Hip Hop Press: Hip Hop Press Releases

Social Capital Entertainment Debuts First Theatrical Release: Snoop Dogg's Urban Frightfest 'Hood of Horror'

Indie Producer Martin Shore Brings Together Snoop Dogg, Top Bay Area Hip-hop Talent and Visual Effects Maestro John Gaeta for First Feature Film Effort

SAN FRANCISCO, April 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Social Capital Entertainment, an innovative independent production company which produces motion picture, music and interactive entertainment, announced today the theatrical release of its first-ever feature film, Snoop Dogg's "Hood of Horror", which opens on Friday, May 4th in limited release throughout the U.S., including the San Francisco Bay Area. The film also features Bay Area hip-hip artists on its sound track, including Tone Capone, Flii Stylz and Oakland Raider Justin Fargas, who wrote and performed the movie's opening song. John Gaeta, a fellow Bay Area resident and Oscar-winning visual effects supervisor (The Matrix trilogy), wrote the film's animation sequences.

"Hood of Horror" is a hip hop horror anthology featuring three tales of terror told by the Hound of Hell (Snoop Dogg) that revolve around the residents of an inner-city neighborhood whose actions in this life determine where they will end up in the afterlife.

"Working with talent like Snoop and John Gaeta on our first feature film underscores the Social Capital approach to filmmaking," said Martin Shore, founder, Social Capital Entertainment. "Our goal from the beginning has been to team with top flight talent on cutting-edge, yet highly lucrative independent projects."

Social Capital's second feature film, "The Countess" starring Julie Delpy, Radha Mitchell and Ethan Hawke, begins filming in Eastern Europe this summer.

Martin Shore's 25-year entertainment career began at an early age, serving as a production assistant on many of his brother's films. Later, as a musician Shore toured with artists such as Bo Didley, Mick Taylor, Bluesman Willie, Clarence Clemons, Albert Collins and many others. As a Grammy-nominated producer, Shore and Social Capital Entertainment have been instrumental in the production of feature film and television soundtracks such as Hood of Horror, Saw (2004) and Saw II (2005), Rize (2005), Rock School (2005), Summerland (2004) and Cursed (2005).

To complement his entertainment endeavors, Mr. Shore is also a highly successful real estate entrepreneur who was recognized by Ernst & Young as runner up for its California Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 1998.

About Social Capital

Founded in 2004 by producer and real estate investor Martin Shore, Social Capital Entertainment is an innovative independent entertainment studio with a diverse portfolio of projects spanning film, music and interactive entertainment. Social Capital's project slate includes urban frightfest Snoop Dogg's Hood of Horror. The studio is presently working on four additional feature length films, including The Countess starring Julie Delpy, Radha Mitchell and Ethan Hawke, which begins shooting in Fall 2007. Previous film projects include the MTV and VH1 video for the soundtrack of the critically acclaimed documentary Rize, directed by David LaChappelle; 2001 Maniacs: the Beverly Hellbillys, and others. Social Capital's soundtrack projects include Snoop Dogg's Hood of Horror, plus Lionsgate's Saw and Saw II, Charmed, RIZE, Newmarket 's Rock School -- the true story behind the School of Rock, Curse, Summerland and many others. In addition, the company is in development on a number of social media properties spanning professional sports and entertainment. Social Capital has strategic partnerships with studios, record labels and interactive media including Bloodworks, Diamond D Records, Social Capital Records, Web guru John Battelle, mobile content provider AntiMedia, and others. Social Capital Entertainment has offices in Sausalito and Santa Monica, California.

Source: Social Capital Entertainment

CONTACT: Margaret Huang, +1-415-867-1626, or margaret@civiliapr.com, or
Martha Shaughnessy, +1-415-987-0285, or Martha@civliapr.com

Camp Lo Returns to Release EP in August

New York, NY - April 30, 2007
Camp Lo, the smooth-talking, trend-setting Bronx duo, are returning to bring their innovative brand of hip hop back to the airwaves. The duo of Sonny Cheeba and Geechi Suede have teamed back up with legendary producer Ski Beatz to release their new 7-track EP "Ski Beatz presents: Camp Lo ... Another Heist" in August 2007.

Camp Lo is prepping for their first large release since 2002's Let's Do It Again. The first single from the EP, "Ticket 4 Two", demonstrates Sonny and Geechi continuing to lay down mischievous but appealing lyrics and flawlessly delivered verses while Ski brings back the melodic-soul element evident in the production on their debut album Uptown Saturday Night. "The cats who never heard Camp Lo's music are gonna be surprised to hear something this new and refreshing, and the longtime fans will definitely not be disappointed," Ski explains. "I'm not in the business of making wack music or compromising my sound to fit into any categories, so check us out." The album will be released through a joint venture between Ski's label Redefinition Records and High Water Music.

In 1997, Camp Lo teamed up with Ski Beatz, the producer behind "Dead Presidents" and "Feelin' It" amongst other tracks on Jay-Z's Reasonable Doubt , to release the highly acclaimed album Uptown Saturday Night. With songs like the chart topping single "Luchini AKA This is it," Camp Lo was able to introduce a unique style of blaxploitation, street slang over funk-soul production, which garnered the group crossover success.

Stay tuned to http://www.myspace.com/skibeatzmusic for more info and updates.

Contact: John Notarfrancesco
John@almgroup.net

CLASS IS IN SESSION AS MADI B. RELEASES HIS DEBUT ALBUM "STREET G.E.D." JUNE 5, 2007

Carson, Ca-April 27, 2007- The lessons begin when school let's out as Carson bred rapper Madi B., releases his debut, Street G.E.D., on June 6, 2007.While his hit single "My Money's Long" steadily climbs the top 200 singles chart, Madi B. embraces the opportunity to bring his story to the young ones. In the midst of a high-school tour to promote the Anytime Records release "Street G.E.D." the mindful rapper understands the brevity of the messages in today's hip-hop climate so when the kids get turned on by the seemingly glamorous lyrics of his former lifestyle, he speaks to how the realities of that mind-state got him caught up.

"There are a lot of unfortunate realities in hip-hop music today because this music comes from the heart of the streets" explains Madi B., " These streets breed a lot of different elements some good, some bad; but when your chasing the dollar it's easy to get caught up in the hustle of the fast living and the fast money. It can turn you into someone you never thought you'd be, good or bad unless you gain some perspective."

Madi B's imprint of being an over-achiever was established by his mother; a self made woman who moved her kids here from Sierra Leon for a better life and was able to obtain a double master as a single parent of two.  Though he steered clear of gang-life, Madi B. couldn't deny his penchant for chasing that almighty dollar, so while his mother was away at work, he put in work on the streets. As fate would have it, his antics found him missing his senior year of high-school due to a conviction that landed him in jail for 10 months. Knowing he owed his mother more than losing her son to the streets, he refocused his energy to his love of music.

"Street G.E.D." drops science on how it goes down in the life of a hustler. Madi B., like many chose to learn his lesson the hard way, but now when he boasts about his money being long it's because he's making sound decisions with his life and his business; and when his young fans ask him about living the life of a star he lets them know the real.

With party anthems like Glasses Up or the bravado of So Fresh, So Clean, Street G.E.D. cover's the full spectrum of hood life from snitches, and haters to balling out of control.

Street G.E.D. gives a musical dissertation on street life by one of its own. Get ready to be schooled June 5, 2007. For more info on tour dates or to hear more music visit Madi B. at www.myspace.com/anytimerecords or www.myspace.com/mrmadib

Madi B. is available for interviews. Please contact Octavia Bostick at thawrite1@gmail.com.

Comcast and Vibe Magazine celebrate the World Famous Mic Club

Supernova Production entity Battery 5 pays homage to producer's beat battle showcase

Atlanta, GA - Apr 30, 2007 Comcast and Vibe Magazine will join The World Famous Mic Club to celebrate over 6 years of hip hop advocacy on Tuesday, May 1st at Apache Café located at in Atlanta, GA. The freestyle emcee and producer battle has been a consistent showcase for artistry driven artists and producers for nearly six years. Supernova production group Battery 5, are scheduled to compete in the celebratory event.

"The World Famous Mic Club is different from everything else an emcee or producer could experience here in Atlanta," says Andre aka DRES Da Beatnik, coordinator. "Through my travels I come across a wide variety of people that don't believe that there is real hip hop in Atlanta. I'm not talking about crunk or snap or R&B with a hip hop break beat, but real straight up, in your face rugged and raw hip hop. That's what we've been doing for the past almost six years.

Battery 5 is one of the biggest success stories stemming from the event which is housed in one of the oldest open mic venues in Atlanta , Apache Café. "Battery5 owes everything to the World Famous Mic Club," says Beatbroker/mgr Gregory "Bigg Tyme" Smith, "almost a year ago to the date, five producers came to the World Famous Mic Club to compete in the producer's battle. That night Battery 5 was born." Bigg Tyme, HeadRoc, Skape, Looke and Mello were each participating in the beat battle portion of the event. After that chance meeting the five agreed to combine their individual niche sounds to form the monster entity that is Battery5.

A year later and the group is one of the most sought after production entities in the business. With projects in the works with MTV, several independent films and a host of A-list talent placements, Battery 5 is well on their way to becoming the go to production team in Atlanta. ""This night is a celebration for us as well, as we celebrate ReddKlay/Columbia Records newest artist Yelawolf and our new single 'Kickin'," confirms Smith. "Having the opportunity to be a part of developing an new artists sound and identity is especially rewarding."

Aspiring emcees and producers are encouraged to come and showcase their artistry for an audience full of true hip hop conisseurs. "This event is one of those stops you make when paying dues," says Smith.

The World Famous Mic Club is Tuesday, May 1, 2007 at the Apache café l ocated at 64 3rd St. NW Atlanta, GA, 30308. Door open at 10 pm. For more information visit http://www.myspace.com/mic_club or http://www.myspace.com/themightymightybeatdown.

About Enchanted PR

Enchanted PR is a full service public relations agency that fuses creativity with industry know-how and public relations practice to create memorable individualized campaigns for every client. Enchanted PR actively seeks exposure for clients that include television, print, radio and sponsorship opportunities for all clients. We strive to create opportunities for our clients that offer visibility and exposure, relevant to their career goals and aspirations.
Website: http://www.myspace.com/enchantedpr

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

DJ JAZZY JEFF 'THE RETURN OF THE MAGNIFICENT LP LAUNCH'

@ Canvas / The Key
9pm – 5am
Bank Holiday Sunday 27th May 2007

Following the huge success of their 10th anniversary party back in September 2006, BBE Records, The Doctor's Orders and Bacardi B-Live have teamed up for BBE 10.5, a monster event celebrating 10 and a half years of quality releases. The party will be spread over four rooms between Canvas and The Key. BBE have pulled off a stellar line up including DJ Spin Doctor, Carl Craig, Mr Thing, DJ Spinna, Sir Norman Jay, Keb Darge, DJ Deep and Joe Claussell, with DJ Jazzy Jeff headlining and celebrating the release of his album 'Return Of The Magnificent'. The line up represents the musical diversity for which the label is known and loved.

Hosted by BBE’s head honcho Pete Adarkwah, each of the four rooms will represent a different genre. Some of the DJs will also be playing in different rooms where they’ll be dropping completely different sets throughout the night.

In the Kings of Hip-Hop room, Philadelphia phenomenon, DJ Jazzy Jeff returns after his incredible set at the 10th Anniversary party to raise the roof once again with a party mash up of hip-hop. Joining him for his first of 3 sets on the night, is the incomparable DJ Spinna, a true genre crossing DJ who’s as adept at spinning, and creating hip hop as he is house. Representing the UK are DJ Spin Doctor & Mr Thing - both gifted party rockers.

The Kings of Soul room will feature Sir Norman Jay (synonymous with the UK soul scene and his Notting Hill Carnival Good Times set) and Keb Darge (the champion of the northern soul & deep funk scenes) in addition to DJ Jazzy Jeff & DJ Spinna. Expect to be taken on a trip of soul, disco and funk, as they’ll both be playing original tunage that’s inspired them and generations of beatsmiths alike

Joe Claussell brings the sound of his seminal club, Body and Soul, to the The Kings of House room. A manipulator of the crossovers, Joe never fails to ooze the best of soulful dance music. Showing up again is DJ Spinna whose set is sure to be the perfect blend of original disco & house, crafted with turntable trickery. Extra support is provided by London’s finest DJ/producer Neil Pierce and BBE’s own Pete Adarkwah.

Finally, DJ Carl Craig will man The Kings of Techno room. As a leader in the second wave of Detroit Techno, Carl regularly features in the top spots of many of the world’s best DJ lists. Joining him is the Parisian master of techno/house DJ Deep.

Jazzy Jeff’s album ‘Return Of The Magnificent’ is released on BBE on the 4th June 2007. A video podcast has been created with regular updates at: http://podcast.thereturnofthemagnificent.com. His single ‘Hold It Down’ featuring Method Man  / ‘She Was So Fly’ featuring Kardinal Offishall is out 16th July 2007.  Prior to all this, look out for Jazzy Jeff at Southport Weekender on Friday 11th May 2007.

“Thank god for BBE! For the past 10 years BBE records have put out some of the best albums from some of the best producers and DJs in the world...thank you BBE and especially Pete for keeping real music alive and allowing me to be a part of it”.   DJ Jazzy Jeff

Editors Notes:
Address: Canvas, Kings Cross Goods Yard, York Way, London N1 0UZ
Door: 9pm – 5am
Tickets: £15 adv / £20 door
Information: 020 7607 0597

Tickets Available in advance from:
www.bbemusic.com / www.thedoctorsorders.com / www.ticketweb.co.uk  08700-600-100         

www.bbemusic.com
www.djjazzyjeff.com
www.thereturnofthemagnificent.com
www.rapsterrecords.com

For more information contact David / Letitia @ Outpost 020 7684 5634 / 07907 907 633 david@outpostmedia.co.uk; letitia@outpostmedia.co.uk

AND 1 Mix Tape Tour 2007 Returns to the Blacktop

ESPN Renews Street Ball: The AND 1 Mix Tape Tour for Two More Years; Sixth Season of Popular TV Series Premieres in July Featuring the Search for the Next AND 1 Streetball Star

ALISO VIEJO, Calif., April 30 /PRNewswire/ -- The AND 1 Mix Tape(R) Tour 2007, the original street basketball entertainment tour featuring the world's best playground players, is returning to its blacktop roots this summer for a nationwide 10-city tour from June 16 through August 25. Tipping off in New York City, the tour will travel across the United States with its best team yet playing against summer league all stars from city to city.

Streetball: The AND 1 Mix Tape Tour, the popular television show documenting the on-court action and behind the scenes drama, is produced by ESPN Original Entertainment (EOE). Broadcasts kick off in July as part of a new two-year agreement. The season will feature 10 half-hour episodes centered around the search for the next AND 1 Mix Tape Tour Player. Throughout the season fans will have the opportunity to vote online for their favorite player from each city, with the contest winner announced in the season finale.

To kick off the tour, a new advertising campaign entitled The United Streets of America (via 72 & Sunny, El Segundo, California) will launch online and via print ads in ESPN The Magazine, SLAM and Complex. The premium design of the campaign highlights the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour as the premier streetball showcase and its players as statesmen of the game. Players on the tour and in the creative campaign include Professor, Hot Sauce, Escalade, Bad Santa, Helicopter, The Assasin, Go Get It, Baby Shaq, Silk, Springs and, 8th Wonder.

"We are excited to bring the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour back outdoors this summer," said Mark Woolsey, AND 1 General Manager and CMO. "AND 1 is the premier streetball brand, and what better way to celebrate the eighth year of the tour and sixth year of the ESPN series than by taking it back to our roots where it all began for our fans and players."

AND 1's best team yet will take on the finest summer league all-stars in 10 cities, with one local baller from each market chosen for a 10-man team that will travel to Los Angeles on August 25 for the finale game, vying for the ultimate prize -- an endorsement contract with AND 1 and a spot on the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour roster. Bringing the democratic process to life in conjunction with the United Streets of America campaign, one finalist from each market will be chosen by fans via online voting at www.AND1.com, where weekly highlight videos will be posted after each event.

"Before joining AND 1, I was just another regular ball player," said Grayson "The Professor" Boucher, who shot to prominence after winning the Mix Tape Tour contest in 2003. "But because of the popularity of the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour and the phenomenon it has become, things have really changed for me. I get to do something I love for a living and I hope it inspires others to achieve their hoop dreams."

  The 2007 AND 1 MIX TAPE TOUR SCHEDULE*

  City                                                 Date
  New York                                             6/16/07
  Boston                                               6/23/07
  Atlanta                                              6/30/07
  Washington D.C.                                      7/14/07
  Philadelphia                                         7/21/07
  Detroit                                              7/28/07
  Chicago                                              8/04/07
  Dallas                                               8/11/07
  San Francisco                                        8/18/07
  Los Angeles                                          8/25/07

  *Schedule subject to change

  Roster                                               Hometown
  8th Wonder                                           North Carolina
  Assassin                                             LA
  Baby Shack                                           DC
  Bad Santa                                            LA
  Escalade                                             New York
  Go Get It                                            Chicago
  Helicopter                                           North Carolina
  Hot Sauce                                            Atlanta
  Professor                                            Oregon
  Silk                                                 Baltimore
  Springs                                              Detroit

  Coach -- Mike Ellis
  MC -- Duke Tango

Tickets will go on sale nationally on May 15, 2007. For more information, check out www.AND1.com.

Now in its eighth year, the AND 1 Mix Tape Tour has celebritized streetball players and made them international icons, including original AND 1 streetball legend Skip to My Lou (also known as Rafer Alston of the Houston Rockets), who will be making guest appearances throughout the summer. AND 1's series of basketball videos and DVDs known as the 'AND 1 Mix Tapes' have attained cult status among hard-core ball players. AND 1 Mix Tape Volume 10 will launch this summer.

About AND 1

Founded in 1993, AND 1 makes basketball footwear and apparel for players with serious game. The company that first made its mark in the apparel industry with a line of "in your face" trash talk tee shirts now offers a complete product line for basketball players, including on-and off-court performance shoes, shorts, tees, sleeveless tees, pants, team uniforms, licensed collegiate gear and accessories. AND 1 endorsers include Monta Ellis of the Golden State Warriors and star of AND 1 Mix Tape(TM) Volume 1, Rafer Alston of the Houston Rockets.

About ESPN Original Entertainment (EOE)

ESPN Original Entertainment (EOE) features a wide-range of branded programming outside of ESPN's traditional event and news genres. Using a collection of vehicles -- original movies, discussion programs, reality-based shows, documentaries, game shows and more -- ESPN's goal is to broaden its audience by more strongly appealing to younger (when appropriate) and casual sports fans.

Source: AND 1

CONTACT: Paul Yoffe, +1-323-988-4680, pauly@carryonpr.com, for AND 1

Web site: http://www.and1.com/

PaRappa The Rapper(TM), Original Icon Of The Music And Rhythm Video Game Genre, Returns for an Encore On The PSP(R) (Playstation(R) Portable) System

Ten Years Following His Debut on PlayStation(R), Beloved Rap Star Back on the Scene with a Host of New Social Gaming Features

FOSTER CITY, Calif., April 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) announced today the North American release of PaRappa The Rapper(TM), an iconic character-based music and hip-hop game, available in July 2007 for PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable). Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment, in association with legendary multimedia musician Masaya Matsuura and famed New York artist Rodney Greenblat, the PaRappa The Rapper franchise debuted 10 years ago on the original PlayStation(R) and is widely credited with establishing the music and rhythm game genre that continues to thrive today. PaRappa The Rapper for the PSP system mobilizes PaRappa's hip- hop adventures and builds on the success of this iconic franchise.

Featuring all the characters, levels and songs from the original, PaRappa The Rapper increases the franchise's social appeal by offering a host of new PSP exclusive features, including the ability for up to four PSP systems to go head-to-head in ad-hoc battles; wirelessly share a demo level through Game Share; and use the PSP Infrastructure Mode to download eight additional playable remixes for players to rap along to.

"Bringing PaRappa The Rapper to PSP allows true PlayStation fans to re- connect with this timeless classic," said John Koller, Senior Marketing Manager, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "This also introduces the beloved PaRappa and his cast of colorful friends to a new generation of fans and potential hip-hop stars on the move."

PaRappa The Rapper for the PSP system stays true to its stylish flattened animation technique and gameplay, combining fun and vibrant characters with hip music and a humorous storyline. Masaya Matsuura's infectious music and lyrics accompany PaRappa as he attempts to rap his way into the heart of his dreamy love interest, Sunny Funny, through various musical adventures. Using a rhythm, timing and coordination-based gameplay mechanic, players will bob their heads along with PaRappa and a cast of vibrant characters as they master its addictive gameplay. Players will first have to harmoniously press a designated controller button to help PaRappa mimic the actions and lyrics of the Masters. As the player's skill level progresses, they will be able to break free into a one-of-a-kind freestyle session, giving them the freedom to create a new experience with each play.

The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has rated PaRappa The Rapper "E" for "Everybody." For more information about the ESRB, please visit http://www.esrb.org/ .

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(R) game consoles, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, and the ground-breaking PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system.

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets, and distributes software for the PS one game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the PSP system and the PS3 system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America, Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Visit us on the Web at http://www.us.playstation.com/ .

"PlayStation", "PS one", "PSP" and "PLAYSTATION" are registered trademarks and "PS3" is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Source: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

CONTACT: Scott Goryl, +1-858-824-5792, scott_goryl@playstation.sony.com ,
or, Ron Eagle, +1-858-824-5585, ron_eagle@playstation.sony.com , both of Sony
Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Web site: http://www.us.playstation.com/

Pepsi Delivers Largest U.S. Bluetooth Campaign to Date

Pepsi smash! Mobile video clips delivered direct to consumers in five cities across four outdoor Media Networks, using Qwikker and Bluetooth.

Redwood City, CA (PRWEB) April 30, 2007 -- Qwikker announced today that Pepsi has launched the largest Bluetooth marketing campaign in the U.S. The campaign to deliver viral video clips, which went live on April 2nd, runs for two months in outdoor advertising locations consisting of bus shelters in Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Denver and Orange County, and pay phone kiosks in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. This campaign marks a milestone for the interactive marketing industry as the first multi-city, multi-network Bluetooth marketing campaign in the US.

The participating out of home media networks are CBS Outdoor, CBS/Decaux, Clear Channel Outdoor, and Prime Point Media. Each of these networks has integrated Qwikker's Bluetooth content distribution technology into their street furniture. Any consumer with a Bluetooth enabled phone is able to download free video clips from a Pepsi Smash advertisement. The viral video clips being distributed are five "Pass The Mic" clips of freestyle hip hop*, provided by Yahoo! Music.

Bluetooth marketing is quickly establishing itself as a cost effective and efficient channel to communicate with consumers. In the first week of the Pepsi campaign, opt-in rates to download content were 27% across the network.

Jodi Senese, EVP of Marketing at CBS Outdoor, said, "Outdoor displays are the perfect vehicle for brands to connect with today's mobile consumer The addition of Qwikker technology provides a conduit for the delivery of a detailed message or offer from those outdoor locations. It's the perfect combination of branding and engagement."

Karen Robinson, CEO of Prime Point Media said, "Bluetooth delivers a truly interactive user experience. It supercharges a campaign by allowing delivery of brand-driven content to a consumer's cell phone, a part of their daily lives. By enabling specific 700,000 phone kiosk locations with Qwikker Bluetooth technology, we can physically target the campaign to maximize contextual relevance, such as point-of-sale support at convenience stores for Pepsi."

Saul Kato, CTO and founder of Qwikker, added, "We're enabling consumers to respond directly to a brand marketing message on the street and leave with a piece of entertaining digital content, all for free. This is the simplest way for brands to leverage the power of the mobile phone as a rich media channel living right in the pockets of their audiences. Outdoor media locations are transformed into points of instant digital gratification."

About Qwikker
Qwikker is a local and social content distribution platform for mobile devices that allows the easy and free discovery, downloading, and sharing of content. Qwikker's solution enables companies to more effectively connect with their consumer by creating an interactive experience that delivers tailored, on-demand content which can be downloaded onto mobile devices via all available connections, including Bluetooth, WAP and SMS. The Qwikker platform can also be embedded into home media devices to streamline the transfer of both user generated and published content to and from mobile devices.

Qwikker runs the largest direct-to-mobile location content network in the world, with over 1000 Bluetooth content distribution points across the US and Europe. Brands which have leveraged the Qwikker network include Yahoo!, Channel 4, Electronic Arts, Universal Music, 20th Century Fox, Red Bull, Virgin Mobile, Robbie Williams/ie: music, Nokia and Universal Pictures. Backed by Sequoia Capital and Enterprise Partners Venture Capital, Qwikker has offices in San Francisco and London.

Portia Hart
Qwikker
http://www.qwikker.com
4158456606

Musician-Environmentalist Jon Hartmann Addresses America's Oil Addiction with President George W. Bush Rap Start A Business

Artist responsibility. Freedom of Speech. Clarity through words. When politics, the environment and music meet, Jon Hartmann gets his message across through his artistry.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) April 30, 2007 -- President George W. Bush (PGWB) a Rap artist? With the Internet swarming with PGWB parodies, it was time to exercise the First U.S. Amendment, "Freedom of Speech" utilizing clearer communication about war, profits and the environmental impact.

Writer-Producer-Musician-Environmentalist, Jon Hartmann has released "George Bush Sings" in a rap-funk-groove download on http://cdbaby.com/cd/jonhartmann4 , featuring tracks, "Don't Believe Me," "Let Us Bomb," "Stay The Course," "My Heart Breaks," and "Start A Business" which talks about America's addiction to oil. Other new tracks will be added to the site for download as they are produced.

"George Bush Sings is an audio outing for those of us who happen to notice that the emperor's suit hides nothing. It was my thinking that if the Office of the President had truly become a theatre of the absurd, where words had no meaning, then it was time to arrange the order of the President's words so that they may better reflect the truth" states Hartmann. "This country has always had difficulty escaping the influence of big oil. The way we built our cities and the reasons we went to war were most often at the request and benefit of the folks at the petroleum concerns. Many of the decisions made by government were in the best interest of the oil stockholders but may have been disastrous for the well-being of the planet. At a time when government must take the initiative to fundamentally change our energy and environmental policy, we have a president whose background in the oil business suggests that he may not have been suited to the task of leading the nation away from it's addiction to oil. This president stated that he was a uniter, not a divider, and yet he has done more than any American president to polarize and disrupt the social fabric of the United States. Start A Business is Bush's version of "let them eat cake," Hartmann explains.

Hartmann's last album, "Pacific Electric," pays tribute to Los Angeles' long-lost Pacific Electric Railway and Hartmann's thoughts of energy, policy and interest of expanding rail service between and inside cities to promote healthier air and trying to understand the removal of the Pacific Electric Railway. His previous albums, "3 if By Air" and "The 10th House" both featured CD cover graphics which reflect Hartmann's passionate visual statement about the fragile nature of the orb we populate. He feels fossil fuels have no place in our future. "If we continue to burn them at the current rate, two things will happen as sure as night follows day.....our economy will be disrupted beyond repair, and our planet, likewise, may be damaged sufficiently to induce global catastrophe," states Hartmann.

Hartmann is a songwriter, musician, producer, music publisher and record label executive whose career has encompassed touring the world. From his first overseas gig in Southeast Asia to entertain soldiers for the USO, to performing with Ike & Tina Turner in Germany with the Rolling Stones as audience spectators. Jon was signed as a writer in 1975 for Peacock Music, where he and Jimmy Whitney co-wrote "Goodness Knows," recorded that year by Michael Jackson. He's currently producing his own works and others elaborating on his environmental beliefs as an activist and musical artist on his own independent label, Jon Hartmann Records.

For interviews, review copies and additional information, call Publicist, Stacey Kumagai at 818/506-8675 or email. To order Jon Hartmann's music CDs, go to www.cdbaby.com or go to www.jonhartmannmusic.com

STACEY KUMAGAI
Media Monster Communications, Inc./BrainGASM Productions
http://www.braingasm.com/
818-506-8675

Urban DJs Catch Corporate Canada's Attention

Hip-Hop DJs Trigger Influx of Urban Marketing in Canada

TORONTO, April 30 /CNW/ - The hip-hop business generates over $2 billion a year in sales across North America, but the gems who arguably have the biggest influence in setting trends that drive sales in Canada are urban hip-hop DJs.

"Canadian DJs are key trendsetters here, the way hip-hop artists are in the US," says Mike Zafiris, founder of the Stylus Group, an organization formed to recognize, develop and represent urban DJs in Canada. Zafiris is seen as a pioneer in this industry, having worked on the business side of hip-hop for over 15 years. He developed and runs Flavor Pool, Canada's largest urban/hip-hop music pool that services DJs with new releases.

"Canadian corporations are now catching onto 'urban marketing' something that many US companies have already recognized," says Zafiris. In the US, companies like Pepsi and several others have their own dedicated DJ divisions. "The numbers prove it; DJs are incredibly valuable in marketing a company's products. They are very good for business," adds Zafiris.

Consider the impact of the urban scene - it touches every aspect of a young adult's life from music to fashion, from technology to art:

The average Canadian teenager wakes up in the morning and throws on his Mark Ecko shirt and Sean John jeans. Then he sports his new Jay-Z Reebok sneakers and Roc-a-Wear jacket. He grabs something to eat at McDonalds, throws his I-pod on and listens to the latest Gwen Stefani CD. He plays the new 50-Cent video game on his portable Playstation, answers a call on his Nokia cell phone that has a new Nas ring tone on it, and the list of influences goes on.

Mainstream businesses are now paying attention to Canadian DJs. 4Korners for example, are the official DJs for all of the Toronto Raptors games at the Air Canada Centre. They are also sponsored by Roots. DJ Dopey is MTV's daily DJ on MTV Live. Rogers Music Store and the Nokia 5300 XpressMusic mobile phone, appreciating the value of cross-promotion, will co-present the Stylus DJ Awards this year, giving them direct access to the tastemakers of today's youth and lifestyle markets.

"We are pleased to be partnering with the Rogers MusicStore on this initiative," said Carla Carmichael, Director of Marketing, Nokia Canada. "With music playing such an important role in the lives of Canadians, we are excited to be supporting the awards and recognizing the achievements of Canadian DJs."

Many other Canadian DJs are sponsored by clothing companies and DJ equipment companies. Clothing has actually played a big role here in Canada. "Stores like Athlete's World and Foot Locker can look more like hip-hop videos than retail stores," says Zafiris.

In the US, DJs have signed deals not only with record labels, but also with car companies, fast food chains and liquor brands. Some DJs even host their own TV shows. Interest from these types of industries is now growing in Canada as well, as the urban DJ community profile grows.

Last year for example, the Stylus Group hosted Canada's first-ever national DJ awards show, the Stylus DJ Awards, which also included inducting two hip-hop veterans, Butcher T., and the Sunshine Sound Crew into the Canadian Hall of Fame for their lifetime contributions to the urban music industry. It was the brainchild of Zafiris, and the attention and level of success this awards show received, prompted its return this year. This year's show will be held in Toronto on June 4, 2007 and is co-presented by Rogers Music Store and the Nokia 5300 XpressMusic mobile phone. In addition to Rogers Music Store and the Nokia 5300, the awards show has already received a host of supporters including MuchVIBE, Flow 93.5FM, Sean John, Ortofon, American Audio, Pioneer, Universal Music, Sony BMG, Warner Music, Koch Entertainment and myTego Inc., and interest in additional sponsorship opportunities is growing.

"This awards show was created to recognize the efforts and accomplishments of the country's most influential urban lifestyle players - DJs, emcees and the industry's top tastemakers," says DJ Starting from Scratch, official DJ of the 2007 Stylus DJ Awards and three-time winner from the 2006 awards.

"Canadian DJs have a direct impact on which artist becomes hot and which one does not in Canada - before artists break into the mainstream, it's the hip-hop DJs that introduce their music to the hottest clubs in town," adds Zafiris. "Usher, 50 Cent, Eminem and the Black Eyed Peas are great examples of this. DJs are the hip-hop industry's lifeblood in Canada, and to urban music lovers, DJs hold a celebrity status."

Canadian urban DJs are recognized internationally as being the best in their field, winning numerous turntable competitions, and playing with the hottest artists around the world. DJ A-Trak from Montreal became the youngest DJ ever at 19, to win several international DJ competitions including the DMC, ITF, and Vextax world championships. These are the three biggest DJ competitions. He then went on to join six-time Grammy award winning rapper and record producer, Kanye West as his touring DJ.

According to Zafiris, the impact of urban DJs can be felt with a simple visit to the country's entertainment districts and nightclubs, from coast to coast. Whereas a local urban hip-hop artist may attract a few hundred people to a given show, many DJs routinely bring in thousands of patrons to clubs every week, and sometimes two to three times a week.

That popularity prompts in-the-know business executives to get involved in Canada's new urban marketing scene. Zafiris believes that there is a lot more potential for this genre of marketing to grow in Canada.

"The popularity of hip-hop is at an all time high, and what was once an underground movement has now become a mainstay in Canadian culture both from a lifestyle perspective and a business perspective," says Zafiris.

About the 2007 Stylus DJ Awards

The 2007 Stylus DJ Awards is co-presented by Rogers Music Store and the Nokia 5300 XpressMusic mobile phone and will take place on June 4th in Toronto at the Palais Royale Ballroom, 1601 Lakeshore Blvd. W. Tickets will be available for $25 through Ticket Break, at www.stylusgroup.ca, and Play de Record in Toronto. For more information, please visit www.stylusgroup.ca.

About Nokia

Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations. www.nokia.ca.

media interviews or photos, please contact: Nadia Angeloni, (416) 523-3638, nadia@stylusgroup.ca; Simone Holness, (416) 994-8259, simone@stylusgroup.ca

Pump Audio and Redeye Distribution Expand Licensing and Distribution for Independent Artists

Deal Brings Redeye Artists into the Pump Audio System; Opens Vast Licensing Opportunities Across All Media Platforms

HUDSON VALLEY, N.Y. and HAW RIVER, N.C., April 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Pump Audio, the leading provider of quality independent music to content creators globally, and independent music distributor Redeye Distribution announced a strategic partnership today to make music from Redeye Distribution's independent labels and artists available for licensing through Pump Audio. The deal makes Redeye Distribution's leading roster of independent music accessible to Pump Audio's professional customers in TV, advertising and interactive media, while giving the premier independent labels and musicians from Redeye Distribution the potential for new revenue channels.

"Redeye Distribution has done an excellent job of getting a unique collection of great independent music into the hands of consumers wherever they want to buy music, whether in a retail store or digitally," said Steve Ellis, founder and CEO of Pump Audio. "Through this relationship, Redeye Distribution labels and artists will gain critical visibility with the creative directors and producers around the world who are choosing the best music to license for TV shows, ads and interactive productions."

Redeye Distribution distributes independent music from more than 200 labels for sale in both physical and digital outlets, and now its relationship with Pump Audio will enable it to offer music for licensing in the rapidly expanding production market in both traditional and online media. Pump Audio's production customers include MTV Networks, NBC Studios, HBO, New Line Cinema, online service Photobucket and advertising agency Saatchi & Saatchi.

"We're pleased to be partnering with another organization within the music industry that promotes the talents and creativity of independent musicians," said Jim Logrando, Head of Digital Sales and Marketing of Redeye Distribution. "By working with Pump Audio, we are expanding the opportunities for our independent labels and artists to gain exposure and new fans for their music through the thriving music licensing market in which Pump Audio is so active."

Pump Audio helps independent musicians license their music to traditional producers in TV, advertising and interactive media through the PumpBox, its advanced search software and delivery system, as well as to online content creators of all types through the MyPump service on the Web. Under Pump Audio's artist-friendly system, licensing revenues are split equally with musicians, and the artists retain complete ownership over their music.

About Redeye Distribution

Redeye Distribution is the country's leading independent distributor for both physical and digital music. Winner of the Distributor of the Year Award presented by the National Association of Record Merchandisers for six of the last seven years, Redeye has established relationships with national and international retailers -- large and small, physical and online -- as well as distributors, sub-distributors, one-stops, digital service providers and mobile content providers. Headquartered in Haw River, NC, with branch offices in New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco and London, Redeye is staffed by more than 50 dedicated music lovers and growing every month. The current distribution roster includes more than 200 labels spanning a diverse catalog of the best independent music available today.

About Pump Audio

Pump Audio licenses the world's best independent music to content creators worldwide. Founded in 2001, Pump Audio has established itself as a leading provider of digital music for TV and advertising producers. Now Pump Audio is becoming the soundtrack of the Internet, opening Web access to its catalog of tens of thousands of songs so creators of all types can build music into their video and interactive productions. With Pump Audio, artists can license their music into productions without giving up any ownership, while content creators can discover new music ready for use. Based in the Hudson Valley, Pump Audio can be found at http://www.pumpaudio.com/ .

Source: Pump Audio

CONTACT: Tomica Divic of SutherlandGold Group, +1-415-848-7166,
Tomica@sutherlandgold.com, for Pump Audio; or James Bailey of Redeye
Distribution, 877-733-3931, ext. 244, james@yeproc.com

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

Diddy and Lil' Kim Reunite for One Historic Night

Hip-Hop Icons Back Together Again for "Last Night" Remix; Track Marks Lil' Kim's Return to Music After Prison Stint

NEW YORK, NY -- (MARKET WIRE) -- April 27, 2007 -- Diddy's critically acclaimed Bad Boy CD, "PRESS PLAY," has spawned its third hit single, "Last Night," featuring R&B songstress Keyshia Cole. "The success of 'Last Night' has truly been a blessing," says Diddy. "And you know I had to do a remix."

With that said, Diddy reached out to someone who could turn up the heat, none other than multi-platinum rapper and style icon, Lil' Kim. After several years of putting their artist/producer relationship on ice, Diddy and the sexy queen of rap have reunited to make music history once again.

"We've always had amazing chemistry together," says Lil' Kim. "It was a great feeling to pick back up where we left off years ago and do it again." The release of "Last Night" (remix) marks Lil' Kim's return to music following her stint in a Philadelphia prison, from which she was released in July 2006.

"It feels great to be working with Lil' Kim again after all these years," muses Diddy.

Never one to stop a good thing, Diddy reached out to several other big names in music to create additional remixes. Game, Busta, Rich Boy, Noreaga, and Bad Boy South/Block Enterprises Yung Joc all lent their personal flair to the record.

"I appreciate all of the people who have constantly supported the album and also appeared on the remixes," says the rap mogul. "And a special 'thank you' to Keyshia Cole for blessing this track with her beautiful vocals."

"PRESS PLAY" is the hip-hop impresario's first solo collection in five years. The CD made a stunning debut atop the Billboard 200, marking Diddy's return to the #1 spot after nine years. The CD has already spawned two huge hit singles -- "Come To Me," featuring Nicole Scherzinger from The Pussycat Dolls, and "Tell Me," featuring Christina Aguilera. Diddy recently completed a sold-out European tour with Snoop Dogg.

Lil' Kim has been spending the past year working on a book, titled "Price of Loyalty," which is expected to be released later this year; preparing for the launch of her clothing line, 24-7-Star; as well as helping those in need through ongoing programs via her non-profit organization, Lil' Kim Cares.

Contacts:

For Diddy -
Cara Donatto
Atlantic Records
212-707-3060

For Lil' Kim -
Tracy Nguyen
5W Public Relations
212-584-4312

SOURCE:  Atlantic Records

New Poetry Magazine Launches April 30

METAPHOR focuses on the people, personal stories and social issues fueling performance poetry

Minneapolis, Minnesota -- (ArriveNet - Apr 24, 2007) -- New Poetry Magazine is set to Launch on April 30

www.metaphormag.com

METAPHOR styles itself as "the Rolling Stone of performance poetry," bringing performance poets and their art to a mainstream audience. The magazine mixes traditional print journalism with video and audio, focusing on artists who write/compose poetry primarily or exclusively for performance rather than for the printed page. As a lifestyle and culture magazine, METAPHOR is as fun and entertaining as it is thought-provoking, engaging people throughout North America not only in the poetry, but in the people, personal stories and social issues fueling this contemporary art form.

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY: Speak with founding editor/publisher Matt Peiken about the roots, rationale and reach of METAPHOR. We can also put you in touch with slam/performance poets about the uniqueness and need for this magazine.

________________________________________
METAPHOR focuses on the people, personal stories and social issues fueling performance poetry

Today's performance poetry is anything but raw poetry – it's song, scat, soapbox, silence, scream, whisper, wail, humor, hysteria, hip-hop, jazz, freestyle lines and ricochet rhymes – a far cry from Kerouac's coffeehouse poetry. So if performance poetry lacks the public profile of, say, hip-hop, place much of that responsibility on the poets. There's little consensus among them about what defines their art form and, more acutely, what doesn't. Despite tremors of potential over the past two decades, most notably through Russell Simmons' Def Poetry Jam and the annual National Poetry Slam, the public and press are left scrambling for entry points, if they bother at all.

METAPHOR magazine bridges the gap, digging into the lives of established and emerging performance poets and helping readers connect to them both as artists and as real people, whose vibrant personalities lend color and energy to their communities. At the same time, METAPHOR is the only magazine keeping its ear fastened to the larger social and political issues -- from war, poverty and racism to reproductive rights and domestic abuse -- dancing on the tongues of the nation's performance poets. Our trend stories make thematic connections for readers and place poets' views and values at the center of dialogue. Other stories examine where performance poets sit in a larger arts context and other arts/culture happenings impacting or involving performance poets. Their poetry comes through in the video and audio clips accompanying each feature.
Founding editor/publisher Matt Peiken has spent 20 years as an arts and features writer with daily newspapers in California and Minnesota. For the launch, Peiken profiles Ed Mabrey, winner of the recent Individual World Poetry Slam in Vancouver, B.C., and writes about the quest of America's Hispanic and Latino poets to break stereotypes and reach wide audiences.

METAPHOR's most fun and unique feature comes from Los Angeles slam queen Sonya Renee, a National Poetry Slam champion who, in this magazine, becomes the nation's first advice columnist delivering wisdom in audio verse. Sonya's "Ask a Poet" column carries no nonsense or nuance, dropping verbal bombs on readers' questions about life, love and beyond. Minneapolis poet Thadra Sheridan is the first contributor of our "Mouth to Mouth" column, where top performance poets speak to their poetic peers on a range of topics, from how-to pieces to first-person accounts of funny, dramatic and meaningful moments related to their craft. Other areas of METAPHOR, still in development, are dedicated to teen and college-aged performance poets, and "Off/Stage," a department spotlighting poets' lives and talents -- from cooking to canoeing -- away from the stage.

WHY THE FOCUS ON PERFORMANCE POETS?
Performance poetry has the ingredients for wide, mainstream appeal. Insiders estimate several thousand poets, spread across every state, compete in poetry slams, participate in hip-hop shows and lend their voices to gallery openings, jazz concerts, fashion shows and more. These people draw on drama, humor, history and the human condition to dive into topics spanning the social to civic, the personal to political. Some artists make their livings by creating and teaching performance poetry, and handfuls of standouts have won cultish followings through TV, touring and CD sales. Scores of newcomers, many of them teenagers, enter the field every year through open-microphone events. More than ever, in a country where millions of youth and adults craft poetry that never leaves their own notebooks, Americans are eager to know and hear their insights – if only they were aware of them.

ABOUT MATT PEIKEN
Currently on staff at St. Paul (Minn.) Pioneer Press, Peiken has won feature writing awards from the Associated Press, Society of Professional Journalists and the California Newspaper Publishers Association, been a fellow with the Poynter Institute, in St. Petersburg, Fla., and the National Arts Journalism Program at Columbia University, in New York City. He has written extensively across a span of the arts and was a longtime contributing writer for Modern Drummer Magazine. In 2006, Peiken published his first book, the self-help parody Positive MEinforcement: Shout 'Me First!' and Make Every Day All About YOU!

# # #

CONTACT: Felecia Flair, marketing director
flair@feleciaflairpr.com • (800) 660-6928

Rap Fest 2007 in Bronx

Bronx, NY (PRWEB) April 28, 2007 -- Rap Fest, Inc., now in its 13th year, has joined forces with the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club, an organization serving over 12,000 youth. Rap Fest 2007 will proudly hold its event on Randall Avenue and White Plains Road in the Bronx - The Site of the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club."

This will be the third location for Rap Fest, Inc. as they continue impacting as many Bronx communities as possible. Rap Fest 2007 will feature 26 Rap Ministries (groups) from various cities, states and countries. This year's confirmed special guests are Cross Movement Records' recording artists: The Cross Movement, J.R. and Flame.

All participants will be displaying, not only their talents and passion for the history of hip hop, but their love for God and desire to worship Him with their gifts and abilities.

Confirmed rap ministries for this year's event are: 3D Remedy / New York, Beyond Skillz / Florida, Brothers Inc. / New York, Carriers of the Cross / Florida, Christ Affiliates / Florida, Crossed Out / New York, D M.A.U.B. / Ohio, Dillon Chase / Texas, Disciple aka DI / Massachusetts, DJ P.D.o.g.g. and Humble T.i.p. / Virginia, Double Portion / South Carolina, J.A.Z. / New York, Jus Boogie / Virginia,
KJ Raps/ Minneapolis, Lady E / North Carolina, Miz Rock / New York, Oppose / Virginia, Prayz1 / Pennsylvania, RedCloud / California, Reza-rec / Massachusetts, Richard Dauphin / New York, Sean Slaughter / Virginia, Slave / New York, TRUCE / New York, Young Witness / Massachusetts, and Von Vargas / Maryland.

The confirmed DJs for Rap Fest 2007 are DJ Nu Man / New York, DJ Tony Tone / New York, DJ Lady Grace / Massachusetts, and DJ Vaungh / Pennsylvania.

T.R.U.C.E., a Nicky Cruz Outreach ministry, will be conducting mobile concerts in the Kips Bay area the week of Rap Fest to promote the upcoming evangelistic event. In partnership with the American Bible Society, Rap Fest will be giving out free CDs and magazines to neighborhood residents.

Throughout the course of the day several thousand people visited Rap Fest 2006. Due to continuous promotion on the Internet through our website that receives 1,500,000 hits a year. Through our live video stream, courtesy of UnoRed.com, radio stations like WFDU and television shows (BET, WNJU, NY1 and others), we anticipate an even greater turnout this year.

Rap Fest 2007 will take place on August 11, 2007, from 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM at Randall Avenue between White Plains Road and Pugsley Avenue. This is a free outdoor event. Press passes are available on-site for all media personnel attending.

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

Rap Fest 2007 features 30,000 watts of sound, 26 rap ministries, and 8 Hours of non-stop Gospel hip hop music, all for 1 God, Jesus Christ. The goal of Rap Fest is to evangelize communities through hip hop music and offer them an opportunity to trust in God as a solution to problems.

Virgin Festival by Virgin Mobile Returns to Baltimore with Two Days of the Best of Indie/Alternative Rock, Hip-Hop, Electronica

Interpol, Modest Mouse, TV On The Radio And More Join The Police, The Smashing Pumpkins And Beastie Boys

Tickets on Sale May 5

NEW YORK, April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- The second Virgin Festival By Virgin Mobile in the United States returns August 4-5, 2007 to Pimlico Race Course(R) in Baltimore, Maryland with a stunning and diverse list of artists and top deejays and two days of crazy energy and excitement. Sir Richard Branson previously announced that headliners The Police and The Smashing Pumpkins will appear as well as the Beastie Boys. Now, the entire line-up has been confirmed:

  (Logo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070427/NYF011LOGO )

  Saturday, Aug 4                           Sunday, Aug 5
  [listed in alpha order]

  BEASTIE BOYS                                311
  BOOKA SHADE                                 BAD BRAINS
  CHEAP TRICK                                 CHRIS CORNELL
  FELIX DA HOUSECAT                           THE CRYSTAL METHOD [DJ set]
  FICTION PLANE                               CSS
  FOUNTAINS OF WAYNE                          DEEP DISH [Dubfire & Sharam]
  THE FRATELLIS                               DIESELBOY & ANDY C with
  BEN HARPER & THE INNOCENT CRIMINALS         MC GQ and MC Messinian
  INCUBUS                                     GIRL TALK
  LCD SOUNDSYSTEM                             INFECTED MUSHROOM
  MIGUEL MIGS [Petalpusher]                   INTERPOL
  MODEST MOUSE                                M.I.A.
  PAOLO NUTINI                                MATISYAHU
  PETER BJORN AND JOHN                        THE SMASHING PUMPKINS
  THE POLICE                                  REGINA SPEKTOR
  SASHA & JOHN DIGWEED                        SPOON
  SHOUT OUT OUT OUT OUT                       VELVET REVOLVER
  DANNY TENAGLIA                              WU TANG CLAN
  TV ON THE RADIO                             YEAH YEAH YEAHS
  SANDER VAN DOORN                            JAMES ZABIELA
  AMY WINEHOUSE

Tickets for the two-day festival go on sale May 5, 2007 and are priced at $175 for General Admission and $450 for VIP. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com or 1-800-551-SEAT). Single day tickets, if still available, will go on sale May 19 and be priced at $97.50 for single day General Admission tickets and $250 for single day VIP tickets. Virgin Mobile USA customers can take advantage of a promotional pre-sale period during which a limited number of tickets will be available for purchase. Prices include 10% Maryland Admission & Amusement Tax and a $1.50 per day charity donation. More information about Virgin Festival By Virgin Mobile can be found at www.virginfestival.com.

"Our fantastic line-up will be sure to excite festival-goers of all ages," said Sir Richard Branson, whose entrepreneurial focus on the environment has caught global attention. "We're going to redefine cool at one of the hottest and greenest destinations for live music this summer."

"Virgin Festival By Virgin Mobile is the perfect platform for us to celebrate our company's and our customers' connection to an eclectic range of music along with the energy and discovery that comes with live events," Dan Schulman, chief executive officer of Virgin Mobile USA, said.

"Virgin has earned a world-wide reputation for hip, innovative products and services, and the excitement of our brand extends to our music festival," said Frances Farrow, chief executive officer of Virgin USA. "Every summer, we bring together a community who gets to enjoy music as well as everything else that Virgin has to offer."

Seth Hurwitz, head of Festival producers I.M.P., said, "With two stages and a dance tent, we're very selective about our line-up. It's all about quality over quantity, the flow of the event and how the bands overlap. That said, the amount and diversity of top artists is amazing." I.M.P., one of the country's leading independent concert promoters and owners of Washington, D.C.'s famed 9:30 Club.

Kyocera Wireless Corp., a leading global supplier of CDMA wireless devices and accessories, will again be the premiere handset partner for Virgin Festival By Virgin Mobile, sponsoring several elements both leading up to the festival and during the two-day event. Other Festival sponsors include Anheuser-Busch, Citibank, the MLB Authentic Collection and Virgin Megastores North America.

Virgin Festival By Virgin Mobile will also feature a broad selection of vendors and exhibitors as well as interactive art installations, performance art and lots of surprises. The event will take place less than an hour from Washington, D.C., two hours from Philadelphia, and three hours from New York City. Historic Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, MD is the home of the world famous Preakness Stakes(R), the Middle Jewel of Thoroughbred Horse Racing's storied Triple Crown.

About Virgin Mobile USA, LLC:

The nation's leading wireless youth network, Virgin Mobile USA provides more than 4.6 million customers with control, flexibility and choice in wireless service, rich data content and innovative products without annual contracts. Voice pricing plans range from monthly options with unlimited nights and weekends to by-the-minute offers, allowing consumers to adjust how and what they pay according to their needs. Virgin Mobile's full slate of smart, stylish and affordable handsets, including the popular Switch_Back and Slice, are available at top retailers in more than 35,000 locations nationwide and online at www.virginmobileusa.com, with Top-Up cards available at more than 130,000 locations.

Virgin Mobile USA's nationwide coverage is powered by the Sprint Nationwide PCS Network, and the company, which launched in 2002, is a joint venture between Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group and Sprint Nextel. J.D. Power and Associates has ranked Virgin Mobile highest in customer satisfaction among wireless prepaid services, and its own customers report a 94% satisfaction rate. Virgin Mobile contributes 5% of profits from downloadable content to The RE*Generation, its pro-social initiative to help homeless teens, through donations to charitable partners or funding of programs that support and raise awareness for young people in need; and provides postage- paid return envelopes in every new package for customers to recycle old phones.

About Virgin USA:

Virgin, a leading branded venture capital organization, is one of the world's most recognized and respected brands. Virgin USA oversees and is responsible for the expansion of the Virgin brand in North America, blasting into markets where the customer is underserved, offering value for money, good quality, innovation, exceptional customer service, fun and a sense of competitive challenge. Existing businesses like Virgin Atlantic Airways, the award-winning transatlantic airline; Virgin Mobile USA, the leading wireless youth network; Virgin Megastores, the groundbreaking music stores; and Virgin Comics, an entertainment and media company creating original stories and epic myths for worldwide audiences, have already laid a powerful footprint in North America. Building upon the success of these businesses, Virgin USA continues to look for opportunities in North America where it can offer something better, fresher and more valuable to consumers.
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070427/NYF011LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Virgin Mobile

CONTACT: Jayne Wallace of Virgin Mobile USA, +1-908-607-4235, or
Jayne.wallace@virginmobileusa.com, or Melissa Connerton of CooperKatz,
+1-212-455-8001, or mconnerton@cooperkatz.com, for Virgin Mobile USA

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

Xzibit and Jay Kay Join Adidas Team for Gumball Rally 3000

adidas Originals announce their team drivers for the ultimate lifestyle rally Gumball 3000.

London, UK (PRWEB) April 28, 2007 -- adidas Originals, http://www.adidas.com, are proud to announce their team drivers for the ultimate lifestyle rally Gumball 3000.

US hip hop artist Xzibit has recently been more used to picking up barely road worthy wrecks in need of serious repair as the star of hit MTV show Pimp My Ride. For the Gumball 3000 he will get behind the wheel of an altogether different type of car - the Lamborghini Gallardo.

X's adidas team mate for the event is a well known for his love of fast supercars and all things three stripe. Jamiroquai superstar Jay Kay takes charge of a Maserati Quattroporte for the 8 day 3000 mile round trip.

The 2007 rally will see 120 cars depart from the starting line in London on the 29th April and before they return to take the chequered flag on Pall Mall on the 5th May the rally will have left 17 countries across Europe in its wake. The route takes in major cities, crosses old cold war borders and even ventures into Asia, stopping only to have a good time.

To celebrate their partnership with Gumball 3000, adidas have produced a footwear and apparel collection, exclusively available in Foot Locker stores.

The footwear collection comprises of six shoes including the premium Factory Range produced with luxurious leather uppers and featuring a signature repeat print combining the adidas originals Trefoil and the Gumball logo.

Accompanying apparel includes tracksuit tops inspired by retro rally overalls, Gumball 3000 print t-shirts, polo shirts and caps. A key chain wallet completes the collection.

To learn more, visit Join the Rally for more information (http://www.jointherally.com).

----Notes to edtor----

adias Gumball Rally 3000 dates

29 April 2007   
adidas gumball 3000 rally day #1 London

30 April 2007   
adidas gumball 3000 rally day #2 Istanbul

1 May 2007   
adidas gumball 3000 rally day #3 Athens

2 May 2007      
adidas gumball 3000 rally day #4 Tirana

3 May 2007    20:00
adidas gumball 3000 rally day #5 Bratislava

4 May 2007    20:00
adidas gumball 3000 rally day #6 Berlin

5 May 2007    20:00
adidas gumball 3000 rally day #7 London

Contact:
For all adidas press enquiries, please visit the adidas press centre (http://www.press.adidas.com).

Elemental Communications

Tim Gibbon, Director
Mobile: +44 (0) 7930 375 663

Rachel Hawkes Account Director
Mobile: +44 (0) 776 665 1244

Email: mediacentre @ elementalcomms.co.uk

Telephone: +44 (0) 870 745 9292
Fax: +44 (0) 870 745 9293

Website: http://www.elementalcomms.co.uk

Address: Second Floor, 145 -157 St John Street, London, EC1V 4PY, England, UK

PAPOOSE HOSTS URBANWORLD ORDER PART 4: "NU BREED ALLIANCE" DIGITAL MIXTAPE FEATURING EXCLUSIVE RINGTONES BY DJ KAY SLAY

Free Downloadable Mixtape Offers Exclusive Music from Papoose and Other Recognized "Nu" Emcees From Across the Country

Los Angeles, CA- April 26th, 2007 – Brooklyn bred, rap artist Papoose, one of hip hop's rising stars, has joined forces with UrbanWorld Wireless in support of the company's digital music initiative to release a free, downloadable mixtape experience entitled UrbanWorld Order Part 4: "Nu Breed Alliance". The digitally produced mixtape, featured on MTV’s Mixtape Monday (http://www.mtv.com/bands/m/mixtape_monday/041607/) , includes ringtones by DJ Kay Slay, “The Drama King”, which can be purchased by texting 66555 and entering the appropriate code embedded in the soundtrack listing. “This is hi-tech pimpin’ at its finest!” says the mixtape’s producer, Tommy “2” Gunz. “This is the first mixtape that fully incorporates technology from production to its distribution.” UrbanWorld Order Part 4: “Nu Breed Alliance” is available for free download at www.urbanworldwireless.com/nbamixtape.

The “Nu Breed Alliance” mixtape features hot new artists, representing the “nu-age” of hip-hop, including Papoose, Stat Quo, Bump J and Jay Rock, who are rising “nu” leaders, dominating in their respective regions of the country. Following in the footsteps of Big Daddy Kane and comedian Mike Epps, Papoose hosts the fourth installment of the UrbanWorld Order mixtape series. The mixtape features Papoose’s smash hits “Nu Era” and “Hustle Hard”, along with a slew of other Papoose classics. In addition, listeners will appreciate exclusive sounds from cities across the nation including Bump J, a widely, respected rapper from Chicago; down south, ATL emcee, Stat Quo; and “nu” Jamaican dancehall DJ, Movado. “Nu Breed Alliance” offers the best of both coasts, as Papoose reps for the East and West Coast rapper, Jay Rock, secures his spot in the N.B.A. with L.A. street bangers “Lift Me Up” and “I’m Fresh”, featuring Yung Joc and E-40. Other “nu” emcees include Bay area’s Keak Da Sneak, producer Choir Boy from New Jersey and The Tykunz from Los Angeles.

Preview and download the 35-track mixtape, featuring original music, for free at www.urbanworldwireless.com/nbamixtape. The mixtape will be distributed on all major Internet outlets in the U.S and internationally. Ringtones are available on all major networks. Please see terms and conditions listed at www.myspace.com/nubreedalliance.

1. Bugle Boy Jeans” DJ Kay Slay Ringtone (text KS3 to 66555)
2. Stop Acting Hollywood”- DJ Kay Slay Ringtone (text KS4 to 66555)
3. Act Like You Know” – DJ Kay Slay Ringtone (text KS5 to 66555)
4. Hush – Choir Boy ft. Phenom Ringtone (text CB1 to 66555)
5. G500 - Tha Tykunz (Produced By Tommy) (text TG8 to 66555)
6. That Go - Keak Da Sneak –(KS2 to 66555)

For more information or hard copies of the mixtape, please contact Keisha Pickett at (619)339-5061 or email keishap@urbanworldwireless.com.

About UrbanWorld Music:
Headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, UrbanWorld Wireless is the first wireless company dedicated to serving the urban, youth market. Anchored on the web, the company develops, promotes and distributes mobile content to major wireless carriers in the US. In addition, the company’s mobile storefront at www.urbanworldwireless.com features exclusive new content and is the only site of its kind. UrbanWorld’s roster includes David Banner, Remy Ma, Obie Trice, Meagan Good and Oscar winning rap group, Three-6 Mafia, among others. UWW is a leader in mobile marketing solutions with clients including New Line Cinemas, Adidas, Capitol Records, Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, and Chingy. UWW is at the forefront of integrating wireless technology and the hip-hop lifestyle; and is continually recognized and acknowledged in both the technology and hip-hop arenas. More information is available at www.urbanworldwireless.com

Contact:
Keisha Pickett
(619)339-5061 mobile
Keishap@urbanworldwireless.com

STARSKI IS A MAN ON FIRE.

New "Drunk Dialin" video, major mix-tapes, heating up the Bay Area

San Francisco, CA   April 25th, 2007

Bay Area rapper/producer Starski returns with a barrage of new releases. First is the new single and video, "Drunk Dialin," an infectious party jam that almost everyone can relate to (whether they care to admit it or not!). The video was shot in Los Angeles, and directed by Adam Grabarnick. (To view the new video, please visit us at: http://www.myspace.com/pimphoprecords)

"Drunk Dialin," can be heard on the new "Sin City" mix-tape, hosted by Starski, and mixed by DJ Maniakal and DJ Quantum. The streets have truly embraced this mix-tape, with Pimp Hop Records already having distributed more copies of "Sin City," than all of its previous seven mix-tapes combined. Standout guest appearances include collaborations with Clyde Carson and Kaz Kyzah of The Team, Buccweet, Eighteen, and Rell Dert.

Starski is also featured on several new major industry mix-tapes, including Rick "The Dragon" Lee's "Recognize The Bay Vol 2;" DJ E Rock, DJ Whoo Kid, and J-Espinosa's "Bay Bidness 3.5;" DJ Classic's "Reno 911;" Escape Entertainment's "Hustle and Grind Vol V;" and DJ West C of the Future Star DJ's, "High Volume." Starski also appears on the new Cali Untouchable Radio Podcast by DJ Warrior and DJ Strong, with the street slap "So Turf," featuring Clyde Carson.

Currently, Starski is producing tracks for his debut album, which will include collaborations with an all-star Bay line-up, including Keak da Sneak, Mistah FAB, Casual of The Hieroglyphics, Clyde Carson and Kaz Kyzah of The Team, Turf Talk, A Plus of Souls of Mischief/The Hieroglyphics, Dem Hoodstarz, Big Rich, Furious, Eighteen, Les Gimix, and more. Starski can also be seen performing almost weekly at the top nightclubs throughout Northern California.

To view the new "Drunk Dialin," video, please visit:
http://www.myspace.com/pimphoprecords

To download a mp3 of Starski's "Drunk Dialin," please visit:
http://savefile.com/projects/808482982

To download a mp3 copy of Starski's "So Turf," featuring Clyde Carson and Kaz Kyzah of The Team, please visit:
http://savefile.com/projects/1078807

For more information, including interview requests, bookings, and exclusive tracks, please contact:

Petey Pistolero
Pimp Hop Records
415 504-4696
http://www.myspace.com/pimphoprecords

LATINO 96.3 FM'S AFTERNOON DJ TO BE HONORED WITH 'PASSION OF THE ART' AWARD BY THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF LATIN AMERICAN JOURNALISM!

Los Angeles, CA –April 24, 2007 – This week Latino 96.3 FM's celebrated afternoon drive DJ, Nio Encendio was named to receive the ‘Passion of the Art’ Award from The National Institute of Latin American Journalism on Sunday April 29, 2007. Nio Encendio hosts the afternoon drive time on Latino 96.3. You can listen to Nio Encendio Mon.-Fri. from 3pm-7pm on L.A.'s Latino 96.3 FM, his new home away from home. Nio has also proven to be one of the premiere Latin Mixologists (DJs), in the industry.

Awards will be presented Sunday, April 29, 2007 between 12 Noon and 5:00 PM at The National Institute of Latin American Journalism, 12547 Sherman Way, Unit F, North Hollywood, CA, 91605.

Born and raised in Miami, Nio began his career in radio in 1997 when he was a "wanna-be" rapper and made some rap jingles for Radio Mundo 680AM in Tampa. Oddly enough, the Program Director there liked Nio's jingles and began playing them on a weekend show.

"I am honored to be recognized in this remarkable capacity. I believe I am the product of a great team at Latino 96.3 and this award reflects the efforts we all put forth in creating the best possible listening experience," states Nio.

"We are very proud of Nio- we brought him from Miami over a year ago because I also felt he had a great passion for the art, as a dear friend of mine, I couldn’t be happier on a personal as well as professional level," says Pio Ferro, VP Programming, Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc.

The National Institute of Latin American Periodista (INPL) is dedicated to the recognition and the professional development of the Hispanics in the press. Founded on April of the 2006, the INPL constitutes a voice at national level and a vision united for all the Hispanic journalists, or are empirical, independent, or assets.

WHAT: journalism AWARDS recipients
WHAT: national institute of Latin American journalism AWARDS
WHen: Sunday, April 29, 2007 – 12 N – 5:00 PM
WHere: INPL, 12547 Sherman Way, #F, North Hollywood, CA 91605
CONTACT: Cherry Hepburn, 818.505.1104

RMD Entertainment Group Announces Roc Monee 'OOOOP' Video Contest on MOTV1

Promising Directors From YouTube Invited to Compete in Directing Music Video

PHILADELPHIA, PA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- April 26, 2007 -- RMD Entertainment Group (PINKSHEETS: RMDN) in conjunction with JV partners Massive G Media (PINKSHEETS: MSGM) & Mecanismo (USA) Corp (Nevada) announced today that the MOTV1 will conduct a contest on YouTube.com for the best original music video interpretation of RMD Artist Roc Monee's song entitled "OOOOP." Contestants will compete for the following prizes.

First Place

--  Video Editing Suite by Apple for Macintosh
--  $1000 cash prize
--  Full debut directorial credit as the winning video will be serviced to
    all major music video broadcast outlets including MTV,MTV2, BET, FUSE,
    MOTV, AOL, and ITUNES.

10 Second Place Prizes

--  $500 cash prize
--  Apple IPod Nano
--  Broadcast debut of their video on MOTV1

20 Third Place Prizes

--  $100 cash prize
--  2 complimentary tickets to see Roc on his next tour this summer.
--  Autographed copy of Roc Monee Album.
--  Broadcast debut of their video on MOTV1

All of the entries will be unanimously judged by viewers on YouTube and subscribers of MOTV1 via text message.

In addition, MOTV1 will produce content segments that include the best and the worst video entries in the contest. Jaimee Servier, the host of "HIP HOP 2NIGHT WITH JAY MILLA" is scheduled to host the on line viewing of the entries.

Highlighted Links
RMD Entertainment Group

"'OOOOP' took on a life of it's own on the Ying Yang Twins for us. It's a new song that Roc actually recorded while he was on the road and we decided to try it one night live and the response was crazy." Says Parris Ellis Director of Music Promotion for RMDN. "It's a call and response record that involves the listeners on the highest level of participation. I know three major cities now where they are doing regional versions the 'OOOOP' dance right now. We definitely see the potential for a cross over hit record here. Early indications are overwhelming and now with these clever viral video marketing contests on YouTube we are confident in the success of 'OOOOP.' I have been involved in radio promotions for over 15 years now and this one ('OOOOP') definitely has legs."

About RMD Entertainment Group

RMD Entertainment (RMD) is a cutting-edge entertainment company that is primarily focused on the development and international marketing of hip-hop music, including compact discs, digital downloads, and personal ring tones for mobile phone customers, as well as other hip-hop lifestyle products. The Company has also created MOTV, the ability to stream video content to mobile devices, including cell phones and PDAs. The Company currently possesses an impressive hip-hop catalogue, which it distributes exclusively through Bungalo Records and Universal Music Group (a subsidiary of Vivendi Universal in North America and in Europe through the Pickwick Group Ltd. of London).

About Massive G Media

MASSIVE G MEDIA (a Nevada Corp) is the publicly traded investment Company that represents, reflects and acquires Hip Hop/Rap culture operational media assets.

www.massivegmedia.com

Forward-looking statements in this news release relating to the Companies expectations regarding demand and pricing are made pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used herein, words such as "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions made by and information available to the Companies. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward looking statements include, without limitation, the future demand for, and sales volumes of, the Company's products, future production volumes, efficiencies and operating cots, increases or decreases in the prices of the Company's products, the Company's future stability and growth prospects, the Company's future profitability and capital needs, including capital expenditures, and the outlook for and other future developments in the Company's affairs or in the industries in which the Company participates and factors detailed from time to time in the Company's periodic reports filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, and other regulatory authorities. The Company has no intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Company Contact
Mena Saros
mena@rmd-entertainment.com

Market News First
Angela Junell
214-461-3411
ajunell@MN1.com

SOURCE:  RMD Entertainment Group

Music and Fashion Mogul Russell Simmons Signs Book at Borders(R) in Largo, Md.

ANN ARBOR, Mich., April 26 /PRNewswire/ --
   Who:   Russell Simmons is the co-founder of the pioneering hip-hop label
          "Def Jam," founder of a second label, "Russell Simmons Music
          Group," creator of the clothing fashion line "Phat Farm," and
          author.

   What:  Simmons will be signing copies of his book, "Do You! Laws of
          Success: 12 Proven Steps to Achieving Happiness and Empowerment"

   When:  Monday, April 30 at 7 p.m.

   Where: Borders
          913-A Capital Centre Boulevard
          Largo, Md. 20774
          (301) 499-2173

   Why:   Simmons is one of the most innovative and influential figures in
          modern American business and culture. He transformed a music
          industry by harnessing the hip-hop sound he loved and he is doing
          the same transformation to the fashion world with his creative
          prowess.  Simmons has much to teach and share with the youth today
          and Borders is thrilled to welcome him to our store in Largo, Md.

   Media
   Contact: Media interested in attending this event should contact Daniel
            Fromme at (410) 290-0380 or at dfromme2@bordersgroupinc.com.

            Media interested in learning more about Borders should contact
            Kolleen O'Meara at (734) 477-1224 or komeara@bordersgroupinc.com

  (Logo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060208/BORDERSLOGO )

  About Borders, Inc. :

Headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Borders Group is a $4.1 billion global retailer of books, music and movies with more than 1,200 stores and 34,000 employees worldwide. More information on the company is available at www.bordersgroupinc.com.
Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060208/BORDERSLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Borders, Inc.

CONTACT: Media, Daniel Fromme, +1-410-290-0380,
dfromme2@bordersgroupinc.com, or Kolleen O'Meara, +1-734-477-1224,
komeara@bordersgroupinc.com, both of Borders, Inc.

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

Lawrence Bender, Rob Thomas, Big Kenny Alphin and Al Gore All Part of Attendance-Record-Breaking 2007 Nashville Film Festival

"Small Engine Repair," "Banished," "Randy and the Mob" and "The Clinton 12" Take Home Trophies

April 26, 2007
NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The 38th Nashville Film Festival (NaFF) wraps up today, continuing its annual record-breaking attendance streak. The World Premiere of the Gillian Grisman-directed Rob Thomas documentary MY SECRET RECORD OR HOW I LEARNED TO STOP WORRYING AND LOVE THE BIZ kicked off the Festival on Thursday, April 19 with Grisman, Thomas and Marisol Thomas in attendance. Other highlights included Walton Goggins of "The Shield" fame joining writer/director and actor Ray McKinnon for the WORLD PREMIERE of his comedy RANDY AND THE MOB. Lawrence Bender ("Pulp Fiction," "Good Will Hunting," "Kill Bill Vols. 1 and 2," "An Inconvenient Truth") took home the President's Award after a panel discussion and former Vice-President Al Gore made a surprise appearance on April 21 to present the REEL CURRENT Award to "Manufactured Landscapes" Director Jennifer Baichwal.

Niall Heery's SMALL ENGINE REPAIR was named the NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL / REGAL CINEMAS DREAMMAKER AWARD winner for best feature without U.S. distribution, while Marco Williams' BANISHED took home the award for Best Documentary. Ray McKinnon's RANDY AND THE MOB snagged the Audience Award for Best Feature, while Keith McDaniel's THE CLINTON 12, in addition to winning the NPT Human Spirit Award, picked up the Audience Award for Best Documentary. Robert S. Lynn's thriller ADRENALINE could be the breakout success story of the Festival, racking up the Tennessee Independent Spirit Award for best film by a Tennessee filmmaker.

Big Kenny Alphin of the band Big & Rich used his star power to bring further attention to the tragedy of genocide in Darfur by joining DEVIL CAME ON HORSEBACK Director Annie Sundberg and photographer Brian Steidle for its April 25 screening and reception. The film's appearance at the festival was accompanied by the photo exhibit DARFUR|DARFUR. Joining the filmmakers at films and events during the week were filmmaker and actress Kim Williams-Paisley, singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, singer-songwriter Josh Ritter and Mary Gauthier. The festival closes with the World Premiere of AMERICANIZING SHELLEY with rising star Namrata Singh Gujral.

“We really broke out this year,” says Brian Gordon, NaFF Artistic Director. “The quality of the films, the high enthusiasm from the audience and the fantastic regional and national attention have been outstanding. A continued desire to connect an international festival to a regional and community experience has always been our intention, and this year it truly clicked. We are extremely proud of what we’ve accomplished.”

Attendance at the Festival is estimated at over 20,000, a 26% increase over last year. In total, the festival was comprised of over 240 films from 40 countries, and included panels, workshops and over a dozen special receptions and music events.

“These attendance numbers, and our increase from last year, indicate that we have truly tapped into what filmmakers and filmgoers, both nationally and in our community, want out of this festival,” said NaFF Executive Director Sallie Mayne. “The films are always at the core, but we’ve always aimed for a larger and better shared experience that combines education, entertainment and enlightenment. This was our year.”

Nashville Film Festival is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation and receives funding from Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, H. Franklin Brooks Philanthropic Fund, William N. Rollins Fund for the Arts of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, The Frist Foundation, The Memorial Foundation, Nashville Metro Arts Commission, National Endowment for the Arts, Ragsdale Family Foundation, Target Stores, Tennessee Arts Commission, The Cal Turner Family Foundation, and its generous patrons and sponsors.

Please visit nashvillefilmfestival.org for more information.

2007 Nashville Film Festival Award Winners

NASHVILLE FILM FESTIVAL / REGAL CINEMAS DREAMMAKER AWARD (for best feature without U.S. distribution):
Niall Heery (SMALL ENGINE REPAIR)

AUDIENCE AWARD FOR BEST FEATURE (Sponsored by Dish Magazine):
Ray McKinnon (RANDY AND MOB)

BEST DOCUMENTARY (Sponsored by Ground Zero):
Marco Williams (BANISHED)

Honorable Mention:
Ashley Sabin & David Redmon (KAMP KATRINA)

AUDIENCE AWARD FOR BEST DOCUMENTARY (Sponsored by the Documentary Channel):
Keith McDaniel (THE CLINTON 12)

PRESIDENT'S AWARD: Lawrence Bender

GOVERNOR'S AWARD: Steve Oedekerk

REEL CURRENT AWARD (Presented by Al Gore):
Jennifer Baichwal, "Manufactured Landscapes"

NPT HUMAN SPIRIT AWARD (Sponsored by Nashville Public Television):
Keith McDaniel, "The Clinton 12"

ROSETTA MILLER PERRY AWARD (For the best film by a black filmmaker):
Nina Kennedy, "Matthew Kennedy: One Man's Journey"

BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT(Sponsored by Ground Zero):
Mariam Jobrani (THE FIGHTING CHOLITAS)

Honorable Mention:
Didiem Yilnaz (WAITING FOR ARIF)

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY IN A FEATURE OR DOCUMENTARY (Sponsored by AC, Inc.):
Ari Issler and Matt Ruskin (THE HIP HOP PROJECT)

Honorable Mention:
Clayton Jacobson & Sean Lander (KENNY)

BEST MUSIC IN A FEATURE FILM:
John Swihart (RANDY AND THE MOB)

Honorable Mention:
Will Aron and Josef Peters (THE CURIOSITY OF CHANCE)

IMPACT OF MUSIC AWARD (Sponsored by Gibson Guitars for the best film the exemplifies the importance of music in our everyday lives):
Jasmine Dellal (GYPSY CARAVAN)

Honorable Mention:
Alejandro Saderman (EL ULTIMO BANDONEON)

BEST SHORT NARRATIVE:
Jens Assur (THE LAST DOG OF RWANDA)

Honorable Mentions:
Jeffrey St. Jules (THE TRAGIC STORY OF NLING)
Andreas Tibblin (WHEN ELVIS CAME TO VISIT)
Faye Jackson (LUMP)

BEST COLLEGE STUDENT SHORT NARRATIVE:
Lilah Vandenburgh (BITCH)

BEST ANIMATION:
Joanna Quinn (DREAMS AND DESIRES - FAMILY TIES)

Honorable Mentions:
Regina Pessoa (TRAGIC STORY WITH A HAPPY ENDING)
Jonas Odell (NEVER LIKE THE FIRST TIME)

BEST COLLEGE STUDENT ANIMATION:
Adam Parrish King (THE WRAITH OF COBBLE HILL)

Honorable Mention:
Sarah Ore