Mel Ez is putting New Carolina on the Hip Hop map

February 26, 2009 By

Hefnaz Produkshunn recording artist Mel Ez is gearing to represent both North and South Carolina under the umbrella called "New Carolina". His goal is to put both states on the Hip Hop map and increase the awareness of the emerging talent. Music producer Tommy Gunz known for his work with Interscope recording artist  The Game, has teamed with Mel Ez and up and coming rapper Oompski on the song  "Planet Carolina" which is the 1st installment of songs demonstrating the pride felt for New Carolina.  Recognizing the financial potential, several major recording labels have contacted Hefnaz Produkshunn to discuss plans related to the marketing and promotions of Mel Ez's project, and the vision of Hefnaz Produkshunn as a artist development and recording label. It is projected that within the next 2 years, New Carolina's music scene will be as big as Atlanta's.

Mel Ez's debut album Desert Ez which is set to be released once a decision is made, and a deal is put into place with one of the major recording labels, may indeed create a strong foundation for New Carolina's music scene to stand and grow from. His material is creatively vivid and exciting. It is strong yet smooth. He most commands attention with a unique voice, fluid delivery, and a seducing personality that is demonstrated on every single song. His sound is as diverse as the people of New Carolina that he represents. A DJ and fan favorite is his song "Don't Be Offended" that really brings attention to his voice and his control of it. Some say it is reminiscent of the late Tupac Shakur in which his words are delivered at times rapidly but quality is not lost. For the ladies Mel Ez gives you "Do Something" which gives you the bounce effect with heavy bass. DJ Green Lantern known best for his relationship with G Unit as their official mixtape and show DJ was blown away by Mel Ez's song "Lock & Load" which featured label mate Deeno Snuff. Due to delayed email responses on both ends, "Lock & Load" was not able to be featured on DJ Green Lantern's Monster Mash II mixtape.

The music industry is about to witness a shift in attention from the deeper sections of the South  to the beginning sections  aka New Carolina. New Carolina has been waiting to be heard and is waiting to support someone or something that brings attention to their states. From its radio stations to its schools and universities, New Carolina has many outlets for promotional exposure. New Carolina also has influence with neighborhood states which provides further exposure for its talent. Considering the tremendous talent and mass appeal that Mel Ez has, his material will undoubtedly be received very well nationally and globally.

For more information about Hefnaz Produkshunn and Mel Ez

Contact: Patrick "Daddy Kool" DeLisser, President of Hefnaz Produkshunn LLC
Number: 917-734-2418
Email: patrickdelisser@hefnaz.com

To hear music from Mel Ez:
www.myspace.com/hefnazpresident

Filed Under: Hip Hop Press Releases Tagged With: ,

GRAMMY IN THE SCHOOLS EXPANDS THROUGH SUPPORT FROM FORD MOTOR COMPANY FUND

February 26, 2009 By

Ford's Grants Drive Expanded Educational Programs in Miami, Detroit, and Phoenix

LOS ANGELES, CA. February 26, 2009 – As part of its long term commitment to supporting innovative educational programs across the country, Ford Motor Company Fund has awarded grants to the GRAMMY Foundation® that will support an expansion of its GRAMMY in the Schools® programs into the target cities of Miami, Detroit and Phoenix.

The support from the community relations arm of Ford Motor Company will go toward three GRAMMY in the Schools® programs: GRAMMY Signature Schools, which helps financially challenged schools offer music programs for students; GRAMMY Career Day, which helps high school students gain insights into music industry careers; and GRAMMY Camp Scholarships, a residential summer program that offers high school students an interactive music experience focusing on all aspects of commercial music.

As part of its support of GRAMMY Foundation programs, Ford Fund is awarding $5,000 to schools in Miami, Detroit and Phoenix that win needs-based "Enterprise" awards under GRAMMY's Signature Schools program.  In addition, Ford Fund will award one full scholarship to GRAMMY Camp® to a winning student in each city.

"Ford Motor Company Fund is proud to partner with the GRAMMY Foundation to continue our century-long commitment to education", said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services.  "Supporting music programs in schools is just another way Ford seeks to enhance and expand opportunities for young people throughout the U.S."

"Our GRAMMY in the Schools programs are designed to provide young people with access to the power of music," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy® and the GRAMMY Foundation. "Whether they are attending our GRAMMY Camp or GRAMMY Career Day to gain insight into industry careers directly from outstanding artists and music industry professionals or they are a student in a high school music program strengthened by a GRAMMY Signature Schools award, our GRAMMY Foundation programs give students significant opportunities to enrich their musical lives. That's why we are proud to work with an organization that is committed to music education like the Ford Fund."

Under the banner of GRAMMY in the Schools, the GRAMMY Foundation achieves its goals in music education by:
1) Drawing public attention to the critical importance of maintaining music education as a core element of school curricula,
2) Bringing students together with working professionals for a "real life" exchange of information, insight and inspiration and
3) Recognizing excellence in musical achievement nationwide – both among individual students and school music programs.

The GRAMMY Signature Schools program and GRAMMY® Career Day are presented nationally by the Gibson Foundation.  GRAMMY Camp is hosted by the University of Southern California (USC) Thornton School of Music and sponsored in part by Epiphone.

For more information on the Ford Motor Company Fund and the GRAMMY Foundation visit
www.community.ford.com and www.grammyintheschools.com

ABOUT FORD MOTOR COMPANY FUND AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services is committed to creating opportunities that promote corporate citizenship, philanthropy, volunteerism and cultural diversity for those who live in the communities where Ford operates.  Celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2009 and made possible by funding from Ford Motor Company, Ford Motor Company Fund supports initiatives and institutions that foster innovative education, auto-related safety, and American heritage and legacy.  National programs include Ford Partnership for Advanced Studies, which provides high school students with academically rigorous 21st century learning experiences, and Driving Skills for Life, a teen-focused auto safety initiative.  The Ford Volunteer Corps, established in 2005, continues Ford's legacy of caring worldwide.  Through the Volunteer Corps, Ford employees and retirees participate in a wide range of volunteer projects in their communities. For more information on programs made possible by Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services, visit www.community.ford.com.

ABOUT THE GRAMMY FOUNDATION
The GRAMMY Foundation was established in 1989 to cultivate the understanding, appreciation and advancement of the contribution of recorded music to American culture – from the artistic and technical legends of the past to the still unimagined musical breakthroughs of future generations of music professionals. The Foundation accomplishes this mission through programs and activities that engage the music industry and cultural community as well as the general public. The Foundation works in partnership year-round with its founder, The Recording Academy®, to bring national attention to important issues such as the value and impact of music and arts education and the urgency of preserving our rich cultural heritage. For more information, please visit www.grammyfoundation.com

Contacts:                                   
Edna or Damian Bruce                      
ESP Public Relations                          
Playa Del Rey, CA                              
W.310.827.9727                               
esppr@aol.com      

Filed Under: Music Industry Press Releases Tagged With: ,

THE MINDSET OF THE MAN THAT SHOT 50 CENT 9 TIMES!!!

February 26, 2009 By

HOLLYWOOD, CA – (Feb. 26, 2009) When Hip-Hop first heard of the alleged assailant that shot one of the reigning kings of rap, 50 Cent, he was thinly veiled in 50 Cent's legendary freestyle, Ghetto Quran. It's been almost ten years now and with time served, the man who put that scar on his face is still in hiding.

The Rap Game's newest member Draze took time to visually give us a mental map of the events leading up to the Get Rich or Die Trying star's tragic shooting.  With the now former street hustler turned music mogul and meteoric rise to fame, rapper Draze provides his version and visual mindset of "the shooter."

Aligning 50 Cent with one of his favorite gangsters, Tony "Scarface" Montana and rapper "Draze" as the recently released "shooter" himself, the story is told as an actual account with vivid details from the enemies, the snitching and the payment that lead to those now infamous "9" shots being fired. Names have been changed to protect the parties involved of course.

"I know people will say I am trying to exploit this cat, but that's not it at all. I'm just outlining what has been told to me thru my music. Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson 's fans are sure to see another side of the mega star," says Draze.

MEDIA KIT BELOW:
http://www.mixtapemovies.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=33&Itemid=40

For Information Contact:
Echoing Soundz 818.787.7633

Jessica Sylva
jsylva@echoingsoundz.com

Echo Hattix
echohattix@echoingsoundz.com

Filed Under: Hip Hop Press Releases Tagged With: ,

Canadian Dates Announced for Beyonce’s ‘I AM…’ World Tour

February 26, 2009 By

NEW YORK, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ — Beyonce will preview her "I AM…" world tour in late March 2009 with a quartet of Canadian concerts in Edmonton (March 26), Saskatoon (March 27), Winnipeg (March 28) and Vancouver (March 29), followed by a performance in Seattle on April 1, before launching the European leg of her tour on April 26 in Croatia (please see full itinerary following).

Tickets and VIP packages are available NOW for purchase through www.ticketmaster.ca.

The most heavily anticipated concert event of the year, Beyonce's "I AM…" world tour will mark the artist's first full-length concert since 2007's sold-out "The Beyonce Experience" and will premiere live performances of songs from I AM…SASHA FIERCE, her latest international #1 chart-topping album.

Thierry Mugler, world-renowned designer, director and photographer, will work as creative advisor and costume designer on Beyonce's "I AM…" world tour.

The "I AM…" world tour production promises to showcase the music and film superstar like you've never seen her before. Beyonce's extraordinary all-female band, The SUGAMAMAS, will join her again to perform musical hits, classics, and surprises in a newly-created high-tech state-of-the-art concert environment.

  BEYONCE'S "I AM…" WORLD TOUR 2009

  DATE             CITY                     VENUE
  Thu   3/26/09    Edmonton                 Rexall Place
  Fri   3/27/09    Saskatoon                Credit Union
  Sat   3/28/09    Winnipeg                 MTS Centre
  Tue   3/31/09    Vancouver                GM Place

  Wed   4/1/09     Seattle                  KeyArena at Seattle Center

  Sun   4/26/09    Zagreb, Croatia          Arena
  Tue   4/28/08    Vienna, Austria          Stadthalle
  Wed   4/29/09    Budapest, Hungary        Arena
  Thu   4/30/09    Prague, Czech Republic   O2

  Sat   5/2/09     Rotterdam, Holland       Ahoy
  Sun   5/3/09     Rotterdam, Holland       Ahoy
  Tue   5/5/09     Paris, France            Bercy
  Wed   5/6/09     Strasbourg, France       Zenith
  Thu   5/7/09     Antwerp, Belgium         Sportpalais
  Fri   5/8/09     Berlin, Germany          O2
  Sun   5/10/09    Herning, Denmark         MCH Arena
  Mon   5/11/09    Gothenburg, Sweden       Scandinavium
  Wed   5/13/09    Stockholm, Sweden        Globen
  Fri   5/15/09    Koln, Germany            Arena
  Sat   5/16/09    Zurich, Switzerland      Hallenstadion
  Mon   5/18/09    Lisbon, Portugal         Atlantico
  Tue   5/19/09    Madrid, Spain            Palacio Desportes
  Wed   5/20/09    Barcelona, Spain         Palau St Jordi
  Fri   5/22/09    Newcastle, UK            Metro Arena
  Sat   5/23/09    Birmingham, UK           NIA
  Mon   5/25/09    London, UK               O2 Arena
  Tue   5/26/09    London, UK               O2 Arena
  Wed   5/27/09    Manchester, UK           MEN
  Fri   5/29/09    Dublin, Ireland          O2
  Sat   5/30/09    Dublin, Ireland          O2
  Sun   5/31/09    Belfast, Ireland         Odyssey Arena

  Mon   6/1/09     Belfast, Ireland         Odyssey Arena
  Wed   6/3/09     Dublin, Ireland          O2
  Thu   6/4/09     Dublin, Ireland          O2
  Sat   6/6/09     Liverpool, UK            Liverpool Echo Arena
  Sun   6/7/09     Sheffield, UK            Sheffield Arena
  Mon   6/8/09     London, UK               O2 Arena
  Tue   6/9/09     London, UK               O2 Arena

  www.beyonce.com
  www.beyonceonline.com
  www.houseofdereon.com
  www.dereon.com

  www.musicworldentertainment.com
  www.columbiarecords.com

Source: Music World/Columbia Records

CONTACT: Yvette Noel-Schure, Columbia Records, Media, New York,
+1-212-833-4483, Yvette.Noel-Schure@sonymusic.com

Web Site: http://www.beyonce.com/
http://www.beyonceonline.com/
http://www.columbiarecords.com/
http://www.dereon.com/
http://www.houseofdereon.com/
http://www.musicworldentertainm
ent.com/
http://www.ticketmaster.ca/

Filed Under: RnB Press Releases Tagged With: ,

Maya Angelou, an American Legend, Shares Her Celebrated Wisdom and Humor on Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at the Max M. Fisher Music Center in Detroit

February 26, 2009 By

African American Family Magazine presents 'AN EVENING WITH MAYA ANGELOU' AN AMERICAN LEGEND

DETROIT, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ — Dr. Maya Angelou comes to Detroit to share her inspirational insight and absorbing stories on Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. at The Max M. Fisher Music Center in Detroit. This event will give those in the audience a once-in-a-lifetime chance to hear one of our greatest voices. Dr. Angelou has published a new book, Letter to my Daughter, that reveals her path to living well and living a life with meaning by sharing life lessons with the daughter she never had but sees all around her. Letter to my Daughter has just received the 2009 Literary Non Fiction Award by the NAACP – Outstanding Literary Work – Non Fiction.

Dr. Maya Angelou is a remarkable Renaissance woman who is hailed as one of the great voices of contemporary literature. As a poet, educator, historian, best-selling author, actress, playwright, civil-rights activist, producer and director, she continues to travel the world, spreading her legendary wisdom. Within the rhythm of her poetry and elegance of her prose lies Angelou's unique power to help readers of every orientation span the lines of race – and Angelou captivates audiences through the vigor and sheer beauty of her words and lyrics.

African American Family Magazine's Distinguished Speakers Series presents America's most intellectual, inspirational and informative speakers, who engage broad-based audiences by addressing issues such as history, race, literature, economics and education. The series has hosted notables such as the late Coretta Scott King, Nobel Laureate and Pulitzer Prize recipient Toni Morrison, Sheila Johnson, the world's first black female billionaire, Immaculee Ilibagiza, a Rwandan genocide survivor, John Bul Dau, one of the Lost Boys of Sudan, entrepreneur Christopher Gardner and the Former President Bill Clinton.

"An Evening with Maya Angelou" is presented by Ford Motor Company and produced by African American Family Magazine. This event is also sponsored by St. John Health System, DTE Energy Foundation, Fifth Third Bank, Wayne County Community College District, McDonalds and Metro Parent Magazine. Partial proceeds from this event will benefit The Yes Foundation, a local 501c3 nonprofit organization that works to promote literacy in Detroit.

For ticket information, call (248) 398-3400, (313) 576-5111 or visit www.detroitsymphony.com. For more information about this event, call (248) 398-3400, ext. 128.

Call or email for additional information or a hi-res photo of Maya Angelou.

Source: African American Family Magazine

CONTACT: Lisa Grace, +1-248-398-3400, ext. 128, lgrace@metroparent.com;
Alexis Bourkoulas, +1-248-398-3400 ext. 123, abourkoulas@metroparent.com

Web Site: http://www.detroitsymphony.com/

Filed Under: Urban Arts and Fashion Press Releases Tagged With: , ,

Fat Joe Readies New Album: Jealous Ones Still Envy 2 Out April 7

February 26, 2009 By

His Third EMI Release To Be Supported By EMI Music Services

NEW YORK, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ — On April 7, 2009, rapper Fat Joe will continue one of the most impressive runs in recent Hip-Hop history with the release of his ninth solo studio album, Jealous Ones Still Envy 2 (J.O.S.E. 2). The project reprises the title of Joe's 2002 RIAA-Certified Platinum release, Jealous Ones Still Envy, and will mark Joe's third release since bringing his Terror Squad Entertainment imprint to the EMI family in 2006. EMI Music Services is supporting the release with promotion, street teams, digital, marketing, licensing and synchronization and brand partnership services.

For this album, Joe has reached out to a veritable who's who of Hip-Hop's elite, landing assists from artists including Ron Browz; Fabolous; former Atlantic Records label mate Lil' Kim; T-Pain; Lil' Wayne, with whom he scored a tremendous hit in 2008's multi-platinum single "Make It Rain;" and Akon, who appears on J.O.S.E. 2's official first single, "One." Much of the production comes from names familiar to Fat Joe fans, including Jim Jonsin, The Incredibles, and frequent collaborator The Street Runners.

In preparation for the release, the single "Winding On Me" featuring Lil' Wayne and Ron Browz was released as a buzz single to DJs across the country over the holidays. Since, it has received a tremendous amount of support in clubs and at the mixshow level on radio. Now, with the "One" already added by Urban and Rhythmic radio stations nationwide, and an official release for the single set for a February 24 digital and ringtone release, J.O.S.E. 2 is sure to continue gaining momentum. The single will be supported by a new video by noted director Chris Robinson, set to hit the airwaves shortly after the single becomes available to fans. "Winding On Me" will also be made available exclusively to Verizon Wireless customers. Fat Joe is currently scheduling a month-long national promo tour in support of J.O.S.E. 2, which will run from early March through the album's release.

"We are thrilled to be backing Fat Joe's latest creation and continuing EMI's relationship with him," said Dominic Pandiscia, senior vice president and GM of EMI Label Services. "He's a significant musical and cultural force whose appeal cuts across so many different genres and fans. This is a great record and the response is terrific."

Recognized as a trailblazer in both mainstream and Latin Hip-Hop, Fat Joe has consistently connected with contemporary audiences since first emerging in the mid-90s with his debut Jealous Ones Envy. In the past few years, the two-time Grammy nominee has seen his popularity grow by leaps and bounds, due to his uncanny ability to adapt to the times while remaining true to his core audience. His 2008 release, Elephant In The Room marked a milestone in Joe's career as his first top ten debut on the Billboard 200 chart, and his third consecutive top five entry on Billboard's Top Hip-Hop/R&B Charts. For more information visit www.fat-joe.com or www.myspace.com/fatjoe.

Source: EMI Music

CONTACT: Syreta J. Oglesby of The Purple Agency, +1-201-658-3711,
syreta@thepurpleagency.com, for EMI Music

Web Site: http://www.fat-joe.com/

Filed Under: Hip Hop Press Releases Tagged With: ,

Tune In to BET on Monday, March 2 for the Fashion Event ‘RIP THE RUNWAY’ at 9:00 p.m.* and the Series Premiere of ‘HARLEM HEIGHTS’ at 10:00 p.m.*

February 26, 2009 By

NEW YORK, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ — Tune into BET on Monday, March 2 at 9:00 p.m.* for the hottest fashions, entertainers and music — all in one incredibly sexy fashion show, RIP THE RUNWAY. This year addressing the "State of the Union in Fashion" will be the beautiful, talented model-turned-actress Joy Bryant and today's most sought-after actor Derek Luke. RIP THE RUNWAY is guaranteed to deliver the latest fashion trends to our viewers — it's simply the best dressed hour of television. The show will re-air on Thursday, March 5 at 8:00 p.m.* and Friday, March 6 at 10:00 p.m.*

  (Logo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070716/BETNETWORKSLOGO )
  (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090226/NE76020-a )
  (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090226/NE76020-b )
  (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090226/NE76020-c )
  (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090226/NE76020-d )

Premiering on Monday, March 2 at 10:00 p.m.,* HARLEM HEIGHTS will provide a window into the fascinating world of New York's young, Black and fabulous crowd. Set against the backdrop of the increasingly gentrified neighborhood of Harlem, the series features a diverse cast of eight young adults from different backgrounds who share common goals — making the post-college leap into adulthood and finding love and success in the big city on their own terms.

  *All times ET/PT

  About BET Networks

BET Networks, a division of Viacom Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 98 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of businesses extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET Digital Networks – BET J, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070716/BETNETWORKSLOGO
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090226/NE76020-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090226/NE76020-b
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090226/NE76020-c
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090226/NE76020-d
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: BET Networks

CONTACT: Michelle Clark, +1-212-205-3158, michelle.clark@bet.net, or
Tricia N. Newell, +1-212-975-8230, tricia.newell@bet.net, or Danielle Spigner,
+1-212-205-3028, Danielle.spigner@bet.net, or Voncella McIntosh,
+1-310-481-3732, voncella.mcintosh@bet.net, all of BET Networks for HARLEM
HEIGHTS; or Marcy Polanco, +1-212-975-4048, Marcy.polanco@BET.net, or Lyntina
Townsend, +1-202-608-2745, Lyntina.townsend@BET.net, both of BET Networks for
RIP THE RUNWAY

Web Site: http://www.bet.com/

Filed Under: Urban Arts and Fashion Press Releases Tagged With: , ,

FORD PARTNERS WITH CELEBRITY CUSTOMIZER FUNKMASTER FLEX TO UNVEIIL TRICKED OUT 2010 FUSION SPORT AT CIAA TOURNAMENT

February 26, 2009 By

Hip-Hop Superstar Nelly Set to Sign Autographs And Show Off His Customized Ford Flex During Ford Fan Experience

•    Celebrity Customizer Funkmaster Flex will unveil a tricked out 2010 Fusion Sport at the 2009 CIAA.
•    Hip-Hop Superstar Nelly makes his first trip to the CIAA and will sign autographs and show off his 2009 "Nelly-Flex" within the Ford booth on Saturday, February 28.
•    Ford set to give away the keys to an all-new 2010 Fusion Sport to one CIAA fan in addition to providing scholarships during the Men's Championship Game on Saturday, February 28

CHARLOTTE, Feb. 24, 2009–Ford is heading into the 2009 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Basketball Tournament with customized cars, superstars and a weekend full of fun.  For the first time since its relationship began with the CIAA, Ford is unveiling a custom vehicle at the tournament in addition to providing an opportunity for CIAA fans to meet Hip-Hop Superstar Nelly who will be making his first trip to the CIAA.

The customized 2010 Ford Fusion Sport is the latest design interpretation by Funkmaster Flex who since 2005 has been lending his creative muscle to Ford on such vehicles as the 2009 Ford Flex, 2009 Ford Focus, 2008 Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition and most recently a 2009 Ford Flex customized for Hip-Hop Heavyweight Nelly.

The two-tone, tricked out vehicle will be unveiled to CIAA Fans for the first time on Friday, February 27 at 10:30 a.m. inside the Charlotte Convention Center. Nephew Tommy of The Steve Harvey Morning Show will be a part of the reveal with Funkmaster Flex.

In addition, CIAA fans will have the chance to meet Hip-Hop Superstar Nelly during the Ford Fan Experience on Saturday, February 28 from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. During this time, Nelly will be signing autographs and Ford will also be raffling off tickets to Nelly's exclusive CIAA After-Party.

As part of the weekend fun, six lucky CIAA fans will have a crack at unlocking the doors to a hot new 2010 Fusion Sport during halftime of the Ford Men's Finals on Saturday, February 28. During Ford's Finals Night, each of the contestants will take their turn at unlocking the vehicle in the Concourse of the Time Warner Cable Arena as part of Ford's Fusion Fantastic Giveaway. Each contestant will randomly pull one key from a set of six keys to see which has the winning key that will start the Fusion Sport. Funkmaster Flex and Nelly will both be on-hand for the giveaway.

As part of Ford's 8th year of support of the CIAA, the company will continue to play an instrumental role in improving the academic outlook for CIAA students by awarding over $100,000 in scholarships and providing a chance to win this hot new vehicle that gets 41 miles to the gallon.

"Providing opportunity is at the root of Ford's DNA," said Crystal Worthem, Ford & Lincoln Sponsorships & Diverse Markets Manager. "Ford continues to provide scholarships and supports the CIAA each year because of the role that the association plays in increasing the chances for educational improvement and opportunity within the African American community. By partnering with the CIAA, Ford is continuing to play its part in ensuring that students receive a quality education and we're excited about being able to team up with the CIAA on this effort again this year."

Furthermore, to be able to bring Nelly down to the CIAA and show off his customized Ford Flex is something that we are extremely excited about said Worthem. "The "Nelly-Flex" caused quite a bit of buzz when we unveiled it last November at the Specialty Equipment Manufacturer's Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas."This is truly one of those head-turning vehicles and we're excited to be able to have it and Nelly with us at the CIAA.

Ford's activities will be held at the Charlotte Convention Center on Feb. 26-28 at the free CIAA Ford Fan Experience.  Ford will have on display some of its hottest products including the new 2010 Fusion Hybrid, 2010 Fusion Sport Customized by Funkmaster Flex, 2009 Ford Flex and 2009 Ford Flex customized for Nelly.  In addition, Ford will treat fans to various activities like the interactive games, opportunities to win tickets to Nelly's exclusive After-Party and the chance to meet Nephew Tommy of the Steve Harvey Morning Show.  Ford will also be bringing R&B Superstar Robin Thicke and Hip-Hop's own Mims to the Ford booth for autograph signings. Also, for the first time, Funkmaster Flex will be kicking off his 2009 Custom Car & Bike Show Tour that will include some of Flex's custom car collection in addition to custom cars from local residents. The show will conclude with the car show being judged by Funkmaster Flex.

"For us, it's about bringing an experience to town that will be remembered for years to come," said Worthem. "The cars, the interactive displays, the chance to win a vehicle and the excitement from the fans are part of what makes this event such a home run. You have fans, families and friends from all over coming together for such a huge event. It's definitely about the fun of it all said Worthem.  "We at Ford hope we're bringing that message of fun to Charlotte. We have cars that are fun to drive, giveaways that are fun to receive and interactive displays that are fun. At the end of the day, it's about the fun," said Worthem."

*To schedule an interview with Funkmaster Flex, Nelly or a Ford Representative please contact Michelle Matthews,mmatth64@ford.com, 313.585.4060

###

Contact:    Michelle Matthews        Nikki Barjon
        313.585.4060            404.514.9992
        mmatth64@ford.com        nikkibarjon@theragency.com

Filed Under: Hip Hop Press Releases Tagged With: , , , ,

Verizon Cheers Premiere of Jonas Brothers’ Movie with Timbaland Remix of Theme Song ‘Tonight’ – First on the BlackBerry Storm Smartphone

February 26, 2009 By

BASKING RIDGE, N.J., and DALLAS, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ — Verizon Wireless, together with Kevin, Joe and Nick Jonas, will celebrate the highly-anticipated release of Walt Disney Pictures' Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience this weekend in Dallas with an evening of entertainment for the whole family. On the agenda for Jonas Brothers fans: an exclusive private screening of the movie, a red carpet after party, a special appearance from Demi Lovato and a remix of the movie's theme song "Tonight," which will be available first to BlackBerry(R) Storm(TM) smartphone customers.

To get the party started, the Jonas Brothers will join superproducer Timbaland on the Verizon Mobile Recording Studio Bus to debut an exclusive remix of "Tonight," the theme song from the film, which opens tomorrow in 3D theaters nationwide. "Tonight" marks the second song in this exclusive music program produced by multi-platinum producer Timbaland in collaboration with today's hottest artists. Songs from the program are available for a limited time for free to Verizon Wireless customers using their BlackBerry Storm smartphones from Research In Motion (RIM).

Starting Saturday night, Verizon Wireless customers will be able to get the exclusive Timbaland remix of the Jonas Brothers' "Tonight" directly on their BlackBerry Storm smartphones — simply visit www.VerizonTimbalandStorm.com using the BlackBerry Storm smartphone's browser, enter the device's phone number and then download the track. This song, and the other collaborations, will be available to all V CAST Music customers later this spring.

"The Jonas Brothers have captured the hearts of America, and Verizon is proud to have been with them from the beginning through the 'Burning Up' tour," said Ed Ruth, director of digital music for Verizon. "This film captures the essence of the band and their recent tour; we're excited about celebrating opening weekend and continuing the momentum by giving our BlackBerry Storm customers a chance to hear a brand new song."

"We are excited to debut our new collaboration with Timbaland and to make this new version of the song available to our fans who use the BlackBerry Storm," said Kevin Jonas. "This weekend means a lot to us, and we can't think of a better way to celebrate than giving the gift of new music to our fans."

"Throughout my career as a producer, I've worked with many different artists spanning a number of music genres," said Timbaland. "Working with the Jonas Brothers on the 'Tonight' remix has allowed me to connect with a new group of fans and has been one of the most unique collaborations yet."

Verizon Wireless is working with Timbaland, in collaboration with other top artists, to bring new songs to BlackBerry Storm smartphone customers in connection with several special events over the next several months. Customers with BlackBerry Storm smartphones will be first to get the new tracks, which will feature different artists and genres and appeal to music lovers of all ages. For more information, visit www.VerizonTimbalandStorm.com.

Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience is a high-energy Walt Disney Pictures rockumentary feature film event from director Bruce Hendricks (Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert). The film blends excerpts from the Brothers' red-hot "Burning Up" concert tour, including guest performances from Demi Lovato and Taylor Swift, with exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, off-the-wall segments, a never-before-heard song ("Love Is On Its Way"), swarming fans and a lot of Jonas Brothers-style humor — giving fans never-before-seen insights into the lives of Kevin, Joe and Nick. Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience is rated G for general audiences.

Available exclusively in the United States from Verizon Wireless, the BlackBerry Storm is the world's first smartphone with a "clickable" touch screen and features powerful communications capabilities, plus advanced multimedia features, including support for V CAST Music with Rhapsody. For more information on mobile music from Verizon Wireless, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or visit www.verizonwireless.com/music. For more information on the BlackBerry Storm smartphone, visit www.verizonwireless.com/storm.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and data network, serving more than 80 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with more than 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited.

Source: Verizon

CONTACT: Debra Lewis, Verizon Wireless, +1-908-559-7512,
Debra.Lewis@verizonwireless.com; Monique Idlett-Mosley, Mosley Music Group for
Timbaland, +1-305-389-1082, moniquemmg@vzw.blackberry.net; Jasmine Madatian,
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures/Burbank, +1-818-560-5610; Lillian Matulic,
Hollywood Records for Jonas Brothers, +1-818-560-6197,
Lillian.Matulic@Disney.com

Web Site: http://www.verizonwireless.com/

Filed Under: Hip Hop Press Releases Tagged With: , , , ,

Rap Duo, Fam Famil Gives Back to the Youth

February 26, 2009 By

By Speaking at Youth Events and Donating Free Tickets to Upcoming Shows

Atlanta, GA – February 2009 – Atlanta based Hip Hop duo, Fam Famil will perform live at the Blaxxx Entertainment Group Showcase; "Who's the REALEST Artist" on February 27, 2009 and will bring fans from The EmPOWERment Center in Decatur to attend the show for free and keep their promise to support the center's programs.

On February 13, 2009 the group was asked to speak to the youth at the Dare To Dream/Tuff Love for Kids Challenge Lock In at the EmPOWERment Center in Decatur, Ga.  "When our publicist asked us to speak to the kids, we didn't hesitate, it was a unique opportunity to reach kids where they are, not on top of a big stage, or through their television screens.  We could really talk to them and they could really see the hard work, dedication and commitment it takes to follow your dream, especially in the music industry" says group member Swole.

Fam Famil spoke about taking the negatives in your life and turning them into positives by channeling those experiences into music.   The kids also got to play Swole's guitar, battle the group and see Fam Famil's perform their single "Mile in My Shoes".  At the event the duo  promised to come back and continue to support them. Fam Famil has donated tickets for the youth to attend the "Who's the Realist" Artist Showcase on Friday, February 27, 2009 to see them perform live.  They will also be on hand to volunteer at the center's events and reach out to the kids.

Fam Famil members, DK & Swole, in their usual style will bring their unusual performance to the stage for this one night performance.  In addition to rapping, Swole plays the guitar and the music industry and their fans are familiar with their unconventional style, lyrics and flow and have come to appreciate the beats strumming from Swole's guitar.  But this performance is designed to further expose the youth to the power of self reliance, belief and esteem.

After meeting in 2002 in Virginia, NJ born DK and North Carolina native Swole, decided to combine DK's persuasive and aggressive flow with Swoll's mastery in storytelling and laid back vibe.  Infusing music with down to earth lyrical truths and body swaying beats, Fam Famil is truly in a lane by themselves.  "Coming together to collaborate on songs and music we felt that we could bring something different to rap music then the same old stuff we have been hearing for years, the game and the players have changed", says member DK.

Proving that artistry is not just a talent or service, and benevolence is not just a word, Fam Famil are two role models who have lived the lyrics they rap about and have made a commitment to not just talk about change but be a catalyst for change, and are standing up for our kids.

Who's the Realist Artist Showcase: Friday, February 27, 2009. 1245 Fowler Street, Atlanta, GA 30318.  Doors open at 9pm – Show starts at 9:30pm.  Tickets are $8.00 in advance at www.blaxxxgroup.com/scfeb27 and $10.00 at the door (Please say you are here for Fam Famil upon entry)

Press & Media Contact
Lyn K.
Lynk PR
lynkpr@gmai.com

Filed Under: Hip Hop Press Releases Tagged With:
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