Hip Hop Press: Hip Hop Press Releases

Kidz In The Hall, Bun B and Talib Kweli Team Up for Change

March 31, 2008
New York, NY - As the first group in the Hip-Hop community to publicly endorse presidential hopeful Barack Obama back in late 2007, Kidz In The Hall will continue their unwavering support for the Chicago native this evening (Monday, March 31st) with the help of some friends. Kidz In The Hall's whose soulful ode to Barack Obama is entitled, "Work To Do," will be world premiering their "Change Remix" tonight on two mediums; one on Hip-Hop mega-site, Allhiphop.com, as well as on super DJ/Producer Green Lantern's Sirius Satellite "Hip-Hop Nation" radio show---and both premiers will happen simultaneously. The "Change" remix is produced by Kidz In The Hall member Double-0 and features heavyweights Bun B and Talib Kweli, who like many in the hip hop community, are proud to show their support for Obama. The song's content focuses its attention on many of the issues facing both the artists as individuals, as well as the country as a whole. Having three emcees, all from different cities in the US – Chicago, Brooklyn and Houston respectively – shows the unification within the Hip-Hop community that will hopefully encourage young people to take a long look at the issues affecting them in this country.

The "Change" remix will also be the first release that will be featured on the much talked about DJ Green Lantern & Russell Simmons' "Yes We Can" – Obama mixtape due out next month.

Kidz In The Hall will embark on a 16 city college campus tour this week with Gym Class Heroes to support the May 13 release of their sophomore LP The In Crowd. Talib Kweli has just released the MCEO mixtape with Mick Boogie and his CD, Eardrum, is in stores now. Bun B will be releasing his much anticipated II Trill solo project April 29th.

For press or inquiries regarding Kidz In The Hall, please contact:

Press Contact:

Matt Conaway@  MAC Media

Business #:  410-903-7568

E-Mail:   Matthewbrn@aol.com

AOL IM:   Matthewbrn

For More Information please visit:

http://www.duckdown.com/kidzinthehall/

http://duckdown.com/

http://www.myspace.com/kidzinthehall   

http://www.myspace.com/bootcampclik

African Hip Hop: Represent

On April 4th, 5th and 6th, 2008, Africa is in the house. Trinity College in Hartford , Connecticut , presents the 3rd annual Trinity International Hip-Hop Festival and – just like the first two – African hip hop is heavily represented among the performers.

The Trinity Festival was the brainchild of Trinity alum Magee McIlvaine, who blended international studies with hip hop and film. McIlvaine spent part of his undergraduate time studying in Senegal where he picked up an appreciation for the local hip hop flavor. Homegrown African artists often tend to speak on more political subjects and social injustice, while popular American artists continue to influence with their money, sex and violence ethos.

Chachi, an MC from the west African island nation of Cape Verde , describes hip hop in his homeland like this: "One of the biggest problems I see is identity crisis amongst youths and lack of proper role modeling. [T]he negative portrayal of hip hop culture and the over exposure of violence and materialism through media has a tremendous impact on society as a whole. The violence negatively inspires the youth to become overly aggressive and out of control. Cape Verde is traditionally a very respectful culture. The negative impact of gang culture and violently charged music is making the next generation of youth uncontrollable."

McIlvine decided to bring this "hip hop with a purpose" to American audiences in 2006. With fellow student Jason Azevedo and Ben Herson, owner of African hip hop label Nomadic Wax Records, and backing from Trinity College, they staged the first hip hop festival in America with an international focus.

In its first two years, the Trinity festival brought in performers hailing from Kenya , Sierra Leone , Senegal , Uganda and Ethiopia . In 2008, they will highlight performers from Zimbabwe , Cape Verde , Senegal , Uganda and Ethiopia

One of the performance headliners is Zimbabwe Legit. Band members Dumi Right and Akim came to America from Zimbabwe in the early 1990s and released an internationally acclaimed EP on record label Holllywood Basic. They recorded a full album in 1992 with production help from DJ Shadow and Mr. Lawnge (of Black Sheep) but due to label issues it was not released for 13 years. The 2005 album was a throwback to the golden age of hip hop and the group built on their success and released House of Stone in 2007 to excellent reviews.

Playing host of their year's performances – and also performing himself on Friday night – is Ghana-born Blitz the Ambassador. Now residing in Brooklyn , Blitz seeks to being a conscious message to a mass audience. He has performed with Public Enemy, KRS-One, Rakim, Mos Def and Talib Kweli. He has been profiled in The Source, Vibe and named one of URB's "Next 1000". "Hip-Hop is political transformation by nature," Blitz has said. "We are all transformed by the power it has to uplift our intellect and educate us on basic human and civic rights."

A highlight of every festival has been the African Underground All-Stars. Nomadic Wax owner Ben Herson – also a producer, DJ and drummer – leads a live band that backs some of the most talented of African MCs. While the band remains mostly the same, African Underground performs shows with a variety of MCs from all over Africa . At the 2008 festival, African Underground will rock with Senegalese rappers Baye Musa and Azbac plus Krukid from Uganda . Krukid was part of 2007's Rawkus 50, an elite group of amazing underground hip hop artists promoted by the newly re-launched Rawkus Records.

Four MCs representing the West African island nation of Cape Verde will rock together on Friday night. The quartet comprised of Shokanti, Tem Blessed, Chachi and Dje Dje all share a common African heritage and skills on the mic. These guys are not just performers but activists. Shokanti is the Director of Community Cultural Development at The Arts Council of Greater New Haven, Connecticut. Tem Blessed speaks with youth groups about positive living. Chachi addresses the common struggles of Cape Verdian and American youth.

Finally, playing for his second year in a row is Ethiopian-born, Seattle resident Gabriel Teodros along with his Dominican-Haitian partner Khingz Makoma forming the group Abyssinian Creole. The name is a melding of both of their ethnicities to form a unit that exhibits every aspect of them as individuals within an African Diaspora. The duo are a perfect compliment, Teodros' spiritual approach to an often ugly world beside Khingz also spiritual, but more grimy street ethic.

The Trinity International Hip-Hop Festival will be held April 4, 5 and 6, 2008, at Trinity College in Hartford , Connecticut . Daytime events include panel discussions, films and workshops. The musical performances will be held Friday and Saturday night from 8 pm to 2 am in the Vernon Social Center on campus. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, see www.trinityhiphop.org

The Trinity International Hip Hop Festival is April 4 - 6, 2008 in Hartford, Connecticut ! Check out www.trinityhiphop.org for more details!

By Greg Schick (www.trinityhiphop.org)

Press Contact: ThugLifeArmy Administrator@ThugLifeArmy.com

Real Livin Films Partners with DirectChange.org to present: The K.E.E.P. Africa Movement Fund Page

As technology advances so does the capacity for change. The Internet and philanthropy come together in groundbreaking new ways with DirectChange.org, a nonprofit organization founded in 2006 with a clear and singular goal—to unite people who care with projects directly benefiting the future of African children.

What makes DirectChange.org so special is that there is no "pipeline" that monies volunteered travel; supporters create their own funds that tie directly to either low overhead African based groups or American groups that use every cent on the cause. Never before has being charitable become so personal and relevant to you, now.

Taking it to the next level starting April 1, 2008  the internationally acclaimed film director Femi Agbayewa (director of God's Own Country) is working with Direct Change to create the Kids Educated & Empowered Program of Africa (K.E.E.P. Africa the official God's Own Country Directchange fund page). The innovative approach combines film, culture and music with the unyielding belief that good is evolutionary; not revolutionary.

     God's Own Country is the first African  film with a worldwide online release where the viewers set the price. Accompanying the movie is an all-star mixtape featuring the hottest hip-hop artists from both America and Africa. Launched on Feb.26th  www.gocmovie.com is @ the forefront of bridging the gap between Africa, her Diaspora and the world with 10% of the film proceeds going to the cause.

Linked to the site is a special page giving vital information and statistics on the fund, http://my.directchange.org/page/goc, and you can contribute directly here as well.

"I've always looked at God's Own Country as being more than a movie; it's actually a platform for change. With the attention the movie is receiving I wanted to use this opportunity to redirect people's focus towards two types of empowerment self and community empowerment. I feel like the two are necessary for the overall enjoyment of life for the majority of people in the world" states Femi Agbayewa, director of God's Own Country

wwwdirectchange.org and God's Own Country uniting people through film, music and culture for the benefit of Children's Education.

For all press enquiries including press kits, DVD requests, etc., please contact Malik Scott of Real-Livin at 646-315-2196 or by email at malikscott@gocmovie.com.

RAP QUEEN OF THE SOUTH, KHIA CONTINUES TO MAKE MOVES IN '08

Khia releases a new mix tape; awaits the debut of a VH-1 Reality Show; and prepares for the release of her next album

Monday, March 31, 2008 – Atlanta , Georgia .  Taking her stand as the Rap Queen of the South a/k/a The Only Successful Indie Female Rapper a/k/a The Real Baddest Chick a/k/a KHIA (pronounced K-eye-yah)—most known for her 2002 hit single, "My Neck, My Back (Lick It)" is making moves in 2008 with the release of her mix tape, THE BOSS LADY; her highly anticipated summer album NASTI MUZIK; and VH-1 Reality Show debut on MISS RAP SUPREME.

On April 1, 2008, KHIA will be releasing her first mix tape of 2008 entitled, THE BOSS LADY hosted by the South's infamous DJ Scream. Equipped with15 gutta tracks and real hard lyrics, her mix tape includes a few new songs; a few songs off of her forthcoming album such as "What They Do" featuring Gucci Mane; and old classics such as "Snatch the Cat Back" from her previous album and mix tapes. "Khia's been a hitmaker. This tape shows that she definitely still has it. The females will ride this one out from beginning to end. I can't wait to hear the album", says DJ Scream.

On April 14th at 10pm (EST), tune in to watch KHIA bring the drama on the new VH-1 reality show, MISS RAP SUPREME.

On June 17, 2008, KHIA will release her third album, NASTI MUZIK. At the top of 2008, KHIA signed to the independently made and independently paid Big Cat Records, who will be distributing KHIA's Album through Tommy Boy Records. NASTI MUZIK promises to deliver sixteen (16) original tracks that her fans are anticipating. "On my album, I address all of my previous issues and beefs. This album will definitely project my growth as a Music Producer and Artist", states KHIA.

For additional information on KHIA and all of her success, log on to www.myspace.com/khia and/or www.khiaonline.com

CONTACT:

Lynn Hobson

HobbieCom PR, Inc.

(212) 755-7900

Music group From Lithuania

It looks like some group called Newnoyes is spreading into American people hearth and asking can they help other countries cultures.

Group is based on Mc TnT, Beatmaker Newnoyes and Casucasian model Tiju.

You can listen to them at www.soundclick.com/newnoyes
and call invite add them on myspace!!!
www.myspace.com/newnoyes

Support The Music in other Countries.
We need to eat.
Will Rap for Food.

Contact Information:
Name: Mykolas Pinkevicius
Phone: +370 370.6999.6132 Ext: 5132
Email: ltfizikal@yahoo.com
Website: www.soundclick.com/newnoyes

Music Sensations Ludacris and Tommy Lee Battle It Out on Planet Green's Hottest New Show 'BATTLEGROUND EARTH,' Where They'll Need to 'Go Green' or Go Home!

LOS ANGELES, March 31 /PRNewswire/ -- The hard-charging, hard-partying, carbon-laden world of tour bus-living musicians doesn't exactly scream green! Now, Planet Green challenges two icons to join the newest trend in music: 'going green.' BATTLEGROUND EARTH challenges hip hop superstar Chris "Ludacris" Bridges and rock god Tommy Lee to battle against the toxic forces destroying mother earth as they travel across the country on a 10-episode tour. The series premieres in August 2008.

Viewers witness the two stars pushed to the limit as they attempt to keep their high-wattage acts on an eco-friendly course. Enlisting the help of their posses, celebrity guests, and anyone else willing to lend a hand, Ludacris and Tommy Lee dive right into the BATTLEGROUND EARTH competition with unexpected and sometimes hilarious results.

In the "Fast Fuel" episode Ludacris and Tommy Lee's bio-diesel tour buses are running on empty in the middle of the Texas Panhandle. They must roll into a fast food restaurant and look for fast food grease to turn into eco- friendly fuel. Throughout the tour they battle to get the word out about the state of the environment. This Rap n' Roll battle culminates in a green carpet benefit concert at LA's legendary Greek Theater. The concert featuring Luda, Tommy Lee and many of their famous musician friends will support the renewal of Griffith Park, which was devastated by recent wildfires.

The talent featured in BATTLEGROUND EARTH has made plenty of headlines for their antics on and off the stage. Christopher Brian Bridges, better known by his rap alias Ludacris, is the CEO of Disturbing tha Peace, an imprint distributed by Def Jam Recordings. His breakout roles in Hustle and Flow and the Academy Award winning film Crash have led to starring roles in the upcoming Rock & Rolla and Max Payne. He has sold over 15 million records in the U.S. alone and is tied for the title of hip hop artist with the second most Billboard Hot 100 number one hits. His eagerly awaited upcoming album, Theatre of the Mind, drops this summer and his newest restaurant, Straits Atlanta, opens this spring.

Tommy Lee is best known as the drummer for the wildly popular heavy metal band Motley Crue. Motley Crue has sold 45 million albums (25 million in the US alone) over their 25-year career. After leaving Motley Crue, Lee founded Methods of Mayhem and embarked on solo work including guest appearances on other artists' albums such as Nine Inch Nails and Rob Zombie. Lee also launched a clothing line with People's Liberation that was inspired by his tattoos. Currently, Tommy is touring with partner DJ Aero as part of one of the world's premier DJ teams.

BATTLEGROUND EARTH is a primetime series produced for Planet Green by the Greif Company. Leslie Greif and Adam Reed are the executive producers for Greif, Steve Jones is co-executive producer and Jonathan McHugh is supervising producer. Howard Lee is vice president of production and executive producer for Planet Green and Lisa Caruso is executive producer.

The Greif Company was nominated for an Emmy(R) Award this year for TCM's acclaimed documentary, BRANDO. Today, the company produces numerous shows including the third season of A&E's most popular series GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS.

The Greif Company was incorporated under writer/director/producer Leslie Greif, who made a name for himself creating numerous TV movies, series, mini- series and specials for all major networks including HBO, ABC, CBS, Fox, A&E, TNT and USA. The Company has also produced several features including FUNNY MONEY starring Chevy Chase, and KEYS TO TULSA starring Cameron Diaz, Eric Stoltz and James Spader.

About Planet Green:

Planet Green is Discovery Communications' global, cross-company initiative with a commitment to document, preserve and celebrate the planet, including the first-ever 24-hour eco-lifestyle television network coming to more than 50 million homes on June 4, 2008. Planet Green is the multiplatform media destination with a mission. It's the center for the new green conversation, speaking to people who want to understand green living and to those who truly want to make a difference in meeting the critical challenge of protecting our environment. Planet Green's unique content, tools and information will enlighten, empower and most importantly, entertain.

Planet Green's platforms include leading eco-lifestyle website TreeHugger.com and the recently launched solutions-oriented PlanetGreen.com. Discovery will also launch Discovery Education Green, a K-12 service that hosts dynamic media content correlated to state standards. Discovery Education Green will help teachers integrate Green lessons into their curriculum and empowers students to make more environmentally conscious decisions.

About Discovery Communications:

Discovery Communications is the number-one nonfiction media company reaching more than 1.5 billion cumulative subscribers in over 170 countries. Discovery's 100-plus worldwide networks are led by Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, The Science Channel, Discovery Health and HD Theater, with digital media properties including HowStuffWorks.com. Discovery Communications is owned by Discovery Holding Co. (NASDAQ:DISCA) (NASDAQ:DISCB) , Advance/Newhouse Communications and John S. Hendricks, Discovery's founder and chairman. For more information please visit http://www.discoverycommunications.com/.

Source: Planet Green

CONTACT: Annie Howell of Discovery Communications, +1-240-893-9757,
Annie_Howell@discovery.com; or Amy Grey, +1-818-508-1000,
amyg@dishcommunications.com, for Discovery Communications

Web site: http://www.discovery.com/
http://www.discoverycommunications.com/
http://www.planetgreen.com/

The D-BOYZ Finalize Label Deal With 404 Music, Inc.

THE NEW SINGLE "IT'S YOUR MONEY (DOPE MONEY)" FROM THE FORTHCOMING ALBUM "LIFE OF A D-BOY" BY D-BOYZ

ATLANTA, GA--(Marketwire - March 31, 2008) - 404 Music, Inc. proudly announces that it has signed a joint venture label deal with D-BOYZ Entertainment to release the first album from former Cash Money recording artists, Stone and Lac. Collectively known as the D-BOYZ, their upcoming album "Life of a D-BOY" is an unprecedented effort that features eleven former Cash Money artists including Mannie Fresh, Juvenile, BG, TQ, Jazze Pha, Strings, Kango, Wacko, Skip, Chain, and Ms. Tee. Rap superstar Lil' Wayne also makes an appearance on the hit single, "It's Your Money," which is currently number six on the charts at www.soundcheckny.com. The album is scheduled for release at the end of April 2008.

As an original member of The Hot Boys, Lac co-wrote some of Cash Money's early hits, including the smash single, "#1 Stunna." Stone's musical resume also boasts collaborations with multi-platinum acts like The Hot Boys, Big Tymers, Juvenile, T.I., and Mac-10. He also co-wrote the hit single, "Still Fly" with Mannie Fresh.

Straight from the gritty melting pot of New Orleans, the D-BOYZ music is full of stories depicting the lifestyle of the street hustler and the dire consequences that often accompany it.

With the formation of their record label, D-BOYZ Entertainment, Stone and Lac are now poised to unleash their raw and uncompromising tales of urban struggle on the world of hip-hop.

In describing the album, Stone says, "Even though all our music talks about the struggles in the street, we want to show that you can still make it in life and do something positive."

"It is a thrill and a privilege to be part of what is long overdue for Stone and Lac. The D-BOYZ are coming out with a real record from top to bottom," states Nina K. Easton, President and CEO of 404 Music, Inc.

Easton is a highly respected industry executive and co-founder of Ichiban Records. Highlighted as "one of the fastest growing small companies in the U.S." in Entrepreneur Magazine, Ichiban's roster included Gold and Platinum selling acts like Vanilla Ice, MC Breed, Curtis Mayfield, 95 South, and many others.

Established in 1998 and based out of Atlanta, 404 Music had success with releases from Popa Wu from the Wu-Tang Clan (produced by Rza) and Young Jeezy's first album. Due to the shift in the industry, 404 Music suspended operations, and Easton focused on running MDI Distribution, which is celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary. With the influx of new technology creating ideal conditions for the re-emergence of 404 Music, Easton resurrected the label in October of 2007.

MDI Distribution will be handling national and international distribution for the upcoming album, "Life of a D-BOY." MDI Distribution distributes music to retailers and provides music placement in movies, television, commercials, video games, as well as all online channels.

Contact:
Christopher Dixon
Tel: (404) 347-9409
Cell: (404) 514-8716
Email:
http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/emailprcntct?id=477B225417BD3C55

MULTI-PLATINUM PRODUCER DAME GREASE PARTICIPATES IN A WORKSHOP FOR THE FREE TEENS USA 2008 MEDIA SUMMIT OVER THE WEEKEND

Dame Grease took time off from his busy schedule to devote his time to the youth of FREE TEENS USA over the weekend

New York, NY - March 31, 2008 - Dame Grease composed an instrumental that would normally retail for over $20,000 on the spot at the Free Teens USA 2008 Media Summit in Fairview Lake, NJ this past weekend.  Grease donated the track to the students at the summit, and the teens wrote their own song to the instrumental during their songwriting workshop. The song will soon be available for digital distribution online.  Grease also fielded questions about the music industry from approximately 50 students at the local YMCA lodge.

Dame Grease was invited by the Free Teens U.S.A. board to participate in the 2008 Media Summit Workshop as the music production instructor.  The workshop was composed of media professionals in the fields of  film/video production, theatre, dance, music/recording production, photojournalism, spoken word and digital media. The workshop was developed as a platform to encourage the youth to be inspired and motivate their vision of future  decisions in their lives through positive media .

video link: http://revver.com/video/779296/multi-platinum-producer-dame-grease-and-the-free-teens-usa/

about Free Teens USA - Free Teens USA reaches more than 15,000 teens annually in urban and suburban areas of NY and NJ with messages of healthy relationships, self-leadership, and character development. Free Teens aims to help youth achieve their life dreams and goals including that of preparing for a committed love relationship that can last a lifetime!

After-school programs include Free Teens Clubs and Teen Leader Councils, which seek to increase the number of teens aware of the consequences of risky behavior such as uncommitted sex and drugs and who have resolved to abstain from sex, drugs, and other high-risk behaviors.

www.freeteensyouth.com
www.culturemachine.com

about Dame Grease - Originally breaking out as the producer for The LOX's "We'll Always Love Big Poppa" and DMX's smash single "Get At Me Dog," Dame Grease's production has since contributed to the sales of over 30 million records worldwide.  Grease's sonic stamp has played an integral role in launching the careers of a multitude of artists and producers,
including Swizz Beatz, DMX, The LOX and many more.

To find out more about Dame Grease log on to his official myspace page www.myspace.com/damegrease and www.crackspace.com/damegrease for his latest project off of BabyGrande Records. GOON MUSIK 2008.

press and media interested in Dame Grease please contact Cynamin Jones: publicity@soulpitch.com

For Press or Media Inquiries Contact:

Cynamin Jones

SOUL PITCH MEDIA

Tel: 917-385-8794

Email: publicity@soulpitch.com

ARIZONA EMCEE SPITS ON THE SMALL SCREEN, WHILE MAKING A NAME FOR HIMSELF IN HIP HOP

Arizona (March 2008) - An animated, sharp and poised emcee by the name of Thaahum, is finding his distinct sound all over the independent film scene. With a song featured on the DVD, The Dark Backward, released on Sony Home Entertainment, a song on the upcoming film, National Lampoon's Homo Erectus and a recent placement in, "The Power of Mentorship," a movie based on a self-made millionaire, Don Boyer, the Arizona emcee is becoming the "Lil' Wayne" of the film industry." He raps, you listen. He performs, you watch.

  While you watch, Thaahum is turning the heads of directors, independent film-producers and catching the attention of behind the scene shot callers, Thaahum is also a columnist for film writer/director Kevin Smith's website QuickStopEntertainment.com and is best known for "Keneteph's Korner," a column with one on one interviews with musicians and industry innovators.

  It's not a coincidence that he's scoring slots in several television and radio shows, while marching his way through stereotypical southwestern glass ceilings, Thaahum has been on the grind since 1999.

  The Arizona native has opened up for several Hip Hop acts including: Black Eyed Peas, Ghostface Killa and legendary Hip Hop group Digital Underground. With BDS soundscan spins for his single, "Spreewells," which is on rotation on Music Choice, the "beyond the realm" emcee is making his way through the universe.

  Not only is this southwestern native creating an alternative avenue with his music, he's also working on his upcoming album, The Other Side of Nothing scheduled for release this upcoming year. On his upcoming 2008 release, Thaahum collaborates with Amil, Imami Coppola and super-producer D-Maq.

  The independent Hip Hip artist, who's signed under his own label, Keneteph Entertainment is currently working on several projects including song placements for popular shows and booking shows in the Arizona area.

For more information contact:

        Dominque Howse

  Email: dhowse@mac.com

        Keneteph Entertainment

        www.keneteph.net

        www.myspace.com/keneteph

        http://www.quickstopentertainment.com/category/kenetephs-korner/

Kelsey Grammer, Ben Stiller, Maroon 5 and The Roots Added to COMEDY CENTRAL's(R) Live On-air Charity Special 'Night of Too Many Stars: An Overbooked Concert for Autism Education'

Hosted by Jon Stewart on Sunday April 13, at 8 p.m. ET

Appearances By Will Arnett, Matthew Broderick, Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Susie Essman, Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, Jonah Hill, Kevin James, Conan O'Brien, Rosie O'Donnell, Amy Poehler, Adam Sandler, Sarah Silverman, Triumph The Insult Comic Dog And Many More To Be Announced

NEW YORK, March 31 /PRNewswire/ -- COMEDY CENTRAL announced today that Kelsey Grammer, Ben Stiller, Grammy Award-winning band Maroon 5 and The Roots have been added to the line-up for its bi-annual live on-air special event, "Night Of Too Many Stars: An Overbooked Concert For Autism Education." On Sunday, April 13, at 8:00 p.m. ET, live from the Beacon Theatre in New York City, the benefit for Autism education programs will feature Jon Stewart hosting an evening filled with live performances, sketches and short films from a roster of comedy all-stars.

Performers raising money to help ease the severe shortage of effective schools and education programs for autistic children and adults include Fred Armisen, Will Arnett, Matthew Broderick, Tom Brokaw, Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Susie Essman, Will Ferrell, Tina Fey, Will Forte, Kelsey Grammer, Jonah Hill, Kevin James, Maroon 5, Rosie O'Donnell, Amy Poehler, Conan O'Brien, Adam Sandler, Sarah Silverman, Ben Stiller, Triumph The Insult Comic Dog and many additional talent to be announced. The Roots will be the house band for the evening.

Beginning on Tuesday, April 15, "Night of Too Many Stars" will be available for download on iTunes and xBox Live Marketplace for 30 days. All proceeds from the $1.99 download will go directly to the charity. In addition, comedycentral.com will stream the entire broadcast online on Monday, April 14. Users will have the opportunity to donate to the charity via the Web site.

The October 2006 "Night Of Too Many Stars: An Overbooked Benefit For Autism Education" raised more than $2.5 million.

"Night Of Too Many Stars" will benefit a variety of Autism education programs around the country. The funds raised will support educational facilities that have recently opened or are about to open their doors, along with those already well-established model schools that are now developing innovative programs to provide vocational and life skills for adults with autism. Proceeds will also support outreach programs that provide training and consultation to families of very young children in their homes. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds will benefit Autism Speaks, the nation's leading autism advocacy group.

COMEDY CENTRAL, the only all-comedy network, currently is seen in more than 91 million homes nationwide. COMEDY CENTRAL is owned by, and is a registered trademark of, Comedy Partners, a wholly-owned division of Viacom Inc.'s (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) MTV Networks. COMEDY CENTRAL's Internet address is www.comedycentral.com. For up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs visit Press Central, COMEDY CENTRAL's press Web site at www.comedycentral.com/press.

Source: COMEDY CENTRAL Corporate Communications

CONTACT: Aileen Budow, +1-212-767-3952, aileen.budow@comedycentral.com,
or Renata Luczak, +1-212-767-8661, renata.luczak@comedycentral.com, both of
COMEDY CENTRAL

Web site: http://www.comedycentral.com/
http://www.comedycentral.com/press

AT&T Tips Off NCAA(R) Men's Final Four(R) Weekend With High-Powered Musical Lineup Including Fall Out Boy, The Roots, Ludo and Danity Kane

AT&T blue room to Deliver Live Concert Webcast on Friday, April 4, featuring Ludo, The Roots and a Special Three-Song Exclusive From Fall Out Boy

SAN ANTONIO, March 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) announced today a dynamic multi-tiered entertainment and interactive lineup for events surrounding the 2008 NCAA men's Final Four. The weekend celebration commences in San Antonio Friday, April 4, at 7 p.m. CDT with the AT&T Block Party, featuring a musical showcase headlined by pop-punk and rock band Fall Out Boy -- whose new CD+DVD "****LIVE IN PHOENIX" hits April 1. The Roots, a Grammy-winning hip-hop/soul/funk band, and power-pop band Ludo also will perform. In an effort to deliver the excitement of the weekend to fans nationwide, concert footage of The Roots and Ludo -- as well as a three-song sneak peak of Fall Out Boy's performance -- will be streamed live on the AT&T blue room (http://www.attblueroom.com/). The Webcast will begin at 7:45 p.m. CDT. In addition, video content from the performance will be available exclusively to wireless customers of AT&T via Cellular Video (CV) on or before May 1.

"The NCAA men's Final Four weekend offers a collection of some of the most entertaining and exciting events in the world of sports and music," said Jamie Butcher, vice president of Brand Sponsorship for AT&T. "This year, we're incorporating the cutting-edge technology of the blue room to deliver the unique sights and sounds of the AT&T Block Party to fans from coast to coast, as well as using our cellular video capabilities to deliver videos, ringtones, graphics and more to AT&T's wireless customers."

On Saturday, AT&T takes the celebration to Hoop City(R) refreshed by Coca-Cola(R), the NCAA's ultimate basketball festival, where fans can participate in AT&T's interactive stations, including:

  -- Fast Fingers Challenge. Up to four participants will have the
     opportunity to challenge one another to see who can text a phrase the
     fastest.
  -- Naismith Photo Station. Fans can take a commemorative photo with a
     replica of the Naismith Trophy, and the photo will be printed
     immediately using Bluetooth(R) printer technology.
  -- Live Bars. Fans can watch the latest CV content, experience AT&T's
     MusicID or create their own ringtone.

Highlighting the day, and featured live at center court of Hoop City, will be live performances from MTV's "Making The Band" sensations Danity Kane and Day 26. In addition, AT&T will host an array of NCAA Division I basketball coaches and NBA legends as they sign autographs for fans, and an NCAA Mascot Challenge to benefit the Boys and Girls Club Scholarship Fund.

"The NCAA men's Final Four is a cornerstone of AT&T's marketing efforts this year, and we will once again reflect that through innovative sponsorships and interactive media," said Butcher.

Wireless customers of AT&T can access content, including videos, ringtones, graphics and more from Fall Out Boy, Ludo, The Roots, Danity Kane and Day 26, by text messaging the word CVLIVE to 386. All CV content will be available by May 1.

  For more information on the performers, visit their official Web sites at:

  -- Fall Out Boy: http://www.falloutboyrock.com/falloutboy/splash08.php
  -- Ludo: http://www.ludorock.com/
  -- The Roots: http://www.theroots.com/
  -- Danity Kane: http://www.danitykane.com/
  -- Day 26: http://www.day26online.com/

Whether it's on stage or on the field, behind the scenes of a video shoot or at home with friends and family, no other Web site brings fans closer to their favorite musicians and athletes than the AT&T blue room. To date, the blue room and its online channels have generated more than 120 million page views and have fueled sales of the company's core offerings -- high speed Internet, wireless, voice and video -- while building an affinity for the AT&T brand in the entertainment space.

  For the complete array of AT&T offerings, visit http://www.att.com/.

  About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world's most advanced IP-based business communications services and the nation's leading wireless, high speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of its three-screen integration strategy, AT&T is expanding its TV entertainment offerings. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com/.

(C) 2008 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other AT&T marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

Note: This AT&T release and other news announcements are available as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. For more information, please review this announcement in the AT&T newsroom at http://www.att.com/newsroom.

About the NCAA

The NCAA is a membership-led nonprofit association of colleges and universities committed to supporting academic and athletics opportunities for more than 380,000 student-athletes at more than 1,000 member colleges and universities. Each year, more than 54,000 student-athletes compete in NCAA championships in Divisions I, II and III sports. Visit http://www.ncaa.org/ and http://www.ncaa.com/ for more details about the Association, its goals and members and corporate partnerships that help support programs for student-athletes.

The NCAA is proud to have the following elite companies as official Corporate Champions -- AT&T, Coca-Cola and Pontiac -- and the following elite companies as official Corporate Partners -- DiGiorno, Enterprise, The Hartford, Lowe's, Sheraton and State Farm.

[NCAA, Final Four, and Hoop City are trademarks of the National Collegiate Athletic Association.]

Source: AT&T Inc.

CONTACT: Lauren Butler of AT&T Inc., Mobile, +1-404-405-5623,
lb0426@att.com

Web site: http://www.att.com/
http://www.ncaa.com/

Scion A/V, The Automaker's Private Record Label, to Launch Three New Releases in May From Its Unique Collection Featuring Ghostface Killah, 45 KING and Rhythm Roots Allstars

March 31, 2008
IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Scion has once again partnered with some of the hottest names in the biz to produce three exclusive releases benefiting the artist - Ghostface Killah vs. Rhythm Roots Allstars - "Charlie Brown," Scion A/V Remix: Ghostface Killah and Scion A/V Remix: 45 KING. In its continual effort to show support for the music industry, Scion covers all production, licensing and distribution costs for their A/V projects and then donates 100% of the proceeds back to the artists themselves.

Choosing to work with artists from all genres, tastes and levels of fame, Scion stays true to their corporate philosophy based on creativity, variety and individuality, making this innovative automaker the ideal outlet to bring awareness to the art form. By enlisting the help of a wide-range of remixers and artists who bring a different flavor to every track, Scion is proud to present these new releases, which offer unique sounds for every musical preference.

Following the enormous success of the recent Daptone Records partnership, Scion CD Sampler Vol. 19 – Daptone Records Remixed, on which some of the most respected names in the industry appeared (Mark Ronson, Sharon Jones, The Daptones, Kenny Dope, Ticklah), Scion is at it again by providing Scion A/V fans with more fresh beats and funky tracks on the new releases. Beginning May 6, promotional copies of the Ghostface Killah releases will be distributed at special Scion-sponsored events and will be available for free download on leading online retailers. On May 13, Scion A/V Remix: 45 KING will be available for purchase via all leading online retailers.

"As an influential corporation, we will continue to partner with tastemakers from around the world to deliver innovative products and sounds to our consumers," said Jeri Yoshizu, Scion sales promotions manager. "By continuing to team up with both established and on the rise talent such as Ghostface Killah, 45 King and the Rhythm Roots Allstars, Scion proves its dedication to delivering great music and supporting the artists that make it happen."

Scion A/V Remix: Ghostface Killah is stacked with four unique dance remixes of "Charlie Brown" by world renowned French electro producers Yuksek, Orgasmic and DJ Mehdi, as well as Los Angeles-based DJ and production duo Guns N Bombs.

Scion's Ghostface Killah vs. Rhythm Roots Allstars – "Charlie Brown" release features world renowned hip-hop emcee Ghostface Killah of Wu-Tang Clan fame, who provides his traditionally rugged and eccentric lyrics over three versions of the original track "Charlie Brown" produced by the Los Angeles-based band the Rhythm Roots Allstars.

Scion A/V Remix: 45 KING features up-and-coming emcees Wale, Pase Rock and 4th Pyramid rocking over super-star hip-hop producer 45 King's quintessential up-beat tracks. In addition, Scion has enlisted the help of New York-based producers, In Flagranti, Eli Escobar, DJ Ayres of the infamous Brooklyn-based DJ trio The Rub and Sammy Bananas who each remixed one record.

Official titles and tracklisting:

Ghostface Killah vs. Rhythm Roots Allstars – "Charlie Brown"

1. Main

2. Instrumental

3. Acapella

Scion A/V Remix: Ghostface Killah

1. Charlie Brown (DJ Mehdi Remix feat. Mapei)

2. Charlie Brown (Yuksek Remix)

3. Charlie Brown (Orgasmic Remix)

4. Charlie Brown (Guns N' Bombs Remix)

Scion A/V Remix: 45 KING

1. 45 King vs. Wale – Roof

2. 45 King vs. Wale – Roof (DJ Ayres Remix)

3. 45 King vs. Wale – Strings

4. 45 King vs. Wale – Strings (Inflagranti Remix)

5. 45 King vs. Pase Rock –The 900 Number (2k8)

6. 45King vs. Pase Rock – The 900 Number (2k8) (DJ Eli Remix)

7. 45 King vs. 4th Pyramid – P-Y-R-A-M-I-D

8. 45 King vs. 4th Pyramid – P-Y-R-A-M-I-D (Sammy Bananas Remix)

For more information on these releases and other Scion A/V projects please visit: www.scion.com/#scionAV

About Scion

Scion, from Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., was developed with a new generation of youthful buyers in mind. Scion's mission is to provide distinctive products, the opportunity to personalize, and an innovative, consumer-driven process at the retail level. The Scion brand features three groundbreaking models. The xD is an urban subcompact five-door, featuring a muscular stance and accentuated wheel flares. The xB, an urban utility vehicle, combines remarkable interior space with iconic styling. And the tC sports coupe surprises the buyer with the convenience of a hatchback and the luxury of a standard all-glass panorama moonroof, complementing the usual wide array of features on all Scions. For more information, visit www.scion.com.

Contacts

Bender/Helper Impact
Melisa Rodriguez/Rebecca Naysan, 310-473-4147
melisa_rodriguez@bhimpact.com
rebecca_naysan@bhimpact.com

Pioneering Educational Hip-Hop Program Ready to Expand

National education crisis motivates schools to look at nontraditional program to help close achievement gap

LOS ANGELES, March 31 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A unique educational Hip Hop program offered at a public school in Los Angeles is now preparing to expand to other schools and colleges. The Global Awareness through Hip Hop Culture Program, now in its second year, is currently taught by its creator, Sebastien Elkouby, and is one of the only full time educational Hip Hop programs in the country being offered as an elective to 7th and 8th grade students.

Elkouby, founder of the Urban Youth Empowerment Foundation, an organization which uses Hip Hop culture as a tool for youth empowerment, created this program to address the educational crisis that affects approximately 50% of inner-city students throughout many major urban centers across the nation.

"For a variety of reasons, many students feel disconnected from the traditional educational process and ultimately give up. This program helps students develop a sense of global awareness and critical thinking skills by using Hip Hop culture and Rap music to analyze pop culture, current events, and social issues, while simultaneously teaching language arts, history, social studies, cultural diversity, and geography," said Elkouby. "Using Hip Hop as a medium to reach students makes sense considering they have such a strong connection to it."

With the growing success of the program, various high schools and colleges have now voiced their interest in offering this course to their students. Elkouby adds, "This is an exciting time as educators are increasingly aware of the urgent need for innovative, culturally relevant instructional models that can motivate students to improve their grades and value their education. Thus, our program has now been restructured to also meet the needs of high school and college students. We are looking forward to working with new schools this year and beyond."

The Global Awareness through Hip Hop Culture Program is currently in session while working toward expanding its reach to other schools for the 2008-2009 school year.

About the Global Awareness through Hip Hop Culture Program

The Global Awareness through Hip Hop Program is the flagship component of the Urban Youth Empowerment Foundation, a Los Angeles organization founded by Sebastien Elkouby. Since 2001, this organization has used innovative methods to reach at-risk youth. Through a variety of workshops ranging in themes from job training to teen parenting, the Foundation has always used Hip Hop culture as a medium to reach its audience. The Global Awareness through Hip Hop Program was created to address the high dropout rates in L.A. schools and was implemented at its first school on a full time basis in 2006. This program capitalizes on Hip Hop's generational relevance to help students become socially aware while complementing core subjects such as English and history. For more information, visit http://www.thefoundationonline.net/.

  Contact:
  Sebastian Elkouby
  Founder, The Urban Youth Empowerment Foundation
  Phone: 310-654-1681
  E-mail: info@thefoundationonline.net
  Website: http://www.thefoundationonline.net/

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com/.

Source: Urban Youth Empowerment Foundation

CONTACT: Sebastian Elkouby, Founder of The Urban Youth Empowerment
Foundation, +1-310-654-1681, info@thefoundationonline.net

Web site: http://www.thefoundationonline.net/

Fabulosity Designed by Kimora Lee Simmons Launches Exclusively At JCPenney

Designer Kimora Lee Simmons Offers New Juniors Brand at No. 1 Department Store for Teens

March 31, 2008
PLANO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP) and Kellwood Company today announced the launch of Fabulosity, a complete fashion sportswear line designed by Kimora Lee Simmons to be sold exclusively at JCPenney. The new collection, created for JCPenney's Juniors customer, will debut in JCPenney stores and online at jcp.com in July, just in time for the Back-to-School season.

Inspired by the glamorous lifestyle of former runway model Kimora Lee Simmons, Fabulosity embodies a lifestyle of confidence, beauty and fashion sense, all at a smart price. Renowned for pioneering the introduction of glamour and feminine appeal to the urban brand category, Simmons has created a new line for JCPenney, which combines the two worlds she knows best -- high fashion and hip hop. Fabulosity will be merchandised at JCPenney as an urban lifestyle offering in Juniors with a complete sportswear line featuring tees, knit tops and sweaters, jeans, skirts and dresses, as well as hoodies, jackets and outerwear. The collection will be offered at JCPenney's best pricing tier and will range from $29 to $108.

"As the No. 1 department store for teens, JCPenney has a proven track record of delivering a wide array of must-have styles and brands to some of our most discriminating customers: teen girls," said Ken Hicks, president and chief merchandising officer for JCPenney. "We continue to build on this leadership with the launch of Fabulosity, which brings Kimora's popular charismatic personality and flair for fashion to our Juniors department, expanding our offering and deepening our emotional connection with our younger customers through a truly authentic brand."

"I can't wait to bring Fabulosity to the JCPenney Juniors customer! Young teen girls are fabulous and my new collection will further build their confidence as they head back-to-school. Fabulosity is all about celebrating who you are and your individual greatness - living your dream and being whatever you want to be. This is a great message for young teens -- and I am so proud to partner with JCPenney on this collection," commented Simmons.

Bob Skinner, Kellwood chairman, president and chief executive officer added, "Kimora touches the heart and soul of teens and young women around the world. Her positive influence and confident fashion bravado sends a message of self-reliance and fearlessness to teens. Kimora's new Fabulosity collection is certain to engage the JCPenney Juniors customer, and we look forward to expanding our partnership with JCPenney on this new initiative."

The Fabulosity sportswear collection is produced under a licensing agreement by BP Clothing, LLC.

About JCPenney

JCPenney is one of America's leading retailers, operating 1,074 department stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, as well as one of the largest apparel and home furnishing sites on the Internet, jcp.com, and the nation's largest general merchandise catalog business. Through these integrated channels, JCPenney offers a wide array of national, private and exclusive brands which reflect the Company's commitment to providing customers with style and quality at a smart price. Traded as "JCP" on the New York Stock Exchange, the Company posted revenue of approximately $19.9 billion in 2007 and is executing its strategic plan to be the growth leader in the retail industry. Key to this strategy is JCPenney's "Every Day Matters" brand positioning, intended to generate deeper, more emotionally driven relationships with customers by fully engaging the Company's 155,000 Associates to offer encouragement, provide ideas and inspire customers every time they shop with JCPenney.

About Kimora Lee Simmons

Kimora Lee Simmons is president of Baby Phat and creative director of Phat Fashions' Baby Phat, Phat Farm, and KLS Collection brands. Phat Fashions is a division of Kellwood Company. Over the years, Kimora has inspired a new generation of consumers with her glamorous, sexy, over-the-top style. Her influence in the world of fashion is undeniable while her savvy as a businesswoman has made this former runway model a worldwide brand phenomenon. Kimora is the only multiethnic woman to have a successful fashion and media branded empire. Quintessentially, she is the new establishment. As the instrumental force behind the brands' creative designs, ad campaign strategies and marketing concepts, Kimora has taken her astute business acumen and passion for her work to spearhead numerous brand extension ventures with companies including Mattel, Motorola, Lancaster and Dan River which include dolls, bedding, home products, candles, fragrance and cosmetics.

About Kellwood Company

Kellwood is a $1.6 billion leading marketer of apparel and consumer soft goods. Specializing in branded products, the Company markets to all channels of distribution with products and brands tailored to each specific channel. Kellwood is an affiliated portfolio company of Sun Capital Partners, Inc. ("Sun Capital"), a leading private investment firm specializing in leveraged buyouts and investments in market-leading companies. For more information, visit www.kellwood.com.

Contacts

JCPenney Corporate Communications
(business and trade media relations):
Rebecca Winter or Kate Parkhouse, 972-431-3400
jcpcorpcomm@jcpenney.com
or
JCPenney Brand Publicity
(lifestyle media relations):
Merianne Roth, 972-431-2317
mroth4@jcpenney.com
or
Kellwood/Phat Fashions:
Donna Weaver, 212-329-8072
donna.weaver@kellwood.com

MTV Networks Partners with mywaves to Launch its First-Ever Free, Ad-Supported Video on Mobile

Strategic partnership to bring mobile video content from VH1, Spike, GameTrailers and additional MTVN brands to the fast-growing mywaves audience

NEW YORK and SUNNYVALE, Calif., March 31 /PRNewswire/ -- MTV Networks (MTVN), a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) , and mywaves, the largest mobile video destination, today announced a partnership to deliver MTVN's first-ever free, ad-supported video entertainment on mobile phones. Through the agreement, select video clips from VH1, Spike, GameTrailers and additional MTVN brands will be available to mywaves users on the m.mywaves.com mobile website. mywaves and MTVN will collaborate to serve video ads on the mywaves platform, further extending MTVN's advertising sales capabilities in mobile media.

"We're the leading provider of mobile video in the world, and as we look to extend our reach and open up our vast video content libraries even further on handsets, it's crucial that we embrace the ad-supported model," said Alice Kim, Senior Vice President, Digital Distribution and Partner Relations, MTVN. "With mywaves, we're giving our fans the ability to freely interact with our content in a unique, ad-supported environment, while driving viewership back to our core TV channels, Web and mobile properties."

"MTV Networks sets the creative standard for the most popular entertainment with our young mobile audience," said Rajeev Raman, CEO and founder, mywaves. "Combined with our reach, the MTVN mobile programming now available on mywaves, offers fantastic value to consumers and advertisers. Our viewers want to enjoy MTVN entertainment anytime, anywhere and this partnership enables us to reach millions of engaged mobile consumers and lead the industry in developing new advertising based business models."

MTVN will provide frequently updated video clips, allowing mywaves users instant, on-the-go access to the freshest and most up-to-date entertainment. Beginning today, users can access VH1's "On This Day in Music" rock trivia clip. In the next several weeks, mywaves users will gain access to Spike's "30 Seconds of a Hot Chick," and GameTrailers video reviews and trailers. Video content from additional MTVN brands will be made available on mywaves later this year.

The new agreement strengthens MTVN's position as the world's largest provider of diverse programming on-air, online and on mobile spanning nearly every demographic from kids and teens, to young adults, men, boomer and LGBT audiences. MTVN is the leading provider of video on mobile, with more than 80 distribution deals and 40 on-demand and streaming mobile video services worldwide.

About mywaves Inc.

mywaves is the largest mobile video destination for consumers, attracting over 5 million unique visitors monthly to its free mobile video service. Consumers can browse through nearly 400,000 channels of premium videos and have their favorites automatically updated and delivered to their phones. Most users tune in to watch mywaves video weekly with average viewing times of 24 minutes per session. The service works globally across all 3G, EDGE, BREW and EV-DO carriers as well as most video-capable mobile phones, including Palm, Windows Mobile, Symbian and RIM based phones. Headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., mywaves is led by a team from Yahoo!, Napster, Danger, Palm and TiVo. The company is funded by venture capital firm, Menlo Ventures. For more information or to sign up for mywaves, go to www.mywaves.com or from a mobile browser: www.mywaves.com/m.

About MTV Networks

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 150 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services -- MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, LOGO, NOGGIN, THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 300 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV Networks

CONTACT: Mark Jafar of MTV Networks, +1-212-846-8961,
mark.jafar@mtvstaff.com; or Nicole Rodrigues, Public Relations Manager of
mywaves, inc., +1-510-305-9881, Nicole@mywaves.inc.com

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

Are you a recording artist that has what it takes to be GROWN & GANGSTA?

TRU Publishing & Conversations Book Club, in connection with our partners BeBop Record Shops and http://www.TRUpublishing.com want to put you to the challenge! Purchase Jacki-O's book GROWN & GANGSTA today through Bebop Record Shop or online at http://www.trupublishing.com, mail in proof of purchase along with a song in which you are featured for a chance to win the honor of recording a song with the "Madam of Miami" Jacki-O & the Founder of TRU Publishing C-Murder!

GROWN & GANGSTA can be purchased by calling BeBop Record Stores (601.981.5000/601.969.3181) for only $12.95 plus taxes and handling or online at http://www.trupublishing.com. (DON'T HAVE YOUR RECEIPT? Then take a picture with you and the book and send it to the address below!) Credit/debit cards and money orders are acceptable forms of payment online. Each store can provide their mailing address and the total to be mailed in for the purchase of the book, however, proof of purchase & cds should be mailed to the following (NO ELECTRONIC SUBMISSIONS!):

Tru Records * 3154 B. College Drive #534 * Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70808

Include your name, mailing address, phone number and email address.

Deadline for all submissions is July 4, 2008. The winner will be announced July 19, 2008.

For details, call Russell Baker at 504.319.7215 or Cyrus A. Webb at 601.896.5616.

C'mon. JOIN THE ADDICTION: Get hooked on books!
http://www.trupublishing.com    http://www.thebestbookclub.info

SCARFACE – LIVE – APRIL 26TH, 2008 – THE BIG EASY

Hip Hop legend, rap veteran, king of the south, whatever you call him, he's coming and he won't be alone!! Long time friend Devin the Dude will join him for this once in a lifetime concert. With over 20 years in the game, 11 solo albums, chart topping songs and numerous awards under his belt, Scarface is undeniably one of Hip Hop's greatest. His aggressive flow and amazing story telling ability has made him one of the genre's most consistent artists. His latest album "Made", released this past December, reached #2 on billboards Hip Hop/R&B charts proving that he still has it. And in case you're not yet convinced, come early to see a special local artist showcase in Bourbon Street Lounge starting at 8:00pm. We are under going artist auditions and interviews now to find the hottest up and coming artists from the Northwest. The main stage will feature performances by Emmanual, Sonny Bonoho, Tha' Committee, Devin the Dude, and Scarface. Tickets go on sale Friday, February 22nd at 10am and are available thru Ticketswest.com. The first 200 tickets sold online are only $21. VIP is available for $51 and includes separate entrance and sectioned off area with appetizers and drink specials. This is an all ages show with a 21 and over bar. The Big Easy is located at 919 E. Sprague St.-Spokane. Call 253-405-6280 for information on all inclusive packages from Seattle. Make sure to listen to Wired 96.9 for your chance to win tickets before you can buy them and get ready! This is more than just a concert this is history in the making. Presented by Evergreen Productions and Wired 96.9.

For Further Information Contact

Melissa Wheatley

FootWork Media

253-405-6280 (phone)

253-473-0978 (fax)

footworkmedia@yahoo.com (email)

For a combined total of 93 weeks on multiple billboard charts, there are 2 artists from the Northwest that you need to know.

Although Northwest hip hop might not get much national attention, the people here know the underground scene is very alive and on the brink of the spot light that has eluded the region for so long.  Such artists as Cool Nutz and Blue Scholars have been able to get some national media attention, but not since Sir Mix a Lot and Kid Sensation have Northwest artists been able to break the billboard charts and stay on them until now.

Emmanuel Frayer, 21, born and raised in Tacoma , Washington is not only a talented singer he is also a song writer and musician.  His song "Swagga" off his latest album "Life & Love" is tearing up the billboard charts.  Reaching #1 on Billboards Hot R&B/Hip Hop Sales chart it has remained in that top spot for an impressive 12 weeks.  The song is also gracing the Hot Single Sales and Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs charts and is in regular rotation on many radio stations throughout the country.  He has opened for such artists as Kanye West, Ludacris and Hurricane Chris.  Emmanuel has a great fresh new sound and his songs are full of his life experiences.  He has an amazing ability to show his emotions through his music and connect with the audience.  Follow this link to view his IAP and get ready for a new era in R&B.

http://www.mosesmediainc.com/iaps/EMMANUEL/EMMANUEL-11-15-2007.html

AG, 22, also from Tacoma , has a sound all his own.  Mixing his hard core hip hop with melodic hooks, "Let Me See Something" off his album by the same name has remained on billboards Hot R&B/Hip Hop Single Sales chart for an amazing 53 weeks, peaking at #5.  Even after 50 weeks, the song is still going strong at #6.  His latest smash hit "We Fly" off his "Death before Dishonor" album features reggae sensation Alex Duncan and is a sure bet to make the charts as well.  Performing in front of a crowd of 100,000 people at Seattle 's Hempfest and having shared a stage with Master P, Fat Joe, E-40 and Genuine, AG is no stranger to performing in front of large crowds.  He provides a high energy show with great stage presence.

You can see both of these artists perform their chart topping songs April 26th 2008 as they open for Scarface and Devin the Dude at The Big Easy in Spokane , WA .  If you can't make it to Spokane , check out their myspace pages for more information.  These are 2 artists you need to know and soon will!

Myspace.com/emmanuelfrayer

Myspace.com/wrecklessent109

For Further Information Contact

Melissa Wheatley

FootWork Media

253-405-6280 (phone)

253-473-0978 (fax)

footworkmedia@yahoo.com (email)

Dirtball Posts New Single "Mushroom Cloud" Featuring Kottonmouth Kings Daddy X Online

Crook County Pre-Order Available With Limited Edition Lithograph Poster

The Dirtball has posted his new single "Mushroom Cloud" featuring Kottonmouth Kings Daddy X online at www.MySpace.com/TheDirtball. The track is taken from Dirtball's upcoming new album "Crook County" that hits stores May 13th, 2008 through Suburban Noize Records.

"This song no doubt came out of a life-long curiosity about mushrooms," says Dirtball. "Daddy X swooped in on the song and blessed the track with his own trip and added just the right sound the journey needed.  It's always a dope thing when Daddy X is in the mix.  Now, go listen to the track, munch some down, and give it a listen."

Suburban Noize recently launched a pre-order for Dirtball's "Crook County" through the Subnoizestore.com, where fans can purchase a limited edition Lithograph poster with the release. The exclusive posters are hand numbered and will never be printed again. The pre-order is available online at http://subnoizestore.com

The second installment of Dirtball's "Crook County Chronicles" video series is available online at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZWx71PWps0. The video series showcases the beauty of Dirtball's home state of Oregon which inspired the rapper's new album.

"When I decided to do this, I wanted these snippets to showcase where I come from and give fans a look into my life and where the record's vibe originates," says the Dirtball. "So, peep the videos and peer into the backwoods of Crook County with me every week all the way up to the release of the record."

Dirtball's new album, "Crook County" is a diverse mixture of hip-hop rock that is eclectic enough to leave fans of all genres salivating for more. Powered by the machinegun attack of his motor-mouth and irresistible hooks, the album can dazzle fans of Southern Rap (Ying Yang Twins, Lil Jon), battle mainstream heavyweights (Twista, Lupe Fiasco), or stands toe-to-toe with underground legends (Tech 9ne, Kottonmouth Kings, or Insane Clown Posse).

###

www.MySpace.com/TheDirtball
www.SuburbanNoizeRecords.com

DIRTBALL IS CURRENTLY AVAILIBLE FOR INTERVIEW, FOR HIGH RES PHOTOS OR FOR REVIEW COPIES PLEASE CONTACT:

James Wright and Kerosene Media
519.759.3009
james@kerosenemedia.com

White Film Festival Board Members stands with Black Film

1555 Filmworks
March 30th, 2008

Common's hip hop classic song I USED TO LOVE HER was called a love letter to hip hop. Now, there's a film with the same title and theme is a love letter to hip hop that became flesh. But, how come white film festivals don't see this:

We have submitted the film to several film festivals being accepted to several overseas (where I sell most of my films) Berlin, Black International film Festival, Cannes Pan African Film Festival, Twin Cities Black Film Festival.

In America, I submitted the film to several top mainstream festivals and after being rejected by only a few but accpeted in a few as well, Out the blue, i received a very sincere call from a board member from one of the festival (which i will not name)who informed me that they appreciate the film and she went on to say she saw the value and art of the film and had argued with the boards members for weeks to add I USED TO LOVE HER to the schedule. She admits "she hasnt seen a black film that moved her in a long time."

But, their excuse was "it's too risky...it's kinda racist" according to my source (a White Board Member from the festival). I asked her to point out some things...well, she said one of the character says in the film Terrence " I'll stop calling myself a n*gga, when n*gga millionaires invest in their community, when n*gga preachers close the liquor stores next to their church, when n*gga politicians stop making back door deals and when n*gga atheletes stop marrying white women"

1555 Filmworks isn't a company that's racist! We have screened I USED TO LOVE HER three times in Chicago and the crowd looks like the United Nation because we treat people based on the person not a color.

I have done over 8 films and they all have some kind of message that people of all backgrounds can and should learn from. I USED TO LOVE HER is a story about LOVE and that's something we all need and especially in America -my home.

FILM TRAILER http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmD0GQ6rVxU

FILM REVIEWS  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E82TJ7_6Ooo

mark harris
1555 FILMWORKS
myspace.com/1555filmworks

Big Gun/Upstairs Records' Artist, Big Geminii, to Release New Album 'History In The Making' April 08, 2008

Debut Single Featuring Flo Rida Reaches Over 10 Million in Audience

HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwire - March 28, 2008) - Big Gun/Upstairs Records' artist, Big Geminii, will release a brand new studio album on April 08, 2008. The new album, titled, "History in the Making," features the hit single, "Hypnotized," featuring Flo Rida which recently crossed the 10 million in audience mark.

A Mexican-American Texas native, Big Geminii is a double threat to the music industry as he combines the skills of a top lyricist with singing. . "For the longest I tried to hide it," Big Geminii says of his moonlighting as a singer while letting his rapping abilities stand in the spotlight. "I have always been writing raps and singing songs but I wasn't ready to put it out there and release my whole arsenal." So when he was told that he had to choose between the talents, Big Geminii never revealed that he could sing as well as he could rap. "I used to sing on some of the background tracks for my songs but I would tell people it was my partner for Austin, Texas," Big Geminii laughs. But with this new album, Big Geminii is stepping out. "I write, rap, sing and do it all." And he's not afraid to show it.

Hooking up with his longtime producer Ace-1, Big Geminii recorded the single "Hypnotize," a melodic, rhythmic, mid-tempo, hip-hop and R&B groove. A party banger, "Hypnotize" is all about being mesmerized by that night club knock-out under that spinning globe. Meanwhile, "Time to Stack a Million" is the official bravado boosting track. With its slight drudge pacing, the percussion banging track is perfect for the SUV booming system or the surround sound club system. "That's what I'm on right now," Big Geminii asserts. "I went through so much previously and now I'm here. This is what it is and that song is just on some hustle, go get it, mentality."

And to further show his duality, Big Geminii has the song "The Light" on this album, which he recorded a few years back. One of his favorite songs, Big Geminii says it was inspired by a life changing experience he had of feeling the Holy Ghost at 17 or 18 years old. "I did this song before Kanye West did 'Jesus Walks' when people were still saying that you couldn't talk about religion or spirituality." As a previously released track, Big Geminii received tons of fan mail thanking him for helping others through tough times. With that in mind, Big Geminii is putting "The Light" on "History in the Making" so that more people will hear the meaningful song.

In conjunction with the Texas-based independent record label powerhouse, Upstairs Records, Big Geminii is set to release "History in the Making." "This record is really all about strong family values and everyday life in the streets, the struggle of pain and the love of joy," Big Geminii explains the dichotomy throughout the album. "My music is universal," the rapper and singer proclaims, "I'm just trying to touch the masses." And there's no better way to do it than with "History in the Making."

For additional information on Big Geminii, contact Green Honey Media at chanel@greenhoneymedia.com.

Hip Hop artist D'Cyple set to release the For My People CD on Sunset Urban Records

New music focuses on life issues touching people of all genders and sexes.

(Billboard Publicity Wire) March 29, 2008 -- It's been a while since hearing from the amazing hiphop artist, D'Cyple, and from the sound of the new CD, he's ready to take the world by storm. He is now with Sunset Urban Records www.SunsetUrban.com, with a new CD that boasts many singles being worked to radio. This up and coming artist is a native of Wisconsin, D'Cyple began his career at a very young age playing various musical instruments. He learned how to play guitar, horns, keyboards, and the drums, and that talent is very evident on his new CD. D'Cyple's first two CDs were also picked up by Sunset Records and Sunset Urban.

"I've been planning and preparing for this release for a long time," says D'Cyple in answer to what he's been doing since No One Knows, his last CD release came out a few years ago. "And, since hanging out with good friend Ronald Bullock (Head of A&R at Sunset Urban), knowing that I have people behind my music is all I can ask for in life," he adds. "I've been trying to do all of the necessary personal things that can help me maintain an existence in music industry," he says from his home.

After rhyming over great beats on his first two CDs, D'Cyple decided to take it to the next level on this new release. The CD has brought together a diverse group of old-school and new sounding artists, coupled with a grooving rap that can cross over to top 40. This CD is pure hip-hop with some jazz influences. In fact, Jazz purists would say the overall grooves head deeply toward the funkier 1970s era of jazz, and hardcore hip-hop heads will be turned on by the overall musical attitude. This is one of the best extensions of a jazz sound with hardcore hip-hop rap that grooves at times and has great orchestration.

The first single being worked to urban radio stations all over the world is "My Life" with another no doubt to be hit song, "Don't Wanna be" as the second single. Other songs being set up for radio promotion are "A Hustler" along with "Home" and "Why I'm Here." The For My People full length CD is a montage from the first song and down to the 17th song on the CD. Not only with the brand new CD be available at Target retail stores and online at Amazon, but Sunset Urban has also "picked up" the first two D'Cyple CDs, Tha Album and No One Knows. They will be made available at all retail stores on April 1st.

Despite the deal with Sunset this year, D'Cyple's first two CDs were only released and available on the internet as a download. "It's not that it was a failure to work my music on my own, but this opportunity that Don Lichterman and Ronal Bullock have given me is the greatest of my life," he states. "People from this area (Wisconsin) know who I am as an artist, but that is all that currently makes up my fan base. This opportunity to have my music heard on the radio and to have my CDs available in stores is all I asked for as an artist."

"I'm an emcee. I love to rap. There is an obvious message in the words in my music. My intention has always been to express myself and address issues that affect everyone regardless of race and sex," states D'Cyple about his career. "I have seventeen new songs that I am releasing with Sunset, and they can be found on the labels artist page even today (http://www.sunseturban.com/artist/Dcyple.htm)." One of his new singles 'My Life' is being looked at by film companies and advertising companies for licensing. "There are obvious hit songs" says Don Lichterman, head of the Sunset Group of entertainment companies and Sunset Holding, Co. "And, we will work this right at the urban format although I will be prepared to cross this over to mainstream pop radio at the drop of a dime," says Lichterman

"I love working with Ronald (Bullock) and being in his hands at the label. I trust him. He hasn't led me wrong in the wrong direction yet," states D'Cyple on the state of his music career. "I will continue to do what I've been doing because every CD we make gets better and better, and I don't see my life as anything but have a huge success with Ronald and Don (Lichterman) leading the charge." D'cyple's CD will be previewed at the very special Live Concert Showcase presented by Bullock and Sunset Urban Records on April 6th in Brooklyn, NY. That showcase will not only feature a special listening of the new songs on D'Cyple's For My People CD, but additionally, the showcase will feature live performances by Paula Perry, Captain Crunk, Kingsbridge Dee, Blackwell, Lil Dynomite, the Rican Rebelz with special guest host, Knowledge.

About Sunset Records:
Sunset is one of the leading independent record labels and entertainment companies in the world. The Sunset Group of Entertainment Companies, and its global operation, acquire, develop, and distribute major music recording artists, home visual entertainment products, online-digital entertainment technologies and music and filmed entertainment worldwide. Sunset's four major divisions are the Sunset Distributed Label Group, the Sunset Strategic Marketing and Licensing Division, the Radio Sunset Network and the Sunset Filmed Entertainment Division. All corporate information can be found at www.SunsetHolding.com. The Sunset Home Visual Entertainment (SHE) web site is www.SunsetHomeVisual.com. Sunset Records site is www.SunsetRecordings.com.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Don Lichterman
Sunset Urban Records
8775426664
Email us Here:
http://billboard.prweb.com/emailmember.php?prid=808044

MyBandsMusic Passes 100% Of Download Fees Through To The Artist

/24-7PressRelease/ - PITTSFIELD, MA, March 27, 2008 -- MyBandsMusic, a recently launched indie music and social networking site, where fans and bands meet, is offering an exceptional and appealing business model for artists looking for 100% pass through sales structure for their downloaded tracks.

MyBandsMusic is great place for Indie Artists to market their music to a new audience of fans. Everything an Indie Artist needs is available including digital and physical distribution of their music, announcements, fan communications, blogs, reviews, charts, video posting, etc.

Literally all the tools that a band needs to implement full blown viral marketing campaigns are here on MyBandsMusic. We encourage all bands that join MyBandsMusic to explore all the power packed features all delivered at no upfront cost and a very attractive 100% payout on download sales.

Currently MyBandsMusic is growing at a rapid rate, attracting listeners and artists alike. There are many benefits for fans and artists and this is only the beginning. The sites steadfast belief of working hand in hand with their members and keeping the personal touch in place will benefit everyone involved.

It is time that the people that make the music have an opportunity to receive 100% of the payout for their hard work and MyBandsMusic now offers that to their artists.
PR Created & Distributed By MuzikReviews.com

Contact Information:

Keith Hannaleck
MyBandsMusic
Pittsfield, MA
(413) 236-9800 x105
keith@mybandsmusic.com
http://www.mybandsmusic.com

Afeni Shakur Responds to LA Times Article

The Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation presents the 2008 Leadership & Arts Camp

Cities include Atlanta, Los Angeles, & Oakland

ATLANTA, March 28 /PRNewswire/ -- In response to the Los Angeles Times article Mrs. Shakur said, "We will continue to work to save the lives of our young people and to offer peaceful alternatives to violence and conflict resolution. That is what we have done since the murder of my son, and that is exactly what we will consciously continue to do," said Afeni Shakur.

The mother of Tupac and founder of the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation also announced the 10th Anniversary Celebration of the LEADERSHIP & ARTS CAMP by adding an Atlanta Spring Break Camp and announcing expansion into California for the first time to host Camps this summer. The Camps are open to students ages 5-18 (Atlanta Spring Break) and ages 12-18 (Atlanta, Oakland, and Los Angeles Summer 2008). Camp Applications are available in English and Spanish online at www.TASF.org or by calling toll free 888-875 TASF.

Celebrities such as Jasmine Guy, Ashanti, Lou Gossett, Vivica Fox, Marshal Mathers (Eminem), T.I., Tyrese, Chocolate, Mike Epps and many others have worked with the Foundation on projects that benefit students at the Foundation. Students receive instruction in acting, creative writing, dance, vocal training, set and stage design, video production and the business of entertainment. The camp also stresses literacy, responsibility, and conflict resolution. The camp experience comes to a dramatic climax with a full theatrical production at the end of the Camp session.

Many of the former participants (PAC's Kids Camp Alumni) have gone on to appear in television shows, movies and concerts such as Alvin Ailey Dance, Good Day Atlanta, VH-1 Save The Music, Mary J. Blige tour and more. Afeni Shakur, the mother of the multi-talented Tupac Shakur, established the program in 1999 to give young people quality arts training. Here are the cities and dates for each session:

Atlanta: Spring Break Camp- April 7-11, 2008 9am-5pm Registration Deadline: April 4

Summer Camp June 16-July 26, 2008 9 am-4 pm Registration Deadline: May 9

Location: Tupac Amaru Shakur Center for the Arts, 5616 Memorial Drive, Stone Mountain 30083

Interested students should attend Atlanta Interview and info sessions on 5/16/08 4p, 5/17/08 12p at the Tupac Amaru Shakur Center for the Arts

Oakland: June 16-20 and 23-26 1 pm-4 pm and June 27-28 10 am-4 pm Registration Deadline: June 6. Location: Arroyo Viejo Recreation Center, 7701 Krause Avenue, Oakland, CA

Interested students should attend Oakland Recruitment & info session on May 24, 08 11a

Los Angeles: July 7-11 and 14-16 1pm-4pm and July 17-18 10 am-4 pm

Registration Deadline: June 27 Location: Art Share Los Angeles, 801 E. 4th Place, Los Angeles

Interested students should attend LA Recruitment and info session April 15, 2008 4:30p at ArtShare LA

  Contact:
  770-460-7647
  sid@breakthrough-atl.com

Source: Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation

CONTACT: Breakthrough, Inc., +1-770-460-7647, sid@breakthrough-atl.com

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

H3 Partners With Sharkwaters, LTD.

Company Strategy to Lead Thriving New Competitive Gaming Sector Takes Hold

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - March 28, 2008) - H3Enterprises, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: HTRE) has announced today the establishment and the signing of a partnership agreement with one of the pioneers of "play for pay" competitive on-line gaming, www.Sharkwaters.com.

Utilizing H3's business model, the partnership immediately provides for new H3 on-line customer usage and revenue streams. Also, H3 is currently negotiating to acquire an OTC Bulletin Board entity that will focus on the development and management of this breakthrough technology and high margin business.

"The Sharkwaters Agreement represents a major step forward in our quest to utilize our Hip Hop Soda Shops and new media connections to make on-line video gaming a powerful part of H3's revenues and profits," said Dr. Benjamin Chavis, H3's CEO and President. "This venture will likely lead to an expanded business model for H3 that will make our Company synonymous with 'play for pay' tournaments globally."

"Teaming with H3 and their amazing list of strategic partners and sponsors positions all of us involved to benefit fully from the fantastic new innovations taking place in competitive video gaming," said Sharkwater's co-founder Michael Collins.

H3 will now offer on-line single player challenges and multiplayer tournaments in games such as "Madden NFL 08," "NBA 2K7," and many others in which H3 players wish to duel. "Online competitive gaming is in its infancy, and H3's new Internet strategy will provide an intense forum for converging in-store gamers with their global web challengers," according to Company Chairman Keith Chutjian.

Through its evolving celebrity sports, entertainment, and fashion sponsorship network, H3 will offer exclusive event and merchandise prizes to its winners as well as cash. Annual jackpot tournaments are also being planned that will feature the very best professional gamers the world over.

Sharkwaters recently received a great deal of coverage in a February 20, 2008 Wall Street Journal article about the burgeoning industry, and featured Collins' very bullish outlook for his company and the gaming market as a whole. The internet presents an entirely unique way to compete in games of skill making H3 and Sharkwaters fully committed to abide by the dynamic legislation presiding over the sport.

SAFE HARBOR: Certain information included herein may contain statements that are forward-looking, such as statements relating to plans for future expansion and other business development activities. Such forward-looking information is subject to changes and variations which are not reasonably predictable and which could significantly affect future results.
Contacts:
For H3
info@h3inc.com

For Sharkwaters
mcollins@sharkwaters.net
phone +442075588415

Legendary hiphop collage producer Steinski announces Illegal Art career retrospective - What Does It All Mean?: 1983-2006.

Steve Stein is one of the most influential producers in hiphop, sampling, and cut & paste. Better known by his nom-de-tune Steinski, his legendary Tommy Boy Records releases known as "The Lessons" are cited as definitive influences by DJ Shadow, Cut Chemist and Fatboy Slim, among others. This spring, Illegal Art will release the first and only definitive Steinski collection, What Does It All Mean?: 1983-2006 Retrospective.

The comprehensive 2xCD set features 14 retrospective tracks on disc one, and the 28-track "Nothing To Fear" on disc two. The second disc (along with "The Lessons") is perhaps the most obvious precursor to Girl Talk's Night Ripper and was described by Salon as "The closest thing to a masterpiece the mashup genre has yet produced." The packaging includes a 20-page booklet featuring liner notes by Hua Hsu (The Wire, New York Times, Village Voice, Slate, etc.) and Steinski himself.

Steinski, along with partner Double Dee (Douglas DiFranco) co-produced the series of records known as "The Lessons,"  "The Payoff Mix" (MP3), "Lesson 2 (The James Brown Mix)", and "Lesson 3 (The History Of Hiphop)" for the Tommy Boy label in the early 1980's. The first lesson won a nationwide remix contest run by Tommy Boy Records and judged by Afrika Bambaataa, Shep Pettibone, Jellybean Benitez and Arthur Baker. The record subsequently became a Top 10 request on urban radio nationwide.  These analog tape cut-and-paste collages, still widely bootlegged (and wildly illegal), are generally acknowledged as three of the most influential works in the world of hiphop and dance music production.

Steve Stein has freelanced as a creative consultant to MTV, VH1, Nickelodeon, Lifetime, Showtime, and The Movie Channel. He's produced TV commercials. He's spent all his disposable income on records and women. As a solo producer, he crafted  "The Motorcade Sped On," turning historic broadcasts of the Kennedy assassination into a hiphop record. The British tastemaker music tabloid NME gave away a quarter-million copies of the song as a Flexidisc stapled to the cover of the magazine.

Steinski also produced  "We'll Be Right Back" for Island Records, an advertising satire whose music and video components were immediately licensed by Ovaltine UK for television advertising . His solo productions for Ninjatune include "It's Up To You" and "I'm Wild About That Thing," a satire on sex licensed to Pretty Polly Bras (UK) for a TV advertising campaign. For Tommy Boy's 10th Anniversary, Steinski reunited with Double Dee after 10 years to produce "Jazz," a remix of "Jazzy Sensation" by Afrika Bambaataa and The Jazzy Five. This remix was also illegal, also widely bootlegged.

A two-time college dropout (Temple U, Franconia College), Stein worked as an advertising copywriter for six years, with clients like Polaroid, Volkswagen, and Atari.  He taught copywriting at The School Of Visual Arts, promoted and DJ'ed dances in Brooklyn, and hung out at early downtown Manhattan hiphop clubs Negril and the Roxy. Soon thereafter, he quit advertising.

Other Steinski highlights include:

    * Numerous 12" remixes and collages.

    * Remix of "Relax" (Frankie Goes To Hollywood) for the film Zoolander.

    * Burning Out Of Control, an album length mix of the Sugarhill Records catalogue for the Antidote label (UK)

    * 12" collage "Ain't No Thing" for the Stone's Throw release of The Third Unheard: Connecticut Hip Hop 1979-1983 compilation.

    * Composed and produced dozens of soundtracks for various TV and radio commercials and industrial films.

    * Featured in the documentary film Scratch.

What Does It All Mean?

1983-2006 Retrospective Tracklisting:

Release Date: May 27th, 2008

CD 1 (Retrospective):

01. The Payoff Mix (MP3)

02. Lesson 2 (James Brown Mix)

03. Lesson 3 (History of Hip Hop)

04. Jazz

05. Voice Mail (Sugar Hill Suite)

06. The Motorcade Sped On

07. It's Up To You (Television Mix)

08. I'm Wild About That Thing

09. The Big Man Laughs

10. Vox Apostolica

11. Is We Going Under?

12, Ain't No Thing

13. Everything's Disappeared

14. Number Three On Flight Eleven

CD 2 (Nothing To Fear):

01. Tonight From NY Intro

02. Swingset

03. Opening Credits

04. Greatest Man Alive

05. The Id

06. Let's Get It On

07. Hit The Disco

08. Lolita

09. Hot Spot

10. It's A Funky Thing Pt. 1

11. Bboy Breakdown

12. B-beat Classic

13. Funk Construction

14. Them That's Not

15. Swan Lake

16. Here We Come

17. Product Of The Environment

18. By Any Means Necessary

19. The Art Of Getting Jumped

20. I Like It Like That

21. Solid Air

22. Country Grammar

23. Let's Get It On (Reprise)

24. Muscles

25. Easin' In

26. It's Time To Testify

27. The Acid Test

28. Silent Partner

Tools and Hi-Res Photos:

www.fanaticpromotion.com/rosterdetails.php?indexkey=86

On The Web:

www.steinski.com

www.myspace.com/steinski (unofficial)

www.illegalart.net

www.myspace.com/illegalart

Subscribe to Fanatic:

www.fanaticpromotion.com
www.fanaticpromotion.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/fanaticpromotion
www.myspace.com/fanaticnewmedia
www.itunes.com/podcast?id=253103575
www.last.fm/user/fanaticpro
www.youtube.com/fanaticpromotion
www.facebook.com/pages/Fanatic-Promotion/7297716716

###

Steve Stein is available for interviews.

For more information, contact Fanatic Promotion, Inc.

Print Media Inquiries: dave@fanaticpromotion.com  |  323-906-9025

New Media Inquiries: andy@fanaticpromotion.com  | 212-290-1172

Universal Indie Reaffirms It's Commitment To New Business Models With The Release Of Hip Hop Producer, Cartel's Sophomore Album

(March 27, 2008) - Following the successful debut of the digital-only LP, Prepared For Glory, released in June of 2007, underground hip hop producer Cartel, is set to release a follow-up album on Hoodgrown Records/Universal Indie Records.

Scheduled for a May 5, 2008 release date, Tha Throwback is  produced entirely by Cartel and features some of the most promising, upcoming MC's in the game right now. "I've named it Tha Throwback… because it's a throwback to when hip hop artists actually cared about lyrical content." states Cartel. "Those who enjoyed the first album can expect to hear a tremendous growth in the production of this album. I'm still not interested in following todays production trends, but I have stepped up my beat game since the release of the first album."

As with the first LP, Tha Throwback will be offered as a free download but with a twist. The 11 track album will be available as a free download and a version of the album containing 5 extra tracks, acapellas, instrumentals and possibly a video or two will be available for $5. "I've been watching the music industry and the various models that the artists and labels are experimenting with", states CEO Christopher English, "but no one is doing anything different model-wise in hip hop. No one is willing to take any chances. I don't mind being a trendsetter."

New tracks off the album will be posted at http://www.universalindie.com. The original album, "Prepare For Glory" can still be download as well.

For more information

Jenny G
Ms. Media PR "Get Noticed"
JennyG@msmediapr.com
www.msmediapr.com

Chris English
Universal Indie Records
info@universalindie.com

"LOLLIPOP" BREAKS RECORDS AT CROSSOVER & URBAN RADIO

Crossover & Urban Radio
#1 Most Added
#1 Greatest Gainer

Lil Wayne
Cash Money Records/Universal Motown
THA CARTER III in stores MAY 13
http://www.myspace.com/lilwayne

New York, NY – Cash Money/Universal Motown Records multi-platinum artist Lil Wayne is once again taking control of the airwaves and breaking records in both with "Lollipop," the first single from his highly anticipated album Tha Carter III. This is the biggest add week that a hip-hop artist has received at Rhythm Crossover and the biggest any artist has received at Urban Radio including Beyonce and Mar