio/HIEROCAST_EPISODE_5.m4a
###
For Immediate Release
Contact: Gavin Rhodes
www.AudibleTreats.com
(718) 768-7275
gavin@audibletreats.com

Official MTV Mixtape Selection: Floe Almighty Listening Party Tour w/ Edgar Allen Floe

Shaman Work Recordings presents the Floe Almighty Listening Party Tour with the Justus League's own Edgar Allen Floe, dates in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington D.C. and New York.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) July 27, 2006 -- Shaman Work Recordings presents Edgar Allen Floe in the 2006 Floe Almighty Listening Party Tour. Don't miss your only chance to get up close and personal with 12 hot tracks of original and exclusive material by the Justus League's own Edgar Allen Floe with production from 9th Wonder (Little Brother, Destiny’s Child, Jay-Z), Khrysis (Boot Camp Clik, Masta Ace, E. Ness) and Slicemysta (EA Floe himself). MTV-certified and featured in XXL, Scratch and The Source, this burgeoning wordsmith is set to take the industry by storm. Sponsors include: Brooklyn Industries, Scifen, Vapors, Elite Boardshop, Grooveattack, & Illvibe    

Tour Dates:
Tuesday, July 25th – Philadelphia
Moodswing @ North on South, 222 South St.

Wednesday, July 26th – Baltimore
@ Sky Lounge w/Pynce, 1041 Marshall Street

Thursday, July 27th – Washington D.C.
Just BCUS @ Café Nema, 1334 U Street NW

Friday, July 28th – New York       
@ Kion Lounge, 509 E. 6th Street (Avenue A and 6th St.)   
Track listing and credits for Edgar Allen Floe’s Floe Almighty:

1.) Skyward (produced by 9th Wonder)
2.) Floe Freestyle (produced by Slicemysta)
3.) Craftmatic (produced by Khrysis)
4.) Livelyhood Remix (produced by Slicemysta)
5.) Floe Almighty (produced by 9th Wonder)
6.) Nightwatch f/Mal Demolish (produced by Son Of Yorel)
7.) The Torch (produced by 9th Wonder)
8.) Hostility f/Cazmere (produced by Slicemysta)
9.) One And One Remix f/Diablo Archer (produced by Slicemysta)
10.) Changes (Mood Swing) (produced by Slicemysta)
11.) Floe Shout Outs (produced by Slicemysta)
12) The Righteous Way To Go Remix (produced by 9th Wonder)

For more information please visit:
www.shamanwork.com
www.myspace.com/eafloe
www.thejustusleague.com
www.essdub.com

Jennifer Calloway
SHAMAN WORK RECORDINGS
http://www.shamanwork.com/
202-725-5432

Detroit Mayor Kwame M. Kilpatrick, Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm, Hip-Hop Legend DJ Doug E. Fresh, Among Other Celebrities, Join to Re-Ignite Fire Ball Weekend 2006

Annual Red Hot Fundraiser for African American History Museum Ready (Again) to Set Detroit Ablaze Aug. 11-12

DETROIT, July 27 /PRNewswire/ -- The Contemporary Friends of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History today officially announced Detroit Mayor Kwame M. Kilpatrick and First Lady Carlita Kilpatrick; Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and First Gentleman Daniel Mulhern; Roderick D. Gillum and Dr. Linda Gillum; and syndicated Judge Greg Mathis as Honorary Chairpersons for the 2nd Annual Fire Ball Weekend. Sparked last year, the Fire Ball is a sizzling fundraiser for the museum slated to blaze on Aug. 11- 12, 2006. In addition, Hip-Hop legend DJ Doug E. Fresh will provide searing musical sets for the fiery fundraiser, which raised approximately $150,000 last year for the museum.

"The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History continues to be a cultural pillar to the Detroit community and it is imperative that we remain vigilant in preserving the legacy of Dr. Charles H. Wright," said Contemporary Friends founder Hiram E. Jackson. "Last year, we engaged a younger generation of donors and supporters who stepped up to the task of supporting the museum. This year, we're planning a more exciting and unique experience for Fire Ball 2006 that will surely turn up the heat for Detroit Tastemakers while providing a venue for the 45-and-under age group to get engaged with the museum."

Fire Ball Weekend 2006 ignites on Friday, August 11, 2006 with the invitation-only VIP reception, followed by the Fashion on Campus Martius event, featuring the clothing lines of House of Dereon and Ryan Kenny; completed with a sexy afterglow. The event simmers and then re-ignites the following night Saturday, Aug. 12, 2006, for the fiery gala.

The Fire Ball continues to draw a distinguished list of supporters including sponsors such as General Motors, Greektown Casino, House of Courvoisier, and Pepsi. Ticket prices begin at $200 for this fiery event, with all access VIP weekend packages available on a limited basis.

Fire Ball 2005 proved to be Detroit's "hottest" event of the year. Fire Ball 2006 promises to turn up the heat with a hip, Hollywood-style, contemporary environment with a comfortable, upscale summer evening chic dress code. The electrifying and energetic atmosphere will also have the red-hot energy and excitement of music, film and sports celebrities, frenzied paparazzi, a few surprise guests and an eclectic mix of today's hottest music. Fire Ball's dramatic scenery includes a red carpeted entrance, beautifully appointed furnishings, and private Cabanas.

Guests will also enjoy incredible cuisine from the trendiest restaurants in the metropolitan Detroit area, while taking time to relax and unwind or simply dance the night away with Detroit's historical site as a backdrop.

For more information and to order tickets, please go to http://www.fireballdetroit.com/ or call the "Fire Ball" hotline at (866) 463-4600. Tickets can also be purchased at select retailers, including DOC City Eyes in Southfield and at Eastland Mall, Simply Casual in Detroit, Studio Couture in Detroit, as well as the Wright Museum.

Source: Contemporary Friends of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

CONTACT: Shaun W. Wilson, +1-313-300-0933, swilson@wilsonpr.com ; or
Brian Stevenson, +1-313-330-3669, Stevenson710@aol.com , both for Contemporary
Friends

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

Virgin Mobile USA is Down with Exclusive Content from Yung Joc

Customers Get 'First Dibs' on 10 Exclusive Ringtones and Interview Excerpts

WARREN, N.J. and NEW YORK, July 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Red hot Atlanta native and rising hip-hop talent Yung Joc has signed on as the latest music artist to offer "First Dibs" on exclusive mobile content to Virgin Mobile wireless customers, according to Virgin Mobile USA and Block Entertainment/Bad Boy Records.

Virgin Mobile customers are now the only wireless customers in the U.S. with access to a cappella and instrumental ringtone versions of 10 of Joc's hottest tracks, including new takes on "It's Goin' Down" -- the track currently burning up the Hot Rap and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop chart. Virgin Mobile's four million customers also have the unique opportunity to hear from Yung Joc first-hand, through original interview excerpts included in the First Dibs program.

"Virgin Mobile is staying ahead of the curve by adding Yung Joc to our roster of First Dibs artists," said Dominick Tolli, vice president, Mobile Data Services for Virgin Mobile USA. "We're bringing our customers the hottest, most sought-after songs from fresh new artists, including unique content they can't find anywhere else."

In addition to the 10 exclusive ringtone tracks, this First Dibs deal offers access to 20 other non-exclusive Yung Joc ringtones. Virgin Mobile customers can download First Dibs content by visiting http://www.virginmobileusa.com/, or directly from their Virgin Mobile handsets.

About Virgin Mobile USA, LLC:

Launched nationally in July of 2002, Virgin Mobile USA, LLC is the nation's first wireless network created for and defined by youth. Virgin Mobile is a joint venture between Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group and Sprint Nextel, which operates one of the largest 100-percent digital, nationwide PCS wireless networks in the United States. The country's first mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Virgin Mobile's four million customers have access to a service portfolio that includes multiple voice pricing options, a full range of handsets and a broad array of messaging, music and mobile content offerings -- without long-term contracts. In addition, J.D. Power and Associates has recognized Virgin Mobile for providing "An Outstanding Customer Service Experience" under its Certified Call Center Program.(SM)

Virgin Mobile phones are available at more than 25,000 stores, with Top-Up cards available at more than 80,000 locations nationwide. Virgin Mobile products can also be purchased online at http://www.virginmobileusa.com/ or by calling Virgin Mobile At Your Service (1-888-322-1122).

About Bad Boy Records

Bad Boy Records was formed in 1994 by Sean "P. Diddy" Combs. In just over ten years, under the guidance of Combs, Bad Boy has grown to become one of the most dominant urban labels in the music business, with acts that have had significant crossover success. Bad Boy Records has sold more than 75 million records worldwide and its Grammy Award-winning catalog and roster of multi- platinum artists include B5, Boyz N Da Hood, Mase, Carl Thomas, 8 Ball & MJG, Mario Winans and P. Diddy himself. Bad Boy has been home to popular rappers such as Notorious B.I.G., The Lox, and Mase, as well as R&B stars Faith Evans and 112 and pop group Dream.

Source: Virgin Mobile USA

CONTACT: Alysa McKenna of CooperKatz & Co., +1-212-455-8023,
amckenna@cooperkatz.com

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