Chicago, IL, 12/31/08 (Hip Hop PR Wire) -- The music and future hits continue as Urban Tracks Entertainment subsidiary, Heat City Records plans to start 1st quarter 2009 with the grass-roots marketing of Hip Hop act Tizzle and Streetz' EP, 'What Ya On.' "We will roll out the video to the single, 'Leanin 2 Da Side' ,the first week of January 2009 and begin promotion at radio later that month." states Heat City CEO Rodney K. Jackson, a BMI award-winning songwriter and producer. Plans are underway for a West Coast promotional tour starting in L.A. for the pre-Grammy events and performances in Phoenix, AZ during All-Star Weekend. More dates to be confirmed along with show dates and appearances in different markets across the nation. There are also plans for a second video single 'So Fine' toward the end of the quarter.
The label will also prepare for the release of the first compilation from digital music company and quarterly artist contest, upicktheartists.com
Upicktheartists.com has begun the process of signing artists for their first quarter compilation. Fifteen artists will be picked to release their song through Heat City Records (currently distributed by Adrenaline/ADA/Warner Music). Like Myspace.com, artists can upload their bio, songs, videos, and photos. But the difference is that artists have thirty days to secure the most votes and positive comments from their fans.
The top vote-getters will be featured on the compilation "Upicktheartist.com Vol.1" and have the opportunity to release their full album as well. The difference in our business model is that Heat City Records will also handle radio promotion, web/video promotion, and street marketing for these artists." We can use our vast database acquired from four company-owned websites and banner space to help promote". "The beauty is in the brand and not the technology. We are dependent on user (voter) input."
"This is the model we prefer to use because it allows the listener to comment and vote on their favorite artists, in turn these artists build a dedicated fanbase." states Upicktheartists President David Cunningham.
"With over 100 artists competing for the chance to have major distribution and promotion, it finally gives great independent artists the opportunity for broader exposure and promotion." says Jackson.
Upicktheartists.com will also have guest "A&R" and industry veterans giving feedback and suggestions to artists.
The competition originally slated to begin January 1st, 2009 will extend registration for artists and voters to January 14th, 2009, 11:59pm CST. Contest will start at midnight on January 15th, 2009 and last to February 15th, 2009 6pm CST. Video coverage of results will broadcast weekly on http://www.upicktheartists.com and http://youtube.com/heatcityrecords.
Compilation Album will consist of 8 pop tracks, 5 crossover tracks, and 3 R&B tracks.
Artists and voters both register on Upicktheartist.com
Album will be released digitally and physically every quarter via our selected digital partner.
Tracks can not be published or previously released commercially
Tracks must not contain samples.
Uploading and registration occurs the first two weeks of each quarter
Contracts and contest will be include in registration agreement
Running tally of votes will be displayed in real time.
Artist can upload songs for consideration, professional photo, bio, and video
Rodney K. Jackson will be available for interviews.
For press inquiries or further information please contact:
David Nobel
Heat City Records/Adrenaline/Warner Music Group
Product Manager - Publicity and Promotions
312.420.2274 (m)
publicity@heatcityrecords.com
nobel.david@gmail.com
