John Legend, Treach, Jaguar Wright, and M-1 Combating Terrorism to End Violence in the Hood

New York, NY (January 30, 2007)—John Legend, Jaguar Wright, Treach and dead prez are just a few of the artists featured on the upcoming CD/DVD project "Combating Police Terrorism".   The Free Your Hood Coalition will celebrate the official release with a premiere screening of the DVD and live concert on Thursday February 1st at Joe's Pub. M-1 of dead prez, Jaguar Wright, Treach of Naughty By Nature, A-Alikes, Nemiss, and Hasan Salaam are among those scheduled to perform at the release.

"Combating Police Terrorism" highlights various police programs that result in unusually high arrests in Black and Latino communities such as Operation Impact, the Street Crimes Unit, and the Hip Hop Police Task Force.   Through first hand accounts it tells the stories of those victimized by the NYPD including one that ended in the murder of unarmed 19 year old Timothy Stansbury and another that disrupted a dead prez photo shoot resulting in injuries and arrests.   Though most of these cases took place between 2003 and 2005, the release comes just after the police murders of Sean Bell (NYC), Michael Smith (Chicago), and Kathryn Johnston (Atlanta ) occurred all within 2 weeks of each other this past November.   At a time when national and local security forces rage war on terrorism Free Your Hood asks us to question all forms of terrorism and particularly police programs that disproportionately target communities of color and the claim that "contagious shooting" syndrome should explain why police fire to fifty times on one individual.

The Combating Police Terrorism film premiere and concert will take place Thursday February 1st at Joes's Pub located at 425 Lafayette St. near Astor Place.  Doors open at 9:30pm and the screening begins at 10pm.  The tickets are $15 and can be purchased in person at the box office or on-line at www.joespub.com .  All proceeds will benefit the Sean Bell family and the on-going efforts of the Free Your Hood Coalition.  For more information on the coalition please visit www.myspace.com/free_your_hood_coalition.

About Free Your Hood Coalition:

After witnessing and experiencing numerous police brutality incidents, dead prez and other People's Army members, who themselves had been harassed, injured, and arrested initiated the Free Your Hood Coalition to address the violence. The coalition brought together several groups working in Brooklyn including ACLU, Critical Resistance, InPDUM, Malcolm X Grassroots Movement, and Urban Mana to work collectively to inform communities about policing programs and their rights as well as to provide support for police brutality victims and their families.   In addition to the DVD/CD project Free Your Hood also produces a free quarterly newsletter, The People's Post.

All Media Inquiries:      
Autumn Marie
(Free Your Hood/4 Da piH-poH)
tel: 646-319-2584
email: wethepihpoh@gmail.com

Red K CEO Announces Label Staff and Roster

MANASSAS, VA, January 23, 2007

Red K Records CEO and recording artist Clayton
Savage announced his choices for the Red K roster and
extensive marketing team. Building on the label's
principled business practices, Clayton has appointed an
exemplary staff of entrepreneurs to serve on his team,
most of whom are African-American.

He and his Vice President Elena Reid carefully selected
executives who come equipped with unique expertise, and
bridge hard-earned business skills into the entertainment
industry.

“Each of these fine professionals offers the level of
integrity and dedication to the development of excellence
in music. They share the Red K vision for bringing
worldwide attention to the outstanding talent to be found
in the Mid-Atlantic region and work tirelessly to carry out
the major-label level of quality with the spirit of an
independent, artist-friendly label. We are very excited to
have this team assembled,” said Clayton.

Matching an unsurpassed executive team, Red K has
added three talents to its growing roster – artists who
embody outstanding artistry. The label constantly seeks
to develop musicians who exhibit a commitment to
excelsior performance.

Clayton recently embarked on a regional record store
tour and is working with Event Coordinator AJ Massey to
create label showcases and similar events.

###

THE RED K TEAM

PRESIDENT & CEO
Clayton Savage

VICE PRESIDENT
Elena Reid

MARKETING & PROMOTIONS DIRECTOR –
South East
Michelle Dallas

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS &
MARKETING – Mid Atlantic States
Fabiola Fleuranvil

MARKETING DIRECTOR
– Mid Atlantic States
Shaun Rose

COLLEGE RADIO PROMOTIONS
Niki Sapp

PUBLICIST
Darcie-Nicole Wicknick

EVENT COORDINATOR/PROMOTIONS –
NORTH & SOUTH CAROLINA
AJ Massey

DISTRIBUTOR
Michael Admani
AMG Distribution LLC

ARTISTS
Clayton Savage
Jay Quan
K-Trik-E
Lisa Roe
Mr Rozzi

Media Inquiries:
Darcie-Nicole Wicknick, Publicist
“…Ask Darcie” Music Business Consulting
617-787-5798
askdarcie@hotmail.com
www.askdarcie.info

Red K Records, LLC
www.redkrecords.com
“Bringing the World to the Mid Atlantic”
703 330-7980
Business@redkrecords.com

AMG Distribution LLC
321 Russell Avenue
Edgewater NJ 07020
“Putting Majors Out Of Business”

MemphisRap.com wins "Website of The Year" at 2007 Southern Entertainment Awards

MEMPHIS, TN - January 29, 2007 - MemphisRap.com's website was recently awarded the "Web Site of the Year" award by the Southern Entertainment Awards (SEA) on January 28, 2007, having been nominated and voted on by fans and industry people across the South and across the globe. The Southern Entertainment Awards has been acknowledging outstanding people in the industry for the past four years focusing on all industries that contribute to the growth of the music and entertainment industries in the South.

The (MemphisRap.com) founders and representatives who contributed to the creation of the site are all to be congratulated, with special recognition going to the representatives who keep their feet firm and connected with those who play a role in the Industry and in the streets.

In response to receiving the award, M Town Luv of MemphisRap.com provided the following:

"I am glad we have been awarded this prestigious award and I was even more glad to see the Industry that's representing the South come together at the award show. We are based in Memphis which I feel is the 'hub of the South' and we plan to make good of this honor by representing the South to the fullest. Now what I would like to see is more money being invested into the South so that we (the South) won't lose what we've gained and so we'll keep moving forward. Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas and all southern states: these are the people that traffic our website seeking breaking new artists in the South as well as their favorite Southern artists and we (these southern states) are all where Hip-Hop has been living for sometime now and we're constantly birthing new talent. It's now up to the labels, both major and independent, to break these artists, by marketing them in front of our outstanding number of people interested in them. I feel if we come to gether and market ourselves in the mediaforms that support us by putting us in front of these millions of targeted consumers, we could make major moves, utilizing a now major media market. East Coast invests in East Coast, West invests in West, the South should invest in the South to keep sites like MemphisRap.com, Word of South, awards like SEA, and magazines like Ozone and Streetmasters growing to further support the whole marketing of the South to the world!"

Averaging over 700,000 new internet users every month, MemphisRap.com, which has been a trusted news source since 2001 for the rap/hip-hop music and entertainment industry, is the largest news and media source in the Mid-South. The site has working relationships with many online news sources and offline sources including newspapers, print magazines, radio outlets.

============
For more information on MemphisRap.com or for more SEA news and media coverage of the 2007 Awards Ceremony including the full list of 2007 SEA winners, tune to www.memphisrap.com. For advertising and sales information logon on to http://advertising.memphisrap.com or call 901-405-1851 to find out why MemphisRap.com won the 2007 Southern Entertainment Awards "Web Site of the Year" and why it's the leading Southern website online. Market yourself on MemphisRap.com and reach over 700,000 unique monthly fans and Industry people of the South.

Candie's Announces 2x Grammy Award Winning Artist, Fergie to Appear in its New Advertising Campaign

New Multi-Media Marketing Campaign for Candie's Only at Kohl's to Launch this Spring

NEW YORK, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Iconix Brand Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:ICON) (the "Company") announced today that superstar artist, Fergie will appear in the Company's popular junior brand, Candie's(R), Spring 2007 multi-media advertising and marketing print and television campaign. Fergie is known to most as the fashion forward female singer in the multi-platinum, Grammy award winning group, The Black Eye Peas. Fergie is noted for her powerful vocals as much as her sense of style.

Fergie has topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, Hot Digital Songs chart and Pop 100 chart with her singles, "London Bridge" and most recently, "Fergalicious" from her platinum solo debut, The Dutchess. Fergie is also the first female artist to have back-to-back #1 songs on the Billboard Pop 100 chart. Fergie joins past Candie's spokespeople Destiny's Child, Hilary Duff, Dixie Chicks and Jenny McCarthy. Candie's is sold exclusively at Kohl's Department Stores and on Kohls.com.

Fergie will appear in Candie's only at Kohl's print advertising campaign, which will debut in March issues of fashion, entertainment and lifestyle magazines, online at teen dominated websites, and star in a television campaign to be aired on major networks nationwide beginning in February. The TV commercial will debut on the Grammy's(R) on February 11th in select markets.

"I was really flattered when they asked me to be the next Candie's girl. There are so many wonderful women who have done past campaigns," stated Fergie. "I had so much fun shooting the campaign, playing up the glam side of my personality and I am excited to have my current single, 'Glamorous' be the music for the TV commercial."

The creative for the campaign revolves around an over-the-top and glamorous Fergie. The always glam Fergie is caught in playful moments that only our Candie's girl experiences. The commercial features Fergie hanging out in her posh Beverly Hills home, while a voyeur looks on. Fergie realizes that someone is watching her and she plays it up in a fun and sexy Candie's way. The soundtrack for the television commercial is Fergie's, "Glamorous" from her solo debut album, The Dutchess.

Neil Cole, CEO, Iconix, stated, "Candie's always aligns itself with the biggest names in the music industry and we are excited to be working with Fergie. Our new campaign will further grow and support our Candie's at Kohl's business."

Julie Gardner, Kohl's senior vice president and chief brand officer stated, "Fergie is a pop culture icon and embodies the spirit of the Candie's brand. We are confident that the culturally relevant advertising and marketing campaign will resonate with our junior shoppers and further differentiate Kohl's in the marketplace."

The campaign was created by Iconix's in-house marketing team. The print campaign was shot by famed celebrity photographer, Matthew Rolston and the television commercial was directed by Chris Appelbaum, who is known for his MTV music videos.

Candie's and Kohl's will be a sponsor of Fergie's "The Dutchess" tour this spring/summer. The tour will be high tech, innovative and groundbreaking. Fergie will make personal appearances on behalf of the brand as well as participate in campaign launch events. The campaign will be integrated into Kohl's spring marketing plans.

The Candie's website will feature "That Is So Candie's" theme. Users can log on to www.candies.com and upload their real life Candie's moments to "C- tube" via video, photos or stories and also enter to win a sweepstakes to be a "Dutchess for a day". One lucky winner will be flown to Los Angeles for the next Candie's and Fergie photo shoot to have lunch with the star.

About Iconix Brand Group, Inc.

Iconix Brand Group Inc., (NASDAQ:ICON) owns, licenses and markets a growing portfolio of consumer brands including CANDIE'S (R), BONGO (R), BADGLEY MISCHKA (R), JOE BOXER (R) RAMPAGE (R), MUDD (R), LONDON FOG (R), MOSSIMO (R) and OCEAN PACIFIC (R). The Company's brands touch every major segment of retail distribution from the luxury market to the mass market. Iconix, through its in-house advertising agency, advertises and markets its brands to continually increase consumer awareness and loyalty and licenses its brands to a network of leading retailers and manufacturers.

About Kohl's

Based in Menomonee Falls, Wis., Kohl's is a family-focused, value-oriented specialty department store offering moderately priced, exclusive and national brand apparel, shoes, accessories, beauty and home products in an exciting shopping environment. Kohl's operates 817 stores in 45 states. For a full list of store locations and information, or for the added convenience of shopping online, visit www.kohls.com.

About Interscope Geffen A&M

Combining the legacies of three of the most influential record labels in modern music history, Interscope Geffen A&M Records embarked on a new tradition of musical achievement with its unification on January 1, 1999. Headed by Chairman Jimmy Iovine, Interscope Geffen A&M is a major force in global music, developing chart-topping artists across a wide range of musical genres including rock, rap, pop and alternative. Interscope Geffen A&M Records is part of Universal Music Group, the world's largest music company.

  Contact:

  Iconix Brand Group, Inc.            Kohl's
  Maria Dolgetta                      Vicki Shamion
  Director of Public Relations        Vice President, Public Relations
  212.819.2084                        262-703-1464
  mdolgetta@iconixbrand.com           Vicki.Shamion@kohls.com

FCMN Contact: maria@iconixbrand.com
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070131/CLW082-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070131/CLW082-b
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN7-8
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Iconix Brand Group, Inc.

CONTACT: Maria Dolgetta, Director of Public Relations, of Iconix Brand
Group, Inc., +1-212-819-2084, or mdolgetta@iconixbrand.com; Vicki Shamion,
Vice President, Public Relations, of Kohl's, +1-262-703-1464, or
Vicki.Shamion@kohls.com

Web site: http://iconixbrand.com/
http://www.kohls.com/

VH1 Classic Celebrates the 'Wonder' of Black History Month in February

NEW YORK, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- VH1 Classic is kicking off Black History Month with a vintage, high-energy performance by the legendary Stevie Wonder as well as a premiere edition of "Classic Albums" focusing entirely on the making of his seminal album "Songs In The Key of Life." The channel also offers the VH1 Classic premiere of the movie "Little Richard," chronicling the rock pioneer's tumultuous upbringing, and a re-airing of VH1's critically acclaimed documentary series "And You Don't Stop: 30 Years of Hip Hop."

  BBC Crown Jewels:  Stevie Wonder:  "A Night of Wonder"
  Premiere:  Thursday, February 8    10:00-11:00 p.m. ET

Airing for the first time in the United States, VH1 Classic will debut "A Night of Wonder," a concert performed by Stevie Wonder at the BBC's Teddington Studios. This jam session is a must-see for fans of Wonder, who delivers rousing renditions of his Motown hits for an intimate audience of less than 200 fans.

  Classic Albums: "Stevie Wonder:  Songs In The Key Life"
  Premiere:  Tuesday, February 6,  10:00-11:00 p.m. ET

Already firmly established as a musical genius, Stevie Wonder spent over two years making this album, which was finally released in 1976 amidst great anticipation. Filmed at Wonderland, Wonder's studio complex in Los Angeles, and using the original multi-tracks, this film reconvenes all the original musicians that played on the album. "I Wish" and "Sir Duke" are both performed live in a unique performance interspersed with the musicians' own recollections of the recording of this now classic album.

  Rock And Roll Picture Show:    "Little Richard"
  Premiere:  Monday, February 5, 10:00-11:00 p.m. ET

This telemovie chronicles the life and times of rock and roll pioneer Little Richard, born Richard Penniman, one of 12 children in Georgia. Heavily steeped in gospel music while growing up, Little Richard experienced traumatic loss at an early age when his father was murdered. However, the artist went on to create a new sound by mixing the fire of gospel with New Orleans-style rhythm and blues, pounding on the piano and wailing with abandon. At least twice, Little Richard quit the world of show business to become a minister. It was during one of these periods that his father's murderer came to him and asked forgiveness. Stars Leon, Jenifer Lewis and Garrett Morris.

VH1 Classic will also re-air the critically acclaimed documentary series "And You Don't Stop: 30 Years of Hip Hop:"

  Part 1:  "Back in the Day"
  Airs Monday Feb. 5 at 5 p.m. & Saturday, Feb. 10 at 6 p.m.

  Part 2:  "Bring The Noise"
  Airs Monday Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. & Saturday, Feb. 10 at 7 p.m.

  Part 3:  "Gangsta Gangsta"
  Airs Monday Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. & Sat., Feb. 10 at 8 p.m.

  Part 4:  "Life After Death"
  Airs Monday February 5 at 8 p.m.

Launched in May 2000, VH1 Classic is a 24-hour network that present videos, concerts and music specials all day long, featuring the best of rock, soul and pop artists from the 60s, 70s, 80s and early 90s, including The Beatles, The Stones, Tina Turner, Led Zeppelin, Marvin Gaye, The Who, Stevie Wonder, The Police and many more. Learn more at www.vh1classic.com.

Source: VH1

CONTACT: Brett Henne, +1-212-846-6752, or Maura Wozniak, +1-212-846-
7325, both of VH1

Web site: http://www.vh1.com/
http://www.vh1classic.com/

Listen to Hip Hop's #1 Draft Pick Young Blue's Unreleased Mixtape

/24-7PressRelease/ - NEW YORK, NY, January 31, 2007 - Music Unlimited Records and Young Blue are giving the media an opportunity to hear his yet to be released mixtape titled "My Diary." There are 18 majestic tracks that play more like an album than a traditional mixtape.

These recordings are to give the media and Hip Hop fans an insight into what they can expect from Young Blue on his debut album with the similar title "Dear Diary" scheduled for an early Spring 2007 release.

Young Blue has been burning up the internet airwaves on his way to creating significant buzz in the Northeast area , and with the help of the internet, over seas as well.

Enough talk already. To hear what all the buzz is about click on or cut and paste this link and take a ride through Young Blue's diary. http://www.musicunlimitedrecords.com/Music.html

Press Release Contact Information:
A.V. Hodge
Music Unlimited Records
Founder/CEO
Voice: 610-643-9209
Fax: 207-226-8239
E-Mail: av@musicunlimitedrecords.com
Website: www.musicunlimitedrecords.com

Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau Unveils New Brand Identity for Metro Detroit: 'D. Cars, Culture, Gaming, Music, Sports'

DETROIT, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Hot cars. Leading-edge music. Vegas-style gaming. Diverse culture. Championship sports. These are the attributes that define metro Detroit and offer the most appeal as a tourism destination, according to the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCVB) which unveiled a new "brand identity" for the region today (Wednesday, Jan. 31).

The brand positioning and its graphic representation: "D. Cars, Culture, Gaming, Music, Sports," was introduced at the Bureau's annual membership meeting at the Detroit Opera House and attended by nearly 400 tourism, hospitality, and civic leaders.

According to Larry Alexander, president & CEO of the DMCVB, the new identity was developed after more than a year of extensive research to positively shape tourist perceptions of the region over time. It will be the foundation of a long-term strategy for marketing metro Detroit worldwide as an exciting destination for leisure tourism, meetings and conventions.

"The brand identity resulted from surveys of more than 1,300 visitors and focus groups in five cities that identified Detroit as "the American city where cool comes from," said Alexander. "This identity focuses on five strengths that best set us apart from other cities -- our auto and music heritage, our distinctive cultural product, Vegas-style gaming, and sports. Together, these strengths, delivered the way metro Detroit delivers them, give us a rare opportunity to own a very powerful and compelling idea -- and that's the first order of business in building a world-class tourism brand identity."

Detroit "cool" was one of three ideas tested -- and one that resonated extremely well with focus groups in five regional cities (Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio; Fort Wayne, Ind.; Grand Rapids, Mich; and London, Ontario) as well as with local civic, government and corporate stakeholders, Alexander said.

The research found that among 11 regional cities, including Chicago, Toronto, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Indianapolis, Detroit was the only city perceived to offer a travel experience appealing primarily to young adults.

Within the adult focus, the study concluded that the 21 to 34-year-old demographic was the best visitor target audience for metro Detroit. Members of this demographic are most willing to spend disposable income on new travel and entertainment experiences, and they are open-minded and adventurous opinion- setters who are motivated to share their experiences with family and friends. This age group is considered to be the best type of visitor for whom Detroit can be positioned as a 'new' destination, ripe for discovery.

Notably, this target audience is significantly narrower than past efforts, which have tended to spread marketing and advertising dollars across a broader spectrum -- resulting in little increase in leisure tourism visitation over the past five years.

Alexander emphasized that "D. Cars, Culture, Gaming, Music, Sports," is an identity reinforcing the assets that define Detroit's 'cool' but stated that the Bureau will not use a slogan as a part of its branding campaign.

"The role of a slogan in spurring tourism is overestimated," he said. "With the exception of Las Vegas, destination slogans are rarely memorable or representative of the area's tourism product. We will use a variety of words and images to consistently convey metro Detroit's brand story."

He noted that the brand identity provides an opportunity for clear, consistent and compelling communications with value that can extend beyond an individual campaign. It provides the entire community with a common understanding and frame of reference to understand and communicate a unified message about metro Detroit.

"This new brand establishes a story about the region that we plan to use to its full potential to contribute to a measurable increase in tourism, and it can also have business-to-business applications. It offers a tremendous opportunity to also showcase metro Detroit as an attractive place to live and work."

Eric La Brecque, Principal, Applied Storytelling, Inc., a brand expert based in San Francisco, who worked with the Bureau's Tourism Economic Development Council (TEDC) subsidiary to conduct the research, said survey respondents did not distinguish between the city of Detroit and its suburbs.

"When a visitor or stakeholder was asked to describe an ideal three days in Detroit, the tendency was to include attractions and destinations throughout the metro area. Political boundaries are irrelevant to tourists."

Visitors noted that many of metro Detroit's tourism offerings were not always easy to identify nor well-promoted. As a result, the TEDC established five "Tourism Destination Districts" that provide a ready way to understand and relate metro Detroit's dispersed tourism product. The districts offer the opportunity for visitors to experience metro Detroit in concentrated, smaller destinations through marketing, advertising and hotel/attraction packages. Schematic maps will provide an easy way for visitors to discern each district and understand the link between them so they can navigate to attractions throughout the metro area.

The five districts that have been established are Downtown, Dearborn/Wayne, Macomb, South Oakland and North Oakland. In each district, the TEDC formed a committee of local business and economic development leaders to guide creation of specific marketing strategies for the area.

The DMCVB plans to use its new brand identity in all of its marketing materials, which will include several non-traditional campaign elements designed to reach the younger demographic. Podcasting, blogging, advertising on 21-34-year-old-oriented prime time television shows, and "The D-Rod" hot rod displaying the Bureau's brand logo at special events and tradeshows, will be among the marketing elements used to reach this market.

In addition to Applied Storytelling, Inc., whose firm conducted the primary research and analysis, metro Detroit's new brand identity strategy and execution were developed with a team of research, marketing and communications experts whose experience includes extensive destination branding and tourism marketing.

The team includes: Jim Townsend, executive director of the Tourism Economic Development Council, who spearheaded the brand research and development effort, created and currently leads the Tourism Destination District program; Berline, the Bureau's advertising agency of record; along with Christopher Baum, the Bureau's Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, developed the positioning line and creative executions.

Berline will continue to create the Bureau's specific advertising and marketing campaigns under the new brand umbrella, and an advertising campaign featuring the new brand identity is scheduled to launch late this spring. Target markets for spot regional television advertising which appeals to the new demographic will appear in Cleveland and Grand Rapids. Web advertising will appear worldwide on key sites frequented by this demographic.

A secondary audience includes married and single adults with no children age 45 and older, using the same creative elements, but with different messaging focusing on travel-focused AAA publications and a partnership with Travel Michigan.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070131/CLW063LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN9
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau

CONTACT: Renee Monforton, +1-313-202-1951, or Carolyn Artman,
+1-313-202-1952, both of Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau

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

Director Alvin Gray Premieres Feature-Length Film/Soundtrack, Torture in Baltimore, MD.

BALTIMORE, MD   -- (Jan 29, 2007) --  Independent filmmaker Alvin Gray is leading the new-school of film directors in the Mid-Atlantic region as he prepares to release his latest film Torture.

The 20 year-old filmmaker wrote and directed the film, which marks his second foray into the world of film. After his work in television as a News Anchor and production assistant, Alvin set out to direct numerous underground hip-hop videos, and operated behind-the-camera for hip-hop music video show, Indie Planet Television.

It was during this time, that Alvin developed the screenplay and set out to find the right actors for the story that was to unfold.

Torture is an action/martial arts film set in the urban backdrop of Baltimore, MD. The plot centers around Leon Fields Jr.'s (Alvin Gray) revenge against a neighborhood gang responsible for murdering his father (Ro Brooks) in cold- blooded fashion. It is Leon's use of the martial arts that lead to action-packed fight sequences that add to the overall plot.

The soundtrack features all-original recordings from Baltimore hip-hop's finest including Diamond Life Records' own Bigg Patch, Jameel Saleem, Top of the World Records recording artist Amadaye, and many more.

The premiere for Torture will be held in Baltimore hotspot Gardels on Thursday, February 1st, 2007 at Gardels Nightclub on 29 S. Front Street in downtown Baltimore, MD. Doors open at 7:00pm and all media and press are Free with RSVP.

To schedule in-person or phone interviews with Alvin Gray in support of this film release for your publication, please contact:

Mr.Shadeed
(443)928-6299
mr.shadeed@gmail.com

Torture Movie Trailer
http://www.youtube.com/p.swf?video_id=rpffBv1Mw0Y&eurl=&iurl=http%3A//sjcstatic1.sjc.youtube.com/vi/rpffBv1Mw0Y/2.jpg&t=OEgsToPDskKrokiONzJJpPQYLMIsIWmR

Black Milk Spearheads a New Generation of Detroit Hip-Hop

Highly Anticipated Sophomore album Popular Demand drops in March

(Brooklyn, NY January 30th, 2007) Detroit emcee and producer Black Milk will release his highly anticipated album Popular Demand on Fat Beats Records on March 13th. Following the creative vacuum left by the passing of J Dilla and Proof, the Motor City has been awaiting a new champion of the city's vibrant hip-hop scene. Popular Demand is Black Milk's statement that proves why Detroit is a relevant and vital voice in hip-hop culture.

Black Milk entered the hip-hop game as a producer, selling his first beats for a Slum Village mixtape. Slum Village liked his sound and came back to him for multiple tracks on the critically lauded Trinity (Past, Present & Future), Detroit Deli (11 out of 13 tracks), and Slum Village records. Black Milk's most recent production credits include tracks for Canibus, Lloyd Banks, and the recently leaked single titled, "Let's Go" from Pharoahe Monch's upcoming album. He will also be producing tracks for upcoming albums by Phat Kat & Bishop Lamont (Aftermath) and also the bulk of the much-buzzed about Sean Price/Guilty Simpson album.

Milk first revealed his prowess as an emcee as part of the duo BR Gunna in 2004. Their album Dirty District, Vol.2 featured vocals from J Dilla, Elzhi, and MC Breed and scanned over 20,000 units. In 2005 Black Milk released his debut solo album, Sound of the City, which established him as a legitimate emcee as well as a brilliantly talented producer. Says Black, "I'm the best of the best on the producing side but I want people to forget that I'm a producer when I'm rhyming." That's one tall order - Black Milk's production compliments his lyrics perfectly; it's hard to imagine one without the other.

Popular Demand's lead single "Sound the Alarm" (featuring Guilty Simpson) is an early contender for Single of the Year. Raw, incisive, and enthralling, you will find yourself hitting "repeat" and sending it to friends. See for yourself: he's got Billboard talking him up and XXL and URB vouching for him. Be ready for Popular Demand when it drops on March 13th. The future of Detroit hip-hop starts now.

MP3's:

"Sound The Alarm" feat. Guilty Simpson
http://www.audibletreats.com/download/BlackMilk/Black_Milk-Sound_The_Alarm.mp3

"Say Something"
http://www.audibletreats.com/download/BlackMilk/Black_Milk-Say_Something.mp3

Streams:

"Sound The Alarm" feat. Guilty Simpson
http://www.audibletreats.com/download/BlackMilk/Black_Milk-Sound_the_Alarm.asx
http://www.audibletreats.com/download/BlackMilk/Black_Milk-Sound_The_Alarm.rm

"So Gone"
http://www.audibletreats.com/download/BlackMilk/Black_Milk-So_Gone.asx
http://www.audibletreats.com/download/BlackMilk/Black_Milk-So_Gone.rm

Bio, pictures, and full album streams available here:
www.audibletreats.com/download/BlackMilk/

Black Milk's MySpace page:
www.myspace.com/blackmk

Video Coming Soon!

Press:
Michelle McDevitt michelle@audibletreats.com

Marco Polo Releases Debut LP, Port Authority, On Rawkus/Soulspazm Records

January 30, 2007
Rawkus Records has a cherished and indelible place in the hip-hop history books, as it was the preeminent label of hip-hops glory age.  More then a label, the name became a motto for what was right with hip-hop, and over the course of its storied history, became the model for all independent labels that followed in its wake.  Now, Rawkus is back, and in doing so ushers in its rebirth with the same ideology it previously used to become a powerhouse - delivering quality music!

Known for having an ear for and developing talent - after all, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Pharoahe Monche, Hi-Tek, El-P and the talent found on the Soundbombing Projects were initially discovered, housed, and made their name with Rawkus - the labels eye for talent will be responsible for turning its latest additions into stars as well.  And in 2007 they will continue to do so with Marco Polos debut LP Port Authority.

While Marco was born and raised in Toronto, after moving to NYC in 2002, hes already made a name for himself in four short years working with artists of such caliber as The Boot Camp Click (The Last Standon which he produced the LPs lead single), Masta Ace (A Long Hot Summer), and you will find his distinctive production included on upcoming projects from Heltah Skeltah, Large Professor, Buckshot, O.C., and EMC (collaborative group featuring Masta Ace, Wordsworth and Punchline), among many others.  Marco is also a respected alumni member of The Beat Society, with four shows under his belt.

Already featured in Scratch Magazines highly-influential Boiling Point section in their Jan/Feb 2007 issue and recently named to Urb Magazines Next 100 list for 2007, Marcos entirely self-produced debut, Port Authority, (which will be released on 5-1-07) offers up the best of both worlds: an LP that seamlessly meshes collaborations with legendary names such as Kool G Rap, Masta Ace, Buckshot, Large Professor, Sadat X, O.C., AG, Ju Ju (Beatnuts) Ed O.G. and Kardinal Offishall, with the top up-and-coming lyricists of today including Copywrite, Kenn Starr, Jo Jo Pellegrino, Supastition, Roc Marciano (The U.N.) and J Davey.

Port Authority was a labor of love for Marco.  As he laments, This album represents the last three years of my life; my big move to NY from Toronto four years ago and the musical growth Ive gone through while finishing it.  It represents a part of hip-hop that is slowly and undeniably withering away.  This album also represents my efforts to unite dope artists and make music that has lasting power.  My project is not a compilation, its my Soul Survivor (Pete Rock) and Port Authority will attest to that!  People that loved Rawkus back in the day, this album will remind you why as it takes things back to the classic era of Rawkus Records.

While Marco Polos Port Authority will kick off Rawkus calendar year in grand style on 5-1-07, the label has also unveiled some of the projects that will permanently re-establish Rawkus Records as a powerhouse label.  Those projects include the re-release of Naledge and Double-Os Kidz In The Hall debut School Was My Hustle, the official Soundtrack to Bruce Willis and Queen Latifahs present: Hip Hop Project, Hezekiahs I Predict A Riot, the fourth installment of Gurus (Gang Starr) Jazzmatazz 4, Panaceas sophomore LP Scenic Route, Rawkus Presents: Soundbombing 4, The Procussions sophomore LP and Naledges solo-debut Naledge Is Power.

Rawkus is back in the building, and the razor is sharper then ever!

By clicking on the following link it will take you directly to Windows and Real Audio to download Port Authoritys lead single, War Marco Polo f/Kardinal Offishal and Hood Tales Marco Polo f/ Kool G Rap and DV Alias Khryst:

http://www.soulspazm.com/transfer/mp_web_samples.zip

Tracklisting and credits for Marco Polos Port Authority:

1.) Port Authority Intro f/O.C.
2.) Get Busy f/ Copywrite
3.) Marquee f/ O.C.
4.) War f/Kardinal Offishall
5.) Nostalgia f/ Masta Ace
6.) The Wrong One f/ Wordsworth
7.) Low Budget All Stars f/ Kev Brown, Kenn Starr, Oddisee, Cy Young & Kaimbr
8.) Speak Softly f/ Jo Jo Pellegrino
9.) Time And Place f/ Ed O.G.
10.) The Radar f/ Large Professor
11.) All My Love f/ Jaysaun
12.) Lay It Down f/ Roc Marciano of The U.N.
13.) Go Around f/ Buckshot
14.) Hood Tales f/ Kool G. Rap & DV Alias Khryst
15.) Heat f/ Supastition
16.) Rollin f/ Sadat X, AG & Ju Ju of The Beatnuts
17.) For The Future f/ Critically Acclaimed
18.) Relax f/ J. Davey "Relax" (Bonus Track)

http://www.rawkus.com/
http://www.myspace.com/marcopolobeats
http://www.marcopolobeats.com/
http://www.soulspazm.com/
www.movementmarketing.net

To obtain a press copy of Marco Polos Port Authority for review or interview purposes, please contact:

Matt Conaway@ Movement Marketing
Business #:  410-903-7568
E-Mail:  Matthewbrn@aol.com
AOL IM:  Matthewbrn

NY Hip Hop Entrepreneur / MC Drops Vol. 9 Black Radberry

Persistency, consistency and a lot of swag is how readers and listeners could sum up the entertainer Tommy Danger. With the recently resuscitated Hip Hop community from being dead everyone is all eyes and ears to see what's next. Who is going to bring something to the table to help continue to elevate hip hop that is already at a monumental state.

Tommy Danger over the past two years has stayed in his lane. Honed his crafts and has continually dropped mix tapes to show the world just that. Many followers will come out of this 1st quarter as very few have the courage to set the tone in hip hop.  Fear is something that does not exist in entertainment for Tommy Danger.

His recent release volume 9 Black Radberry adds on to what will truly be a collector’s edition to the other previously released Now & Laterman series vol. 2-8 mixtapes. In the Internet world of so many fly by night artist Tommy Danger has been grinding non-stop since high school where classmate Bruce Wayne of Midi Mafia first introduced him to a label executive. “I have heard, you’re not ready, you’re not good enough, to represent New York , even more common, that I should sing R&B. I don’t let people dictate who I should be. I love what I do and take it seriously.” says Tommy Danger.

The mixtape Black Radberry contains grade A production from the Myspace networking community. Producers such as Algier, Challz The Negotiator, Insane, 45 Crummie Beats, Jinx Beats, Milk crates, Casual from Australia and Crack City production D.J Nice. “Life has been good to me and it has its challenges. Last year I lost both grandfathers and two uncles in two months. Relationships are always challenging, but in all, this particular mixtape was created with all that. So I feel it’s one of my best.” says the Harlem born Tommy Danger.

2007 looks to be the transitional phase from the underground to majors, but from the looks of major labels, maybe the underground are the higher echelon. The new video to be released from Tommy Danger the Now & Laterman Vol. 9 Black Radberry is Rush produced by Casuel from Australia . The next release will be Tommy Danger’s best of tracks surrounding relationships called “Sex, Lies, and Candy” later this year.

See more on Tommy Danger by visiting these sites –
WWW.TOMMYDANGER.NET
http://www.myspace.com/tommydangernowandlaterman

And make sure to check out Tommy Danger’s – Danger Vision
The 2007 video search continues.... Find out how to enter YOUR video
http://www.sonicbids.com/Opportunity/OpportunityView.aspx?opportunity_id=10488

Haven't seen Danger Vision?
www.youtube.com/tommydangervision

Still not sure..... See video footage at:
www.dna.tv/dangervision

Didn't see it, hear it at
http://tommydanger.podomatic.com/entry/2007-01-24T17_46_12-08_00

The Now & Laterman Volume 9 Black Radberry out Now!
http://cdbaby.com/cd/tommydanger7

Join the mailing list at www.tommydanger.net and get free Black Radberry Now & Laters and an Autographed Pic from Tommy Danger

Press:
ThugLifeArmy   Administrator@ThugLifeArmy.com

Myspace Airs "Royal Road Trip" Reality show featuring Latin Rapper "Royalty the King"

Philadelphia, PA- On January 29th, 2006 the "Royal Myspace Road Trip" began with Latin- West Coast rapper "Royalty the King" leaving San Jose, California to make stops in 30 cities to visit 100,000 or more Myspace friends.  Royalty the King is the first unsigned Hip Hop artist to take a journey across the U.S to see supporting fans, without label support and or budget. Royalty has hired a 2 person camera crew to air the road trip nationally via Myspace every Tuesday and Wednesday evening at 8:00 pm EST. 

The artist leaves a 70,000 dollar a year corporate job to take a 4 month road trip that will lead him to New York City. The reality show will feature live performances by the aspiring artist and show America if the artist can survive for the next 4 months off of CD sales and donations alone.  The trip ends in New York City on April 3, 2006. Royalty has set out to prove to himself and record label executives that he has a solid fan base and is ready for a major distribution deal.  When the artist reaches NYC he will meet with record label executives from Def Jam, Sony, Columbia, Bad Boy, and Interscope records to discuss the success of his road trip via CD sales and fan support.  The artist management team has forecasted at least 50,000 in independent record sales for Royalty. Royalty has earned the respect and support of the media conglomerate ClearChannel and has made several media appearances on air discussing his recent success with the Rhianna remix of Unfaithful that topped the charts in the bay area for 3 months consecutively as well as the Myspace Road Trip.  Clearchannel stations have agreed to support the artist in his quest by setting up on-air weekly check- ins for the artist in over 15 markets. 

The Royalty wrapped vehicle is making stops in Los Angeles, Vegas, Houston, Dallas, Chicago, Philadelphia and other cities.

Royalty’s road trip was inspired by R&B artists Cassies  marketing and label manager of NextSelection , Rasheed Richmond.  As Royalty would call it Rasheed gave him the keys to the kingdom by helping him set up this road trip and expand his myspace presence. Rasheed was also responsible for Cassies myspace success.

Royalty the King is a west coast rapper that hails from San Jose California. With over 100,000.
Royalty fans, the artist began to use myspace as his stage by creating remixs to hot and popular songs that were big on Myspace. The first remix recording's were to Cassie's - "Me & You", And Rihanna's  “Unfaithful”. The "Unfaithful Remix" blew up! Receiving over 900,000 plays on myspace before finally retiring the song from his music player. KYLD, the Bay Area's biggest rhythmic radio station, began to air the song while it spread into 30 other markets. For more information on the artist and the road trip please visit www.myspace.com/royaltytheking.

For Media Inquiries please contact:
Brash PR
Kiss & Tell Publicity: Home to Rocafella, Slip N Slide, All Access, Omillio Sparks, Freeway, and more…
Tiffiany Vaughn-267.233.8100
tiffianyvaughn@comcast.net

Mic Moodswing Presents The 5th Annual Texas Summer Music Conference

"Celebrating 5 years of Excellence"
July 6th-8th 2007
The Best is Back!
The 5th Annual Texas Summer Music Conference
Location: The Luxurious Westin Hotel
650 N. Pearl Street
Downtown Dallas, 75201

Call 214.749.0134 for details

TXSMC Past Attendees Include: Grammy nominee Chris Brown, Grammy nominee Paul Wall, The G-Unit: Lloyd banks, Tony Yayo, Mobb Deep, The Youngbloodz, Mike Watts, G Dash & Mike Clark of SwishaHouse, DJ Drama (album coming soon!), Azzure Denim, the Nappy Roots, Mike Jones, Erykah Badu, Loon, M.C Eiht, Mack-10, Tony Neal, the CORE DJs, Rick Edwards/makaveli, DJ Toomp, Dr. Teeth, Skip Cheatham, Charles Key, too short, D. Mckinney, Cassidy, J Records, Jive, Atlantic, Ebony J/ Eminent Models(official) TJ Chapman, down magazine, J Mill/ the Source Magazine, Greg Street, Ozone magazine, Dru Hill, Leo G & Kitty of XM Raw 66, Big Tuck, E-40, Benny Boom, Applebottom, DFW's own Grammy nominated Play-n-Skillz!, EVERYBODY including you!

Don't miss it!

Log on to texassummermusicconference.com for details!

Book your room at the Westin Hotel before March 1, 2007 and receive Complimentary Registration for the 5th Annual Texas Summer Music Conference. Call 214.979.9000 to book your room , then call 214.749.0134 with your confiramtion number to get complimentary registration.

Calling ALL interested models for the Texas Summer Music Conference Fashion Show! Send your stats and photos to themovement1@sbcglobal.net or txsmc@yahoo.com for consideration.

Press /Media Inquiries contact Jennifer Onwumere at (214)801-0674 or email info@jengerbread.com

Center For Arts Education Awards 150 New Parents As Arts Partners Grants

$450,000 in Grants Supports Innovative Arts-Based Programs For New York City Public Schools

NEW YORK, Jan. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Center for Arts Education (CAE), the leading voice in restoring and revitalizing the arts in New York City public schools, is pleased to announce 150 new Parents As Arts Partners grants have been awarded for the Spring 2007 semester. The grants total nearly $450,000 and have been awarded to a rich variety of New York City public schools to implement original arts-based programs designed to suit the individual needs of each school.

Parents and teachers from all 150 grantee schools will gather at New York University's Helen and Martin Kimmel Center for University Life on Thursday, February 1, 2007, for a day-long series of workshops highlighting best practices in parent recruitment strategies, building parent advocacy for the arts, and other essential topics as a program kick off. The Kimmel Center is located at 60 Washington Square South.

Numerous studies indicate that parent involvement is a key factor in a child's academic success. These CAE-funded programs use the arts as a means of encouraging parents to take an active role in their children's education by participating in activities related to current curriculum units in English, science, math and social studies, as well as arts.

Since establishing the program in 1998, The Center for Arts Education has awarded more than 1000 Parent As Arts Partners (PAAP) grants to over 400 schools, serving 50,000 parents. It is estimated that more than 15,000 parents and more than 23,000 students will benefit from this year's grants, including 7400 parents who are not currently active in their children's schools. This year, 104 different cultural organizations -- ranging from major theater companies and museums to community based poetry and cultural societies -- are engaged in individually tailored partnerships with each of the 150 grantees to help bring quality arts learning to families in all five boroughs.

Nearly every New York City public school is eligible to apply for Parents As Arts Partners grants, including New York City Department of Education approved charter. For the 2006-2007 PAAP grant period, 232 schools submitted applications and 150 were awarded grants (10% of NYC public schools). These include 19 schools in The Bronx; 46 schools in Brooklyn; 26 schools in Manhattan; 41 schools in Queens; and 18 schools in Staten Island. Of these, 10 are special education and 1 is a charter school. Grants have been awarded to 42 schools new to the program this year.*

In addition:
  -- 73% of grantees have 50% or more students eligible for free lunch
     (110 schools)
  -- 56% of grantees are Title I schools (84 schools)
  -- 19% are Empowerment Zone schools (28 schools)
  -- 13% are schools have been sited as in need of improvement
     (SINI - 19 schools)
  -- 5% are in need of corrective action (8 schools)

Program summaries for all 150 funded schools are available at www.cae-nyc.org.

In addition to the workshops at the February 1 event, The Honorable Kate Levin, NYC Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner; Dr. Sharon Dunn, Senior Instructional Manager for the Arts of the NYC Department of Education's Office of Arts and Special Projects; and Laurie Tisch, Chairman of The Center for Arts Education; will offer keynote remarks to the grantees.

Major funding for the PAAP Grant Program is provided by the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs and the NYC Department of Education. Additional support is provided by the Citigroup Foundation.

* Based on numbers reported by schools in the grant applications.

The Center for Arts Education (CAE) is a not-for-profit organization committed to restoring, stimulating, and sustaining quality arts education as an essential part of every child's education. We create, identify, fund, and support exemplary partnerships and programs that demonstrate how the arts contribute to learning and student achievement. CAE is dedicated to influencing educational and fiscal policies that will support arts education in all of the City's public schools. Since its founding in 1996, CAE, led by Chairman Laurie M. Tisch, has awarded nearly $40 million in private and public funding to support arts education partnerships and programs.

For more information on The Center for Arts Education, visit www.cae-nyc.org.

Parents As Arts Partners

2006-2007 Grant Summary Highlights

Program summaries for all 150 funded schools are available at www.cae-nyc.org

  Parent Learning
  -- MS 61: Dr. Gladstone H. Atwell Middle School, Crown Heights -
     "Slave Narrative Project"
     The PAAP grant received by MS 61 provides much needed arts programming
     (the school currently has none) while preparing parents to more
     actively assist in their children's Social Studies homework
     assignments. In partnership with The Afrikan Poetry Theatre, the school
     presents four after school workshops where parents become familiar with
     the autobiographical slave narratives of the 1930's and 1940's, as
     documented by the Federal Works Progress Administration. A teaching
     artist leads parents through the process of turning these
     autobiographical timelines into a storytelling format. Parents engage
     in theatrical and storytelling exercises and create visual works of art
     that connect to the slave narratives and to other cultural history
     content. They are also encouraged to attend in-school Black History
     Month performances with their children and are provided with related
     books and literature for home use as part of the program.

  -- Brooklyn Academy of Science & Environment (BASE), Crown Heights -
     "Parenting Journey"
     BASE's three-month "Parenting Journey" PAAP grant teaches and
     reinforces positive behavioral, relational, and parenting skills
     through theater and the performing arts. Meeting for fifteen Saturdays
     throughout the year, participants navigate parental issues such as
     parental self-esteem, self-awareness as caregivers, and breaking cycles
     of negative family communication. Workshops guided by teaching artists
     from Henry Street Settlement lead parents in theater games and
     improvisation exercises to generate and craft a script for performance
     addressing these family issues, as well as rehearsals with participants
     fulfilling many roles including performance and production. A
     culminating performance takes place at Henry Street Settlement for an
     invited audience of families, friends, and the BASE community.

  Community and Environment
  -- PS 40: The Augustus Saint Gaudens School, Gramercy Park -
     "Designing Green"
     PS 40 uses its PAAP grant to support the school's emerging arts and the
     second grade Social Studies "City Study" curriculum where participants
     study green roof structure design and create their own decorative green
     roof tiles. A green roof is a roof of a building that is partially or
     completely covered with vegetation and soil, or a growing medium,
     planted over a waterproofing membrane. Benefits may include reduced
     heating usage for the building, as well as a means of filtering
     pollutants and heavy metals out of rainwater. The workshop series
     begins with an introduction to green roof design hosted by the Center
     for Architecture Foundation where families create green roof structures
     themselves. A subsequent walking tour through the PS 40 community
     encourages participants to document historical and architectural
     details of the neighborhood through sketches and journal entries. The
     final segment of the program is a hands-on workshop at PS 40 where
     participants create castings and decorative tiles inspired by what they
     have learned in previous sessions. The castings and tiles are to be
     mounted on the green roof structure currently under construction at PS
     40 through a recent city council grant.

  -- PS/IS 298: Dr. Betty Shabazz School for the Performing Arts,
     Brownsville - "It's After 10 PM: Safety and Our Children"
     PS/IS 298's PAAP grant provides funding for a program introducing
     parents and students to the creative and technical skills of video
     documentary filmmaking. The school does not normally have access to
     video and film equipment, so this PAAP grant provides artistic and
     technological experiences that are otherwise out of reach. All content
     address safety, violence, community, and parent-child relationships and
     other issues affecting the school's Brownsville residents. Through four
     after-school workshops participants are learn storyboarding, camera
     use, interviewing, audio and sound production, and editing as they
     create an interview/journal documentary of neighborhood life. Younger
     students engage in visual and audio journaling of personal experiences
     in their neighborhood; older students and parents use storyboarding,
     interviewing and editing techniques to create a final video for a
     school-wide presentation later in the spring.

  Supporting Immigrant Families
  -- PS 160: Walter Francis Bishop Elementary School, Jamaica - "ESL Dance"
     Through a series of eight Saturday workshops, PS 160 uses its PAAP
     grant to collaborate with Michael Mao Dance to promote the active
     learning of English by recent Hispanic and Bengali immigrant parents
     and students. Mao, a Chinese immigrant himself, has developed a
     program, "ESL Dance," that uses dance movement as a tool to facilitate
     language learning. He developed the program in 1993 to assist
     immigrants in learning English kinetically through simultaneous speech
     and movement. Session one serves as a kick-off meeting and session two
     is a trip to see Paul Taylor Dance Company at New York City Center.
     Sessions three through seven focus on making dance in preparation for a
     culminating performance by participant ESL families. The hands-on
     workshops use the traditional West African Kuku dance to teach
     sequential movement and forms of expression that reinforce verbal
     articulation, pronouns, and subject-verb agreement. The program targets
     thirty-seven ESL families who are new to the school.

  -- IS 125: Thomas J. McCann Intermediate School, Woodside -
     "Mural For Washington Mutual Savings Bank"
     Ninety percent of the student population at IS 125 are Hispanic or
     Asian and, of these, twenty percent are newly-arrived immigrants.
     Through a series of visual arts workshops, the school uses its PAAP
     grant to help parents and students celebrate and become familiar with
     the cultures and traditions of the school's diverse population. At an
     introductory workshop, participants explore their cultural roots and
     share unique celebrations from their culture. Parents are then
     encouraged to sketch replications of their celebrations to incorporate
     into a large-scale mural. During the course of the mural work,
     participants visit a local museum to view artwork from different
     cultures. When the mural is completed, as part of an ongoing
     relationship with Washington Mutual Savings Bank, it will be displayed
     for public view in the local branch before returning for permanent
     display in the school's main lobby.

  Improving School Culture
  -- PS 12, Brownsville - "Turning A School Around Through The Arts"
     PS 12, a school on the SURR (School Under Registration Review) list in
     the Ocean Hill-Brownsville section of Brooklyn, has seen significant
     restructuring in the 2006-2007 school year, including a re-introduction
     of the arts into its curriculum. A first time PAAP grantee, the school
     is using the funding for partnerships with TADA! and Young Audiences
     New York (YANY) to share this revitalized arts programming with parents
     and families. Two trips to The Brooklyn Museum and Carnegie Hall
     reinforce the accessibility of community cultural resources, while two
     hands-on workshops at the school directly engage parents and students
     in arts learning and participation. The first workshop, introduces
     participants to Argentine dance including the Tango and the Gato folk
     dance. The second is a day-long Parent Forum for the Arts featuring a
     session on Mexican Dance, a Musical Theater session, and two workshops
     on music and visual art making. Each family may participate in two
     sessions: one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The dance
     sessions connect to PS 12's Social Studies "Communities Around the
     World" and "Latin American" curricula. Other sessions reflect the in-
     school "Musical Theatre Skills" residencies that TADA! provides for
     students in grade 3.

  -- PS 176: Cambria Heights - "Easing Testing Pressure With Hip Hop"
     To provide creative programming that offsets the testing demands of
     grade 4 students, PS 176 uses its PAAP grant for series of workshops
     and in-school sessions exploring the oral storytelling traditions of
     Hip Hop music. The first evening workshop introduces parents and
     students to West African storytelling traditions, encouraging
     participants to use authentic African instruments and improvisational
     music to help tell stories. The second workshop explores the process of
     writing poetry and emphasizes creative writing skills. Two final
     evening workshops are entitled "Hip Hop: The New Oral Tradition" and
     fuse storytelling, rhythm and poetry through the analysis of
     contemporary, socially conscious Hip Hop and Rap. Participants are
     encouraged to write and perform their own songs addressing social
     issues and problems facing students today. Two in-school workshop
     sessions on performance and music prepare students for the workshops
     and for the culminating Café Night where parents and students perform
     their stories, rap and poetry. Activities begin in February, coinciding
     with the study of Black History Month, and continue through April, to
     supplement a Literacy unit on books exploring social issues.

  Alternative Education and Special Needs
  -- Passages Academy, The Bronx - "Building Literacy Through Visual Arts"
     Passages Academy has multiple locations in the Bronx and serves
     students, both incarcerated and probationary, who are placed in the
     program by New York City Supreme and Family Courts. Ninety percent of
     its students have reading skills two or more years below grade level.
     The Academy uses its PAAP grant to support reading initiatives at the
     school, which include an Arts & Literacy integrated picture book
     curriculum for students who are non-readers or who read significantly
     below grade level. The Bronx Museum of the Arts provides three gallery
     talks and hands-on art sessions for parents and students designed to
     develop analysis and critical thinking skills. In a hands-on session on
     bookmaking, where participants learn specific techniques such as using
     shape and pattern to express abstract ideas and using word and image to
     show time and transformation in book narrative.

  -- Brooklyn Transitional Center, Far Rockaway - "Photography In
     Special Education"
     LEAP currently works with students at Brooklyn Transition Center, a
     special education school for students severe cognitive delays, to help
     them document their experiences as workers and members of the local
     community through the use of digital photography. Many of the school's
     teachers also integrate digital photography as learning aids. The
     school's PAAP grant adds to this use of creative media by providing
     insight to parents on how the school uses photography to enhance
     artistic and literary expression. Three hands-on workshops for parents
     and students address discrete digital photography skills. Participants
     are trained to take pictures that evoke specific emotions then learn to
     establish a narrative with the photos they've taken. A fourth workshop
     demonstrates how to prepare and display the photographs for a final
     culminating event, which takes place at the photography department of
     the Museum of Modern Art.

  -- Hungerford School, Staten Island - "Visual Arts for Special Needs
     Students"
     Hungerford School in Staten Island's Clifton neighborhood, serves a
     special needs population ages 12 to 21 that includes students
     classified as medically fragile and severely and profoundly retarded.
     The school uses its PAAP grant for visual arts activities for its
     families that include hands-on visual art instruction, a trip to the
     Museum of Modern Art, and an exhibition and unveiling of participants'
     work. The series is led by MoMA teaching artist Gordon Sasaki, a visual
     artist and wheelchair user since a 1982 automobile accident. The
     program includes three hands-on art making sessions dedicated to the
     production of one large-scale mixed media group mural exploring the
     theme of community. A visit to MoMA introduces participants both to
     works of modern art and, through a special workshop, to the techniques
     and philosophies behind curating and preparing an art exhibition.
     Participants utilize these skills to prepare a mural unveiling and
     reception at the school.

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.
Greg McCaslin http://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=55487
Richard Kessler http://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=55476

Source: The Center for Arts Education

CONTACT: Heather Mangrum, Director of Marketing and Public Relations,
+1-212-971-3300 x308, heather@cae-nyc.org, or Maggie Guggenheimer,
Communications Associate, +1-212-971-3300 x307, maggie@cae-nyc.org, both of
The Center for Arts Education

Web site: http://www.cae-nyc.org/

Jadakiss & Supa Nova Slom Team Up For Gangsta Salute

Jada & Supa Nova Slom Educate the Streets on Roots of Gang Culture w/ Mixtape Banger

New York, NY (PRWEB) January 30, 2007 -- Ra-Ra NTRtainment / BPG (Black Power Gangstas) artist Supa Nova Slom and D-Block's own Jadakiss have teamed up on Gangsta's Salute, a mixtape banger educating on the true, activist origins of gang culture in efforts to unify the streets.

Gangsta Salute brings the Chuck-D out of Jada
Gangsta Salute, produced by Brooklyn-based producer Ntrfied, brings together for the first time Jada and Supa Nova Slom, an emcee and organizer known and respected by Crip, Blood and other street organizations for his national work around unifying young members of both gangs and educating them on the community-empowerment based origins of the organizations while providing a creative outlet.

"Gangsta Salute is a timely song because there are a lot of YG's (young gangsta's), especially in NYC banging in the name of various sets without knowing the history and original intent of these gang organizations," says Supa Nova Slom. "I was personally taught by respected OG's from both organizations that the original intent and purpose of organizations such as the Bloods and Crips was economic empowerment, political empowerment and community protection…not bangin' on each other. Me and Jada are from these streets which are now gang infested areas in NY. So, who better than the two of us to help school and unify YG's on the home front and beyond?"

The single has been well received by the streets and by the mixtape community through DJs such as DJ Armz, Kool Kid and Kay Slay among others. Gangsta Salute was officially released to DJ's nationwide this week through the Digiwaxx Media service and is enjoying positive responses.

"Gangsta Salute brings the Chuck-D out of Jada," joked Jadakiss. "It's a hot track with hot lyrics and no preaching. What more can you ask for? BPG's Supa-Nova Slom is the realest homie and I got his back."

In addition to preparing his forthcoming debut album entitled "Unify the Hood/Heal the Hood" and street organizing work, Supa Nova's monthly Unify the Hood/Heal the Hood Hip Hop showcases in Brooklyn, NY provides a neutral, well-attended open-mic performance outlet to emcees that may be involved in gang activity or other at-risk activities. The all day event also provides various workshops on economic empowerment among other topics lead by music execs, signed artists, community activists, business professional, reformed OG's and others. Most recently Supa Nova unified a large group of concerned Bloods and Crips in New York City to participate in organized protests around the murder of Sean Bell, a young, African-American man murdered by NYPD officers the night before his wedding.

Supa Nova Slom's debut album Unify the Hood/Heal the Hood is slated for a second quarter release.

For the latest Supa Nova Slom info and upcoming show dates visit www.myspace.com/supanovaslom.

For media inquiries please contact Jennifer A. Williams of J Sharpe Agency Public Relations via e-mail or 718.774.6264.

Straight Up Brands Announces Marketing Plan for Recently Acquired Subsidiary Rappin Brands

Revenues Expected to Increase Significantly in 2007 Through Association With Leading Hip-Hop Artists

NEW YORK, NY -- (Market Wire - Jan 30, 2007) --  Straight Up Brands, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: STRU) (the "Company") http://www.straightupbrands.com/, an emerging developer and international marketer of premium branded spirits headquartered in New York, announced today that it expects its recently acquired subsidiary, Rappin Brands, to increase their revenues significantly in 2007 as their brands reach more markets and the Company's other products are introduced to the Company's distribution network.

The Straight Up marketing program will significantly increase consumer awareness of all of the subsidiary's brands. In addition to Sizzurp, Rappin Brands owns Lucky Nites with Lil' Flip and Triple Coconut Rum with M.O.P. Straight Up expects to begin the rollout of Lucky Nites in early 2007 followed by Triple Coconut Rum later in the year. Straight Up will actively market all three brands though distribution of the products through the traditional distribution channels that Straight Up has developed for its other products, and through the promotion of the brands by leading hip-hop artists, promotions in their recordings being released in the near future, and the sponsoring of concert tours by such artists.

Paul Davis, President of Maison Jomere and the importer of Sizzurp for the last year, said, "We view Straight Up as an outstanding partner going forward. We have seen the growth that other brands have experienced after they have joined forces with Straight Up, and I am excited about the future because we will certainly be able to expand our distribution and sales. This new association with Straight Up Brands is an excellent fit, given our common focus on high-quality premium spirits, and we look forward to working together to raise the visibility of these brands on a global basis."

David McCallen, CEO of Straight Up Brands, commented: "At the moment sales in 8 states represent 85% of the volume in Sizzurp, which sold about 7,500 cases or approximately $1,000,000 in 2006. We are fortunate to acquire a truly underground hit that is virtually selling on its own, with no marketing, and we feel that by adding our marketing team to the product as well as expanding into other states and overseas, we can significantly grow revenues in 2007 and beyond. Considering these results and our plans to establish Sizzurp and Lucky Nights in many major markets, and supporting them with artist tours and marketing dollars, I feel quite confident Sizzurp sales will more than double this year and Lucky Nites will achieve immediate acceptance and profitability. In addition, this is a global business as evidenced by the excitement generated and the results Sizzurp has already achieved with our new distributor in the U.K. I see tremendous growth potential in the European Market, and expect to announce a number of additional countries in which we will be distributing our products within the first 6 months of 2007. The power and reach of our hip-hop artists and their networks around the world has been an untapped resource that we will begin to harness going forward."

Stay up-to-date with current events by joining Straight Up Brands' E-Mail Alert List. Join by clicking the link below:

http://www.b2i.us/irpass.asp?BzID=1450&to=ea&s=0

About Straight Up Brands, Inc.

Straight Up Brands, Inc. develops, produces, and markets branded wine and alcoholic beverages through collaborations with artists, DJs and other influential celebrities. The Company's premium branded products are within three growing categories of the spirits industry: wine, vodka and liqueurs/cordials. The Company's first product brought to market is Bracco Wine; with the acquisition of Rappin Brands, it now has Sizzurp in distribution and it will begin the distribution of Lucky Nites in selected markets in the first quarter of 2007. Future products include Foxy Brown's sparkling wine, Storm Vodka with DJ Clue, MoMo Mojito with Ja Rule, and Triple Coconut Rum with MOP. The Company anticipates adding to these product lines with additional celebrity endorsements throughout 2007. Leveraging the marketing power of artists combined with the current growth and solid profit margins in the spirits industry, the Company is well positioned for strong revenue growth, earnings and success.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements about Straight Up Brands, Inc.'s expectations, including future revenues and earnings, and all other statements in this press release other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as the term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Straight Up's actual results could differ materially from expected results. Straight Up undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequently occurring events or circumstances. Should events occur which materially affect any comments made within this press release; Straight Up will appropriately inform the public.

Contact:

Investment Banker:
Paul Gozzo
President/CEO
PMG Capital
888-747-5397

Investor Relations Contact:
Gerald Kieft or Ryan Audin
Wall Street Resources, Inc.
2646 SW Mapp Road, Suite 303
Palm City, Florida 34990
772-219-7525
http://www.wallstreetresources.net

Straight Up Brands, Inc.
David McCallen
CEO
888-890-8909

Musicians Rally for Digital Freedom

Artists and Record Labels Embrace Digital Freedom Campaign Bill of Rights

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Digital Freedom Campaign today announced that more than 50 new bands have joined the nationwide movement to protect the rights of artists, consumers and innovators in the digital age. The Digital Freedom Campaign's mission is to ensure that all Americans can enjoy new digital technologies free of unnecessary government restrictions and costly lawsuits that restrict consumers' ability to use lawfully acquired content on digital devices.

The Internet and new digital technologies like satellite radio have enabled individual artists, musicians and groups both big and small to be heard, enabling them to find, cultivate and grow new audiences and an interested fan base. No longer solely dependent on big recording conglomerates for the promotion and distribution of their music, musicians can use cutting edge technology to reach those audiences themselves.

"As soon as we heard about this campaign, we immediately signed on," said Chris Kienel of indie band, The District. "For the 99.5 % of the artists out there trying to make it, new technologies have liberated us and we need to protect our ability to use them to reach our fans."

Bands joining the Digital Freedom Campaign cut across the musical spectrum -- rock, hip-hop, alternative, country and more. Regardless of genre, however, they all recognize the serious threat that costly lawsuits and legislative maneuverings place upon their long-standing rights to use digital technologies like satellite and Internet radio and online content sites like YouTube to create and distribute their art, as well as to create new revenue streams.

"New digital technologies have created unprecedented artist empowerment", said Don Goldberg, spokesman for the Digital Freedom Campaign. "They allow the smallest and newest artists to create, record and distribute their works to audiences who would never otherwise hear their songs."

These technologies not only benefit the artists but the independent labels as well. "You have to remember that these technologies are not only helping the bands get out there, but they also open up new opportunities for the record industry as well," stresses Al Delaney, of Internet radio and online distributor OutboundMusic. "We all better adapt or get out of the way".

  The following bands and labels have joined the Campaign:

  American Princes        http://www.americanprinces.com/
  The District            http://www.myspace.com/thedistrictny
  Soldiers of Jah-Army    http://www.sojamusic.com/
  Jason Soudah            http://www.jasonsoudah.com/
  The Purrs               http://www.thepurrs.com/
  Airpushers              http://www.airpushers.net/
  Two Loons for Tea       http://www.twoloons.com/
  Shane Bartell           http://www.shanebartell.com/
  Christopher Blue        http://www.chrisopherblue.com/
  The Hero Factor         http://www.theherofactor.com/
  Goldenchild             http://www.myspace.com/dadathegoldenchild
  The Plan B              http://www.planbboy.com/
  Trachtenburg Family
   Slideshow Players      http://www.slideshowplayers.com/
  The Cassettes           http://www.thecassettes.com/
  Back to Blonde          http://www.backtoblonde.com/
  Box of Poems            http://www.boxofpoems.net/
  The Bourbon Dynasty     http://www.bourbondynasty.com/
  Kaddisfly               http://www.kaddisfly.com/
  The Bravery             http://www.thebravery.com/
  Amity Lane              http://www.amitylane.com/
  ManDown                 http://www.myspace.com/mandownofmobile
  The Bridges             http://www.bridges-band.com/
  Christmas All Year      http://www.myspace.com/christmasallyear
  Lock 13                 http://www.lock13.com/
  Circuit Pop             http://www.myspace.com/circuitpop
  Jon Black               http://www.jonblackmusic.com/
  Cancerslug              http://www.cancerslug.net/
  SnakeMannn
  Justify These Scars     http://www.myspace.com/justifythesescars
  Cassino                 http://www.cassinoband.com/
  September Son           http://www.myspace.com/septemberson
  Wild Sweet Orange       http://www.myspace.com/wildsweetorange
  Caddle                  http://www.caddlemusic.com/
  The Ackleys             http://www.myspace.com/ilikelikeliketheackleys
  Juliet & The Torch
   Ensemble               http://www.myspace.com/julietandthetorchensemble
  Mike Matthews           http://www.myspace.com/mikematthewsmusic
  The Shoes               http://www.theshoesmusic.co.uk/
  Benvolio                http://www.myspace.com/thebandbenvolio
  Roy Rogers              katrina@segue-ent.com
  Delft                   http://www.myspace.com/delft
  East of the Wall        http://www.myspace.com/eastofthewall
  Immure                  http://www.myspace.com/immure
  Caspian                 http://www.myspace.com/caspiantheband
  The Hold Outs           http://www.theholdouts.com/
  Dirty Leg               http://www.myspace.com/dirtyleg69
  Stephan Catenacci       http://www.outboundmusic.com/StephanCatenacci
  Jahmings Maccow         http://www.rebelsproduction.com/
  Johnnie Colleton and
   the Bonedrivers        http://www.blueblack.com/bonedrivers
  Jamie Lynch Band        http://www.jamielynchband.com/
  Dust Galaxy             http://www.dustgalaxy.com/
  Someone Still Loves
   You Boris Yeltsin      http://www.sslyby.com/
  Mew                     http://www.mewsite.com/
  Roots Tonic             http://www.rootstonic.net/

  Record Labels:
  Sarathan
  Yep Roc
  Nobility
  Interloop

For more information about the Digital Freedom campaign, please visit us at http://www.digitalfreedom.org/.

About Digital Freedom: Digital technology enables literally anyone and everyone to be a creator, an innovator or an artist -- to produce music, to create cutting-edge videos and photos, and to share their creative work. Digital technology empowers individuals to enjoy these new works when, where, and how they want, and to participate in the artistic process. These are basic freedoms that must be protected and nurtured. The Digital Freedom campaign is dedicated to defending the rights of students, artists, innovators, and consumers to create and make lawful use of new technologies free of unreasonable government restrictions and without fear of costly and abusive lawsuits.

  Contact:
  Jennifer Stoltz
  202-448-3145
  jstoltz@qorvis.com

Source: Digital Freedom Campaign

Web site: http://www.digitalfreedom.org/

YING YANG TWINS

January 29, 2007
Atlanta, GA- On the heels of the release of their new album entitled Chemically Imbalanced, the Ying Yang Twins are announcing their recent departure of longtime producer, Michael "Mr. Collipark" Crooms. 

The break up stems from the creative differences between Mr. Collipark and the Ying Yang Twins.  The Ying Yang Twins have a desire for personal growth and it is time for them to step out into the industry as an independent movement.

The Ying Yang Twins began their national tour with Da Muzicianz on January 24, 2007 in efforts to promote the release of their new album entitled Chemically Imbalanced. The first two singles to be released from the album include the Hall & Oates-sampling "Dangerous", featuring Wyclef Jean, and the original hit single "Jigglin'".

With their newfangled existence, the Ying Yang Twins will bring a fresh, new approach to branding their product to the universal market.  New projects expected from the Ying Yang Twins include pursuing other avenues such as cartoons, movie roles, movie soundtracks, individual record labels, and real estate.

The Ying Yang Twins are an Atlanta-based crunk rap duo consisting of Kaine (born Eric Jackson on December 16, 1978) and D-Roc (born D'Angelo Holmes on February 13, 1979). They first came to notice in 2000 with the single "Whistle While You Twurk" which got play on urban and pop radio stations and peaked at #16 on the US R&B/Hip-Hop chart. Throughout their career, the Ying Yang Twins have had a total of 5 platinum albums and a Grammy Nomination.

The Ying Yang Twins are available for interviews at this time. Please contact their publicist Amy Hanks @ 678.437.7405 for scheduling.

Contact: Amy Hanks
Day Phone: 678.437.7405
Email: amyhankspr@gmail.com

PLATINUM SUPERSTAR CHAMILLIONAIRE ANNOUNCES HIGHLY ANTICIPATED NEW SINGLE FROM SOPHOMORE EFFORT, TITLED "NOT A CRIMINAL" FEATURING KELIS

AWARD WINNING RAPPER’S NEW ALBUM, ULTIMATE VICTORY IN STORES SPRING 2007

( New York , NY – January 29, 2007) – Platinum superstar and award winning rapper Chamillionaire announced today his highly anticipated first single release, "Not a Criminal" featuring Kelis off his sophomore album, "Ultimate Victory" which will be released through Chamillitary Entertainment/Universal Motown.  The track was produced by Styalz Fuego and showcases Chamillionaire's trademark ability to combine smooth melodies with his versatile flow over a guitar infused, bass heavy beat.

“People treat you like you committed a crime when you speak the truth about what’s really on your mind. People act like its wrong to have an opinion about things especially when your views are different than theirs. I feel like setting the goal to be a successful entrepreneur should be looked at as a good thing and should not come with all the unnecessary hate and resistance. The business world can be a cruel place and even though I work hard at being successful and staying on top of my business, some people will look at me like I’m a criminal because of it, when I’m actually  just working hard so my company can  grow and I can remain successful”  says Chamillionaire. “Even though one may have money through hard work, you still get judged and have to deal with prejudices and problems. I plan on doing what I feel is right for me and not worrying about anyone that feels otherwise.”

For this reason, the Houston rapper, famous for his trademark diamond encrusted grill has decided to retire it.  “I need people to pay attention to what I have to say, instead of just staring at my mouth. I speak with a purpose and definitely want people to know that I’m not just some rapper with diamonds in his mouth. As soon as they get past the materialistic stuff and listen to the message on my album then I will feel like I have won. ”

On the follow up to last year’s Platinum plus debut, Chamillionaire will shares his feelings and experiences with his fans, expressing his opinion on the good and bad things that come with fame and money, tension towards the South movement, to friendship, love, media, the industry, beef, politics and life.

Chamillionaire has aligned himself with a list of heavy weight collaborations with hit making producers, Three Six Mafia, Rick Rock, Play N Skillz, The Runners, JR Rotem, Kane Beatz, The Beat Bullies, Happy P, Disco D, Ike Dirty and award wining artists Busta Rhymes, Lil Wayne, Pimp C, Bone Thugs & Harmony, Slick Rick, Devin The Dude and Famous just to name a few.

Chamillionaire is currently in the studio, putting the final touches on “Ultimate Victory,” which will make its worldwide debut Spring 2007 and is scheduled to make an appearance in Los Angeles on February 11th to celebrate his 2 (two) Grammy nominations for his mega hit single, “Ridin’” featuring Krayzie Bone.

About Chamillionaire

Hailed around the world for his major label platinum-plus debut smash album, The Sound of Revenge, the disc has become one of the most influential hip-hop records of the year, with the versatile Chamillionaire emerging as a mainstream multi-platform entrepreneur.  The single and video for “Ridin’” became the most requested hip-hop anthem of the year, soaring to the top of the urban, hip-hop and mainstream radio charts, almost single-handedly transforming the 2006 digital landscape.  Chamillionaire was recently crowned the biggest selling Ringtone artist ever, with over 4 million ringtone sales, and was certified by the RIAA as the first multi-platinum Mastertone artist in history.  His Myspace site has exceeded 6 million profile views, earning him nearly 2 million in digital sales, outselling established stars such as Nelly and T.I.   In keeping with the outpouring of recognition, the charismatic performer beat out proven superstars 50 Cent, Busta Rhymes and others for Best Rap Video of the year honors for the groundbreaking “Ridin’” video, featuring Krayzie Bone, at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards.   In addition, the Houston rapper won “Rookie of the Year” and the prestigious “Alltell Wireless People’s Champ Award” (viewer’s choice) at the first ever BET Hip Hop Awards, as well as a nod at the American Music Awards for Favorite New Breakthrough Artist, nod at the People’s Choice Awards for Favorite Rap Song.

For more information, kindly visit www.myspace.com/chamillionaire.com.

Chamillionaire press contact:

Tracy Nguyen                            Nancy Byron               
5W Public Relations                   OGPR
212-584-4315                             832-220-6071
tnguyen@5wpr.com                   nancy.byron@ogpr.net

Vickie Charles                           Kimberly Harris
Universal Motown                       Universal Motown
212-373-0783                             212-373-0701
Vickie.charles@umusic.com       kimberly.harris@umusic.com

ModernBeats Announces Hip Hop Beat Contest

$1,350 total in cash prizes are up for grabs

January 29th 2007
ModernBeats library users now have a chance to show the Hip Hop
music world what they're made of. The best sounding, most original,
professionally produced hip hop beat/song wins. All you have to do
is submit one of your original songs created using 1 or more of your
ModernBeats Soundset/Loopset libraries and you're in. Last day to
enter the contest is March 1, 2007. Winners will be posted on the
ModernBeats.com website. Contest song genres accepted include:
Hip Hop, Urban, Bounce, Crunk, Dirty South, R&B, and Pop with a
hip hop edge.

Prizes include:
GRAND PRIZE (1 winner): $1,000 USD
2ND PLACE PRIZE (1 winner): $250 USD
3RD PLACE PRIZE (1 winner): $100 USD

For more information, visit their web site at www.modernbeats.com.

Presss:
Contact: support@modernbeats.com
Download high resolution press image here:
http://www.modernbeats.com/images/modernbeats-high-rez.tif
Download web resolution press image here:
http://www.modernbeats.com/images/modernbeats.gif

SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT CELEBRITIES BATTLE IN THE PAINT AT 9TH ANNUAL SUPER BOWL GRIDIRON CELEBRITY HOOPS IX

Terrell Owens, Jim Jones, Mario Williams, Vince Young, Melyssa Ford, BET's Rocsi, Jim Jones, Rich Boy, Mr. A.P., Trick Daddy and More to Participate in Annual Charity Basketball Challenge

WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 29, 2007) – On Saturday, February 3, 2007, Super Bowl XLI won’t be the only highly anticipated game of the season. This is the Remix! One of the most anticipated events of Super Bowl XLI the 9th Annual Gridiron Celebrity Hoops will feature popular sports icons, world-renowned streetballers, and celebrities from the world of music, television and film showcasing their athletic flair at the BankUnited Center at the University of Miami at 6 p.m.

Professional athletes and Hollywood 'A-list' greats all come together to rally in support of the campaign to eradicate child abuse and neglect by promoting quality foster care and adoption programs. This high- profile thrilling hoops event boasts of fun and affordable family entertainment which includes an explosive slam dunk contest with streetballers, a pre- game kickoff performance, an entertaining half-time show, interactive games, and chances to win NFL and Super Bowl merchandise. Additionally, fans will have the opportunity to meet, greet, and obtain free autographs and photographs from their favorite football heroes and celebrities.

Suiting up this year are Terrell Owens (Cowboys), Mario Williams (Texans), Brian Westbrook (Eagles), Vince Young (Titans), Braylon Edwards (Browns), Santana Moss (Redskins), R.W. McQuarters (Giants), Louis Oliver (Retired), Shawne Merriman (Chargers), recording artist Trick Daddy, world-renowned streetballers, and other NFL players and celebrities. The hoop dream hopefuls will be coached by model, Melyssa Ford and Rocsi (Host of BET’s 106 & Park).

Fans can expect an exclusive pre-game show with an illustrious Jam Slam Dunk contest where ESPN City Slam champions will compete to see who takes home the trophy. Fans can rate the Jam Super Ball Slam Dunk Contest featuring some of the biggest names in streetball history! Performances include Diplomat recording artist Jim Jones (We Fly High- Balling!), Interscope’s recording artist, Rich Boy and a special half time performance by Mr. A.P., the first artist on Next Level Entertainment record label founded by Tennessee Titan QB and Rookie of the Year, Vince Young.

Previous games have featured many NFL players including LaDainian Tomlinson (San Diego Chargers), Marcellus Wiley (San Diego Chargers), R.W. McQuarters (Chicago Bears), and Peter Warrick. Basketball greats such as Earl "Pep" Tyson" (Harlem World), Hugh "Baby Shaq" Jones, and Pat Da Roc have all demonstrated their electric style of basketball wizardry, jaw dropping, gravity defining skills and ball handling. Recording artists and actors, Bow Wow and Nick Cannon have both served as game day commissioners.

The Gridiron Celebrity Hoops event is the first and only celebrity basketball game to become officially sanctioned by the National Football League and has been an official activity of Super Bowl since Super Bowl XXXIII (Miami). Gridiron Celebrity Hoops offers football fans of all ages a lifetime experience to watch their favorite sports heroes and Hollywood “stars” play in a competitive game of basketball, all for a notable and worthy cause.

This is an affair for the entire family. Kids are encouraged to bring their cameras to have their picture taken with some of fun-loving characters we’ve all come to love. Also, four lucky ticket holders will receive exclusive Bow Wow autographed CDs “The Price of Fame” and two lucky ticket holders will win the opportunity to meet Jim Jones.

Event Details
Time: Doors open at 5 p.m., Game- 6 p.m.- 8:30 p.m.
Tickets: $35, $55, $75, $250 for VIP floor seating and private celebrity meet-and-greet (limited quantity)**Available at Ticketmaster, or Gridiron Hoops, or by phone (305) 358- 5885
Location: BankUnited Center at University of Miami 1245 Dauer Dr., Coral Gables, FL 33146

For information on corporate and VIP Hospitality Skybox Suites, please contact Jam Sports and Entertainment. Purchase tickets at here and receive a password for $10 off any level ticket purchase except VIP floor seats. University of Miami students with proper ID will receive 50% off each non-VIP ticket at the BankUnited Center Box Office.

A percentage of the proceeds benefits Junior Achievers Motivated to Succeed USA (Junior Achievers). Junior Achievers’ mission is to enrich the quality of life of today’s abused, abandoned and neglected youths, who have been placed within the foster care system. These special youths will attend and participate at Gridiron Celebrity Hoops as ball boys/girls, water boys/girls, youth ambassadors, and other volunteer positions.

Gridiron Celebrity Hoops is produced each year by Jam Sports & Entertainment, LLC, which specializes in the marketing and management of sports events surrounding football, basketball, and golf.

For more information or press credentials, please email Tim Yates, tim@chatterboxpublicity.com, (917) 684-7753, Jonnice Slaughter, (404) 551-3447, jonnice@chatterboxpublicity.com or contact Michael Karamut Karamut@footballhoops.com, (301) 868- 8856. Visit http:// www.footballhoops.com for up-to date event information.

Media Contacts
ChatterBox Publicity, LLC
Timothy Yates
(917) 684-7753
tim@chatterboxpublicity.com

Jonnice Slaughter
(404) 551-3447
jonnice@chatterboxpublicity.com

The Source is Looking For Interns

Don't miss your opportunity to intern with the # 1
Magazine of Hip-Hop Music, Culture & Politics...The
Source

We are looking for hungry individuals who live,
breathe and eat the culture of Hip-Hop and is just as
energetic to want to learn from others who feel the
same way! No experience is necessary but your desire
to get things done, work well with others and being a
team player is essential. Basic office skills are
needed (typing, organizational skills, etc.) and
online experience is a plus for the online department
as with the internet, it is a constant movement that
needs to be updated often to keep the Hip-Hop
community up to date with any content.

As this is a new department and a relaunch is
scheduled for TheSource.com, duties may change daily,
but it won’t be overwhelming for someone who has the
capacity to want to be involved in something that will
be exciting. We also need writers to contribute to the
website and keep in mind that you will be able to
attend industry functions and you get to network and
meet various executives and artists! Throw in some
free music, access to promotional items and you are
already ahead of the game! No pay, but the experience
and knowledge gained is invaluable and being at the
right place at the right time is always beneficial. If
you feel this is something you want to be involved
with, please contact BIG CED at 212 253 3701 or via
email at bigced@thesource.com.

Marketing/Events
Don’t miss your opportunity to intern with the # 1
Magazine of Hip-Hop Music, Culture & Politics…The
Source

We are currently in search of a dynamic intern! The
internship offers practical experience in magazine
publishing and will support the Advertising, Marketing
and Promotions departments.

Job responsibilities include but are not limited to;
assisting with promotions of special events both
preliminary and on-site, ensuring contact database has
accurate information, assisting with general
department support including a light to moderate
amount of filing, mailing and photocopying.

Open to all college Freshman, Sophomores and Juniors
Contact: Tasha Strong @ 212.253.3734 or via email
tstrong@thesource.com

Come join the team of a prestigious, 18 years
established magazine publication!

We are currently in search of a dynamic intern! The
potential candidate should be energetic, able to
multitask, maintain a positive attitude and give
strong attention to detail. The perfect candidate will
be a team player who is willing to do what it takes to
get the job done. Applicants should have a recent
working knowledge of basic computer skills – Microsoft
Office, Excel and Outlook.

Responsibilities include:
Ø Maintain accurate file of all insertion orders
Ø Provide general sales support for proposals,
information gathering and completing RFP’s
Ø Maintain and update comp list as well as send out
comp magazines each month
Ø Various administrative tasks as assigned
The internship is unpaid however it offers practical
experience in magazine publishing, which will support
the Advertising, Marketing and Promotions departments,
potential for growth, lots of great perks and access
to all events!

Contact: Shalinda Flemming @ 212.253.3738 or via email
shalinda@thesource.com 

Groundbreaking Artist/Producer Timbaland Gathers an Electrifying Lineup of Talent for Forthcoming Shock Value Album

Featured Artists Include Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Justin Timberlake, Elton John, Nelly Furtado and More

NEW YORK, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Timbaland is already acknowledged as one of music's most inventive and distinctive creators. Yet the artist/producer's forthcoming album, just his second solo album, promises to shock the world. Timbaland Presents Shock Value (Mosley Music Group/Blackground/Interscope) is set for release March 27, 2007. The first single, "Give It To Me," featuring Justin Timberlake and Nelly Furtado, launches February 1.

"My mission is to blow up the boundaries and tear down the limits," says Timbaland. "I'm taking my music outside of the box. I'm not getting away from what I'm known for; I'm just going to a place where it's all about the music, not about the labels on the music. That's why I call it Shock Value -- from the artists to the production, it will shock the system."

Timbaland is coming off producing the majority of the tracks, including the #1 "SexyBack," on Timberlake's #1 charting, multiplatinum FutureSex/LoveSounds album, which followed their work together on his previous smash Justified. He is also a special guest on Timberlake's current 2007 FutureSex/LoveShow World Tour. Timbaland's performance marks not only his first tour in many years and, his first world tour, but also the debut of some beats and original music from Shock Value.

Shock Value is sequenced like a movie, Timbaland reveals, with a non-stop flow that tells a story. With off-the-wall beats, raps, hooks, and his signature sound, the album fuses genres from rap and hip-hop to pop, punk pop and garage rock to South Asian influences. The album's guest artists range from Jay-Z and Snoop Dogg to Justin Timberlake and Nelly Furtado; from The Hives, She Wants Revenge and Fall Out Boy to Elton John (on piano) and newer artists such as Sri Lankan hip-hopper M.I.A. and Keri Hilson (the latter signed, as is Furtado, to Timbaland's Mosley Music Group, a joint venture with Interscope).

Timbaland's enormous, critically acclaimed success as a producer has resulted in hits by Missy Elliott ("The Rain"), Aaliyah ("If Your Girl Only Knew"), Ginuwine ("Pony"), Jay-Z ("Big Pimpin'"), Nas ("You Won't See Me Tonight"), Snoop Dogg ("Snoop Dogg [What's My Name, Pt. 2]"), Ludacris ("Rollout [My Business]"), Furtado ("Promiscuous") and many others. As a headliner, he teamed with Magoo for 1997's groundbreaking Welcome To Our World, followed the next year by his solo debut, Tim's Bio. Indecent Proposal (2001) and Under Construction, Pt. II (2002) were once again billed with Magoo.

The 38-date North American leg of the FutureSex/LoveShow World Tour, with opening act Pink, kicked off in San Diego, CA on January 8th and runs through March.

  Forthcoming shows are as follows:

  Date           City                  Venue
  Jan-27         St. Paul, MN          Xcel Center
  Jan-30         Toronto, ONT          Air Canada
  Jan-31         Montreal, QUE         Bell Center
  Feb-2          Washington, DC        Verizon Center
  Feb-3          Cleveland, OH         Quicken Loans
  Feb-6          Boston, MA            TD Banknorth Garden
  Feb-7          New York, NY          Madison Square Garden
  Feb-18         Buffalo, NY           HSBC
  Feb-19         Columbus, OH          Schottenstein/Nationwide
  Feb-22         Tampa, FL             St. Pete Times
  Feb-24         Miami, FL             American Airlines
  Feb-25         Fort Lauderdale, FL   BankAtlantic Center
  Feb-27         Atlanta, GA           Philips Arena
  Mar-1          New Orleans, LA       New Orleans Arena
  Mar-3          Bossier City, LA      CenturyTel Center
  Mar-4          Houston, TX           Toyota Center
  Mar-5          Dallas, TX            American Airlines
  Mar-8          Omaha, NE             Qwest
  Mar-1          Detroit, MI           The Palace
  Mar-12         Chicago, IL           Allstate/United
  Mar-13         Chicago, IL           Allstate/United
  Mar-15         Cincinnati, OH        US Bank
  Mar-16         Nashville, TN         Gaylord Entertainment
  Mar-18         Charlottesville, VA   John Paul Jones Arena
  Mar-19         Pittsburgh, PA        Mellon Arena
  Mar-21         Uniondale, NY         Nassau Coliseum
  Mar-24         Uncasville, CT        Mohegan Sun
  Mar-26         Manchester, NH        Verizon Center
  Mar-27         Philadelphia, PA      Wachovia Center
  Mar-29         East Rutherford, NJ   Continental Airlines

  *All dates are subject to change.

Source: Interscope Records

CONTACT: Monique Idlett of Mosley Music Group,
Monique.idlett@mosleymusicgroup.net, +1-678-516-9379, for Interscope Records;
or Dennis Dennehy, d.dennehy@umusic.com, or Regional and Tour press, Lauren
Burns, +1-310-865-4563, lauren.burns@umusic.com, both of Interscope Records

Music Nation Talent Contest Officially Kicks Off As Music Industry Powerhouses Join As Celebrity Judges

Nelly, Good Charlotte's Madden Brothers, and The Game Among Online Music Competition Judges; Clear Channel Radio to Provide Online and On-Air Promotion to Give Contest Unprecedented Reach

NEW YORK, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Music Nation (www.musicnation.com), the artist development company, has announced the final line-up of its music industry judges as the first online multi-genre video music competition officially launches. Voting is now formally open and together with the public, these judges will choose finalists for the 15-week competition. Music Nation will award a global recording contract with Epic Records to a winner in each of three genres -- rock, pop and urban. Additionally, all three winners will be showcased on an episode of STRIPPED, Clear Channel Radio's exclusive in-studio performance series, giving unsigned acts the chance of a lifetime.

Bringing together a diverse group of both artists and music executives, Music Nation has lined up a team of industry powerhouses to help determine the competition winners. For the Urban genre, the judges are Nelly, three-time Grammy Award winner and one of the best selling rappers of all time with over 35 million records sold, and multi-platinum rapper and two-time Grammy nominee The Game. Rounding out the Urban judges is Mark Pitts, President of Urban Music at Jive Records, who over his career has managed such acts as Notorious B.I.G. and Nas, and is credited for helping to break such artists as Usher, Ciara, and Chris Brown. Serving as judges for the Rock genre are brothers Joel and Benji Madden from multi-platinum recording artists Good Charlotte and producer Howard Benson, who has worked with acts such as The All-American Rejects, Hoobastank, Papa Roach and My Chemical Romance, and is currently a 2007 Grammy-nominee for Producer Of The Year. In the Pop genre, the judges are Charlie Walk, President of Epic Records, home of platinum-selling acts such as Modest Mouse, Franz Ferdinand, and Incubus, and producer Jonathan "J.R." Rotem, who has worked with high profile artists such as Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Destiny's Child, and Rihanna.

"This contest is an incredible idea and I'm thrilled to be a part of it," said Joel Madden of Good Charlotte. "MySpace and other sites have already given unsigned acts a chance to have their music heard by fans beyond their hometown, but Music Nation is taking it to the next level by actually looking to give these artists a career."

"There are so many artists out there on the come up, grinding away to get discovered and have their music heard by the masses. Music Nation is the demo tape of today and I'm glad to be a judge in the competition," said The Game.

Music Nation has been accepting entries from musicians ages 14 and older since mid-November and has already attracted more than 1,000 videos from some of the most talented unsigned acts across the country. With the competition now officially underway, fans are invited to register with the Music Nation site, create a user page, join artist communities, and begin voting for their favorite entries. As voting will reset weekly, entry will remain open to musicians and bands for the initial 12 weeks of competition, available through the Music Nation website or local Clear Channel Radio station websites with a $25 fee. Each week, the judges and the public will choose two winners in each genre, and these winning bands will be moved into the quarterfinals. After the 12 initial weeks, there will be 3 weeks of quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals until one winner from each genre is chosen during the 15th week.

Additionally, Clear Channel Radio will be giving unprecedented exposure to the online contest through both broadcast initiatives and prominent placement on local station websites, rallying both fan and artist involvement. In 25 major markets across the country -- including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Philadelphia and Chicago -- the contest will be promoted on-air by local radio personalities. These promotions will drive traffic to the local Clear Channel Radio affiliate websites where bands can enter the competition and listeners can register and vote each week for the Music Nation winners. Additionally, Music Nation's weekly webisodes, which highlight videos from the online competition, will be also be showcased on the affiliate sites.

"We are focused on delivering an experience to unsigned acts that will help them develop sustainable careers in the music business. Working with artists, producers and executives of our judges' caliber is wildly exciting for us and hopefully for the independent music community at large," said Daniel Klaus, Music Nation CEO. "These judges, in combination with our partnerships with Epic Records and Clear Channel Radio, will help us provide the ultimate empowerment experience to our audience."

About Music Nation

Music Nation is an artist development company launching multi-genre, online video-based music competitions both domestically and abroad, bringing together emerging talent from across multiple genres. In providing an online outlet designed to discover new and established musicians, Music Nation empowers both artists and the online music community by harnessing advanced technologies like IPTV - uniquely positioning the company in today's digitally driven entertainment climate. Founded in 2006, the company is the brainchild of Daniel Klaus, Lucas Mann, Kevin P. Ryan, and Peter Read; visionary figures whose expertise crosses the Internet media, e-commerce, artist management/development and the recording industry divides.

  Contact:

  Kisha Maldonado
  5W Public Relations
  212.584.4299
  kmaldonado@5wpr.com

  Neil Steinberg
  5W Public Relations
  212.584.4306
  nsteinberg@5wpr.com

  Amanda Pitts
  Music Nation
  212.625.3590 x319
  amanda@musicnation.com

Source: Music Nation

CONTACT: Kisha Maldonado, +1-212-584-4299, kmaldonado@5wpr.com; or Neil
Steinberg, +1-212-584-4306, nsteinberg@5wpr.com, both of 5W Public Relations;
or Amanda Pitts, Music Nation, +1-212-625-3590 ext. 319,
amanda@musicnation.com

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

Crain's New York Business Announces 2007 '40 Under 40' Winners

New York's future leaders profiled in January 29 issue

NEW YORK, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Crain's New York Business today announced the winners of its much-anticipated 2007 "40 Under 40" competition, which singles out the top rising stars in the New York City business community. This year's class hails from a diverse range of industries including media, technology, arts and culture, finance, healthcare, and real estate. A list of winners, along with a personal profile for each, appears in this week's Crain's.

Crain's New York Business has compiled the "40 Under 40" since 1988 and with each succeeding year, the competition has become increasingly intense. This year, a record number of young professionals vied for the honors.

The 2007 designees follow in the footsteps of such notable prior winners as Russell Simmons, founder of Def Jam records, Jeff Zucker, CEO, NBC Universal Television Group, Kate Spade founder of designer brand Kate Spade New York, and jazz musician, Wynton Marsalis, to name a few. The Crain's editorial team closely scrutinizes each applicant, and leverages their comprehensive, multi-disciplinary knowledge of New York's business, culture and politics.

"Crain's '40 Under 40' recognizes the finest young professional leaders New York City has to offer," said Jill Kaplan, publisher of Crain's New York Business. "While only a handful of this year's winners are already household names, our experience has shown that virtually all of these designees are destined to play a critical role in guiding New York's future for decades to come."

A sample of the 2007 winners include, Jefrey Pollock, 35, president of the Global Strategy Group; Dany Levy, 34, founder and editor-in-chief of Daily Candy; Angela Burt-Murray, 37, editor-in-chief of ESSENCE Magazine; Scott Heiferman, 35, CEO of Meetup.com; Janine DiGioacchino, 37, general manager of Madame Tussauds New York and Adrienne Lazarus, 38, president of Ann Taylor stores.

  The 2007 "40 Under 40" Winners include:

  * Helen Allen, 34, founder and director of the New Art Fair, ART(212); and
    the PULSE contemporary art fairs in New York and Miami

  * Andrea Batista Schlesinger, 29, executive director, Drum Major Institute
    for Public Policy

  * Daniel Bernard Roumain, 34, music director, Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane
    Dance Co.

  * Jason Binn, 39, founder and CEO, Niche Media Holdings

  * Angela Burt-Murray, 37, editor-in-chief of ESSENCE Magazine

  * Sarah Caddick, 38, executive director, Columbia University's Center for
    Neuroscience Initiatives Gale

  * Nicholas Cagliuso, 32, coordinator of emergency preparedness for the New
    York-Presbyterian Healthcare System

  * Wendy Cai, 32, director, Deloitte & Touche USA

  * Maurice Coleman, 39, senior vice president, New York Market Executive,
    Bank Of America

  * Chris Concannon, 39, head of trading services at the Nasdaq Stock
    Market.

  * Janine DiGioacchino, 37, general manager of Madame Tussauds New York

  * Michael Duda, 35, partner, director of business development and
    corporate initiatives, Deustche Inc.

  * Adam Epstein, 32, president and CEO, Adam Epstein Productions

  * Jason Finger, 35, founder/CEO SeamlessWeb.com

  * Neal Goldman, 36, chairman and CEO, Inform Technologies, LLC

  * Mark Gordon, 39, managing director of Sonnenblick Goldman

  * Matthew Greitzer, 29, director of search marketing, Avenue A|Razorfish

  * Eric Heaton, 39, co-head of the U.S. Financial Institutions Group,
    Merrill Lynch

  * Scott Heiferman,35, CEO of Meetup.com; Janine DiGioacchino,

  * Kenny Lau, 29, founder/owner, Rickshaw Dumpling Bar

  * Adrienne Lazarus, 38, president of Ann Taylor stores.

  * Bryan Leach, 35, senior vice president, Urban Music, J Records and
    President, Polo Grounds Music

  * Dany Levy, 34, founder and editor-in-chief of Daily Candy

  * Sarah Lindman, 37, vice president production/programming, The N

  * Andrew Mathias, 33, chief investment officer at SL Green

  * Crystal McCrary Anthony, 36, author, lawyer, executive film and
    television producer Hilary

  * Merry Miller, 36, vice president, The Learning Annex

  * Sara Mirsky, 38, development director, Leviev Boymelgreen tom

  * Rohan Oza, 35, senior vice president, marketing, Glaceau

  * Michele Penzer 38, partner, global executive committee member, Latham &
    Watkins

  * Laurel Pickering, 39, executive director, New York business Group on
    Health

  * Jessica Pincomb, 32, business and marketing officer for New York Metro
    District, Microsoft Corp.

  * Jefrey Pollock, 35, president of the Global Strategy Group

  * Maite Quinn, 33, managing director, Sprint Recycling Erik Ipsen

  * Felix Sencion, 38, founder and CEO, the Mundial Group Matt

  * Joel Simon, 39, CEO/Founder, JSM Music

  * Ryan Slack, 34, CEO, PropertyShark.com

  * Elizabeth Weymouth, 38, managing director and Head Of The U.S. Northeast
    Investment Business, JP Morgan Private Bank

  * Amira Yunis, 36, principal, Newmark Knight Frank Retail

  * Steven Zeng, 39, barbaravice president, corporate development HIP

Crain's New York Business (newyorkbusiness.com) is available on Mondays and has a circulation of more than 60,000. Crain's also publishes two newsletters including The Crain's Insider, a political newsletter and Crain's Health Pulse, a health care industry newsletter.

Source: Crain's New York Business

CONTACT: John Marino of The Marino Organization, +1-212-889-0808 ext.
122, john@themarino.org