Control Room and MSN "Music in Concert" Presenting Online: Bone Thugs~N~Harmony in Chicago

WHAT:          Control Room, the producer of Live Earth, is thrilled to present Bone Thugs~N~Harmony live from the House of Blues in Chicago on Monday, August 6.

Bone Thugs~N~Harmony will perform songs from what will likely be considered their most significant and important album to date, Strength & Loyalty on Swizz Beatz's Full Surface label through Interscope. Bone has pared down to its artistic core for this highly anticipated new album.

Control Room has produced over 60 live shows including Live Earth where more than 54 million videos streamed on MSN – the largest online audience ever for an online concert.

WHEN:          Bone Thugs~N~Harmony debuts on MSN “Music in Concert” at 9:00pm EST/ 6:00pm PST on Monday, August 6, 2007.  MSN “Music in Concert” will archive the show for 6 months, allowing fans the unlimited opportunity to relive every moment.

WHERE:       Fans of Bone Thugs~N~Harmony can watch the full show exclusively at MSN “Music in Concert” http://music.msn.com/bonethugsnharmony.

CONTACT:   For more information on Control Room feel free to contact Rob Novickas at (310) 967-2959. Please also visit Control Room’s Web site at www.ControlRoom.com.

Eugenia Wright aka Kleopatra Girl joins Celebrity Extra TV

Los Angeles, CA, Wednesday, August 1st, 2007 --Former actress turned freelance writer/publicist Eugenia Wright aka Kleopatra Girl joins Celebrity Extra TV as their new Entertainment Contributor. Wright is currently a columnist for the much-lauded EURweb.com, on-line publication founded by radio personality Lee Bailey.  Her party reports entitled, Kleopatra Girl’s Ringside Report is a widely read syndicated column that posts in many prestigious publications such as The New York Sun and Europe International News websites. Eugenia has covered many major party events, from Oscar red carpet parties to casual private celebrity soirees.

Wright is also a contributor for hip-hop publications DV8 Newsletter and Crunk Magazine founded by media mogul Desmick Perkins, both of which have wide readership in ATL.  Eugenia is the publicist for the on-line publication Urban Film Premiere Magazine established by famed film critic Shelby J. Jones who was one of the founding members of Black Film.com

“I love show bizness and the exciting people that are today’s headline news makers. Being able to tap into these sources to ultimately reach the masses so they too can enjoy a bit of Hollywood is thrilling. For me this is ‘fun’ reporting. I am so glad that my readers love to know the inside-scoop in a tasteful writing style. Dishing out the dirt and hateful blogging is not a Kleopatra Girl’s style, nor is it mine. I look forward to contributing to the aesthetically pleasing Celebrity Extra TV publication to expand my readership. Dennica Abdo known as “English Gal” who hails from London like the Beckhams is the young fresh and innovative publisher of the new on-line mag. I am happy to be part of her growing enterprise. ” –Eugenia Wright

As a publicist, Eugenia under her company banner ISA Public Relations has represented numerous high profile personalities including one of the greatest legendary singer’s in America Pat Boone, Music Mogul/Filmmaker Chris Stokes, R&B Singer Marques Houston, Comedienne Luenell, Award winning Voice Over Actor J.D. Hall, R&B Neo-soul singer Maiya Sykes, famed choreographer MaDonna Grimes, Fitness Guru Joey Dowdy, celebrity personal trainer Sam Bell, R&B Singer William Hanford Lee Jr., Actress Irene Mama Stokes, Kathleen Bradley (Price is Right), Broadway actor Michael A. Shepperd of Little Shop of Horrors fame, Folk/Rock singer Douglas Wood, Latino hip hop artist Intreago Pinero, famed percussionist to StevieWonder and producer of Pat Boone’s R&B Classics – We Are Family CD Ollie E. Brown’s  and many others.

Celebrity Extra TV is founded by English Gal, Dennica Abdo www.dennicasplace.com;

http://www.celebrityextra.tv

For further information contact: ISA Hall @ ISA PR 818.552.9459 or ballyouup@hotmail.com or Eugenia Wright eugeniawright@isapublicrelations.com kleopatragirl117@hotmail.com

Mixtapekings.com Partners with DJ Superstar Jay on a New Weekly Column

Mixtapekings.com Partners with DJ Superstar Jay on a New Weekly Column, "Superstardom: How To Become A Superstar DJ," Shedding Light on the Mixtape Industry and on DJ Superstar Jay's Daily Grind.

July 31, 2007, New York, NY-Mixtapekings.com, the premiere e-commerce/music portal on the web, has partnered with DJ Superstar Jay to bring readers a weekly column, "Superstardom: How To Become A Superstar DJ."

The column gives DJ Superstar Jay a space to voice his opinion on the mixtape industry and allow readers a glimpse into the life of the much celebrated DJ, as Jay will give readers an inside look at the day to day grind of a successful mixtape DJ. 

The column embraces the Mixtapekings.com agenda, which involves keeping an ear to the street. Thus, the column is an interactive one where readers can email Jay directly with questions and comments.

Starting July 26th 2007, "Superstardom: How To Become A Superstar DJ" will be updated weekly on Mixtapekings.com.

About DJ Superstar Jay:
The Jamaica, Queens native was a deejaying prodigy, studying under the likes of legendary Ike Love and industry veteran DJ CLUE at the age of twelve, and spinning at every opportunity possible.

With his talent and his ambition as his only assets in the game, Superstar Jay's mixtapes attracted attention and respect amongst true rap fans sans the politics and grime of the game. Since his emergence in New York City, he has displayed that putting in the work is the reason for his emergence as one of the best new deejays out.

DJ Superstar Jay is the winner of Justos' "Rookie of the Year award and MTV.com's "Breakthrough DJ of the Year" in 2006.

Follow the link to check the the first installment:  http://www.mixtapekings.com/section/interviews/superstardom_how_to_become_a_s.asp

About Mixtapekings.com

Founded in 2002, Mixtapekings.com is revolutionizing online urban marketing. As a proprietor of exclusive music and products, Mixtapekings.com has combined both e-commerce and editorial content to introduce a new movement within the music industry. With 1.8 million hits per day to about 50 to 55 million hits a month, Mixtapekings.com  fans are given an authentic mixtape experience.

Press Contacts:
Brandi L. Haynes, Publicist
IN WITH THE NU PUBLIC RELATIONS
"The Urban P.R. Powerhouse!"
www.myspace.com/inwiththenu
www.inwiththenu.com
EMAIL: bhaynes@inwiththenu.com
PHONE: 716-903-9662

NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 2007 KICKERS URBAN MUSIC AWARDS

Lemar, Just Jack, Shortee Blitz, Joss Stone, Kano, Jamelia, Kele le Roc, Lethal B, Courtney Pine (O.B.E), Amy Winehouse, Mutya Buena, N-Dubz  make list.

UK, London (PR WIRE) 30th of August 2007 -Nominations for the 5th Annual Kickers Urban Music Aw ar ds was announced today. The music aw ar ds ceremony will be held on the  3rd  of  November 2007  in  London and will be attended by more than 1,200  Artist, DJs, producers, promoters, record labels executives, celebrities from the world of music, radio,  TV, sports and urban music fans from across the country.

Muteya Buena, Sadie Ama, Jamelia, Just Jack and 2003 UMA winner Dizzee Rascal all grab tripple nominations this ye ar . 

The Urban Music Aw ar ds was born out of the need to build a worldwide and independent aw ar ds ceremony to recognize the achievement of 100%  British based ar tists, producers, club nights, dj’s , radio stations, record labels and ar tist within British urrban music scene. Ex- Sug ar babes st ar   Mutya Buena,  Kele le Roc, Dizzee Rascal, Just Jack and  Sadie Ama capture the spotlight this ye ar , each with nominations for ‘Most Inspiring Act sponsored by Kickers’,  the Best R&B act and Best Album.   Sadie Ama, is set to dominate the aw ar ds show with an amazing three nominations including ‘Most Inspiring Act’, ‘Best R&B Act’ and ‘Best Music Video'. Meanwhile behind the scenes, the nominees for Best TV show see a battle between Channel 4/ T4's Music Cool and Pop World going head to head with MTV's Pimp my Ride UK and long running show 'The Lick' fronted by Trevor Nelson.

The 2007 aw ar ds show is brought to you by our presenting sponsor Kickers, Head of M ar keting for Kickers, Simon Jobson said “The Urban Music Aw ar ds is the perfect p ar tner for us, as it is a credible ceremony that remains as much as p ar t of the people as it is the only aw ar ds that is voted for by the public and celebrates creativity and youth movements within the UK. We see the p ar tnership with the Urban Music Aw ar ds as a continuation of our strategy of t ar geting events that reinforces our heritage and connection to music on the back of the iconic Kick Hi boot”. For the first time ever in aw ar ds show history, The Kickers Urban Music Aw ar ds will expose fans to the insanity on and off the stage at the 2007 show via our live online broadcast of the aw ar ds ceremony as it happens via our sister station Invincible Television with millions of viewers and music fans worldwide expected to watch worldwide.

1st of October 2007 is the press launch which will see the announcement of hosts of the aw ar ds ceremony and the recipients of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement and Outstanding Achievement Aw ar d.  Boyz  2 Men  and Grandmasterflash & the Furious Five were recipients of this aw ar d in the US show last month.  Previous ye ar s have seen legends; Om ar , Goldie, Beverley Knight, Heather Smalls, and Soul 2 Soul icon Jazzy B take home the aw ar d.

CEO & Founder of the UMA’s, Jordan Kensington said “This ye ar to celebrate our 5th annivers ar y we ar e going all out by bringing together comedy, fashion, business and music under one roof to provide quality entertainment and to further take the thriving British urban music scene to a whole new level and at the same time provide more opportunities for our homegrown talent here in the UK and across all the international UMA licensed territories abroad”.    The Kickers Urban Music Aw ar ds is the 1st and only worldwide people’s choice aw ar ds ceremony. It’s an aw ar ds ceremony who has gained credibility by turning ‘music buyers’ to ‘decision makers’ giving them the  power to decide on who gets nominated and who gets to win one of our coveted trophies. We have been accepting nominations all ye ar round. Voting kicks off now @ www.kickers.co.uk

Here ar e the 2007 nominees for the Kickers Urban Music Aw ar ds UK :

Best Reggae Act

Movado

Gappy Ranks

Elephant Man

Collie Buddz

Sean Paul

Kevin Lyttle

Best Underground DJ

The Mixologists

DJ Shedevil

Poser

Frisky

Scottie B

Cameo

Best Radio Station sponsored by Redmango

BBC 1Xtra

Choice fm

Radio 1

Kiss fm

Colourful Radio

Galaxy fm

Best Jazz Act

Dennis Rollins

Soweto Kinch

Courtney Pine

Jamie Cullum

Norah Jones

Best Club Night  sponsored by Kickers

Get Down

Play

Sintillate

Innovation

Twice as Nice

Best Neo Soul Act

Hill St. Soul

Corrinne Bailey Rae

Joss Stone

Tasha’s World

Nate James

Best G ar age Act

Lethal B

N-Dubz

Wiley 

J.M.E   

Kano

Best Drum & Bass DJ/Act

Bailey

Shy FX

Roni Size

Fabio & Grooverider

Best Gospel Act

Four Cornerz

Raymond & Co

Nu-Life

Siani

Best Independent Record Label

679 Recordings

BBE Records

Jet St ar

Altered Ego (Pickwick)

Big Dadda Recordings

Best UK Radio DJ

MannyNorte (BBC 1Xtra)

Shortee Blitz  (Kiss 100)

Jenny Francis (Choice Fm)

DJ  279  (Choice fm)

Tim Westwood (BBC 1Xtra/Radio 1)

Masterstepz  (Choice fm)

Best Album 2007

Alesha Dixon ‘Lipstick’ (Polydor Records)

Lem ar ‘Truth about Love’  (SonyBMG)

Dizzee Rascal  ‘Maths & English  (XL Records)

Lily Allen  ‘Allright Still’ (EMI/P ar lophone Records)

Just Jack ‘Overtones’

Nate James  ‘ Kingdom Falls ’

Best TV Show 2007 sponsored by Imperial Dax

Music Cool (T4/Channel 4)

Pimp My Ride UK (MTV Base)

The Illout Show (Channel U)

The Lick (MTV Base)

Popworld (T4/Channel 4)

Best Newcomer 2007 sponsored by Footlocker

Plan B

N-Dubz

Mr.  Midas

Pyrelli

Tinchy Stryder

Natalie Williams

Best R&B Act 2007

Sadie Ama

Lem ar

Jamelia

Mutya Buena

Nathan

Jay Sean

Best HipHop Act 2007

Plan B

Roots Manuva

Wiley

Sway

Blak Twang

Just Jack

Best Magazine

Touch Magazine

Blues & Soul

Young Voices

Vice

Pride

Flavor Magazine

Most Inspiring Act 2007 sponsored by Kickers

Sadie Ama

Mutya Buena

Dizzee Rascal

Cherry Blackstone

Jamelia

Kele le Roc

Best Website 2007

Myspace.com

Ukmusic.com

Urban-world.co.uk

Youtube.com

promotion city.com

majorfm.com

Everyurbanthing.com

Best Crossover Ch ar t Act

Corrine Bailey Rae

Lily Allen

Mutya Buena

M ar k Ronson

Just Jack

Raghav

Best Producer

Rishi Rich

Davinche

M ar k Ronson

Sticky

Mike Skinner ‘The Beats’

Best Music Video sponsored by Kickers

Lem ar  ‘Someone should tell you’

Amy Winehouse  ‘Rehab’

Sadie Ama ‘Fallin’

Dizzy Rascal ‘Sirens’

Natalie Williams ‘This Girl’

Jamelia ‘Something about you’

Best Entrepreneur 2007 sponsored by Kickers

Johnathan Shallit (Director, Shallit Global)

Mike Skinner (Director, The Beats)

Doug Cooper (Director, Ukmusic.com )

Tim Campbell (BBC1, Apprentice)

Terry Pullen (Director, The Play Room)

About Invincible:

Invincible Media Group is the international p ar ent group of companies behind Invincible Magazine, Invincible USA newspaper (new), Invincible Radio, Invincible TV, and Invincible films, Invincible Jeans, Invincible Events and Invincible Mobile. Invincible, was launched on the 1st of July 1999 in London , United Kingdom as a styles, ideas and impact conscious brand with an aim of serving our very vibrant multi-cultural society. Since its creation , with offices in the United Kingdom,   USA, Germany, France and the C ar ibbean, Invincible has launched the c ar eers of musicians, ar tists, photographers, designers, writers, models and actors ar ound the world, while staking out an unchallenged position for itself at the cutting-edge of international urban cool and inspiration. Fuelled with a dedication to succeed, Invincible promotes a message of unity to empower ethnic diversity and creativity.
Invincible Magazine published 6 times a ye ar has a distribution of approximately 65,000 in Europe . Invincible USA newspaper launches in the US on the 1st of September 2007 as the only free bi-weekly entertainment newspaper distributed across New York , New Jersey with subscribers in LA, Miami , Atlanta and other key regions. With a circulation of 150,000 copies every 2 weeks, the US finally has an entertainment newspaper providing music news, film, health, comedy and night in and night out guides completely free of ch ar ge with a mainstream t ar get audience in mind.     Its readership is evenly split between men and women of multiple ethnic backgrounds, who possess a college education, and ar e between the ages of 16 to 35.

Invincible Events (our sister events management company), is responsible for the World Fashion Aw ar ds, British Music Week, The National Entrepreneurs Conference (NEC-UK and NEC-USA) and the prestigious Urban Music Aw ar ds held annually in UK, USA, Africa, Japan, France, & C ar ibbean.

About Kickers:

The Kickers brand was founded more than 30 ye ar s ago and has always had a strong connection with the music industry. In the 70s, the tradem ar k Kick-Hi boot caused a phenomenon when it reached London , being adopted by The Who’s Roger Daltrey and Rod Stew ar t among others as the shoe to be seen in.

In the 80s, it grew to be one of the main symbols of the Acid House movement and in the 90s, was picked up by the burgeoning ‘Madchester’ scene. The F ar m celebrated the design with their ironic LP cover of a sheep we ar ing Kick-His while The Stone Roses wore theirs in the Fools Gold video, closely followed by Oasis’ Noel Gallagher and J ar vis Cocker.

Since 2000, the Kick-Hi has become the essential kit for the UK g ar age scene as well as having a renaissance on the feet of the new indie kids.

Important Contacts:

For IMG & general UMA info:

Ch ar lie Simpson

Direct- 0208-525-4131

Email: charlie@urbanmusicawards.net

Chris Mitchell

Direct- 0208-525-4131

Email: chris.mitchell@britishmusicweek.com

Ainsley Duncombe

Direct: 0208-525-4131

E-mail: ainsley@invincibleusa.com

For Kickers & Kickers Urban Music Awards 2007:

Cube PR

T: +44 207 242 54 83

F: +44 207 242 54 54

E: rae@cubecompany.com

The "Indie Renegade" Jonah Fialkoff launches Website and Success System for Indie Artists to Break Without a Label

Taking a revolutionary approach to music marketing, Jonah Fialkoff, otherwise known as the 'indie renegade' is making available for the first time the 7 Key Code System to success in marketing music online. Fialkoff, a successful indie music entrepreneur developed the 7 Key Code System in conjunction with top sales and marketing consultants to provide proven and practical techniques that will bring tangible results to any indie artist or label.

Jonah Fialkoff is an indie record label owner, digital distributor, music business consultant to multiple top Billboard charting artists, known speaker, IBS (Intercollegiate Broadcast System) panelist in NYC and Boston, and author. He is known for his humor, sarcasm, harsh reality checks, but always tells it like it is. He cuts straight to the point and has dedicated himself to arming indie artists and labels with the knowledge to break through the music business without any major label interference.

The 7 Key Code System is designed to put the power in the hands of the indie artist.  It gives them all the tools and techniques they need to create and maintain a successful and profitable career, without the need of a major label.

The 7 Key Code System will explain how to:
-- Triple album sales, quadruple your fan base and get distribution in a matter of months.
-- Use your website to develop and cultivate your fanbase into a loyal, buying audience.
-- Drive traffic to your website, capture email addresses, and put in place a system to interact with your fans.
-- Make the most of social networking sites, podcasting and other web 2.0 tools
-- Develop a turnkey online music store
-- Develop a smart promotional system
-- Turn your fanbase into your own grassroots marketing team
-- Make money selling digital downloads and ringtones
-- Use proven methods to create additional revenue through licensing your music to TV, film and video games
-- Take advantage of satellite, internet and mp3 radio to break as an independent artist
...And much more.

Early adopters of this system will also gain access to an exclusive music business networking group to consolidate and further develop what they learn and implement.

Visit www.7keycode.com to claim your free music industry report
Read the Indie Renegade Blog at www.rocktheindieworld.com/blog

------------------------------------------------------------
Lucy Beer
Elemental Consulting
AOL IM: loulou76yo
www.elemental-consulting.com/blogger.html
www.myspace.com/elementalc
[online marketing :: music :: lifestyle :: entertainment]

Pioneering Rap Group U.N.L.V. Settles Lingering Lawsuit with Cash Money Records

The New Orleans based rap group U.N.L.V. recently reached a settlement with its former label, Cash Money Records (United States District Court Eastern District of Louisiana Civil Action 05-1224). Their lawsuit sought payment for six recordings recorded while part of the Cash Money Records Label. With ties finally severed, post- settlement, U.N.L.V. is negotiating with others to re-master and re-release all of their previous recordings. Reginald Manuel ("Tec-9") of U.N.L.V. is also working on a new cache of material for release.
Trend Setters: The Return of U.N.L.V.

New Orleans, LA (PRWEB) July 31, 2007 -- The New Orleans based rap group U.N.L.V. has finalized its settlement with former label, Cash Money Records (United States District Court Eastern District of Louisiana Civil Action 05-1224).

U.N.L.V. (whose moniker is not Las Vegas related) sued Cash Money Records for failure to compensate for six recordings put out through Cash Money Records label. After U.N.L.V. left the label, Cash Money Records continued to distribute and sell U.N.L.V.'s recording for years. Terms of the settlement are confidential.

With the settlement completed, members of U.N.L.V., Reginald Manuel ("Tec-9") and Yaphet Jones ("Lil Ya"), are negotiating to re-master and re-release their original recordings. Tec-9 is also working on new material due next year.

U.N.L.V. was one of the first groups to sign with the then upstart, Cash Money Records, in 1992. U.N.L.V. is credited with forming the ubiquitous gangsta/bounce trend in New Orleans that was soon copied nationally. Best known for their single entitled Drag 'Em from the River, UNLV's music has been broadcast on radio stations and club playslists throughout the nation since the early 1990's. Recordings by U.N.L.V. include: "6th and Barone;" "Straight out the Gutta;" "Mac-Melph-Calio;" "Straight from tha Ramp" (Solo recorded by Tec-9); "Uptown for Life;" "Greatest Hits" and "Trend Setters: The Return of U.N.L.V."

U.N.L.V.'s Manuel and Jones lost their homes and livelihood in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and the ensuing flood, in 2005. The third member of the group, Albert Thomas ("Yella Boyee"), was murdered in 1996. Manuel and Jones are currently exiled in Texas, but plan to return to New Orleans in the near future to continue their careers in the music industry. For more information, please contact attorney Richard Duplantier with Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr and Smith at (504) 525-6802 or the groups' manager, Ronald Bell at (504) 957-6598.

Common's 'Finding Forever' Hits Retail Today

Follow-Up to Grammy-Nominated 'BE' Features Kanye West, will.i.am, Lily Allen, D'Angelo, J. Dilla

SANTA MONICA, Calif., July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Grammy-nominated rap superstar Common returns with his long-awaited seventh studio album, "Finding Forever," on G.O.O.D. Music/Geffen Records, to be released July 31. The album will be available at Starbucks Company-operated locations and traditional music retail in the U.S. and Canada.

His first album since the four-times-nominated 2005 "BE," the Chicago hip- hop icon is joined by hit producer Kanye West, will.i.am ("I Want You") and the late Detroit legend J. Dilla (So Far to Go) with whom he had a long history and friendship. Guest artists on the album include Lily Allen and D'Angelo as well as Kanye and will.i.am.

The first radio single, "The People," finds Common explaining why and for whom he creates music, with and for whom he creates music, with a backdrop of majestic strings, tasty keyboards and a vocal sample from the great poet/songwriter Gil Scott-Heron. The video for the song, shot by Neon in New York City earlier this summer, is already airing on BET, MTV Jams, VH1 Soul and mtvU. The "street" single, "The Fame" was produced by Kanye with scratches from Gang Starr's renowned rap turntablist DJ Premeire.

Common is scheduled to perform on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" on day of release (7/31). He has recently graced the covers of "Billboard," "Uptown," and "Ebony" magazines and appeared last month at Central Park's Summerstage Benefit Concert with Joss Stone.

From his 1992 debut, "Can I Borrow a Dollar?" through 2000's acclaimed "Like Water for Chocolate" and 2005's multi-Grammy-nominated "BE," Common has proven to be one of the best observers and master of wordplay in rap history. As "XXL" magazine said recently, "Common makes timeless hip-hop seem easy."

Common has recently launched a successful acting career with roles in "Smokin' Aces" with Jeremy Piven as well as the soon-to-be released "American Gangster" with Russell Crowe and Denzel Washington as well as filming both "Wanted" with Angelina Jolie and Morgan Freeman and "The Night Watchman" with Keanu Reaves and Forest Whitaker.

Source: Geffen Records

CONTACT: Jim Merlis, +1-310-865-8985, jim.merlis@umusic.com, for Geffen Records

Polo Grounds Music Ratchet Rap Star, Hurricane Chris, Set to Release Highly Anticipated Remix Video

For Chart Topping Single that has Everybody Saying 'A Bay Bay'

Billboard's Hot 100 Rap Sensation Shoots the A Bay Bay Ratchet Remix with a Team of Hip Hop Heavy Weights and Newcomers Including Baby, The Game, E-40, Jadakiss, Lil Boosie, Angie Locc and More

NEW YORK, July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- The new Millennium has boasted only a handful of newcomers whom have been able to seamlessly execute their big break while maintaining long-term relevance. Who's next? Hurricane Chris (Polo Grounds Music/J Records) whose debut single "A Bay Bay" has sky rocketed to the top of the Billboard charts, leaving fans wanting more, now! The "A Bay Bay" remix video, slated for release next week, boasts a roster of all star features and cameos including: The Game, Baby, E-40, Jadakiss, Lil Boosie, Pitbull, Lil Jon and new comer Angie Locc. The line-up -- which represents every coast in the country -- was not cast randomly, but specifically crafted for an impact fans have long been waiting for. Hurricane Chris' breakout Ratchet Music sound has shaken up the industry and infected the nation, making Shreveport, Louisiana the home of one of hip hop's elite.

"All of the artists featured on the remix were people I've wanted to work with for a long time," explains Hurricane. "Without hesitation, they all came through to the shoot and that was when I knew 'A Bay Bay' and Ratchet City was more than what's hot right now, but a cultural movement for hip hop music."

Similar to the way Lil Jon introduced Crunk and E-40 introduced Hyphie. Ratchet Music is the new movement stemming from Shreveport, LA -- a.k.a. Ratchet City. As his smash debut single "A Bay Bay" climbs into the top 10 of the Billboard charts and continues to hold second position as most downloaded ring tone in the country, Hurricane proves that he can compete with the best of the best. With a freshmen album that is "101% real" says Hurricane, 51/50 Ratchet will be one of the biggest breakout projects the South has seen since Young Jeezy. Executive produced by Mr. Collipark and President of Polo Grounds Music, Bryan Leach, 51/50 Ratchet hits stores this fall.

About Polo Grounds Music

Polo Grounds Inc. is a full service entertainment company with a focus in publishing, management, marketing and promotions. Founded in 2006 by Bryan Leach, the New York based company is home to record label Polo Grounds Music, which is distributed through RCA Music Group.

Source: Polo Grounds Inc.

CONTACT: Nicole Marzan, Nicole@mvdinc.us; or Miatta David,
miatta@mvdinc.us, both at +1-212-244-5436

Dice-K's Music From The Mound CD in Stores Today

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Boston Red Sox pitcher Daisuke "Dice-K" Matsuzaka's CD, Music From The Mound, is available in stores today. The CD, distributed in the United States by EMI Music, features a compilation of American, English and Japanese recording artists selected by Matsuzaka, as well as the new original fan-created track "Gyro Ball," which is also available as a ringtune. Music From The Mound's recording artists include Duran Duran, LL Cool J, Japanese rock group B'z and Jawaiian music group Def Tech.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070731/LATU028)

In support of his team's charitable outreach and the children's programs run by the team's nonprofit, Daisuke has arranged for a portion of the proceeds from Music From The Mound to be donated to the Red Sox Foundation (http://www.redsoxfoundation.org/), the official charity of the Boston Red Sox.

Music From The Mound is available for purchase at Fenway Park, as well as at retail outlets including Barnes & Noble, Best Buy, Borders, Bull Moose, Circuit City, FYE, J&R, Newbury Comics, Target, Wal-Mart, Stop & Shop and online at Amazon.com, mlb.com and NESNStore.com. The CD is sponsored by The Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau, the official visitor marketing organization for the Boston and Cambridge area.

The official website for Music From The Mound is http://www.dicekcd.com/.
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070731/LATU028
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: EMI Music Marketing

CONTACT: Candice Dorsey of EMI Music Marketing, +1-323-871-5755,
candice.dorsey@emicap.com

Web site: http://www.dicekcd.com/
http://www.redsoxfoundation.org/
http://www.capitolrecords.com/

Nickelodeon Puts the Funk in Preschool with Yo Gabba Gabba!

Nick Jr.'s New Interactive Live-Action Music Series with a Beat-Driven Soundtrack, Diverse Music and Guest Appearances Set to Premiere Monday, August 20

Elijah Wood Guest-Stars In Premiere Episode; Star-Studded Lineup Of Season One Guests To Include: Tony Hawk, Laila Ali, Mya, Biz Markie, The Shins, Sugarland, Sean Kingston, Nikki Flores, Mark Mothersbaugh, Rahzel And More

Yo Gabba Gabba! Premiere To Simulcast On NOGGIN; 20-Episode Series To 'Sneak Peek' On Multiple Platforms Including, Video On Demand, Wireless Carriers And Nick Jr. Video

*(DVD's and artwork available upon request)

NEW YORK, July 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Nickelodeon invites preschoolers and their families to rock out with Nick Jr.'s new live-action music series Yo Gabba Gabba! The interactive, half-hour 20-episode series, produced by The Magic Store and W!LDBRAIN, will debut with a simulcast of the premiere episode, "Eat" on both Nick Jr. and sister network NOGGIN on Monday, August 20 at 10:30 a.m. (ET/PT*) with an encore on Nick Jr. at 1:00 p.m. (ET/PT). Nick Jr. will premiere a new episode of Yo Gabba Gabba! every day from Tuesday, August 21 - Thursday, August 23 at 10:30 a.m. (ET/PT) and the series will air regularly weekdays at 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nick Jr. Through an original beat-driven soundtrack and innovative retro style, Yo Gabba Gabba! highlights simple life lessons in the lives of preschoolers, like sharing, healthy eating and making their bed. The series' unique magazine format features original animation, vibrant walk-around puppets, real kids, diverse music genres, and celebrity and musical guest appearances in every episode.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070731/NYTU100 )

The first season of Yo Gabba Gabba! will feature a recurring role by Hip Hop legend Biz Markie in a "Biz's Beat of the Day" segment where he teaches preschoolers how to beat-box, and a recurring role by singer, illustrator and composer Mark Mothersbaugh (Devo) in a "Mark's Magic Pictures" drawing segment. Additional guest stars include, Elijah Wood in the premiere episode ("Eat"), Mya, The Shins, Sugarland, Rahzel, Tony Hawk, Laila Ali, Sean Kingston, Nikki Flores, Hector Jimenez, Smoosh, The Aquabats, The Aggrolites and Cornelius.

"Yo Gabba Gabba! is completely unique!" said Brown Johnson, Executive Vice President, Executive Creative Director, Nickelodeon Preschool Television. "This fresh, inventive music series will captivate preschoolers and caregivers with a hip, diverse slate of original music and infectious lyrics. Kids will see how much fun it can be to eat healthy, clean up and brush their teeth as they sing and dance along with the engaging cast of colorful characters, real kids, talented guest stars and one-of-a-kind animation."

"The Magic Store and W!LDBRAIN are thrilled to work together with Nickelodeon to create such an original and ground-breaking series," said Charles Rivkin, Executive Producer of Yo Gabba Gabba! and President and CEO of W!LDBRAIN. "Yo Gabba Gabba! is a one-of-a-kind experience and will make preschool fun for the whole family."

Yo Gabba Gabba! stars host DJ Lance Rock (Lance Robertson) who brings to life four friendly monsters and a robot in a colorful land of music and laughter. The series highlights simple life lessons for preschoolers, through original song in short thematically linked segments, featuring animation, walk-around puppets and real kids. Yo Gabba Gabba! features an eclectic mix of unique music genres for preschoolers including, Pop, 80s, Electronic, New Wave, British Invasion, Hip Hop and more. Each episode culminates with an original music remix that summarizes the lessons learned. The characters, Muno the red cyclops, Foofa the pink flower bubble, Brobee the little green one, Toodee the blue cat-dragon and Plex the robot, are all ready to sing, play and dance along with the viewers as soon as they hear the magic words, "Yo Gabba Gabba!" They physically engage preschoolers with interactive play and encourage them to get up and dance to the music. Yo Gabba Gabba! also features pretend-along games that teach shapes and colors, ask questions and teach new dance steps while keeping preschoolers laughing throughout the episode.

On the premiere episode, "Eat," Elijah Wood guest stars in a "Dancey Dance" segment teaching viewers a "puppet master" dance, and Mark Mothersbaugh shows viewers how to draw a potato bug in his "Mark's Magic Pictures" segment. Musical character segments on the premiere episode feature songs "Party In My Tummy," "Snacky Snack Snack" and "Try it, You'll Like It" which teach viewers that it is fun to eat healthy foods, and "Clean It Up" which shows preschoolers how to have fun while cleaning up a mess.

Yo Gabba Gabba! teaches critical components in early childhood development such as developing speech, respecting nature and acquiring good manners. Additional teaching moments set to song include, "Excuse Me," "It's OK, Try Again" and "I'm So Sorry."

Nick Jr. will also kick off the launch of Yo Gabba Gabba! across the following Nickelodeon Preschool platforms:

  -- Beginning Thursday, July 26, Nick Jr. Video, Nick Jr.'s broadband video
     service available on Nickjr.com, will stream music videos, clips and a
     behind-the-scenes of Yo Gabba Gabba!
  -- Beginning Thursday, July 26, music videos from Yo Gabba Gabba! will be
     available on various wireless carriers.
  -- Beginning Friday, July 27 through Friday, August 17, Nick Jr. will
     premiere four new music videos from Yo Gabba Gabba! every Friday,
     during the network's music-themed "Nick Jr.'s Dance Party" lineup.
  -- Beginning Monday, July 30, Video On Demand windowing of Yo Gabba Gabba!
     episodes and music videos will commence on Comcast and Time Warner.
  -- On Monday, August 20, Yo Gabba Gabba! will simulcast on both Nick Jr.
     and sister network NOGGIN at 10:30 a.m. (ET/PT*).

Nick Jr.'s award-winning website (www.nickjr.com) will feature three, brand-new convergent online games to complement the launch of Yo Gabba Gabba! Beginning Friday, July 27, preschoolers can go online and play "Brobee's Dance Game" where they use their mouse to move Brobee's arms and legs to make him dance. On Friday, August 3, Nick Jr.com will launch the "Foofa Flower Watering Game" where players control Foofa's arms to water flowers. Beginning Friday, August 10, the site will feature the "Muno vs. Plex Volcano Volleyball" game where users play as Muno and hit lava balls across a volcano net. Additionally, Nick Jr.com will feature an interview with the series creators, in addition to iron-ons, printables, crafts, e-cards and more.

The Magic Store was founded in 2005 by "Gen X" dads Christian Jacobs, Justin Lyon and Scott Schultz. The studio's first project, Yo Gabba Gabba!, was produced independently in two half-hour episodes. After creating an online viral frenzy with the trailer, the show ultimately found a home on Nick Jr. The Magic Store's mission is to produce ground-breaking, fresh, wholesome and fun entertainment properties that parents can enjoy along with their kids.

Founded in 1994, W!LDBRAIN (www.wildbrain.com) is an award-winning entertainment company that develops and produces unique and compelling content across the media spectrum. Powered by its distinctive pool of talented animators and directors and renowned for blending traditional animation methods with state-of-the-art computer graphics, the studio and its artists have consistently won top industry awards. In film, W!LDBRAIN has garnered numerous awards including an Annie for its computer graphics short film Hubert's Brain and currently has a number of film projects in development. In television, the studio has produced an exceptional slate of original work, including the top-rated and critically acclaimed animated series Higglytown Heroes and the upcoming Nick Jr. series Yo Gabba Gabba! One of the nation's foremost producers of animated commercials, W!LDBRAIN has won Clios, Addys, the BDA Awards and Annies for their commercial spots - reinvigorating classic brands and developing cutting-edge spots for such leading companies as The Coca-Cola Company, Honda, Kraft and Nike. W!LDBRAIN additionally creates and distributes collectible merchandise through its subsidiary Kidrobot, a premiere retailer of limited-edition art toys and apparel, with stores located in New York City, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Nick Jr. is a specially designed programming block airing on Nickelodeon weekdays from 9 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (ET/PT). Completely dedicated to preschoolers ages 2-5, Nick Jr.'s Emmy, Peabody and Parents' Choice Award- winning programs are curriculum based, fun and commercial free. At Nick Jr., kids play to learn with innovative, original shows created just for them.

Nickelodeon, in its 28th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in almost 94 million households and has been the number-one- rated basic cable network for 13 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) .

*Broadcast times for the NOGGIN premiere are (ET) only.
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070731/NYTU100
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN8
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Nick Jr.

CONTACT: Sharyn Traub, +1-212-846-6381, or Sharyn.traub@nick.com, or
Heather Brown, +1-212-846-6240, or Heather.brown@nick.com, both of
Nickelodeon; or Lisa Rose of The Magic Store - W!LDBRAIN, +1-415-216-2048, or
lrose@wildbrain.com

Web site: http://www.nick.com/
http://www.nickjr.com/
http://www.wildbrain.com/

tPC's "A Long Story Short" Available Now on iTunes

Hear the New Sound in Hip-Hop

Los Angeles, CA --- Underground rookies of the year tPC have released their debut, "A Long Story Short" on Unit 8 Recordings. The album is available on iTunes, eMusic, Napster, and anywhere music is sold online.

Distributed by Perspective Music, "A Long Story Short" is 13 tracks of progressive hip-hop, with stories of struggle, hope, love lost, and freedom found.  Listeners worldwide are tuning in to a new sound in hip-hop – and loving it.

iTunes:
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/
viewAlbum?id=259001154&s=143441

eMusic:
http://www.emusic.com/album/
tPC-The-People-s-Choice-A-Long-Story-Short-MP3-Download/11058737.html

###
Unit 8 Recordings LLC.
Aurelio Mitjans

For more info on tPC, or interviews with the group please contact:
choosehiphop@gmail.com
310-341-8686

http://www.choosehiphop.com
http://www.myspace.com/choosehiphop
http://www.uber.com/choosehiphop

Blue's Debut Single Is Fire!!!

NEW YORK, NY~07/30/2007~1:53 pm

One of the hottest Hip Hop artist to ever come out of the state of Connecticut is "Blue".  He's been burning up the Internet with freestyles and underground tracks for some time but now he has released "Clothes Off" the first single off of his highly anticipated and long overdue debut album "Dear Diary" to be released October 2007.

Like an author penning a biography Blue lays his life down between the lines on "Dear Diary".  This is a soulful Hip Hop album documenting Blue's struggles and accomplishments moving from the hood to the right part of town and still not seeing the "American Dream." Blue's flow is so smooth and real that he's taken the underground rap scene by storm and is now poised to let the rest of the world feel him.

http://www.myspace.com/musicunlimitedrecords

Music Unlimited Records
AV Hodge, Public Relations Director
av@musicunlimitedrecords.com

Scion presents: Installation 4 It's a Beautiful World

featuring art by:
Andrew Pommier, Angela Boatwright, Blaine Fontana, Blek le Rat, Books llll, Caia Koopman, Chris Yormick, Cody Hudson, Dalek, David Choe, Eye One, Francesco LoCastro, Freddi C, J. Shea, James Jean, Jeff Soto, Joshua Krause, Kelsey Brookes, Kenton Parker, Kofie, Mel Kadel, Michael Sieben, Mike Giant, R. Grimes, Rammellzee, RETNA, Ron English, Sage Vaughn, Sam Flores, Skwerm, Tim McCormick, Travis Millard

Opening event:
Friday, August 3rd, 2007 6pm-9pm
Artists in attendance:  Angela Boatwright & Eye One
Music provided by KON

Show runs:
8/03/07-8/18/07

Rhys Gallery
401 Harrison Ave.
Boston, MA 02118

Sponsored by Karmaloop & SWINDLE Magazine

www.scion.com/installation
www.karmaloop.com
www.swindlemagazine.com
www.rhysgallery.com

Zenetti Skate Team X Games Launch Party

HOLLYWOOD, CA (August 2007) - Join some of the biggest names in sports entertainment for the X Games Thirteen red carpet launch party in Hollywood this Thursday. The event will be hosted by Braydon Szafranski, Stevie Williams, Paul Rodriguez, Terry 'TK' Kennedy and Jereme Rogers of The Zenetti Skate Team featuring a special live performance by Hurricane Chris performing his hit single "A Bay Bay". Zenetti will also be showcasing Paul Wall's Iced Out Grill Cadillac Escalade.

Zenetti Skate Team - Zenetti the automotive leader in wheel design has teamed up with Dominic DeLuca of the world famous skate shop & streetwear boutique; Brooklyn Projects; to form the wheel industries first ever official skate team. This is not your typical rim sponsorship scenario, where a company just giving a skateboarder a set of wheels, poses for a picture and you never hear about them again. This is an official skate team with a complete partnership, including magazine features, show appearances and advertising campaign. We have some of the top skate professionals in the world representing our brand and feel that our partnership will help elevate the industry and spark a new trend. These athletes were hand picked by Dominic and Zenetti for their trendsetting style as well as the fact that they embody what Zenetti stands for as a brand; superior performance, cutting edge style, and class.

When:
Thursday, August 2nd 2007
Red Carpet Arrivals at 10pm
Media Check-In at 9pm

Where:
ML Hollywood (Day After)
6757 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood CA 90028

Talent RSVP Contact:
Erica Percell
P: 310.956.7866
E: erica@impentertainment.com
(Talent request must be received no later than 2pm on Thursday)

Media Contact:
January Swiderski
P: 310.425.4879
E: January@impentertainment.com

REVEREND AL SHARPTON TO LAUNCH A CHICAGO CHAPTER OF NATIONAL ACTION NETWORK (NAN)

WITH NEWLY APPOINTED PRESIDENT JERI L.WRIGHT, DAUGHTER OF RENOWNED PREACHER JEREMIAH WRIGHT

NAN Chicago Chapter Strives to Reshape City's Focus on Social Justice and Civil Rights

(Chicago, July 27, 2007 )"Reverend Al Sharpton, Former Presidential candidate and one of the country"s foremost leaders for civil rights, will be in Chicago to announce the launch of a Chicago chapter of his National Action Network on Wednesday, August 1, 2007 , at the historic Regal Theater, located 1645 East 79th Street . A launch press conference is scheduled for 4p.m. and will be attended by Jeri L. Wright, the President-elect of the Chicago Chapter of NAN, along with other community, religious and political leaders from the Chicago area.

The newly formed Chicago chapter is one of 36 chapters of National Action Network in the United States and Rev. Sharpton is excited to have appointed Jeri Wright to serve as leader because she will impart a fresh vision for Chicago . According to Reverend Sharpton: "I have worked with Ms. Wright on a range of issues through the years and she has the strong vision and commitment to lead the Chicago chapter with an aggressive agenda that will fight civil injustice, racial disparity, and socio-economic inequality."

NAN is one of the leading civil rights organizations in the nation and works extensively to promote a modern civil rights agenda which includes a standard of decency for all people regardless of race or sex, social justice for all communities, and improvement of race relations. Through the years, NAN has served as a megaphone for the voiceless and an advocate for those in need. The organization has been in the forefront on issues relating to voter registration, education, and police misconduct. You can learn more about what we do viewing our website at www.nationalactionnetwork.net.

"Because of my upbringing, I have always been committed to the liberation of people of African descent," Wright says. "And I have always admired the work that Rev. Shapton has done with the National Action Network. As I began to help build his clergy connections across the country, one day I came to the realization that I was being called to do more than just produce a publication that educates nurtures and empowers Africans in the Diaspora or give consultations on the subject, but to take ownership and lead the movement here in Chicago. This vision for the Chicago chapter is to bridge the generational gap and engage people of all ages. That vision is reflected through our inter-generational leadership."

The first initiative of the Chicago chapter is slated as The NAN Decency Initiative national "Day of Outrage" against the continuous use in the music recording industry of the words "nigga," "bitch" and "ho."  Reverend Sharpton, who has persistently challenged the entertainment industry on denigrating lyrics, will lead a protest in 20 cities including Chicago on August 7th to call for the withdrawal of public investments from companies that won't clean up their act. In many states billions of dollars from state pension funds are invested in the entertainment industry. The overall goal is to establish a single standard that will be adopted by media and entertainment entities that will respect all people regardless of race, gender and sexual orientation.

WHO:
Reverend Al Sharpton, Founder and President of NAN; Jeri Wright, President/NAN-Chicago; Reverend Otis Moss III, Vice-President/NAN-Chicago; Arrie Denise Thomas-Williams, Director of Decency/NAN-Chicago; 6th Ward Alderman Freddrenna Lyle, Treasurer/NAN-Chicago; Dr. Jeremiah Wright, Jr., Senior Pastor/Trinity United Church of Christ; Father Michael Pfleger, Pastor, Community of St. Sabina, and other committed clergy
WHAT:
Launch of National Action Network Chicago Chapter
WHEN:
Wednesday, August 1, 2007 , 4P.M.
WHERE:
1645 East 79th Street (Regal Theater)

Contacts:                                                                                                 
Chicago Communications Director: LaKeisha Gray - Sewell
(773) 577-4600 lrgwriting1@yahoo.com

National Vice President of Communications: Rachel Noerdlinger
(212) 876-5444 revalmedia@yahoo.com

Gangsta Grillz Radio Now Available on Atlanta's Hot 107.9 and the Web Five Days a Week

The Aphilliates Celebrate with Weekend of Special Events

ATLANTA, GA – July 30, 2007 – Starting today, the world will be able to catch the founding members of The Aphilliates DJ collective five days a week. Gangsta Grillz Radio can now be heard Monday through Thursday from 10pm-Midnight, in addition to the show's original time slot – Saturdays from 8pm-10pm. Hosted by DJs Drama, Don Cannon and Sense, the show airs in Atlanta on WHTA-FM 107.9 and can also be heard online at www.Hot1079atl.com.

To celebrate the show's re-launch, Gangsta Grillz Radio took over Atlanta airwaves this weekend, airing in eight hour slots on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 2-10pm. During the “takeover,” Cannon, Sense and Drama were joined on air by several celebrity well-wishers, including Kanye West, Big Boi, Young Jeezy, Fabolous, Trey Songz, Playaz Circle. “The relationship between artists and DJs can be so tumultuous at times, that it’s great to see that caliber of talent come through and show us love,” remarks Drama. “They’ve been a vital part of our success, as we consistently put in the work to be a part of theirs. So it was especially important to have them be a part of our celebration.”

The Aphilliates also hosted a series of events to allow fans and colleagues to share in the celebration. The weekend started with an exclusive VIP Launch Mixer at the Verve Lounge in Atlanta’s Midtown, where The Aphilliates were toasted by members of the Hot 107.9 family as well as music executives and even Atlanta City Councilman Kwanzaa Hall. Friday and Saturday nights saw special events for the public at some of Atlanta’s hottest venues. On Saturday afternoon, Gangsta Grillz Radio broadcasted live from Stone Mountain Park for the ultimate Black Family Reunion, allowing fans to personally interact with the show’s hosts and guests. To close out the weekend festivities, The Aphilliates, Hot 107.9 and Rolling Out Magazine organized the Gangsta Grill Playground at Centennial Place Park on Sunday afternoon. Underprivileged children in the community were treated to food, games, pony rides, and live appearances by Yung Dro and Big Kuntry the opportunity to partake in a live broadcast. “The Aphilliates Movement is one that is unique as we are an entertainment brand with a purpose,”
says DJ Don Cannon. “We not only support the artists – both underground and established artists – in an effort to achieve notoriety; but we also believe in uplifting the community through service. We intend to be positive examples and be the catalysts for change in how people perceive the Hip-Hop community. Definitely continue to PAY ATTENTION as the movement Continues.”

Sunday night, DJ Drama, Don Cannon and DJ Sense were joined by friends and fans at Motions Nightclub in the Atlanta Underground for the grand finale. The event – co-hosted by fellow Aphilliates DJ Infamous, DJ Ox Banga and Stix Malone – featured appearances and performances by Lil’ Scrappy, Yung Joc, Willie The Kid, Playaz Circle, Grand Hustle, CTE, Diamond of Crime Mob, MTV’s LaLa, Carmelo Anthony and countless members of Atlanta’s Entertainment community. WHTA-FM’s on-air and executive staff showed their support every step of the way, through their presence and words. “Gangsta Grillz Radio in Atlanta is another star coming out of the Hot 107.9 camp,” says Jerry Rupert, Program Director of the Radio One station. “I’m proud to have such great talent on our team. DJ Drama, DJ Sense, and Don Cannon are all about Young America. The world is about to see Gangsta Grillz Radio take Hip-Hop to a whole new level.”

Gangsta Grillz Radio was originally launched on Hot 107.9 in the summer of 2005. In the two years since, the show’s unique combination of talk, mixshow and traditional radio formats has gained a legion of fans eager to support another facet of the Gangsta Grillz brand that has placed The Aphilliates at the forefront of the Southern Hip-Hop movement. The next phase for this seemingly limitless brand is the release of Gangsta Grillz The Album, tentatively scheduled for a Thanksgiving 2007 release on Grand Hustle/Atlantic Records. The Aphilliates Music Group is also gearing up for Willie The Kid’s Asylum Records debut release, The Crown Prince, as well as La The Darkman’s as yet untitled solo project on Embassy/SRC.

For more information, please visit www.gangstagrillz.com or www.hot1079atl.com.

Contact:
DJ Sense
Aphilliates Music Group
(404) 524-1266

YouTube Passes the Mic to Users in New Music Promotion

YouTube Community and Recording Artists 50 Cent, Common and Polow da Don to Judge First YouTube Rap Competition

SAN BRUNO, CA--(Marketwire - July 30, 2007) - YouTube, the leading online video community that allows people to discover, watch and share originally created videos, today announced its second major music promotion, the YouTube OntheRise Rap Edition. This follow-up to last year's highly successful YouTube Underground contest is the first of three genre-specific music competitions. This first installment seeks to discover the best rap and hip-hop artists in the United States, inviting unsigned talent who aspire to be professional artists to submit their own original music videos to http://www.youtube.com/ontherise.

Artists can submit original videos that best represent their talents from Friday, August 10 through Friday, August 17. 50 Cent, Common and Polow da Don will help judge the contest and will select 20 finalists to be presented to the YouTube community on Wednesday, August 29. The YouTube community will then vote on a final winner who will be unveiled on Friday, September 7.

"So many talented artists use our platform to share their music with the world and these competitions will recognize artists' incredible work and creativity," said Jamie Byrne, Head of Product Marketing, YouTube. "The genre-specific format will give artists the opportunity to compete with and be judged by others in their own field who share a common musical interest."

"There are top shelf artists on YouTube that haven't been heard. This contest will give them a chance to rise to the top of the game," said 50 Cent. "There will be some great stuff coming out of this contest. It's a shot to claim a spot as an MC."

The winner will be awarded a trip to New York City to professionally record a single for G-Unit/Interscope Records, a $10,000 gift card from Guitar Center, and their video will be featured on the homepage of YouTube.

The YouTube OntheRise Rap Edition Details

Submissions begin for the YouTube OntheRise Rap Edition Friday, August 10 and end Friday, August 17. Artists are encouraged to submit original videos that showcase their personalities and creativity. Each video entry must include a full, original song that is five minutes or under. All entrants must be 18 years or older and residents of the U.S. to participate.

To view the OnTheRise RAP Edition '07 50 Cent Intro, see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_GbrLHtq70o

About YouTube

YouTube is the world's most popular online video community allowing millions of people to discover, watch and share originally created videos. YouTube provides a forum for people to connect, inform and inspire others across the globe and acts as a distribution platform for original content creators and advertisers large and small. YouTube, LLC is based in San Bruno, CA and is a subsidiary of Google Inc.

Houston Rapper and Popular Disc Jockey Paul Wall to Perform for Troops on USO Tour to the Persian Gulf

ARLINGTON, Va., July 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rapper Paul Wall, known in music circles as "The People's Champ," will soon depart for the Persian Gulf as part of a USO/Multi National Corps - Iraq entertainment tour. This is Wall's second USO tour, having performed in the region as part of "Jamie Kennedy's Hip-Hop Comedy Tour" in early 2007.

Skilled in the art of wordplay and inspired by the legendary DJ Screw, Wall emerged onto the national circuit following his appearance in Mike Jones' 2005 hit single "Still Trippin." Since his debut, Wall has had multiple hit singles including "Sittin' Sidewayz" featuring Big Pokey, "Break 'Em Off" featuring Lil' Keke and "I'm Throwed" featuring Jermaine Dupri.

"Being a part of a USO tour and performing for the troops is amazing," said Wall. "It's so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and to forget what's happening overseas -- this is my way of letting them know I realize what they're sacrificing and am truly grateful."

Regarded as having one of the most distinctive and charismatic voices from the 'dirty south,' Wall is an accomplished DJ and is busy promoting his sophomore album, "Get Money, Stay True." He is also co-owner of TV Jewelry, a lucrative business that specializes in designing gold and diamond encrusted mouth grills, and caters to celebrity clientele.

For more than 66 years, the USO's mission has remained the same: to support U.S. troops and their families wherever they serve -- until every one comes home. Carrying on this tradition, the USO produced 346 entertainment tours in 2006, both stateside and overseas, to boost morale and ensure service members that America cares about them.

AT&T, Inc. is the official telecommunications sponsor of USO entertainment tours. For a list of recent and upcoming USO tours, visit http://www.uso.org/whatwedo/entertainment/. To learn more about the USO or to find out how to support the troops, visit www.uso.org.

About the USO

For more than 66 years, the USO (United Service Organizations) has been providing morale, welfare and recreational services to U.S. military personnel and their families. The USO is a nonprofit, charitable organization, relying on the generosity of the American people to support its programs and services. The USO is supported by Worldwide Strategic Partners AT&T Inc., BAE Systems North America, Clear Channel Communications, The Coca-Cola Company, DRS Technologies, Inc., Military Channel, S & K Sales Co., TriWest Healthcare Alliance and The Walt Disney Company. Other corporate donors, including the United Way and Combined Federal Campaign (CFC-11381), have joined thousands of individual donors to support the USO. For more information on the USO, please visit our Web site at www.uso.org.

  Contact:
  Oname Thompson, (703) 908-6471
  othompson@uso.org

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20031119/USO

Source: USO

CONTACT: Oname Thompson of USO, +1-703-908-6471, othompson@uso.org

Web Site: http://www.uso.org/

Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/908313.html

Courvoisier Provides Royal Treatment Fit For A 'King'

House of Courvoisier Hosts T.I. Vs T.I.P. Album Release Party During BET Awards Week

DEERFIELD, Ill., July 30 /PRNewswire/ -- During the 2007 BET Awards week, Courvoisier hosted several exclusive events to honor the "Self Made Man", beginning with rap artist, actor, producer and co-CEO of Grand Hustle Records, T.I. The House of Courvoisier served as the host for the T.I. Vs T.I.P. album release party. More than 500 invited guests packed The Republic, where they were treated to the one-of-a-kind House of Courvoisier experience, while getting an exclusive first listen to the newest release from the self- proclaimed "King of the South." Pictured is Chris Mahoney, senior brand director, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, presenting T.I. with a personalized bottle of Courvoisier Initiale Extra, on the red carpet. Guests got into party mode sipping Courvoisier's signature premium cocktails, such as Courvoisier Brown Sugar and Courvoisier Strawberry Lemonade, as they rocked to the sounds of DJ Mars, who kept today's hottest cuts coming on the one's and two's. Other notable guests in the building included hip-hop mogul Kevin Liles, official House of Courvoisier brand spokesperson Big Tigger, New Orleans Saints' running back Reggie Bush, boxing great Floyd Mayweather Jr., R&B singers Ginuwine and Tyrese, hip-hop artist Busta Rhymes, actor Omar Epps, sister and brother singing and acting duo Brandy and Ray J, and Chance of "I Love New York", among numerous others. To learn more about upcoming HOC events and promotions, visit the new House of Courvoisier web site at http://www.thehouseofcv.com/.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070730/AQM101 )

Courvoisier reminds consumers to "drink smart(R)." For more information about Courvoisier cognac, recipes for the signature cocktails and corporate responsibility visit http://www.courvoisier.com/ and http://www.drinksmart.com/.

Courvoisier(C) Cognac, 40% alc./vol. (C)2007 Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc., Deerfield, IL
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070730/AQM101
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN8
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Courvoisier

CONTACT: Ronald E. Childs, +1-312-986-1260, rchilds@flowerscomm.com, or
Thelma A. Walker, +1-312-986-1265, twalker@flowerscomm.com, both for
Courvoisier

Web site: http://www.courvoisier.com/
http://www.thehouseofcv.com/

ASCAP Initiates Infringement Actions Against Establishments Performing Copyrighted Music Without Permission

NEW YORK, NY -- (Market Wire - Jul 30, 2007) --  The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) today announced that it has filed 26 separate infringement actions against nightclubs, bars and restaurants in 17 states.

In each of the cases filed today, the business establishment has publicly performed the copyrighted musical works of ASCAP's songwriter, composer and music publisher members without obtaining a license from ASCAP to do so. ASCAP reached out to each of the establishments repeatedly over a significant period of time before taking legal action. In every instance, the establishment refused to obtain a license, but continued to perform ASCAP members' music without permission, resulting in the filing of the infringement actions.

ASCAP protects the rights of its members by licensing and distributing royalties for the non-dramatic public performances of their copyrighted works. Those licensed by ASCAP include any establishment or business that wants to perform copyrighted music publicly.

"ASCAP is simultaneously filing these 26 actions to create awareness among music users and the public that it is a Federal offense to perform copyrighted music without permission," said Vincent Candilora, Senior Vice President of Licensing at ASCAP. "Taking legal action is always ASCAP's last step in a long process of contacting, informing and educating business establishments of their obligations under the Federal Copyright Law. With many of these cases, the process has been going on for over a year, so they have had plenty of time to do the right thing."

Any business using copyrighted music has the opportunity to obtain permission to do so lawfully, through acceptance of a license covering the use of over 8.5 million copyrighted songs and compositions. Nearly 90% of the license fees ASCAP collects are paid as royalties directly to songwriters, composers and music publishers. The balance covers ASCAP's operating costs, which are among the lowest in the world for a performing rights organization, and the lowest by far in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions about licensing can be found on ASCAP's website at http://www.ascap.com/licensing/licensingfaq.html. The establishments (listed below) have performed publicly the copyrighted musical works of ASCAP's songwriter, composer and music publisher members without receiving their permission to do so, resulting in lost income for these music creators.

Establishment, City, State

Salty Dawg II, Tucson, AZ
Foxfire Room, N. Hollywood, CA
Pelican Isle, Huntington, CA
Skylark, San Francisco, CA
Snake Pit, Denver, CO
Humphrey's East, New Haven, CT
Kashmir, West Palm Beach, FL
Tequila Willie's, Melbourne, FL
Sanctuary, Atlanta, GA
Rome Street Tavern, Carrollton, GA
O'Hare Gaslight Club, Chicago, IL
Club Paradise, Angola, IN
Registry, Crown Point, IN
Red Maple, Baltimore, MD
Holiday Inn Southfield, Southfield, MI
Razzles, Westland, MI
Janae's West, St. Louis, MO
Cody's Chinese Bistro, Raleigh, NC
Manhattan on Pearl, Nashua, NH
Fusion 215 (f/k/a Nest), New York, NY
Montage Grill, Rochester, NY
Hiro Ballroom, New York, NY
Doghouse Bar & Grill, North Royalton, OH
Nuno's Bar & Grill, Austin, TX
Oakley's, Waco, TX
Ibiza Dinner Club, Seattle, WA

About ASCAP

Established in 1914, ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) is the first and leading U.S. Performing Rights Organization representing the world's largest repertory totaling over 8.5 million copyrighted musical works of every style and genre from more than 295,000 songwriter, composer and music publisher members. ASCAP also represents the repertories created by the international affiliates of 90 foreign performing rights organizations. ASCAP protects the rights of its members and foreign affiliates by licensing the public performances of their copyrighted works and distributing royalties based upon surveyed performances. ASCAP is the only American Performing Rights Organization owned and governed by its writer and publisher members. www.ascap.com

Small Eyez & Soul Stirrer are 2MORROW!

'2MORROW' WILL BE DIGITALLY RELEASED ON JULY 24TH, 2007

'2MORROW' WILL BE NATIONALLY RELEASED ON CD AUGUST 23, 2007

ATLANTA, GA --- Mind Musik Ent. is excited to announce the release of Small Eyez & Soul Stirrer's collaborative effort '2MORROW' presented by Dj Jamad (of the Aphilliates) crew  to be digitally released on July 24th, 2007.

Small Eyez, a solo emcee, independent artist, & Mind Musk Ent. Founder, & The Soul Stirrer, producer, & songwriter,  first appeared on the scene with the critically acclaimed Debut "Vipassana (The EP)", first Released in April of 2006. Vipassana garnered rave reviews within the press from noteworthy publications such as Okayplayer.com, RapReviews.com, Groundlift Magazine, & SOHH.com to name a few. Small Eyez  reputation is built on his uncanny lyrical ability to weave positivity & consciousness into accessible music for the general public to absorb. Small Eyez has performed alongside the likes of Talib Kweli, Dead Prez, Young Jeezy, Juelz Santana & Monica. With a Strong underground following both locally & overseas, and a backing by Dj Jamad (of the Aphilliates) Small Eyez & Soul Stirrer are poised to usher in a new 2Morrow for the entire Hip Hop Generation.

With his own independent releases, Small Eyez has made a name for himself, selling close to a thousand units on his own. Beginning in 2007, Small Eyez stepped up his exposure through his own independently run Hip Hop Blog CheSingTheCool.com , receiving well over 15,000-20,000 hits weekly from all over the world since January of 2007.

With No Label Backing, Small Eyez & Soul Stirrer are a testament to the true power of Music & Innovation. 2Morrow is One Emcee, One Producer, One Mic & One Message. We are the 2Morrow People. We Breathe Today, & Live For 2Morrow. Much more than a mere point in time, 2Morrow is a place.  2Morrow is a dream,.... a wish, a  future made real thru us. 2Morrow is Here. We Await Your Arrival.

A complete track listing for "2MORROW" is as follows:
|Tracklisting|

01. HEAVEN (INTRO) (PROD.BY SOUL STIRRER)

02. BLAK ASTRONAUTS (PROD.BY VEE NYCE)

03. CRUISE CONTROL FT. MS.LEAH (PROD.BY THE A-BOTS)

04. 2MORROW (INNERLUDE) (PROD.BY SOUL STIRRER)

05. MIND TRIKC (PROD.BY SOUL STIRRER)

06. CARRIED AWAY FT.NOTTY ( PROD.BY VEE NYCE)

07. TAINT IT FOR GRANTED (INNERLUDE) (PROD.BY SOUL STIRRER)

08. SCRATCH THAT (PROD.BY SOUL STIRRER)

09. MICK SWAGGER ( PROD.BY SOUL STIRRER)

10. A SONG OF TWO HUMANS (OUTRO) (PROD.BY SOUL STIRRER)

***
Small Eyez & Soul Stirrer are 2Morrow is available as a  Digital Release In Hi-Quality Mp3 (320 Kbps) Format.

The 2Morrow (Ep) Digital Release comes with 10 Songs,A Bonus Track, Full Quality Digital Album Art Work & the 2Morrow Press Kit all included in one zip file!

Buy it-->Download it-->Unzip it-->Listen-->Luv it.

For more info go to:

http://www.myspace.com/smalleyezopen

http://www.myspace.com/thesoulstirrer

Download the "2MORROW" Digital Press Kit->

http://www.mindmusik.com/2MorrowPressKit.pdf

Check out Small Eyez & Soul Stirrer's latest review @ BGDB.blogpsopt.com:

"These two young men are prime examples of why hip hop will never die. The love is in their music and is evidenced throughout the EP."

http://bgdboom.blogspot.com/2007/07/free-agents-small-eyez-and-soul-stirrer.html
About Small Eyez & Soul Stirrer:

Small Eyez & Soul Stirrer are an independent collective currently self releasing material through their own indie label/marketing/promotional company Mind Musik Ent. Small Eyez an ohio native, & Soul Stirrer a Virginia native are currently working on touring, marketing & promotions for "2MORROW" and several releases to follow.

For more information, contact:
Kenneth Chambliss @ kchambliss@tastefullicks.com
404-513-7494

Will Smith and Tom Cruise call on Doug E. Fresh to host the A-list Party of the Year!

Doug E. Fresh held down hosting duties at the recent "Welcome to LA" party for David and Victoria "Posh Spice" Beckham

July 27, 2007 Los Angeles, CA -- The world's biggest stars came out to the Museum of Contemporary Art's Geffen Contemporary Gallery last Sunday to celebrate the LA arrival of David and Victoria Beckham.  Power couples Tom Cruise & Katie Holmes and Will & Jada Pinkett Smith threw the highly anticipated event and called upon the World's Greatest Entertainer Doug E. Fresh to host the lavish invitation-only affair.

Doug E. kept A-list celebrity attendees including Oscar winners Jamie Foxx and Forest Whitaker, Brooke Shields, Eva Longoria, Queen Latifah, Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony, Wesley Snipes, Bruce Willis, Ashton Kutcher, Demi Moore, and too many others to mention, partying well into the night.  In true Doug E. Fresh fashion, he called upon several of his celebrity friends to join him for an impromptu performance and the legendary Stevie Wonder was happy to oblige.  The crowd was then treated to several of Stevie's greatest hits including "My Cherie Amour", "Sign, Sealed, Delivered" and "Superstitious" all with Doug E. supplying the beat box accompaniment.

Due the overwhelming response from his dynamic performance on the American Idol finale, the first ever by a Hip Hop artist, Doug E. Fresh has been invited to join the American Idols Live! 2007 Tour on selected dates.  More information and confirmed dates can be found on www.dougefresh.com.

Doug E. Fresh's new single "Left Right" featuring teenage rap sensations Square Off has been steadily climbing the charts in several markets throughout the US and around the world in Germany, Sweden and Montenegro.

For interviews or information on Doug E. Fresh, Entertaining Music Inc. or Square Off contact: Alyse Feldman, President, On the Fly Public Relations, Toronto ON, 917-674-6067; onthefly@mail2fly.com

A Backstage Look at the Raw Beginnings of Hip Hop’s Biggest Event: Rock the Bells

Featuring Performances By The Wu-Tang Clan, Redman, Dilated Peoples, MC Supernatural, Sage Francis, Eyedea + Abilities, Chali 2na and DJ NuMark

Available on DVD July 31, 2007

July 27, 2007
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Warner Home Video presents Rock the Bells on DVD, a riveting documentary account of the 2004 Rock the Bells Hip Hop festival in San Bernardino, California. Entrepreneur Chang Weisberg and his Guerilla Union production team put together an unforgettable roster of hip hop stars for this first annual, history making mega-concert event. Featuring a who’s who of Hip Hop royalty including Redman, Dilated Peoples, MC Supernatural, Sage Francis, Eyedea + Abilities, Chali 2na and DJ NuMark, this double-sided DVD offers an exhilarating behind-the-scenes glimpse into the real world of Hip Hop, plus more than three hours of enhanced content including filmmaker commentary, artist profiles, backstage interviews and a special tribute to late Wu-Tang Clan founding member ODB. Rock the Bells will sell for $19.98 SRP.

When Weisberg achieves his seemingly impossible dream of reuniting the legendary Wu-Tang Clan for the first time in six years, the drama is just beginning. As the Clan members begin to arrive separately, there is no sign of the infamously unreliable rapper ODB. Weisberg and his team are putting everything on the line for the most notorious no-show in Hip Hop history. The production team freestyles its way through 100-plus degree heat, faulty equipment and capricious talent to deliver the history-making show they have promised to thousands of impatient fans – by any means necessary. When ODB miraculously shows up and the Wu-Tang Clan is reunited on stage, it's magic from beginning to end. Sadly, this monumental concert also marks the last performance of the legendary group. Troubled superstar ODB would die just four months later.

“If this event had been run by a large corporation, a disaster would have occurred,” say the filmmakers. “The split-second decision making and grace under pressure exhibited by the promotion team are innately human traits. It is this kind of interpersonal, organic touch that corporations will never be capable of, and it is the reason we must fight to support the independent spirit in the arts, whether it’s found in a group like the Wu-Tang Clan or a business like Guerilla Union.”

Rock the Bells opened in limited theatrical release beginning in April 2007. This theatrical run helped to support the 2007 Rock the Bells Festival by generating awareness. This year’s 16-city tour, headlined by Wu-Tang Clan and Rage Against the Machine, kicks off on July 26 in Boston and continues through August 11, with dates in New York City, Houston, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, San Diego, San Francisco, Denver, Minneapolis, Chicago, Detroit, Toronto and San Bernardino, California. The five-week long hip-hop extravaganza, hosted by freestyle legend Supernatural and Rahzel, “The Godfather of Noyze,” will also include performances by Cypress Hill, UGK, Talib Kweli, Pharoahe Monch, David Banner, Immortal Technique and Jedi Mind Tricks. The DVD release is supported by an extensive online, print, trailer and radio marketing campaign.

An official selection at more than a dozen film festivals including Slamdance and Tribeca, Rock the Bells is directed, produced and edited by Open Road Films’ Casey Suchan and Denis Henry Hennelly, the team behind the Hip Hop documentary hits Beef, Beef 2, Thug Angel and The Freshest Kids. Rock the Bells is a presentation of Mayfly Films, Civilian Pictures and Guerilla Union.

According to Eva Davis, Warner Home Video Vice President, Targeted Marketing & Acquisitions, “Casey Suchan and Denis Henry Hennelly have once again captured the spirit and energy of Hip Hop with Rock the Bells. Warner Home Video is proud to bring to home entertainment consumers this thrilling documentary which tells the true story of the private passion behind this amazing public event. It is a must-own DVD for every fan of contemporary music and documentary fans alike.”

Rock the Bells DVD Special Features include more than three hours of enhanced content including:

    * Who is Wu Tang?
    * ODB R.I.P.
    * Dirty’s Last Days
    * Alternate Opening
    * Extended interviews with Jarred Weisfeld, Jerome Baldwin and Cherry Jones
    * Commentary with filmmakers Casey Suchan and Denis Henry Hennelly
    * Commentary with Guerilla Union
    * Artist profiles including Redman, Eyedea + Abilities, Sage Francis, Dilated People, Cappadonna, Ghostface Killah, GZA, Inspectah Deck, Masta Killah, Method Man, RZA, Buddha Monk and Silkski
    * Deleted scenes

                        Rock the Bells (2006)
                     Street Date: July 31, 2007
                        $19.98 SRP/ No MAP
                        Rating: (Not rated)
                       Run Time: 227 Minutes.
                     English Dolby Digital 5.1

ABOUT WARNER HOME VIDEO

With operations in 90 international territories, Warner Home Video, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, commands the largest distribution infrastructure in the global video marketplace. Warner Home Video's film library is the largest of any studio, offering top quality new and vintage titles from the repertoires of Warner Bros. Pictures, Turner Entertainment, Castle Rock Entertainment, HBO Home Video and New Line Home Entertainment.

Contacts

BazanPR
Jackie Bazan-Ross or Evelyn Santana, 212-643-4664
or
E-mail requests for materials to:
evelyn_santana@bazanpr.com
or
Art can be downloaded at www.whvdirect.com

Knotz to Provide the Antidote to Ailing Hip-Hop Music Scene

East Stroudsburg, PA 07/27/07 - Can three blood brothers living in the woods of Pennsylvania save hip-hop from its commercial music demise? Aswad Mikal, Megaton, and Dreadchild of the group Knotz have begun to do just that with their latest release The Antidote EP scheduled to hit the streets on August 1, 2007.
The group Knotz, best known for their Download (2000) and Poizunous Paragrafz the Mixtape (2006) CDs, has set themselves apart from the mainstream hip-hop scene by becoming the very symbol of the "anti-bling" establishment. As Aswad Mikal stated in a recent Music Phonebook article, "We spit for the masses, and the masses will never be able to relate to having big rims, platinum chains and grills and money that never ends."

The Antidote EP provides the urban music listener a refreshing and original retreat from the typical hip-hop offerings full of mostly catchy hooks and no substance. It includes six tracks that speak to the hearts and minds of those close to the streets. Knotz released a single off of the EP earlier this year that received immediate airplay. According to Josh B. of Radio Indy, "Knotz drops some hard lyrics and beats on their new single CD Black Rain feat. Najwa." The response from Chris Tucker of Global Underground Hip Hop Radio upon playing Knotz music on his station and hearing a positive response from listeners was "...thank you for keeping hip-hop alive!"

The Antidote EP is currently available online worldwide via digital distribution by Turmic Records. Delivery to retail outlets can also be arranged through Super D distribution. To purchase the album directly from Knotz, visit their Musicane Store.

For more information about the group and to hear a sample of their music, please visit the official KNOTZ website or the group's MySpace page. For press, radio, TV, licensing, or booking inquiries, email Cherry Orchard Music Group at management@cherryorchardmusic.com or call Craig at (412) 496-7691.

IMPERIAL RECORDS ANNOUNCES DISTRIBUTION DEAL WITH COOL & DRE'S EPIDEMIC RECORDS & SKELETON KEY ENTERTAINMENT

The dynamic duo of Cool & Dre has produced mulitplatinum hits for The Game, 50 Cent, Fat Joe and Ja Rule. Three years later, upon creating their own label, Epidemic Records, Cool and Dre have inked a deal with Skeleton Key Entertainment/EMI's Imperial Records. Imperial Records will provide distribution and label services such as promotions, marketing, on line marketing and publicity for the Epidemic Records' album, Misery Loves Company by Cool and Dre's premier artist, Joe Hound. "We're really excited about this Joe Hound project and about us being in business with Imperial," said Cool. "It's the beginning of a long lasting relationship. Epidemic and Imperial are gonna take it all the way to the top." Dre, agreed and added, "This is one of the best deals we've done in our career."

This is the album Miami has been waiting for with anticipation building more and more each day. The album Misery Loves Company is chock full of life lessons and missed opportunities, scattered with detailed musical bits and pieces of Joe Hound's rise as an emcee, while simultaneously describing his life as a common street hustler. Born in Miami and raised on the heartless streets of Liberty City, Joe Hound has been a star for the majority of his life. He briefly attended Bethune Cookman on a basketball scholarship but before he could familiarize himself with college life, Hound was forced to return home due to family responsibilities. Ironically, while he was going through all this his childhood friend Andre Lyon (Dre of Cool & Dre), was making noise in the streets as a budding producer. A chance meeting in a recording studio provided the opportunity for them to rekindle their friendship and collaborate on a number of musical projects, an album created strictly for the streets, Stressed Out, Lost and Confused and two mix tapes, one hosted by Miami's premier DJ, DJ Khaled. Now with the new Imperial Records/Skeleton Key Entertainment deal, their latest project is produced entirely by the Grammy nominated production team of Cool & Dre, Misery Loves Company, sparked by "She Likes It," the radio friendly lead single.

Neil Levine, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Imperial Records comments, "Imperial is pleased with our association with Skeleton Key and Epidemic Records," "With Cool and Dre's magic touch Joe Hounds' album is filled with catchy hooks as well as profound lyrics. We're looking for some big things from Joe Hound in 07." Joe Hound is also thrilled to be working with an innovative independent distributor such as Imperial. "It's been a great experience," Joe Hound says about joining Imperial Records. "They take care of our needs. It's been a really professional relationship. They give us opportunities to do whatever we want because they let us control our own music. You can't ask for anything more than that." With more than enough heat from Cool and Dre on the production side and Misery Loves Company Joe Hound still finds time to tell his unique story, Joe Hound has finally arrived.

For more info visit http://www.JoeHound.com http://www.myspace.com/JoeHound http://www.ImperialRecords.com http://www.myspace.com/ImperialRecords

For more information on Joe Hound and to schedule interviews please contact Steven Whitaker (Steven.Whitaker@imperialrecords.com 212-786-8499) or Zenobia Simmons (Zenobia.Simmons@imperialrecords.com 212-786-8496)