May 23, 2008
ATLANTA, GA –(ENTERTAINMENT NEWS)–CHIBA, the stand-out female artist from the VH-1 reality show "Miss Rap Supreme" has landed a part in the upcoming film "The Vapors", based on the ’80′s seminal rap crew from Queensbridge—The Juice Crew.

The movie "The Vapors" will star Academy Award winning actor Cuba Gooding jr. as Marley Marl and Keke Palmer as Roxanne Shante. The film will be directed by Furqaan Clover– who recently directed ‘The Queen of Media: the Wendy Williams Story– and will be filmed in the legendary Queensbridge Housing Projects.

"I’m excited to be a part of this project, and have been busy in the studio recording some new songs with different producers", she says. "Everything is real upbeat, radio friendly and fun."

Chiba has been collaborating with ATL songwriter 100 Watts aka CP, creating melodic, club songs that will make people ‘run to the dancefloor’. She is scheduled to be a celebrity host at The Juneteenth Festival in Anniston, AL and has a part in the upcoming DVD produced by Daz Dillinger from the Dogg Pound titled "Make it Rain" that’s scheduled for release in summer 2008.

In just a few months, IGP Media has secured multiple digital distribution contracts for digital content for Chiba. "We are very excited about Chiba as a huge star in the entertainment industry, not just in music", says IGP Media, Marketing & Media Director, Brian Lassiter.

About IGP Media

Launched in 2008, IGP Media handles artist development, music marketing and media campaigns for ‘on the verge artists’ (music publishing, print advertising campaigns, TV media buys, new media, urban lifestyle marketing). All IGP Media clients are dedicated to urban music and culture and target urban youth, ages 15-34 (trend setters/early adopters)

IGP Media contacts:

W. Griffin (Grip) Artist Management Director 
Direct Line: (678) 793-0636
Email: twg@igpmedia.net
or
Brian Lassiter, Marketing & Media Director
Direct Line: (404) 286-2574
Email: brian@igpmedia.net

11-YEAR-OLD DANCE SINGSATION ROMANCES HIS FANS WITH HIS DEBUT SINGLE!

May 2008, Northridge, CA
Boston’s tweenage entertainer Breje has sparked renewed interest in Chubby Checker’s  dance,  "The Twist," with his 2008  hip hop rendition of the popular 60′s  dance.  Breje’s blazing hot single, "Twist Wit It, " is rapidly becoming one of the hottest dance songs to hit the market.

In the lyrics of the song, Breje (pronounced bre-jay)makes use of  clever rhymes and wordplay as he gives "turn by turn" instructions to his twist on The Twist.  Inspired by such popular artists as Michael Jackson, Ludacris,  Chris Brown, and even Billy Ray Cyrus,  Breje’s rapidly becoming what’s next and what’s hot.

The Boston bred star commands so much attention that security can’t hold back fans who shriek and faint upon meeting  this loveable curly haired charmer.

Following a 12-week national radio campaign beginning in June, promoting "Twist Wit It" and a series of live performances, Breje will get ready to drop his debut album, will be released on WPE Music, LLC/Bungalo Records/Universal.

His great grandmother once told him, "never forget the history of your ancestors and your grassroots, as you will grow into who you are, and  who you are will be is defined to where you are going. To know your future you must know your history." The new twist on twist exemplifies this motto. Breje, who sings, raps, dances and acts, is available for interviews, personal appearances and photo sessions.

   Visit the websites  www.brejemusic.com and www.myspace.com/brejemusic

For more information, contact Cynthia Horner, 732 202-8246 cynthiamhorner@yahoo.com or Gregory Williams, Switchhouse Press,  818 357-5852 or switchhousepress@yahoo.com

Apple Bottoms, the brand beloved by celebrities including Oprah Winfrey, Vivica A. Fox and Alicia Keys has expanded there line to shoes!

Wednesday May 28, 2008
The apparel brand Apple Bottoms by Nelly collaborated with MEA BRANDS two years ago to create and produce a new collection of Apple Bottoms Footwear by Nelly as part of the already popular ready to wear brand for women. This season the company is launching it’s most popular and fashionable styles since its inception.

Apple Bottoms made its grand entrance into the fashion world in 2003 as a line designed to perfectly fit and accentuate the forms of curvaceous women. Nelly along with his partners Yomi Martin and Ian Kelly launched the brand with a nationally televised model search on the VH1 show "(Inside) Out: Nelly: The Search for Ms. Apple Bottoms."

Appreciation for the line continued the following year when media mogul and icon, Oprah Winfrey included Apple Bottom Jeans as a part of her annually awaited give away show "Oprah’s Favorite Things," where she highlights and gives her audience items she feels are hot, enjoyable and necessary. When describing why she liked the line Oprah said: "Let’s put it this way: Some jeans minimize and some jeans maximize. This pair, designed by hip-hop artist Nelly, is for the woman who wants a little junk in her trunk." These types of publicity lead to the brand selling out across the country.

Now the company is on the verge of dejavu with their Apple Bottoms Footwear, which was described as the "best in its category" by buyers at the February 2008 Magic Show Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada. There Nelly told reporters "Our design team has been very on point and been able to take some of the visions I have in terms of the do’s and don’ts…I just want to make sure (the footwear) compliments the rest of the line." Which it truly does in keeping with the brands redirection towards a more trendy and sophisticated look. The Apple Bottoms footwear collection of sneakers, flats, boots (including several "BOOTS WITH THE FUR") and shoes designed on a range of heel styles from stiletto, wedge, butterfly to banana, is sky rocketing. The AB sneaker collection stands out and beyond it’s competition with creative trademarks like the colored glitter specked laces and rhinestone apple shaped buckles. The hottest sneaker in stores now, is "The Kishia" {key-sha} capturing the essence of the perfect Apple Bottoms female, one who is Practical yet still a Prima Donna.

Ads for the footwear collection debuted and have been featured in Footwear News and XXL magazine and there are plans for new billboards this fall.

You can look for Apple Bottoms Footwear by Nelly in specialty and department stores such as Dr. Jays, Macys, Underground Station and many more.   

For information on Apple Bottoms Footwear contact:

Nikki Pyle

Phone: 1-973-687-2571

MEA BRANDS

Product Relations

direct at nikkipyle@aol.com or nikki@meabrands.com

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS IN ATLANTA JUST GOT HOTTER. The Investment Club, co-sponsored by Music Business Politics, takes its weekly mid-week rendezvous to the next level of sexy this Wednesday night with the launch party of the south’s newest adult men’s upscale magazine – HUSH.

Atlanta, GA (May 26, 2008) – The face of Atlanta night life has forever been changed, and we’re not going back! Gone are the days of reserving your sexy until the weekend. What started as an effort to shut down the urban after hours scene in the city with the closing of the Buckhead strip, has fast turned up over a dozen hot spots and watering holes that draw hundreds of urbanites on any given night of the week.

If you’re connected whatsoever to the "in-crowd" around town, then surely you’ve found yourself partying til the lights came on, on a Wednesday night at Atlanta’s most posh hot spot – Luckie Bar Food & Lounge. The last two weeks have turned out the likes of Allen Iverson, Keyshia Cole, Cee Lo, Monica, Bobby V, Irv Gotti, Nelly, and too many more to remember and name here. But I’m confident the point is made.

This Wednesday night, May 28, 2008, will be no different as The Investment Club takes its weekly mid-week social gathering to it’s next level as it hosts the official launch party of the South’s newest adult men’s upscale magazine, HUSH Magazine. The game officially changes as Luckie Bar Food & Lounge is transformed into a sexy melting pot for the city’s beauties and ballers. The A has not seen this type of excitement since the days of the 89 Hawks with Dominique Wilkins and Spud Webber. This is guaranteed to be an all-inclusive experience for the masses. I believe T.I. put it best ladies, consider it – Motivation. And ladies let’s not get it twisted, we are in the A so we know how you like to get it in.

The event will be hosted by the lovely ladies of HUSH Magazine – The HUSH Girls. Come out early to get your photo with these lovely ladies and copies of the latest issue. Stay late to mingle with the ladies and possibly create your own moment to keep on the HUSH.

This is a red carpet hosted event. Media check in is at 8:30p. Please RSVP to hushmagrsvp@gmail.com, or call (404) 630-8534 for more information and/or details. Labels and VIPs are encouraged to RSVP ahead of time, as the crowd is guaranteed.

*************************************************************************

HUSH MAGAZINE

www.hushadultmag.com (Adult Content Advisory)

CONTACT:
Katena Keno
(404) 510-3897
hushmagrsvp@gmail.com

Michael Trammell
DRIVEN Impulse
(404) 630-8534

www.myspace.com/theinvestmentclub

"VH1 Rock Honors," "Brooke Knows Best," "Glam God with Vivica A. Fox," "I Love Money," "I Love The Millennium," "I Want To Work For Diddy," "Luke’s Parental Advisory," "New York Goes To Hollywood," "The Bachelor," "The Cho Show," and "VH1 Rock Doc: Elton John: Me, Myself and I"

NEW YORK, May 28 /PRNewswire/ — VH1 lets the sun shine this upcoming summer season 2008 with a new slate of "Celebreality" series, star-studded pop culture specials, new additions to the consistently compelling VH1 Rock Doc franchise, and concert events that celebrate some of the greatest artists, in music history.

  Premieres
  THE BACHELOR — PREMIERES SUNDAY, JUNE 1 — SATURDAY, JUNE 7, 2008

"The Bachelor" has "accepted a rose" from VH1, which is acquiring the full library of the groundbreaking reality series in a licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution. The agreement includes 12 cycles of "The Bachelor" and "The Bachelorette" franchises as well all cycles through at least 2008.

VH1 will air the first seven seasons during the first week of June. Airing one season per day in a marathon format, VH1 will premiere the first edition of "The Bachelor" on Sunday, June 1 and conclude the week-long programming event with the seventh on Saturday, June 7.

BROOKE KNOWS BEST — PREMIERES SUNDAY, JULY 13 AT 10PM*

The world has come to know and love Brooke Hogan over the past four seasons in the hit VH1 show "Hogan Knows Best." After surviving life from under the oppressive thumb of her father Hulk Hogan, Brooke is finally breaking free. She is moving to Miami to enter a whole new world with no rules but her own.

No longer an innocent teenager, Brooke learns what growing up is really all about. For the first time, Brooke is learning how to deal with the ins and outs of daily life, new relationships, of her family’s recent struggles, as well as the extra pressures of managing her career and finances without Mom and Dad.

The cast will consist of Brooke, and her two roommates, Ashley and Glenn. But you can bet that no matter what Brooke does Hulk and Linda will never be too far behind.

I LOVE MONEY — PREMIERES SUNDAY, JULY 6 AT 9PM*

America’s favorite contestants from VH1′s hit series "Rock of Love," "I Love New York" and "Flavor of Love" are set to star in the network’s newest "Celebreality" series, "I Love Money" premiering on Sunday, July 6 at 9:00 PM.* Hosted by Craig J. Jackson, the 12-episode series will pit 17 all-star contestants against one another for a chance to win a $250,000 grand prize.

On Monday, May 5, VH1 began rolling-out specifics from "I Love Money" online on the VH1 Blog (Blog.VH1.com). The VH1 Blog uncovered the names of a few of the cast members until all were revealed. In addition, the Blog will also roll-out never-before-seen video from the upcoming series, along with photos, biographies and memorable moments and even more exclusive details leading up to the premiere on Sunday, July 6. To put the rumors to rest viewers can visit Blog.VH1.com to find out all the juicy facts about VH1′s next hit show, "I Love Money."

GLAM GOD WITH VIVICA A. FOX — PREMIERES AUGUST 21, 2008

Vivica A. Fox, actress, producer and fashion luminary, is bringing her celebrity style to VH1 for a new competition series ripped from the pages of the fashion magazines. The new series, "Glam God With Vivica A. Fox" slated to premiere August 2008, searches for the next great celebrity stylist who has what it takes to become the stylist to the stars through their ability to create a chic masterpiece using the three key elements of fashion — hair, make-up and wardrobe.

Each week the "stylista" contestants will be asked to compete in various challenges that will test their knowledge of fashion and style trends as they create the perfect look from head to toe. Those that fall short of creating that perfect look will have their style license revoked and will be sent packing. The one stylist that manages to rise above the rest will be given the ultimate reward — the chance to launch a career by styling an A-list celebrity and being awarded $100,000.

I WANT TO WORK FOR DIDDY — PREMIERES AUGUST 4 AT 9PM*

"I Want To Work For Diddy" will track 13 finalists as they compete to land the job of a lifetime: assistant to hip hop music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs. Finalists will go through the ultimate job interview as each of the applicants will be challenged emotionally, physically and mentally to earn the coveted position. Whether they call him Diddy, Puffy or Mr. Combs, one lucky person will call this legend of hip-hop … "My Boss." Series premieres in August 2008 on VH1.

LUKE’S PARENTAL ADVISORY — PREMIERES AUGUST 4 AT 10:30PM*

Over the years, Luther "Luke" Campbell has had many monikers including raunchiest man in Hip Hop, musical mastermind and even activist for constitutional rights. But he is best known as the hype man for 2 Live Crew, the bawdiest hip hop group of the late 1980′s/early 90′s, and pioneer of the modern music video featuring scantily clad girls.

What people don’t know about Luke is that he is now a loving father, successful CEO and most surprising of all, faithful fiancee. "Luke’s Parental Advisory" follows the day-to-day adventures of Luke Campbell as he navigates fatherhood with two teenage children, while running his adult business Luke Entertainment Group and planning a wedding with his straight-laced lawyer fiancee Kristin. Although his life may look like he has surrendered to typical suburbia, Luke hasn’t changed completely. Whether it’s wedding cake shopping, giving a "birds and the bees" lecture to his son or casting dancers for his adult website, Luke Campbell is still as nasty as he wants to be.

NEW YORK GOES TO HOLLYWOOD — PREMIERES AUGUST 4 AT 10PM*

Having at long last conquered her quest for love, New York is ready to tackle her other life dream: superstardom. Don’t get it wrong — New York is already a star but she wants to be on the A-list — as a legit actress.

To focus on her new mission, New York has to put her last conquest, Tailor Made, on the backburner as she tries to take on Tinsel Town. She’s moving out west to see if she can climb the Hollywood ladder. Question is, will she reach the stars or fall flat on her face?

"New York Goes To Hollywood" is created and executive produced by Mark Cronin and Cris Abrego for Mindless Entertainment and 51 Pictures. Jeff Olde, Jill Holmes, and Kristen Kelly oversee the series for VH1.

"THE CHO SHOW" PREMIERES AUGUST 21, 2008

Thirteen years after her catastrophic foray into broadcast television, Margaret Cho triumphantly returns in a new reality-sitcom on VH1 in "The Cho Show." And this time, it’s on her own terms.

Margaret burst onto the scene in 1994 with her sitcom "All American Girl" and her struggles with the network over that show are legendary. "The Cho Show" will follow the irrepressible comedian and her eccentric entourage as she fights to be herself in an industry that in the past wanted her to be something other than herself. The series will touch upon all aspects of Margaret’s "anything goes" lifestyle, from the strained and awkward moments provided by her somewhat traditional Korean parents, to the more irreverent and outrageous moments shared with her colorful cast of friends and colleagues.

VH1 ROCK DOC: ELTON JOHN: ME, MYSELF AND I — PREMIERES THURSDAY, JUNE 12 AT 9PM*

Using some of the most extraordinary and innovative special effects technology ever seen on television, viewers will see Sir Elton literally step back in time, as the superstar singer plays guide to a flamboyant, intimate and entertaining journey through a career that has spanned more than four decades and boasts global record sales in excess of 250 million.

In this one-hour special, Sir Elton reveals his true feelings about many key moments, both personal and professional, that have shaped his life. Viewers will get the chance to see Sir Elton interact with his younger self via an unprecedented rummage through rare archive material as he gives a private tour into his past unlike anything ever seen before in any television documentary.

RETURNING SERIES:

"I LOVE THE NEW MILLENNIUM" PREMIERES MONDAY – THURSDAY, JUNE 23 – 26 AT 9PM* AND 10PM* EACH NIGHT

Kick off your Ugg boots and put down your iPods as VH1 brings you the next big hit in their hugely popular "I Love The" series: "I Love The New Millennium." VH1 loves the 00′s so much that they couldn’t even wait for them to end, bringing viewers an all-new 8-part series covering the first 8 years of the new millennium (2000 – 2007.) From "Thong Songs" and Big Fat Greek Weddings, to wardrobe malfunctions and the "Big Mouth Billy Bass," it’s all here, and our expert team of celebrities, musicians, actors, athletes, journalists and comedians are back to tackle every hard hitting issue you can imagine. For example: Where were all those weapons of mass destruction anyway? How did people watch television before TIVO? Who decided that trucker hats weren’t just for truckers anymore? And perhaps most importantly of all … who let the dogs out?

VH1 will once again tap our collective memories and will revisit the good, the bad, and the funny. "I Love The New Millennium" will leave no stone unturned through retro clips from sitcoms, movies, music videos, TV commercials, network news and other sources. Join us as we travel back in time to an era when Brad Pitt was happily married to Jennifer Aniston. Angelina Jolie and Madonna had yet to start the mad adoption craze, and Britney Spears still had her s#!t together. And you thought there were no more decades left to love …

  SPECIAL EVENTS:
  VH1 ROCK HONORS — PREMIERES THURSDAY JULY 17 AT 9PM*

VH1 pays homage to legendary British rock band The Who in the network’s third annual "VH1 Rock Honors" celebration of artists who represent the pinnacle of rock music. As a result of The Who’s revolutionary and era-defining influence on rock music, this will be the first "VH1 Rock Honors" that salutes just one band, with tributes from critically acclaimed, multi-platinum rock bands Pearl Jam and Foo Fighters along with the Grammy Award-winning rock band The Flaming Lips. Taping in Los Angeles at the Pauley Pavilion on Saturday, July 12, "VH1 Rock Honors" will premiere on Thursday, July 17 at 9pm on VH1, VH1 Classic and MHD.

The Who’s monumental legacy will be celebrated with a 2-hour tribute that will salute the music and the lasting impact of this groundbreaking band. The influence of The Who will be felt through spoken tributes, filmed packages and performances by some of today’s premiere rock acts as well as the legends themselves. Additional performers, presenters and special guests will be announced as they are confirmed.

  VH1 SOUL
  "BLACK MUSIC MONTH" PROGRAMMING:

VH1 Soul celebrates Black music during the month of June with new programming and specials. Throughout the month, VH1 Soul will feature various programming including "Classic Concert: James Brown," the documentary, "Listen UP! Quincy Jones," classic concert "Marvin Gaye: The Real Thing in Performance," "Prince Weekend," "Pop-up Video: Ladies of Soul," "Soul School Weekend," "SoulStage: The Roots," "Soul Story: Usher," and the archival documentary of the concert referred to as the African American answer to Woodstock, "Wattstax."

"SUMMER OF SOUL" — AIRS THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER (JULY 11 – SEPTEMBER 1)

VH1 Soul will kick off the summer with its third annual Summer Of Soul campaign, a summer-long celebration of soul music between July 11 – September 1. This summer, VH1 Soul will journey to New Orleans, in collaboration with The Essence Music Festival to produce new and compelling summer programming. The Summer of Soul line-up will include two new Top 10: Best In Summer Soul countdowns, in which each VH1 Soul artist will host a special consisting of their

Top 10 favorite summer videos, as well as brand new Summer Of Soul interstitials to include cool, fun, lifestyle oriented questions about summer (VH1 Soul artists TBD).

For more information on all these shows, please log onto http://www.vh1.com/, http://www.vh1classic.com/ and http://www.vh1soul.com/

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with TV series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in 90 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital channels and services including VH1Classic, VH1 Soul, VH1 Mobile, VH1Games and extensive broadband video on VH1.com. Connect with VH1 at VH1.com.

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

Launched in 1997, VH1 Soul is the 24-hour network that brings music lovers the hottest, soul, neo-soul an R&B hits from the 90s and today featuring core artists such as Alicia Keys, Jill Scott, Outkast, Mary J. Blige and Usher. VH1 Soul, the premier source for all R&B and soul music, is now seen in the Top 20 U.S. markets for African-Americans and is available in nearly 20 million U.S. households.

  * All Times ET/PT

   Contact:
   Surayyah McCarthy
   212-846-8433
   Surayyah.McCarthy@VH1Staff.com

Source: VH1

CONTACT: Surayyah McCarthy of VH1, +1-212-846-8433,
Surayyah.McCarthy@VH1Staff.com

Web site: http://www.vh1.com/
http://blog.vh1.com/
http://www.vh1classic.com/
http://www.vh1soul.com/

Winner will Appear on Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes 2008′ Collectors Album

Atlanta, GA – (May 27, 2008) Left Eye’s UNI Studios and Emancipated Talent announce their Worldwide "Summer Star Search Showcase" for un-signed artists only. Auditions open from June 21, 2008 – August 9, 2008. All groups, solo artists and bands in all genres of music can enter via YouTube or live at Left Eye’s UNI Studios, located at 587 Ralph McGill Boulevard, NE, Atlanta, GA, 30312.

The Summer Star Search Showcase is a highly competitive event that will give talent a clear understanding of the hard work, uniqueness and professionalism that are the basic attributes of music industry success.
The Showcase runs June 21st – August 9th. Must be 16 years or older to enter. The final 12 "Live" entries, along with the top 10 "YouTube" entries, will be chosen and judged by an exclusive panel of Celebrities & Industry Professionals. Contestants must pre-register online at www.summerstarsearch.com, limited registrations will be accepted.

Contestants do not have to be present to participate. Registrants outside of the United States may register to submit an online video via YouTube. Once your fee has been received, the video will be viewed and contestants will be immediately entered into the selection process. Registration Fee Applies.
Online Video Submission Contestants names will be added to the website with video footage of selective performances. At the end of the 8th week, the final 10 will be chosen and posted on the website.

The Showcase Winner will receive:
•
An Exclusive Guest Artist spot on Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes "Collectors" Album, being released late 2008.’
•
Artist Development by R&B Superstar T-Boz of TLC
•
One Year Management Contract with Emancipated Talent (www.emancipatedtalent.com)
•
Three – Five song demo package professionally recorded at UNI Studios (www.unimusicstudios.com)
•
Professional Media Kit by TLAPR Agency, LLC (www.tlapr.com)
The winner’s package will be shopped to major and indie labels with worldwide distribution, including digital downloads. The First and Second Runner up will receive 1st Runner Up: $1000.00, 2nd Runner Up: $500.00.

Left Eye’s UNI Studios
The late Lisa "Left Eye Lopes created UNI Studios in 1998. Her goal was to have a high-end studio in her house, to record her first Solo Album. She designed her studio around Sony’s DMX R100. It is the "Baby Oxford" of digital mixing consoles. Lisa recorded numerous songs in her studio, set to be released late 2008.’

Lisa’s family decided to open this wonderful studio to the public at affordable rates. With an array of new equipment, software upgrades, Pro Tools HD 2, the fast and powerful Apple Mac Pro computer and a beautiful dance/rehearsal room, UNI Studios is more powerful than ever. It is destined to be a favorite amongst recording artists and performers.

Emancipated Talent
Emancipated Talent is a full service entertainment company that specializes and focuses on personal management and consulting. Our management division provides honest and earnest career advice, guidance and nurturing to our client. From musicians, commercial and theatrical artists to athletes, we represent the best in quality professionals and are selective in creating alliances. Our clients include Faith Evans, Ashanti, Charlie Murphy, Ginuwine, Keith Sweat, to name a few.

Contact info@summerstarsearch.com or visit summerstarsearch.com, for contest details. For media inquiries contact Tafia L. Allah-Pringle, TLAR Agency, LLC at 202.575.7774 or tafia@tlapr.com.

LAS VEGAS BASED "GODFATHER OF GANGSTA RAP" KEEPS HIS 50 YEAR MUSICAL LEGACY THRIVING WITH THE KENT BLUES LABEL AND THE STABLE OF RAP ARTISTS ON HIS FIRST KUT LABEL
* * *
Alexander’s Roster Includes Grammy nominated Bluesman John Lee
Hooker, Jr. And Keyboardist Deacon Jones, In Addition To
Rappers Slick And The Shock Mob, King Kon, Latin Rapper Joe Serious,
Jazz Rapper Will Roc and Breakout Female Gangsta Rapper Mo Wiley
* * *
Kent’s Diverse Catalog Includes The 2Pac Memorial Project
‘Dare 2 Struggle’ And The Compilation
’100 Years Of Surfing: Celebrating Surfing’s Greatest Hits’

Currently celebrating an incredible 50 years in the music business, "Godfather Of Rap" Morey Alexander could easily kick back and rest on his formidable laurels:  launching the careers of rap pioneers N.W.A, Easy-E, Ice Cube, Mellow Man Ace, Kid Frost and Dr. Dre following a lengthy run as a top blues producer, marketing manager and impresario whose charges at the Legendary Blues Label, KENT RECORDS included B.B. King, Ike & Tina Turner, Charlie Musselwhite and Etta James. He also worked with great artists such as Steve Miller, Barry Goldberg , Johnny Otis, Harvey Mandel and many other noteworthy musical giants.

Despite these trying times in the music industry, the Las Vegas based Alexander continues to look ahead optimistically and find exciting, innovative ways to break deserving new artists on the rap and blues fronts. As the owner of Kent Entertainment (www.kententertainment.com) and its two subsidiary independent labels, the Kent Blues Label and the rap-driven FirstKut, he has experienced his share of distribution struggles with unscrupulous companies these past few years.

Yet Alexander—who recently inked a new deal with Super D Distribution–has still managed to achieve great breakthrough success with a powerful stable of artists, including (on the rap end of things) Slick of the Shock Mob (Elements of the Game), Slick’s son King Con, BOO-YAA T.R.I.B.E (Angry Samoans), Canibus and Phoenix Orion (Def Con Zero) and Latin rapper Joe Serious (King of the West). FirstKut also scored a major hit with Dare 2 Struggle: A 2Pac Tribute that pays homage to the music of the late Tupac Shakur with contributions from Dr. Mutulu Shakur (the late rapper’s dad), Mopreme (of Thug Life), Slick, Johnny "J", TQ and incarcerated rappers from behind the wall.

Alexander and Slick are currently involved in a joint venture to manage and produce up and coming rappers and helping establish them as stars that will keep the genre thriving for many years. Both are excited about working with one of FirstKut’s new artists, breakout Bay Area based female gangsta rapper Mo Wiley, a real deal artist with major street cred whose songs reflect the struggles of and redemption through her rough and tumble childhood and early young adulthood. In anticipation of the release of her debut album Major League Ballin’, FirstKut will soon be releasing her debut singles, the R&B flavored "These Boys" and the edgy club track "You Can’t Touch This."

Alexander also recently struck up a working relationship with top producer and mastering engineer Tom Parham, who recently set up a new studio facility in Vegas and will be working with some of Kent Entertainment’s artists. Alexander is also literally jazzed these days by his re-signing of veteran jazz-rap artist and keyboardist Will Roc. Alexander’s association with Roc extends back many years, back to the N.W.A. and Easy-E days. Most recently, Roc produced the Grammy nominated, W.C. Handy Award winning album Blues With A Vengeance by Kent Blues label artist John Lee Hooker, Jr. (son of the legendary bluesman John Lee Hooker, Sr.). In addition to producing such legendary jazz artists as Herbie Hancock, Roc was a member of Ghetto Guerillas and The Uzi Brothers. FirstKut will be releasing his new album with his latest ensemble Vicious Groove.

FirstKut will also soon be completing an exciting project by ABC, a Vegas based rapper produced by Slick who was killed recently in a tragic home invasion incident. All proceeds from ABC’s recording will go to a fund to help the artist’s young children.

Because Alexander is so renowned for his groundbreaking role in rap music, people sometimes forget his love for and legacy in the world of blues. In addition to John Lee Hooker, Jr., the Kent Blues Label also has Deacon Jones, a longtime keyboardist with Hooker, Sr. whose upcoming recording will be called Jonesin’ For Money. The all-star session will include performances by Hooker, Sr., Eddie Money, Gregg Allman, Dr. John and Lydia Pence. Another key release on the blues label is Sweet Home Chicago, a long lost piece of musical history that bridges the gap between the modern blues movement of the 60′s and 70′s rock era; the star-studded date includes Barry Goldberg, Harvey "The Snake" Mandel, Charlie Musselwhite, Mike Bloomfield, Bobby Jones, Robben Ford and Phil Upchurch.

The Kent Catalog also includes the best selling compilation 100 Years Of Surfing: Celebrating Surfing’s Greatest Hits, featuring classics like "Pipeline" and "Wipeout" and songs by Mike Love Of The Beach Boys, Jan & Dean, The Ventures and Dick Dale. The collection also features a newly recorded revamp of a classic Ventures song, now called "Deja Surf 2008."

One of the music industry’s top advocates for independent artists throughout his career, Alexander has never been shy about sharing his tough opinions on the state of the business. His most recent diatribe "The Anatomy Of A Failed Distribution System" takes a hard look at the way artists and indie record labels are suffering due to poorly managed distribution systems and bad retailing strategies. His harsh views on these issues and some tough personal learning experiences aside, he feels like there has never been a better time for indie artists and their music to thrive.

"By merging all of these companies together into huge conglomerates, the major labels are not only failing financially but they have failed the artists who are the lifeblood of the business," says Alexander. "With so many artists, the majors cannot possibly do justice to the rosters they have, and they’re stuck in an old business model which just is not working anymore. With so many independent record stores going out of business and only a handful of top distributors that every company like mine seems to be going through, we have to be creative about how we are marketing our products and artists. Retail is still an important component, but Kent is doing an overall campaign that incorporates our strong and growing internet presence, which to this point has generated more sales than in-store purchases.

"Our deals with the artists include internet representation, internet marketing and merchandising, and give them control over the music they make, the touring they do and the ultimate paths they take in their careers," he adds. "If we can start getting our artists back in the stores under our new distribution deal with Super D, and keep developing our online ventures, there are unlimited opportunities for Kent’s labels and our stable of great artists. We’re seeing the evolution of the music industry, and are aware that in many ways we’re going back to basics. No matter how massive the challenges may be, the key to success is staying one step ahead of the curve so that artists have an opportunity to have their music heard and appreciated on a global scale."

# # #

For more information on MOREY ALEXANDER / KENT ENTERTAINMENT or to arrange coverage, contact:
Steve Levesque or Guy McCain at Luck Media & Marketing, Inc. at (818) 760-8077
info@luckmedia.com, www.luckmedia.com, or www.kententertainment.com

May 28, 2008
Brooklyn, NY

The headliners of the Main Performance Day of the 2008 Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival have finally been announced. Legendary MC KRS ONE and DJ Premier will be leading the charge this year on July 12th along with Brooklyn’s own Buckshot.

KRS ONE is widely recognized as one of the greatest MC’s of all time with a career spanning over two decades. From ‘Criminal Minded’ to ‘Edutainment’ to ‘Return Of The Boom Bap’ KRS has delivered hit after genre defining hit. Also known as ‘The Teacha’ KRS has served as Hip-Hop’s conscious and intellectual barometer while earning respect from every corner of the Hip-Hop Nation. This summer KRS will be re-launching the Stop The Violence Movement, his initiative to combat inner city violence. Brooklyn Bodega and The Brooklyn Hip- Hop Festival will also be working with the Stop The Violence Movement on their Summer calendar.

DJ Premier is one of the most celebrated and accomplished DJ’s and producers in Hip-Hop. From Gangstarr to Nas to Jay Z to Janet Jackson to MOP to Dilated Peoples Premier has been a cornerstone of the culture. He has influenced a generation of beat makers with his trademark style and staying power. Premier’s ability to make hits for pop stars, rap stars, trap stars and backpackers has made him one of the most sought after names in the business.

"I have always maintained that KRS ONE is the greatest MC of all time. Content, lyricism, cultural impact, longevity. There is no one better. KRS’s views on metaphysics and philosophy which birthed the once controversial statement, ‘I am Hip-Hop’ shaped my view of the culture and my place within it. It was Kris who told us that one day there would be a Hip- Hop president and here we are with Barack Obama who is a fan of [Jay Z's] ‘American Gangster.’ The addition of Kris and Primo to this year’s lineup is a great honor and a personal pleasure," Wes Jackson, BHF Executive Director.

Mr. Jackson also went on to say that the remaining lineup and details on additional events on July 11th and the official after party on July 12th will be released next week.

Tickets for July 12th are available online at www.brooklyn bodega.com as well as Fat Beats
406 Ave Of The Americas (6th Ave between 8th and 9th Streets) in Manhattan.
More official BHF retailers will be announced next week on June 2nd.

Tickets for July 10th at the Masonic Lodge with Bilal and Ladybug Mecca are also available at www.masonicboom. com

The Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival 2008 calendar:

July 10th at the Masonic Lodge in Fort Greene, Brooklyn
July 11th in DUMBO, venue and talent TBA
July 12th Main Day including Brooklyn Hip-Hop Family Day
July 12th Official after party

Stay in touch via brooklynbodega.com for details on artists, vendors and more
Do your part and SUPPORT CELEBRATE and REPRESENT
Make a donation now – Keep Hip-Hop Alive

Brooklyn Bodega
info@brooklynbodega.com

Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival
john@brooklynbodega.com

Media Be Advised this event will be the IT event for the release of Sex and the City!

WHAT:  The IT Factor and Strong Media Marketing present:

      Charlotte’s own

Sex and the City’s event: "The After Affair"

WHEN:  Friday, May 30, 2008 9pm – 1am

WHERE:  LIV @ HOM- 116 W. 5th Street

Event Details: The IT Factor and Strong Media Marketing have teamed up to bring the sexy flare to Charlotte, NC. The event is sure to make everyone feel like their favorite Sex and the City star! Attendees will arrive and walk the red carpet with paparazzi taking photos. This will be a sexy city event that you do not want to miss! The host for the evening will be Creative Loafing’s own, Brittney Cason! DJ’s for the evening will spin the best city vibes to keep you dancing all night. There will be boutique displays, raffles, gift bags, special invited celebrity guests, and the best martini specials sponsored by Skyy Vodka.

Managers and Publicists of A/B list celebrities in Charlotte, NC for the release of Sex and the City, to verify your client’s attendance and to make sure we have your special VIP gift bag upon arrival, please email:

      socialdirector22@gmail.com or call 919.247.5973

Media interested in attending, please RSVP with Felisha Fletcher via email at: socialdirector22@gmail.com or T. Strong at: strongmediamarketing@gmail.com or call 919.247.5973.

Skyy Vodka and Celebrity Power Magazine will be our major sponsors. In addition we are working with the infamous Mike Kitchen of the SolKitchen! Together, we have "fashioned" one of the most glamorous events Charlotte has seen this year." Not only will we entertain our attendees but we will also give back to the community. In an effort to assist in the continued fight against Aids in America, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Metrolina Aids Project.

From 9:00pm to 1:00am, guests will enjoy an evening containing enough eye-candy to quench even the strongest hunger for fashion. There will be giveaways for event tickets, clothing, footwear and accessories and a gift bag filled with celebrity-status-swag.

For more information, please visit:

http://www.theitfactormedia.com/
http://theitfactorspeaks.blogspot.com/
www.myspace.com/theitfactor22
www.myspace.com/socialdirector22

or call 919.247.5973 or call 646.288.5389 for VIP table prices

MEDIA CONTACT:

Felisha Fletcher

The IT Factor Media

www.theitfactormedia.com

919.247.5973

"Celebrity Vinyl" pairs more than 100 photographs of album art with hilarious observations about these less than radio-worthy projects

New York, NY, May 27, 2008 — Mark Batty Publisher, a leader in distinctive books covering the graphic and communication arts, has announced the publication of "Celebrity Vinyl," a book that reveals the pitfalls of TV stars, sports heroes and other media icons who decided to record music albums of their own. Every album illustrated in the book is accompanied by the sometimes outraged, often sassy, and always witty observations of author Tom Hamling, whose comments dissect both the graphic design of the album covers and the celebrities themselves.

Among those featured in "Celebrity Vinyl" are Bruce Willis ("The Return of Bruno"), Eddie Murphy ("How Could it Be?"), The National Hockey League’s New York Islanders ("A Christmas Album"), Alyssa Milano ("Alyssa"), Leonard Nimoy ("Mr. Spock’s Music from Outer Space"), Shaquille O’Neal ("I’m Outstanding"), Burt Reynolds ("Ask Me What I Am"), Ted Knight ("Hi Guys"), Raquel Welch ("This Girl’s Back in Town") and dozens of others.

"Celebrity Vinyl" got its start when the advertising agency where Hamling once worked decided to throw out all of the records and cassettes in its audio library so they could be replaced with CDs. Subsequently, Hamling spent close to a decade acquiring additional celebrity vinyl by rooting through record store bins and traveling to flea markets far and wide.

"Sometimes I feel like Dr. Richard Kimble in search of not one, but many one-armed men," said Hamling of his ongoing quest to collect these curiously compelling pieces of pop-culture history. "Except that my search is for guys like Jesse ‘The Body’ Ventura and William ‘Refrigerator’ Perry, who really do prove that what I have is the ‘worst’ collection ever. This book is a study in the consecration of fame. It’s an examination of those who are demoted to the C-list just by virtue of stepping into a recording studio."

About Mark Batty Publisher
Mark Batty Publisher is an independent publisher dedicated to making distinctive books on the visual art of communicating, showcasing the visual power and innovation of contemporary culture in all of its varied poses. Today, the visual comes at us from more places than ever, and its dissemination is faster and more advanced every year. Books from Mark Batty Publisher capture this acceleration on the pages of every book. Affordable, well designed, thoughtfully created, and produced to last, MBP books are artful products that readers want to hold onto forever. For more information, please visit www.markbattypublisher.com.

"Celebrity Vinyl"
Tom Hamling
Popular Culture, Music, Humor
128 pages
9 x 9 inches
Color throughout
Casebound
978-0-9795546-2-9
$24.95
June 2008

Contact: Joel Samberg, 1.973.857.8070, media@markbattypublisher.com.