E-Spire Entertainment News

To read a review on Eurweb, go here:
http://www.eurweb.com/story/eur28343.cfm

Founder suggests worldly business models cause problems.

A ministry that strengthens Christian families is extending that vision to encourage them in business ventures. Vision Forum Ministries' first-ever "Entrepreneurial Boot Camp for Christian Families," which started today in Texas, is designed to pull those families back to a biblical approach to work. To read the entire article on Eurweb, go here: http://www.eurweb.com/story/eur28350.cfm

Eurweb reports that Master P will be doing his first play.Native New Orleanian, Perry Miller (aka Master P) who made his fortune as a rap artist and Founder and CEO of No Limits Records is now capitalizing on the "Madea" phenomenon with "the first Hip Hop gospel stage play." His first effort, Uncle Willy's Family Tragedy, is a comedy based on the serious repercussions of Hurricane Katrina which debuts in Meridien, MS on September 6. To read the entire article, http://www.eurweb.com/story/eur28348.cfm

Burbank, Calif. - My Ghetto Report Card, the current album from the legendary rapper, E-40, has been RIAA certified gold this week.



Anchored by the album's first single "Tell Me When 2 Go," which features rapper Keak Da Sneak, My Ghetto Report Card (Reprise/BME/Sick Wid It Records) debuted at #1 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Charts (#3 on Billboard 200 Chart). The "Yay Area" native teamed with BME Recordings' head Lil' Jon, who executive produced the CD (also features production by Lil Jon, Rick Rock, E-40's son Droop-e of the Pharmasuticles, mainstay Bosko, and Studio Tone with guest features by Mike Jones, T. Pain, Keak Da Sneak, Turf Talk, Juelz Santana, B-Legit, The Federation, 8Ball, and UGK).

The video for the current single, "U And Dat," featuring T-Pain and Kandi Girl, is currently on high rotation at BET, MTV and Fuse.

E-40 will release a new DVD (August 29, 2006), entitled E-40 & The Hype of Hyphy, featuring videos "U And Dat" and "Tell Me When To Go," a behind the scenes look at the making of those videos, and the Hype of Hyphy special, which takes viewers inside the movement and features special appearances by Federation and B-Legit, among others.

"E-40 acts as ringmaster with slick wordplay, street smarts and sly humor. He has long been at the head of his class; now he's graduating to the next level," raves Steve Jones in USA Today, while San Francisco Weekly's Tamara Palmer says, "My Ghetto Report Card will go down in history as the album that helped Bay Area hip hop reclaim its place on the national stage." Congratulations to 40-Bellafonte, 40-water, E-fizzle, Fonzarelli, Mr. Flamboyant, The Ambassador Of The Bay - E-40.

Donavon Frankenreiter goes on tour. He'll be be touring with Government Mule. See his full schedule below:





Tour Dates
http://www.donavonf.com/homepage.

Oct 5, 2006
The Wiltern - Supporting Gov't Mule - Los Angeles, CA
6:30pm

Oct 6, 2006
Rialto Theatre - Tucson, AZ
7:00pm

Oct 8, 2006
Arlington Theatre - Supporting Gov't Mule - Santa Barbara, CA
6:00pm

Oct 10, 2006
The Grove of Anaheim - Supporting Gov't Mule - Anaheim, CA
6:30pm

Oct 13, 2006
Grand Sierra Theatre - Supporting Gov't Mule - Reno, NV
6:30pm

Oct 14, 2006
Warfield Theatre - Supporting Gov't Mule - San Francisco, CA
7:00pm
Buy Tickets

Oct 15, 2006
Pozo Saloon - Supporting Gov't Mule - Santa Margarita, CA
11:00am

Oct 17, 2006
Commodore Ballroom - Supporting Gov't Mule - Vancouver, B.C. Canada
7:00pm

Oct 18, 2006
Commodore Ballroom - Supporting Gov't Mule - Vancouver, B.C. Canada
7:00pm

Oct 20, 2006
Moore Theatre - Supporting Gov't Mule - Seattle, WA
7:00pm

Oct 21, 2006
The Big Easy - Spokane, WA
TBA

Oct 22, 2006
Roseland Theatre - Portland, OR
TBA

Oct 23, 2006
WOW Hall - Eugene, OR
7:00pm

Oct 27, 2006
Belly Up - Aspen, CO
8:00pm

Oct 28, 2006
Club 8150 - Vail, CO
9:00pm

Oct 29, 2006
Aggie Theatre - Fort Collins, CO

SILK'S "ALWAYS AND FOREVER" CD TAKES "BABY-MAKING MUSIC" TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Always And Forever" is not a phrase usually associated with a fickle music business, especially in recent times when one-hit wonders and manufactured artists have been especially prevalent. But for Silk, one of the few vocal groups to breakthrough in the hip-hop era, the phrase applies not only to their own longevity--seventeen years and counting with the current line-up featuring the four original members who have been together throughout--but also to the quality of their music which features finely crafted harmony singing and lyrics that deal with timeless issues of love, romance and sex. With the release of their seventh album "Always And Forever", their debut release on Shanachie Entertainment on October 17th, Silk brings their vocal artistry to a hand-picked selection of songs that have inspired them as simultaneous homage to artists who they respect and musical statement of the ultimate quality of Silk's music.

"It all comes full circle on this album," relates Gary Glenn. "A lot of these songs were ones we were already familiar with so it was easy for us to step in and emulate people we have a lot of respect for. It's a chance to show off our own artistry. If someone has the audacity to do a MichaelJackson number or a Prince tune and do it well, or to really do justice to"The Secret Garden" , then they walk away with respect from the audience. That's what we want."

The album, which features Silk's interpretations of major hits by Blue Magic, Switch, Shalamar, Prince, Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, Heatwave and others, simply builds on something Silk had already been doing.

""We've done a re-make on almost every album anyway so it was like time to do this--a full serving of what we've been doing throughout. Like (Blue Magic's classic) "Sideshow", we've been doing that in our shows and people love it. We were doing (Switch's) "There'll Never Be" at shows and people start to "step" when we do it...and it's a beautiful thing. It even happened in Aurora, Colorado, which is the last place I thought people would be steppin'!"

The young men who formed Silk grew up in Atlanta. Three of them met each other in the late Eighties in the course of working at a particular McDonald's. Soon --Gary "Big G" Glenn, Jonathan "John John" Rasboro, Tim "Timzo" Cameron and Jimmy Gates (Tim and Jimmy were cousins)--got together around their mutual love of singing. They sang whenever and wherever they could ("I don't think there's a church in Atlanta we DIDN'T sing at," laughs Gary) at talent shows, clubs, churches and in the streets. Louise Ferguson, who is their manager today, was determined to get them a shot with Keith Sweat who didn't particularly want to audition the unknown wanna-be's. So when Keith came to a barbeque at Louise's house, she invited Silk to come over and they discreetly went down in the basement and started singing for the kids there. Keith heard them and liked what he heard enough to make Silk the first group signed to his Keia label in 1992 and they were featured on "two of Keith's tracks on his "Keep It Coming" album. Silk's first single, "Happy Days" was garnering radio play but then "Freak Me", another cut from their first album, starting generating radio play spontaneously and when released a single became a Number 1 R&B hit and Number 1 pop hit. It was quickly followed by two Top Ten R&B hits--"Lose Control" and "Girl U For Me, which grew into a string of hits throughout the Nineties including "Hooked On You", "I Can Go Deep", "If You ("Lovin' Me")and "Meeting In My Bedroom". Their signature sound was dubbed "baby-making music."

"At the time we came up," Gary Glenn notes, "producers were putting groups together but when Keith met us we were already Silk. That may be part of the reason why we have been able to stand the test of time. We didn't just get together to get a deal; we got together to sing. We had to find our own niche. You had Boyz II Men with their harmonies and Jodeci with their "from the gut" sound, so we were kind of in the middle. We went from high school stages to arenas very quickly--that was due to Keith."

Silk's audience has grown up along with them and some of the children who were the result of "baby-making music" are now teenagers.

"People are always telling us," John adds, "I made my first child to your music." That's just a blessing! That someone created a child with our music. We know what people are looking for from our music so as long as we honor and respect that we can keep going in that vein, like The Isley Brothers and Keith Sweat."

It's a difficult challenge for even a solo artist to survive in the cut-throat music industry and even more so for a group to stay together. Fourteen years together since the release of their first single, what's Silk's secret?

"I think a lot of prayer, patience and understanding," says Gary Glenn. "We don't always realize how important our commitment to each other has been. It's like being in a marriage that you REFUSE to leave. It's like "I got this ring and I ain't going NOWHERE!" But we all bow down to what's important to Silk. And in the end, we just love singing together."

www.myspace.com/silk

KOCH RECORDS TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM
BY PROLIFIC ARTIST BLACK ICE,
THE DEATH OF WILLIE LYNCH, ON SEPTEMBER 5TH, 2006

BLACK ICE TOURING THE COUNTRY WITH MARY J. BLIGE

(August 29th, 2006)— Brooklyn, NY — KOCH Records is thrilled to announce the release of The Death of Willie Lynch, the debut album by renowned poet Black Ice. The album hits streets on September 5th, 2006 and features artists Musiq Soulchild, Natalie Stewart of Floetry, Vee and Chyna Black.

Black Ice earned his respect as one of the premiere wordsmiths on Russell Simmons' Def Poetry Jam. Known across the nation as one of the most gifted poets of his generation, Ice has moved crowds to the depths of their deepest emotion with his special brand of spoken word. This fall, KOCH Records and world famous DJ Jazzy Jeff are proud to present Black Ice in a light you have never seen him in before. The Death of Willie Lynch showcases his skills with wordplay over 12 tracks. In an unusual move in today's multi-producer projects, Black Ice opted to create The Death Of Willie Lynch with one producer, Eric Greene Jr., a phenomenal young producer who has been blazing a trail of his own. A drummer at heart, Eric has kept a steady tempo of rising notoriety, touring with multi-platinum recording artists Jill Scott, Floetry, and Pharrell. In a very organic manner, Black Ice and Eric have combined to revive the notion of the Hip-Hop concept album. The Death of Willie Lynch is as thoroughly entertaining as it is socially relevant.

At the personal request of superstar singer Mary J. Blige, Black Ice joined her for The Breakthrough Tour scheduled for more than 30 venues nationwide this summer.

Black Ice has lent his genius to the Live 8 concert in Philadelphia, and has made feature TV appearances on BET (Live 8 Concert Special, Rap City The Basement and 106th & Park) and NBC (Showtime at the Apollo), in addition to starring in five consecutive seasons of HBO's Def Poetry Jam. The New York Post has rated his live performance "diamond brilliant". He was cast as a lead member in Def Poetry on Broadway, which went on to win the 2003 Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event. Black Ice's talents are also showcased on releases by Pete Rock, Method Man and Fabolous.

In addition to releasing his album, The Death of Willie Lynch, Black Ice has just completed the Hoodwatch Movement Mixtape Volume I. He also plans on releasing a book of his prayers, entitled "Me & God," a five year chronicle of Black Ice's journal writings.


The tracklisting for The Death of Willie Lynch is:

1. The Path 7. Nice2MeetU feat. Vee
2. The Ugly Show 8. Hoodwatch!!
3. A Dream Transferred 9. Front Page
4. Find My Way Home 10. Rain, Hail, Sleet or Snow feat. H. Hill
5. Lone Soldier feat. Chyna Black 11. The Real
6. takeyatime feat. Musiq 12. SHINE feat. Natalie Stewart of Floetry


###

Nicoye Banks co-stars opposite Mark Wahlberg and Greg Kinnear as "T.J. Banks"...the veteran Philadelphia Eagles defensive back who takes it upon himself to introduce Wahlberg’s character, "Vince Papale," to the Rights of Passage to the NFL. “Vince Papale” is a Philadelphia Eagles fan who has just lost his wife and his teaching job. He decides one day to show up for an open tryout for his favorite NFL team, only to see his wildest dreams come true.

The Crescent City was the backdrop when the curtain was first raised on this up-and-coming star’s career. NICOYE was first bit by the “acting bug” while being cast in his first film. . ."Heart of Stone", where alongside noteworthy actor Clifton Davis (Amen), he portrayed a wayward teenager sent to a boys home as an alternative to jail, in order to make a positive life change. Shortly thereafter, NICOYE’S performance, in "The Colored Museum", at Southern University of New Orleans afforded him the opportunity to display his range by playing a number of diverse characters. From there, it didn’t take long for NICOYE’S talents to be recognized by Tommye Myrick (director of theatre at Southern University of New Orleans), who subsequently encouraged NICOYE to relocate to New York so that he could further his training in theatre under the direction of Myrick’s mentor, Gene Frankel.

NICOYE has continuously demonstrated his ability to play a wide range of characters, including his role as the flamboyant rap artist “B. Mo Smoov” in the 2005 release of “G”. While filming “G,” NICOYE holds his own opposite a cast that includes Richard T. Jones (The Wood, Judging Amy), Blair Underwood (Posse, Madea’s Family Reunion), Sonja Sohn (The Wire, Slam) and Andre Royo (The Wire). NICOYE will also appear in the Tanuja Chandra produced “Hope and a Little Sugar” scheduled for release between the later part of 2006 and early 2007. Additionally, in 2007, NICOYE’S star will shine, yet again, in the movie Pride and Glory, with Colin Farrell and Ed Norton.

“It matters not how straight the gate, nor how charged with punishment the scroll. . . I am the master of my fate. . . I am the captain of my soul”, says NICOYE.

Deemi is an R & B singer and her road to success hasn’t been easy. She’s taken her life experiences and compiled them into one album. “Every song on 'The Soundtrack of My Life' is an actual situation I’ve been in and how I’ve overcome,” says R & B singer, Deemi.

Shelia Goss: Did you always know you wanted to be a singer?
Deemi: I didn’t even know I could sing until I was put in a talent show. I won first place. I don’t want to do anything else. I like working with kids, so if I had to do something else it would have to do with kids.

Shelia: Who chose the songs for your CD and did you write any of the lyrics?
Deemi: The production company.

Shelia: How has your life changed since your success?
Deemi: I don’t feel any different. People are just now noticing it. I’ve always been Deemi. I feel blessed & humbled because so many people dream of it and it’s become a reality…

Shelia: Do you prefer ballads or more up-tempo songs?
Deemi: It’s whatever mood I’m in.

Shelia: How would you categorize your songs?
Deemi: People categorize it as hip-hop & R & B. I want to do everything.

Shelia: Will you be going on tour anytime soon?
Deemi: I will be going on tour when the first single drops.

Shelia: When will your album Soundtrack of My Life be released?
Deemi: March 2006.

Shelia: What advice would you give other aspiring singers?
Deemi: Get ready to work. Put your whole heart in it and make it your life.
It depends on how bad you want it and you really have to put your mind into it.

Shelia: Who are some of your favorite singers?
Deemi: Aretha…The Stylistics, Karen Carpenter, John Denver…so many others. I listen to everything. Music speaks to your heart.

Shelia: Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers?
Deemi: Yes. I’m a single mother trying be as real as possible. I sing about real issues—as real as it gets. I just want to be me and I hope whoever listens to me, feels me.

NASHVILLE, TN - Bernard Fanning’s debut solo album Tea & Sympathy is approaching five times platinum in his native Australia. With an Australian ARIA No.1 debut under his belt, the coveted No. 1 spot on the 2006 Triple J Hottest 100 with stand out track ‘Wish You Well’ and many a sold out tour, APRA’s (ASCAP equivalent) 2006 Australian Songwriter of the Year is now taking his trademark voice and country-tinged rock songs to the rest of the world.

The renowned Nashville-based record label Lost Highway - home to the late-great Johnny Cash, Lucinda Williams, Willie Nelson and Ryan Adams - has welcomed Bernard Fanning to the fold. Tea & Sympathy was released in the USA on August 8, with the UK release also through Lost Highway/Mercury quick to follow on September 11. Bernard and full band will preview Tea & Sympathy in a series of intimate live shows in the US throughout September.

9/12 New York, NY Mercury Lounge
9/14 Nashville, TN 12th & Porter
9/15 San Francisco, CA Café du Nord
9/18 Los Angeles, CA The Roxy
9/19 Seattle, WA Crocodile Cafe
9/20 Vancouver, BC The Media Club

Fanning recorded Tea and Sympathy at Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios in Bath, England with co-producer Tchad Blake (Los Lobos, Tom Waits, Richard Thompson). The English country-side brought a new dimension to Bernard’s songwriting and it was here that the key track ‘Wish You Well’ was penned. The album is an effective compound of country, blues, folk and rock and inspiration has been drawn from artists of these genres both past and present.

It’s not all that difficult to make a record that sounds like it could have been recorded in 1972. Making one that can’t be placed on the timeline however, is a mighty tall order. That’s what Bernard Fanning has achieved with Tea and Sympathy.“I’ve always loved that ‘70s sound,” Fanning says of the overall tone of the record. “Albums like Led Zeppelin II, what Jimmy Page did with open tunings -- what you might call Led Zeppelin country. Not that it really sounds like that band, but just in keeping with the country blues style of that period. For want of a better word, I think it has a certain gentleness and beauty that balances out the rock element”.

From the intricate finger-picking that underscores the weary-but-hopeful “Thrill Is Gone” to the fiddle-kissed “Songbird,” Tea and Sympathy gets that balance right, largely due to its unflagging organic vibe. And unlike the self-consciousness that accompanies so much self-consciously retro rock, Fanning’s compositions exude a quiet elegance and an affable confidence -- traits that mark him as the sort of guy who’s capable of becoming a part of rock’s rich tapestry, rather than merely a mender of its threads. To help capture the essence he wanted for Tea and Sympathy -- “something that was earthy, not all perfect and sparkly” -- Fanning co-produced the album with Blake, bringing to the table only a set of tunes in a skeletal state and a clear view of which fork in the musical road they were to take.

“What I really wanted, more than a specific sound, was to write songs with a strong emotional element. Unfortunately, the idea of emotional music has been co-opted by ‘emo’ bands, and some people think it’s all about screaming. I wanted to show that it could be presented differently”. To do so, Fanning called upon an international array of musicians toting all manner of down-home instrumentation -- from mandolin to fiddle and lap steel guitar -- all instruments that the singer says “convey a lot more than you can do with electric guitars”. That palette of sounds lends a country tinge to several of the disc’s cuts -- notably the plaintive “Sleeping Rough” and the O Brother Where Art Thou-worthy “Yesterday’s Gone”.

“I don’t think I was consciously trying to create country music -- and I wouldn’t want to insult people who make real country music by saying that I have. I just respect the genre a lot. In the old days, they were really telling it like it was, which you don’t hear much these days, other than in the hip-hop that’s not obsessed with cash and sex.”

Bernard succeeds in peeling back the layers, both emotionally and aurally, throughout Tea and Sympathy. While many of the album’s songs deal vividly with loss -- Fanning says, “I was in a relationship that broke down, and writing was a part of the mourning process” -- its lingering notes are ones of optimism about what lays beyond the horizon.

# # #

Charlotte Martin “Stromata” - Video
WM http://www.dinosaurfightrecords.com/streaming/stromatamusicvideo.asx
QT http://www.dinosaurfightrecords.com/streaming/stromatamusicvideo.mov

Charlotte Martin “Stromata” – Audio
WM http://www.dinosaurfightrecords.com/streaming/stromataaudio.asx
QT http://www.dinosaurfightrecords.com/streaming/stromataaudio.mov

September 12 - Denver, CO - The Walnut Room
September 14 - Minneapolis, MN - Varsity Theatre
September 15 - La Crosse, WI - Warehouse Nightclub
September 16 - Urbana, IL - Canopy Club
September 17 - Chicago, IL - Schubas Tavern
September 19 - Boston, MA - The Paradise Lounge
September 21 - Washington, DC - Jammin Java
September 22 - Hoboken, NJ - Maxwell's
September 23 - Philadelphia, PA - World Cafe Live
September 24 - New York City, NY - Knitting Factory [NY]
September 26 - Cincinnati, OH - The Southgate House
September 29 - Tempe, AZ - Big Fish Pub
September 30 - Los Angeles, CA - The Hotel Cafe

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series: Megan Mullally, Will & Grace
Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series: Alan Alda, The West Wing
Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series: Blythe Danner, Huff
Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Piven, Entourage
Best Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Movie: Kelly Mcdonald, The Girl in the Café
Best Variety, Music, or Comedy Series: The Daily Show With Jon Stewart
Best Directing for a Comedy Series: My Name is Earl, Pilot (Mark Buckland, director)
Best Writing for a Comedy Series: My Name is Earl, Pilot (written by Greg Garcia)
Best Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program: Barry Manilow
Best Directing for a Drama Series: 24, "7:00 AM - 8:00 AM" (Jon Cassar, director)
Best Writing for a Drama Series: The Sopranos, "Members Only" (written by Terence Winter)
Best Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Movie: Jeremy Irons, Elizabeth I
Best Directing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Program: 78th Annual Academy Awards (Louis J. Horvitz, director)
Best Writing for a Variety, Music, or Comedy Program: The Daily Show With Jon Stewart
Best Actor in a Miniseries or Movie: Andre Braugher, Thief
Best Actor in a Comedy Series: Tony Shalhoub, Monk
Best Made for TV Movie: The Girl in the Café
Best Reality-Competition Program: The Amazing Race
Best Directing for a Miniseries, Movie or Dramatic Special: Elizabeth I, Tom Hooper
Best Writing for a Miniseries, Movie or Dramatic Special: The Girl in the Café, Richard Curtis
Best Miniseries: Elizabeth I
Best Actress in a Miniseries or Movie: Helen Mirren, Elizabeth I
Best Actress in a Drama Series: Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
Best Actress in a Comedy Series: Julia Louis-Dreyfus, The New Adventures of Old Christine
Best Actor in a Drama Series: Kiefer Sutherland, 24
Best Comedy Series: The Office
Best Drama Series: 24

Beyonce's B'Day Pushed Back? Matthew Knowles Responds to the Rumors

"It is apparent that there is a consistent plan by some to create chaos around Beyonce's B'Day album release on Sept 5 in the US. First, it was a petition against the single, Deja Vu, then a rumor regarding conflict between Beyonce and Rihanna, seizures caused by the "Ring the Alarm" video, putting out a single to compete with LeToya's album and now to add to all the ridiculous rumors, is my plan to postpone the release of her B'Day album. What will be next? Beyonce's cut off all her hair? Dyed it green? Maybe she's singing the songs in reverse with some hidden subliminal message!

Unfortunately what it shows is that anyone can go on the internet and create rumors and the media in some cases will pick up these stories and run with them which influence the consumers perception.

Beyonce has sold over a 140 million records as an artist. Over half sold outside of America. 2500 responses for a petition on the internet (which really represents often the same people responding 2-3 times) go online with a petition regarding Deja V u, and it's national news? Think about that for a minute. 140 million records sold versus 2500 responses about a video. Does that really equate to a major concern? The answer is No!

I couldn't be happier with where Deja Vu is on the charts. Its a Top 10 song on Billboard 100 and #1 on this weeks R&B charts. Mid week numbers in the UK is trending at #1 for the "Deja Vu" single for this week. Records have broken in Japan regarding ringtone sales of Deja Vu. It is one of the most ever streamed videos at Yahoo. Ring The Alarm was added to TRL on its first day of airing and it is on the R&B charts this week which gives Beyonce two singles on the charts at the same time.

Our plan is to have three singles on the charts together. For this album we have a unique strategy. Rather than concern ourselves with purely chart positioning we are focusing on the combine audiences who are listening and are aware of the singles on the album. That strategy is based on the combine belief of Beyonce, SonyBMG and Music World. This is unique, creative body of work on B'Day (spelling corrected B'Day) and every song is a potential single.

After all what do we know? Some weeklies reviewed "Independent Women" and gave it a "D-" and Beyonces first album Dangerously in Love, a "D".

And just for the record, Beyonces success or failure for me is not based on the number of records she sells. For me it's based on how proud I am that she is a genuine good person (Ask anyone who's worked with her). That she always has a kind word for others. That she is respectful and honest. That she gives back to her community and that she has so much love for her family. That she has grown to be such a leader. And lastly, she has the confidence not to be bothered by these planned distractions."

Introducing Filthcat. Keep your eye out on this Chi-town cat.

Where are you located?
In the southwest suburbs of Chicago, IL. I live in Glenwood.

How did you get your name?
When I first started rapping I was so vulgar with my lyrical content that I called myself the filthiest cat to spit raps and filthcat is like a shorter version of that cause I'm still kind of dirty with my rhymes.

Tell me about your CD.
The CD I am working on now is called "Lost." It is basically non-tradional FILTHCAT. I usually do music where I am trying to show how I can rap about anythhing and I mean anything--no topic is untouched--that is usually my gimmick. But with this CD I am doing more commercial music. There will be a crunk track, a few dance/party tracks and of course a little something for the ladies featuring a special R & B guest. I can't say who yet, but when the CD is released people will know who it is for sure.

What can listeners expect when they here your music?
To hear something different besides the same old rap music that is out now. I don't rap about being from the hood or selling crack but I do talk about my life and things that I see around me. People often think because I'm from the burbs I have nothing to rap about, but that's not true. I like to prove peopel wrong. I'm also like an old school rap dude--you know back when raps were written to impress and show skills. I can rap about dogs to street life, saved by the bell to sellign carck if beed be so I'm very versatile plus I have a unique sound. I tend not to sound like anybody in the music industry so you won't find any others like FILTHCAT ever!!!

What makes you different than some of the other rappers out there?
It seems like everyone is rapping the same stuff, getting crunk and selling drugs or being from the hood, but not me. I never have been into that. I'm FILTHCAT from the suburbs so I pride myself on being a suburban rapper. Most rappers from suburban areas tend to say they are from the hood when they aren't. I don't do that. I am proud of the suburbs and things that I have learned so I feel like I represent all black kids in the suburbs and at times I can relate to white kids too; but I am definately nothing anyone has ever heard before and unless someone steals my format before I'm signed then you will never hear anyone like me either. Because I'm from Chciago many people expect to hear either a Twista kind of style or Da Brat or Kanye West but I'm not like those guys either. I respect what they do though and they are definately influences on me and my music.

When did you decide to pursue a career rapping?
When I was nineteen (I'm 23 now)I was in school in Michigan and I said I should try to give this rap stuff a shot so I am fairly young to the whole "trying to get a deal process" but in 4 years I have learned a lot and I have had a lot of disappointments but I'm not giving up.

What advice do you give others interested in following your path?
Don't give up unless your heart is really not in it. Always have a plan "B. I am in school getting my Bachelor's in criminal justice. I want to help minority youths. Also don't let the opinions of those who know you (good or bad) affect how you make music. This is the hardest task because it's always around you. Everyone has yes men who just say what you want to hear and everyone has haters who just say things to discourage you. Both parties have asinine opinons. Follow your heart. The only people who matter are those who have no bias for or against you when they hear your music. Lastly, follow your heart. If you feel that doing something is not right for you, think about it and make a very thought out decision. Good luck.

How would you describe your sound?
It's like Punk Rap...OK I'll explain its like a suburban dude doing an urban genre of music. I call it punk rap, because I'm not like most rappers because of my background. So yeah punk rap. I hear punk rock music and I hate it. I even write for punk rock groups and I hate the way the **** sounds, but I know punk music is a suburban thing so I call my rap style punk rap. It's weird I know. Think about it for a moment...alright next question.

What's at least one thing you've learned about the music business?
No one in the industry made it from waking up to a deal. It's hard work, from getting shows to getting publicity, to getting CD's made. Fortunately a lot of my info came within my first 2 years so I'm a little bit more advanced than others, but yeah it's difficult. It's a hustle for real. There are those who don't want to see you succeed because they fear what you can be so they want to hold you back and then sometimes you meet people who are advocates of what you do. Just be mindful of everything and everyone you encunger with this music ****.

Besides rapping, what's something you enjoy doing?
Women, not joking either. I also produce and write for other artist in other genres of music. I love PS2. I can't function without it. As a matter of fact as soon as I get done here, I'm going to play some NBA LIVE 2006. This last thing is going to sound very unrapper like but I like philosophical thinking and learning knowledge about all things. I know its not very rapper like.

How can readers get a copy of your CD?
www.myspace.com/FILTHCAT is the best way or contact FILTH @ 708 5390 5085. I am always looking to sell CD'S (LARGE EMPHASIS ON THE WORD SELL). Also the IRON MAN MIXTAPE which showcases me rapping about various topics is available. All are welcome to purchase one (LARGE EMPHASIS ON PURCHASE).
FILTHCAT is "LOST" COMING SOON PEACE!!!!!!!!!!

Check FILTHCAT out on MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/filthcat

New Album I Need Mine In Stores This Fall
New York, NY - Warner Bros. Records/Asylum are pleased to announce that platinum-selling recording artist Lil Flip, a.k.a. “The Freestyle King,” has penned a deal with the label and is set to release his forthcoming album, I Need Mine, this Fall.

During the label transition, I Need Mine, was leaked to the public, because of this the CD will feature new songs for the Asylum/Warner Bros. Records release.

"Flip is one of the most innovative rappers who has earned national respect and attention," says Chairman & CEO Tom Whalley. "We are excited that he has joined the Warner Bros. family."

We are excited to be a part of the Warner Bros. Records/Asylum organization. They both understand what we are trying to accomplish with Flip’s career and I believe they are the best companies to execute our goals. One look at Asylum’s success and overall embracement of the Houston hip hop culture and Warner’s relentless dedication to their artists illustrates their competency and expertise to continue what Lil Flip started,” says Flip’s Manager and entertainment lawyer, Sandy Lal of King Pin Entertainment Group.

The Houston born and bred rapper started his career in 2001 with the release of Leprechan, a CD that moved more than 100,000 units before Flip signed with a major label. He quickly caught the attention of Loud Records and went on to sell 500,000 copies of Leprechan, earning himself a gold plaque for his initial release.

In 2002, Loud closed its doors and Flip was moved to its parent company, Columbia Records (known now as Sony Urban). On Columbia, Flip released the platinum-selling Underground Legend spawning the hip-hop hits “U See It,” and “The Way We Ball.”

Flip took his success to the mainstream in 2004 with the release of his Top 5 charting platinum-plus CD, U Gotta Feel Me, that gave us the chart-topping summer smashes “Sunshine,” and the Pac Man spin-off “Game Over.”

“We held out on releasing this album on Sony because the set up was never right and I felt that my fans deserved the best from me. I’ve written and recorded a bunch of songs that I’m sure my fans will love and now that I am with Warner Bros. Records/Asylum I am confident that I am in the right place to take my career to the next level,” says Lil Flip.

A teenage Flip was discovered by DJ Screw and was knighted the “Freestyle King” by Screw for his ability to drop rhymes quicker than most of his counterparts. Soon after that, Flip started his own label at the age of sixteen (16) with a partner and caught the attention of the nation. Staying true to his lessons with DJ Screw, Flip has released more than 10 mixtapes over the past five years selling tens of thousands of them each independently. Some people are born for success. Flip is one of them.

LIL WAYNE AND BIRDMAN Pair Up For Historic Release, Donate To Miami Soccer Program

New Album LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON In-Stores This Fall
New York, NY - Talk about your hip-hop summits; Cash Money/Universal Records' reigning hip-hop icons Lil Wayne and Birdman are gearing up to release their first studio album together, Like Father Like Son, which is scheduled to hit stores this fall, and includes the first single “Stuntin’ Like My Daddy.”

"There's nothing like spittin' off the same page," claimed the duo, who between them, have sold more than 7 million albums. The new disc is set to feature guest appearances by a host of stellar hip-hop artists including Fat Joe, Lil Jon, T-Pain and Rick Ross, as well as showcasing the talent of production masters Swizz Beats and Scott Storch, among others. Birdman and Lil Wayne have often appeared on each other’s solo releases, but never before have they released a full-length album together. Their Like Father Like Son collaboration marks yet another historical milestone proffered by the prolific Cash Money imprint, the New Orleans hip-hop empire which launched in 1991 and is responsible for a diverse array of best selling artists.

Most recently, Lil Wayne garnered platinum-plus status for his across-the-board smash album Tha Carter II, his fifth solo album (and second platinum release). Lil Wayne recently was honored with an MTV “Sucker Free MC Of The Year” nomination, with viewers ultimately voting to crown the winner.

The tireless star also recently wrapped production on the video for his latest single, “Shooter” featuring Robin Thicke. The New York Times recently raved about Lil Wayne's performance with Thicke (son of TV entertainer Alan Thicke) on 'The Tonight show With Jay Leno," citing Wayne's penchant for mixing it up with the crooner and his song "Oh Shooter," as genre-defying 'cross-under' promotion genius.

Hip-hop mogul/artist Birdman is coming off his pivotal 2005 release, Fast Money, his second solo effort, featuring the radio staples “Get Your Shine On” and “Neck Of The Woods,” both of which featured Lil Wayne. Birdman’s signature rap style and on-point business acumen has made him a legend both behind the microphone and behind the scenes, as him and his brother Ronald "Slim" Williams have guided Cash Money from a start-up hip-hop imprint more than 15 years ago, to a 30 million-plus selling global empire known around the globe.

The enterprising mogul has managed to stay true to the principles of the street while nurturing a myriad of successful commercial endeavors, including a successful footwear collection in a venture with Lugz, narrating a popular video game, Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition from Rockstar Games, and making his feature film debut in the 2005 movie Beauty Shop.

Like Father Like Son kicks off yet another chapter in the amazing Cash Money story, and will cement Baby and Lil Wayne’s position as bona fide cross-cultural superstars, to be reckoned with.

Birdman, along with his brother Cash Money Records co-CEO Ronald “Slim” Williams, is also donating $3000 on behalf of their charity Cash Money For Kids to the Morningside Park Soccer Program in Miami. The donation will go directly to the children’s soccer program for new equipment. “We always believe in giving back to the community, and we want to make sure the kids have recreational outlets that may help them stay out of trouble.” states Ronald “Slim” Williams. Bryan “Birdman” Williams says, “It’s important for young kids to be able to play safe and have fun. Hopefully this will help the children of Morningside Park enjoy their day a little more.”

The Cash Money Records CEOs have a history of giving back to their community. Each year including last year, they have held their Annual Turkey Give Away for needy families in their native city of New Orleans. Displaced after Hurricane Katrina, the Williams brothers have adopted Miami as their new home base.

Birdman & Lil Wayne 'Stuntin Like My Daddy'

'Windows Media

Real Player

Birdman & Lil' Wayne Official Site

http://http://www.birdman-lilwayne.com/

Birdman & Lil' Wayne on MySpace

http://www.myspace.com/birdmanandlilwayne

All That Remains’ new album, THE FALL OF IDEALS (produced by Adam Dutkiewicz of Killswitch Engage), recently debuted at #75 on the Billboard Top 200 Album chart, selling nearly 13,000 in its first week. Kerrang! said that the album “bears all the hallmarks of a classic” and that the musicianship is “stunning…ruthlessly precise and powerful, and boosted by a sumptuous, skull-pounding production.” The first single/video, “This Calling” can currently be seen on MTV2 and Fuse, as well as heard on hard rock stations nationwide. All That Remains’ lead singer Phil Labonte will appear on MTV2’s “Headbanger’s Ball” on September 9th.

ALL THAT REMAINS headlining shows:
September
1 Buffalo, NY The Buffalo Icon
6 Tucson, AZ Skrappy’s
7 Corona, CA Showcase Theatre
ALL THAT REMAINS on tour in support of DragonForce:
September
8 Los Angeles, CA The Wiltern
9 San Francisco, CA The Warfield
11 Portland, OR Roseland Theatre
12 Vancouver, BC Croatian Cultural Centre
13 Seattle, WA Showbox
15 Boise, ID Big Easy
16 Salt Lake City, UT Avalon Theater
17 Denver, CO Ogden Theatre
20 Chicago, IL Vic Theatre
22 Cincinnati, OH Bogart’s
23 Detroit, MI Harpo’s
24 Toronto, ONT Dock’s Concert Theatre
25 Montreal, QUE The Medley
27 Philadelphia , PA The Electric Factory
28 Worcester, MA The Palladium
29 New York, NY Nokia Theatre
30 Washington, DC 9:30 Club
October
3 Oklahoma City, OK Diamond Ballroom
5 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theatre
6 San Diego, CA House Of Blues

Life of the Infamous: The Best of Mobb Deep features the best moments from a group that defined the Queensbridge sound including the hits “Survival Of The Fittest,” “Shook Ones Pt. II,” “Hey Luv (Anything)” featuring 112 and the “Quiet Storm” remix featuring Lil’ Kim. Life Of The Infamous also includes “Keep It Thoro” from Prodigy’s solo album H.N.I.C. and two brand new tracks, “Blood Money” and “Go Head,” recorded this year, exclusively for this collection.

Life Of The Infamous: The Best Of Mobb Deep is the definitive collection for any true fan to have.

CD TRACK LIST
1. Hit It From The Back
2. Survival Of the Fittest
3. Shook Ones Pt.II
4. Temperature's Rising
5. Get Deal With
6. Quiet Storm (remix Featuring Lil’ Kim)
7. Keep It Thoro
8. G.O.D Part III
9. Hell On Earth (Front Lines)
10. Hey Luv (Anything) - featuring 112
11. Get Away
12. The Learning (Burn) - featuring Big Noyd
13. Got It Twisted
14. Real Gangstarz - featuring Lil’ Jon
15. Win Or Lose

BONUS CUTS!!!!
16. Blood Money (previously unreleased bonus track)
17. Go Head (previously unreleased bonus track)

In addition to releasing the CD, there will also be a DVD with all the hot videos.
Life of The Infamous: The Videos includes all of Mobb Deep’s ground-breaking videos available commercially for the first time with bonus material. The bonus material includes the rare video for “Back At You” from the film Sunset Park as well as Prodigy’s “Y.B.E.” and the video to the seminal Queensbridge answer record “L.A. L.A.”

Official Website: http://www.mobbdeep.net/

Saosin – a five-piece emo outfit from Southern California made up of guitarists Beau Burchelle and Justin Shekoski, singer Cover Reber, bassist Chris Sorenson, and drummer Alex Rodriquez, was founded in 2003 by guitarists Burcelle and Shekoski. It was only three years ago but it was a crowded but still largely underground emo scene where only a handful of bands had broken into the mainstream. Since then, the scene has expanded even more making it hard for bands looking to be heard. While Saosin wants what every band wants – to do what they love and be able to eat while doing it – they’ve earnestly trusted word-of-mouth by legitimate fans to see them to their goals. By shying away from excessive self-promotion, Saosin has given fans a chance to discover their music first hand without too much commercial influence. With over 5 million downloads from their Myspace page and an impressive touring history with pop punk’s heaviest hitters [AFI, Taking Back Sunday, My Chemical Romance] before ever releasing a full length album, it seems a humble demeanor paired with their visceral post-hardcore was the antidote for a flooded rock scene.

Saosin (which means “small heart” in Chinese) will be releasing their very long awaited self-titled full length album – their first album in an already prolific but young career – on Capitol Records on September 26.

Audio streams for the band’s first single “Voices” are below:
http://www2.fanscape.com/saosin/redirects/voicesrealhi.aspx
http://www2.fanscape.com/saosin/redirects/voicesrealhiplayer.aspx [In Player]
http://www2.fanscape.com/saosin/redirects/voiceswinhi.aspx
http://www2.fanscape.com/saosin/redirects/voiceswinhiplayer.aspx [In Player]

Queensrÿche recorded its seventh studio album in 1999 during a time of uncertainty. Emotionally devastated by the departure of one of its founding guitarists, the Seattle-based, progressive-metal quintet was also reeling from the twin losses of its management group and record company. Despite the chaos, Queensrÿche returned stronger than ever with an album that marked a new beginning. Rhino Records revisits the band's triumph of will with the remastered and expanded version of Q2K. The album will be available August 29th; the iTunes version of the album will also feature an interactive booklet with the exclusive video for "The Right Side Of My Mind."

The release of Q2K continues an ambitious year for Queensrÿche, which includes the April release of the long-awaited sequel Operation: mindcrime II, which debuted at #14 in the Billboard Top 200. In addition, the band embarks on an extensive summer/fall tour in August. Presented by VH1 Classic, the epic live show will feature a full stage production, including surround sound, video imagery, and actors playing out both parts of the Operation: mindcrime saga in their entirety.

Text QUEENSRYCHE to 74466 for official Queensryche ringtones!*

E-Card:
http://www.rhino.com/flashcards/Queensryche/q2k

Listening Party:
http://www.rhino.com/fun/listeningparties/74076_PartyPlayer.lasso
http://streamos.rhino.com/real/rhino/listeningparties/74076/74076_album.smi
http://streamos.rhino.com/wmedia/rhino/listeningparties/74076/74076_album_56.wax
http://streamos.rhino.com/wmedia/rhino/listeningparties/74076/74076_album_100.wax

Stereolab exposed a generation of listeners to an experimental musical formula that synthesized sophisticated pop melodies and seditious lyricism with vintage electronic noise and blissed-out grooves to create an infectious strain of space-age lounge-pop. Rhino Records spreads the beautiful disease with a retrospective of the English group's decade with Elektra. Released as a CD, vinyl album, and digital download, Serene Velocity - A Stereolab Anthology will be available on August 29th.

E-Card:
http://www.rhino.com/flashcards/stereolab

Listening Party:
http://www.rhino.com/fun/listeningparties/79533_PartyPlayer.lasso http://streamos.rhino.com/real/rhino/listeningparties/79533/79533_album.smi http://streamos.rhino.com/wmedia/rhino/listeningparties/79533/79533_album_56.wax http://streamos.rhino.com/wmedia/rhino/listeningparties/79533/79533_album_100.wax

I can see why folks are talking about this book. The author did a good job preparing the reader for when the SWAP game would actually take place. Some books on this subject would concentrate mainly on the sex scenes, but this story gets into the mind of the characters so you see what motivates them to participate in something that's so taboo. Be prepared for several twists and turns.

Unappreciated, the debut album from Cherish is in stores now.

Unappreciated includes the hits 'Do it To It' and the new single and title-track, 'Unappreciated'. The new album also includes guest appearances from Sean Paul of The YoungBloodz and Rasheeda and boasts production from Jazze Pha, Don Vito and more.

To celebrate the new release, Unappreciated is now available on iTunes for the special price of $7.99 Not only that, but the download includes a special bonus track, 'He Said, She Said', that's only available on iTunes.

Windows Media

Real

Official My Space Page

Young Diamond Books enters the urban teen fiction arena with the launch of their first novel, Ride Wit’ Me (Trade Paperback; August 2, 2006; ISBN 0-9724003-8-9). The novel, written by seasoned author Katina King, adds credibility to the ever-growing African American market, particularly among young adults.
“As a publishing company, I applaud their efforts. Young Diamond’s intent is to provide a readable line of books without drugs, violence or sex for young adults. With urban fiction being so prevalent, we want young adults to read, just not the wrong thing. With Young Diamond, they will get the best of both worlds … urban fiction, but age appropriate,” says author Joy King (Dirty Little Secrets).
Book Excerpt: Mercedes is truly a daddy’s girl. She is his crown jewel and nothing in the world is more precious to him. Her main goal is to please her father … until she falls in love for the very first time. Dalvin is a rising Kingpin, with a family that already runs the streets of Chicago. One day, it will all be his. Falling in love is the last thing on his mind, until he meets Mercedes Clinton … the girl of his dreams; his destiny.
Sometimes in love, things are not meant to be. Parents can seemingly become your enemy, and the streets you once loved can suddenly have a hand in trying to destroy anything good. Will Mercedes and Dalvin fall victim to the obstacles standing in their way, or will they fight against the odds and ride it out?
About the Author: Katina King decided to dedicate part of her life writing for Young Diamond Books after recognizing the importance of giving back. An author of street literature, she realized the value of having content appropriate selections for teenagers and wanted to do something about it. Ms. King resides in New Jersey with her son and writes full time, currently at work on her next novel.
About the Company: Young Diamond Books is a premier publishing company targeting the young adult market. Established in 2005, it is the first publishing house of its nature, introducing street literature with no explicit language, violence, or sex, providing entertaining storylines that teenagers love without the offensive content. Offices are located in New Jersey.
For media/press inquiries, contact Belinda Williams, Literary Lifestyle, 305-394-6184, or via e-mail at bwilliams@literarylifestyle.com.
####

CLAY AIKEN RELEASES NEW RCA RECORDS ALBUM

‘A THOUSAND DIFFERENT WAYS’ IN STORES ON SEPTEMBER 19th

The long wait for Clay Aiken fans is over. RCA Records will release the singer’s third album, “A Thousand Different Ways” on September 19th. The project, Aiken’s first outing since 2004, combines 10 cover versions of well-known songs from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s with four brand-new songs.

The album is a follow-up to Aiken’s debut set, “Measure of a Man,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard album chart and is certified triple-platinum, as well as the platinum-selling “Merry Christmas with Love,” the best-selling holiday album of the 2004 season.

For Aiken, the new album’s title has multiple meanings. “This is an album of love songs,” he explains, “but they are about all different kinds of love. Romantic love, Friendship, Unconditional love. There are a thousand different kinds of love; a thousand different ways to tell someone you love them. And, on top of that, since so many of these songs are covers, it’s realistic to say that many of them have been or could be sung a thousand different ways.”

In fact, Aiken has put his own spin on some of the well-known songs he has recorded for his new album. “These are songs I heard growing up. I loved them then and I still love them today, but we decided to do them a little differently. They have new arrangements and we put our own style on some of them.”

Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil’s “Here You Come Again,” a No. 3 hit for Dolly Parton in 1978, stands out for Aiken. “I’ve always loved that song,” he says. “But for this album, we didn’t use a country arrangement. It’s a ballad version now. Adam Anders produced the most amazing arrangement and I couldn’t wait to sing it.”

Aiken credits Chairman CEO BMG U.S., Clive Davis for coming up with the concept for the album. “When we first embarked on making an album, my executive producer Jaymes Foster and I started out with one or two covers, then we had three. We slowly discovered that it’s harder these days to come by songs that are as superb as the songs that I grew up on. Based on that, it was Clive’s brainchild that we take classic love songs of the last 30 years and pair them with four new songs. He is a man who not only knows music, but really has his finger on the pulse of what listeners want to hear.”

Those who have come to expect Aiken to belt out a song won’t be disappointed. The album shows off Aiken’s vocals in a big way with songs like the Bad English hit “When I See You Smile” and Harry Nillsson’s “Without You.” But Aiken will surprise fans by singing in a more relaxed style on some tracks than they have heard before, showing a different, sexier side.

Aiken fans will also be glad to know he was personally involved with the selection of every track and that he participated in every aspect of the album. “For the first album, most of the songs were chosen ahead of time. I was less of a participant in the process. The second album was a Christmas album, so we naturally chose songs of the season. This new album has much more of me in it. Right from the beginning, Clive and Jaymes wanted to find songs that were right for me. Jaymes told me, “Stay in your lane, but remember it’s okay to swerve a little and see where it takes you.’ That’s exactly what we did.”
# # #

Here are streams of the new single "Without You"

http://www2.fanscape.com/clay06/redirects/withoutyourealhi.aspx

http://www2.fanscape.com/clay06/redirects/withoutyoureallo.aspx

http://www2.fanscape.com/clay06/redirects/withoutyouwinlo.aspx

The following is a complete track listing for the much-anticipated “A Thousand Different Ways,” including writer and producer credits:

RIGHT HERE WAITING
Originally recorded by: Richard Marx
Written by: Richard Marx / Produced by: John Fields

WHEN I SEE YOU SMILE
Originally recorded by: John Waite
Written by: Diane Warren / Produced by: John Fields

WITHOUT YOU
Originally recorded by: Badfinger and Then Harry Nilsson
Written by: William Collings, Thomas Evans, Michael Gibbins, Peter Ham, and J.C. Molland
Produced by: John Fields

LONELY NO MORE
(NEW SONG)
Written by: Andreas Carlsson, Samuel Waermo, Mimmi Waermo & Clay Aiken
Produced by: Andreas Carlsson and Samuel Waermo

SORRY SEEMS TO BE THE HARDEST WORD
Originally recorded by: Elton John
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Producer by: Per Magnusson & David Kreuger

EVERYTIME YOU GO AWAY
Originally recorded by: Paul Young
Written by: Daryl Hall
Produced by: Adam Anders

EVERYTHING I DO (I DO IT FOR YOU)
Originally recorded by: Bryan Adams
Written by: Bryan Adams, Michael Kamen & Robert John “Mutt” Lange
Produced by: John Fields

I WANT TO KNOW WHAT LOVE IS – Guest Vocals by Suzie McNeil
Originally recorded by: Foreigner
Written by: Michael Jones
Produced by: Russ Irwin, Marti Frederiksen & Charlton Pettus

THESE OPEN ARMS
(NEW SONG)
Written by: Jon Bon Jovi & Desmond Childs
Produced by: John Fields

BECAUSE YOU LOVED ME
Originally recorded by: Celine Dion
Written by: Diane Warren
Produced by: Eman

HERE YOU COME AGAIN
Originally recorded by: Dolly Parton
Written by: Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil

EVERYTHING I HAVE – Featuring William Joseph on Piano
(NEW SONG)
Written by: Jeremy Bose
Arranged by: Jeremy Lubbock

A THOUSAND DAYS
(NEW SONG)
Written by: Christian Leuzzi, Aldo Nova & Emanuel Olsson
Produced by: John Fields

BROKEN WINGS
Originally recorded by: Mr. Mister
Written by: Richard Page, John Lang & Steve George
Produced by: Eman

SNAKES ON A PLANE: THE ALBUM In Stores August 15

Watch CEE LO (Goodie Mob and Gnarls Barkley) and RICO (Organized Noize) in an interview about their SNAKES ON A PLANE soundtrack single "Ophidiophobia".
(Windows Media: medium)http://68.178.158.128/newline/SnakesOnAPlane/ceelo&rico/ceelo001.wmv

PREVIEW "Ophidiophobia"and other songs from the soundtrack here:http://www.snakesonaplane.com/soundtrack/

SEND A FREE PERSONALIZED PHONE MESSAGE FROM SAMUEL L. JACKSON TO A FRIENDhttp://snakesonaplane.varitalk.com/

SNAKES ON A MYSPACE
Want Snakes on your Space? Use the official generator here: http://www.snakesonaplane.com/snakesonmyspace/index.php

Out of the West Bank of New Orleans comes the Prince of The City…Baby Boy da Prince. His career began at the age of 16 opening up for No Limit Records artist Choppa. Baby Boy created a name for himself in New Orleans with a lavish on stage performances and catchy feel good records.

Then in 2004 he stepped from behind the scenes and into the spotlight hooking up with a local management company, Bosshogg Entertainment (B.G., Juvenile, Choppa). After years of hard work, Bosshogg Entertainment inked a deal with indie label Extreme Entertainment.

Baby Boy hit the road in early 2005 to spread his music and fan base further outside of New Orleans. He went on tour opening for platinum acts, Juvenile, Paul Wall, 50 Cent, and many more. Then in August 2005 Baby Boy’s world came crumbling down as New Orleans was hit by Hurricane Katrina. Throughout the ordeal he vowed that he would get his life together and continue his dream of becoming one of Hip-Hops newest stars. Living in a FEMA trailer, Baby Boy began writing new material for his upcoming album. He continued to do shows in New Orleans to show his fans support.

In 2006 Q93 in New Orleans began to play his hit single “The Way I Live”. The single became an instant hit and in 3 weeks was the number 1 record at the station. Baby Boy had reached a new plateau and proved that his music could perform with the best artists in the country. The buzz in the city started to spill over and major labels began to take notice. Universal Republic Records jumped on the opportunity and signed Baby Boy as their premiere Hip Hop act.

Baby Boy’s hard work and dedication brought him out of the trials and tribulations that affected him throughout his career. His music is a testament to the revival of New Orleans and the people who live in it.

http://www.myspace.com/babyboy
http://i-squad.com/Universal-Records/Baby%20Boy%20Da%20Prince.html

Audio streams: “The Way I Live”
http://boss.streamos.com/wmedia/labels/
universalrepublic/babyboy/audio/01the_way_i_live.asx
http://boss.streamos.com/real/labels/
universalrepublic/babyboy/audio/01the_way_i_live.ram

Coming Home, the upcoming album from New Found Glory hits stores September 19th! Working with legendary producer Thom Panunzio (Ozzy Osbourne, Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, Joan Jett, U2, Bob Dylan), the 13 track CD features the band’s new single, It’s Not Your Fault. Coming Home is the band’s 5th studio album.

From their humble beginnings as a garage band in Florida to international, commercial (three gold albums!) and critical acclaim, New Found Glory—Jordan Pundik (vocals), Chad Gilbert (guitar), Steve Klein (guitar) Cyrus Bolooki (drums) and Ian Grushka (bass)—are considered pioneers of their genre. Check out www.newfoundglory.com and www.myspace.com/newfoundglory for more info.

New Found Glory - "It's Not Your Fault"

Windows Media
Real Audio

Less than a year after VH1 Classic debuted “Decades Rock Live!”, the network breaks new ground with the first-ever CD/DVD release from the innovative concert series. VH1 Classic Decades Rock Live! Presents Bonnie Raitt and Friends Featuring Norah Jones, Ben Harper, Alison Krauss and Keb’Mo’ will be released by Capitol Records on August 15th.

This live concert series pairs celebrated artists of rock and roll with some of today’s hottest recording acts who have been influenced and inspired by these legends. Raitt was among the all-star artist line-up for the first season of “Decades Rock Live!” and the first episode of the series to air on VH1 Classic. The Decades Rock Live! television series from which the CD/DVD originates is created by Barry Summers, Executive Producer for World Productions, LLC. The CD/DVD is the result of a collaborative effort by World Productions, Capitol Records and Bonnie Raitt with the strong support of VH1 Classic. Now the nine-time Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee has been selected as the inaugural artist for the companion series of CD/DVD releases.

Bonnie Raitt and Friends, which was recorded live at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, NJ on September 30, 2005, will feature never-before-seen performance and interview footage, including four duets not included in the VH1 Classic broadcast of the concert. With two hours of concert and interview footage, the concert which was filmed in Hi-Definition and is presented in 5.1 audio, features Raitt performing 17 songs with her longtime band – George Marinelli (guitar), James “Hutch” Hutchinson (bass), Ricky Fataar (drums) and Jon Cleary (keyboards). Included are such classic Raitt hits as “Something To Talk About,” “Love Letter” (with Mo’), “You” (with Krauss) and a knock-out encore of “Love Sneakin’ Up On You” with Raitt, Jones, Harper, Krauss and Mo’ as well as highlights from her latest studio album, Souls Alike, including “I Will Not Be Broken,” “God Was In The Water”, “I Don’t Want Anything To Change” (with Jones) and “Unnecessarily Mercenary” (a duet with keyboardist Cleary, who wrote the song). The accompanying CD features 11 tracks, including the radio single “Two Lights In The Nighttime” (featuring Ben Harper). Full track listings for the CD and the DVD are included below.

Souls Alike debuted at #19 on the Billboard 200 last September and Raitt has been on the road almost ever since. After a four month theatre tour of the U.S. and five weeks in Europe, she’s back on the road this summer and through the fall with Grammy-winning singer/songwriter/guitarist Keb’Mo’ for another 50 dates. See www.bonnieraitt.com for tour dates; premium seats and meet-and-greet passes for most shows will be auctioned off for charity at Charityfolks.com

Official site: http://www.bonnieraitt.com

Crazy Frog
Album Title: More Crazy Hits by the Crazy Frog
Album Release date: August 22, 2006
Single Title: We Are the Champions (Ding A Dang Dong)
Label: Universal http://www.universalrecords.com/
Artist Site: http://www.crazyfrogonline.com/

Media Player / E-Card
http://crazyfrogonline.com/mediaplayer/

Soon when you think of rappers from the south, you'll add Shreveport, Louisiana to the list. These rappers add some spice to the already flavorful array of rappers from places such as New Orleans, Atlanta, Houston or Dallas. Keep an eye out on these up and coming rappers from the 318. One that's doing his thing is Mr. Wootay. He calls his style Gutta Music.

Shelia Goss: When did you start rapping?
MRWOOTAY: I'm not going to lie about it. I really was fumbling with it all of my life. But when Master P & No Limit Records, it really inspired me to do it.

Shelia: When folks think of rappers from Louisiana, they automatically think of New Orleans. How do you plan on changing that?
MRWOOTAY: I got to. I'm from Shreveport "DA PORT CITY." Although N.O. is doing their thing, I got The City on my back. It's all on me to bring my city out.

Shelia: Tell me about some of your current projects.
MRWOOTAY: I'm working hard on my new album "DA RETURN OF DA GUTTA KING." I got a whole lot of tracks already done, but I'm pushing for a distribution deal to help get the album out there.

Shelia: Who are some of the artists you've worked with?
MRWOOTAY: UNTAME MAYNE, BIGG BOY, and MY HARDNOCC RECORDZ FAMILY

Shelia: How long does it take you to record one song?
MRWOOTAY: 15 minutes

Shelia: How do you categorize your sound?
MRWOOTAY: GUTTA MUSIC--it's me.

Shelia: What can listeners expect when they pick up one of your CDs?
MRWOOTAY: They'll be getting me, my life & story.

Shelia: How would an artist interested in working with you be able to contact you?
MRWOOTAY: By phone (318-518-5882), email: MRWOOTAY@sport.rr.com or www.myspace.com/MRWOOTAY

Shelia: How can readers purchase CDs you've worked on?
MRWOOTAY: Hit me up. I got cha.


Random Thoughts with Mr. Wootay

Who is your favorite rapper or rap group of all time? C-MURDER is my favorite, but also SOULJA SLIM ,T.I. and I can't forget Juvenile, MAC and B.G.
What's your favorite kind of car to drive? Old School Chevy's Box-style Caprices
Are you a morning person or night owl? Night owl
Do you prefer being alone or surrounded by an entourage? Alone
What's your favorite phrase to say when you great someone? What it do or What's happenin' Shawty

The highly anticipated CD by Rick Ross "Port of Miami" hit the stores today. Whether you're selling CDs, books, or stocks, most can relate to the first single that dropped "Hustlin." This track could be said to be the theme for the entire CD. Rap fans won't be disappointed. The CD should appeal to the hustlers, the baby mamas and anybody who either lives in the hood or lived in the hood. The guest appearances don't take away from the fact that Rick Ross got skills.

Please introduce yourself.
They Call me Dex "the Riffraff" McGriff...Coming at you Via satellite from Oxnard "the OX" CA...I wouldn't consider myself in the "Music Industry" in the Underground scene we kinda fly our own flag you know... but I've been doing my music street level since about 97.

What's your creative process?
Letting my fingers hit the pads, and if it comes out nice, letting the pen hit the paper, and staying consistent...I feel if I stay on that path I can't go wrong.

How long does it take you to record one song?
It varies. If there is chemistry in the room, then no time at all...sometimes it will take a while if I want it to sound a certain way. I ain't no "ONE TAKE" mc if that's what you're asking. ONE TAKE mc's is what's going on with the radio right now, ya dig...in the OX we strive for perfection...and believe me when I say it ain't always perfect.

Who would you love to collaborate with?
Pretty much anybody with skills. Anybody I can learn something from...OhNo & Madlib of course; J-Zone is tight; I would have loved to collab with Dilla(R.I.P), Blame one, Roc-C, RedMan, anybody from Wu but Ghostface; Helta Skelta...just to name a few, my list goes on & on, but I'm pretty open minded.

How would an artist interested in working with you be able to contact you?
Just hit me up...I collabed with a cat named Ivan- Ice from The Netherlands via email. We have half of a project done. Like I said I'm pretty open minded when it comes to true skills.

What are your current projects?
Sheesh...I'm always in the lab, that's why they call me Dex. Let me see...nothing major, mostly stuff for the heads. I got "Low-Class: The soundtrack Mix tape" floating around from '03. I put out "The Pirate King on 7/4/06". I'm working on a project with a cat named Archives right now, no name yet and as I had mentioned earlier, I'm working with a cat from The Netherlands as well named Ivan-Ice on a Project named "Cold Summer."

How can readers get a hold of some of your music?
I'm not real big on plugin myself. I believe the "if you build it, they will come," but look it up if you're curious, or just hit me up. I'll make it available to download.

Dex is on myspace. Check him out at http://www.myspace.com/dextheriffraffmcgriff

Not many people can go on a self-imposed sabbatical and come back stronger than ever. Sammie was one of the leading young R & B artists of the time when he decided to take a break. With a hit debut album, "From the Bottom to the Top," under his belt, he's now ready to re-enter the music world with his self-titled CD "Sammie."



Shelia Goss: Are you excited about your new album?
Sammie: Yes

Shelia: Who all did you work with?
Sammie: Dallas Austin...Jazze Pha...Brian M. Cox...Adonis...Daron Jones

Shelia: How old are you now?
Sammie: 18

Shelia: Why did you decide to take a couple of years off?
Sammie: My family and I thought it was best. I went to high school. I took a break to see how it was to be normal...to experience homecoming and the prom.

Shelia: How do your friends act now that you're back in the spotlight?
Sammie: They treat me like a regular person. They got to know the real me—not the guy on TV or in videos. They are happy for me and very supportive.

Shelia: Now that you're older, are the songs on your new album more mature or is it still geared more for a younger audience?
Sammie: It's a lot more mature. I think the younger audience can still relate to it as well. I'm talking about real things that happen from anywhere from 12 years of age to your early years in college. It was a lot of fun to do. I got to co-write. It was a blessing and refreshing to see my thoughts go on paper and later record them.

Shelia: How do you feel when people say you're a teen heartthrob?
Sammie: I think that's a good thing. It's a blessing.

Shelia: What's next for Sammie?
Sammie: I got my first acting role. It's a minor acting roll in this movie called Stepping. Chris Brown is in it as well.

Shelia: Is there anything you would like to say to your fans?
Sammie: Yes. I appreciate the love and support you've given me. My fans keep me going and I appreciate that.

SAMMIE is a CD that will appeal to the young and old. To find out what else is going on with Sammie, visit http://www.myspace.com/sammierowdyrecords.

Goodbye Alice in Wonderland is Jewel's most autobiographical CD to date. Jewel says, "It chronicles my life from when I was homeless to where I'm at now. It's come full circle. It's been an amazing ride."




To read the interview, CLICK HERE.

Sometimes misunderstandings can cause a whole bunch of issues, but it wasn't the case for Keshia Chante. Find out how it lead to open doors for this up and coming singer.


Shelia Goss: You’ve already received success in Canada. When did you decide it was time to branch off into the rest of the world?
Keshia Chante: When we started shopping my album to labels in America...during that process, BET had already put one of my videos on rotation and about a month prior to that I was on a show on BET. The labels we shopped to knew of me already. They thought I was signed to Bad Boy Records. I was like “No, my song is called Bad Boy.” But thanks to the buzz and the confusion with the name, by the time we went to Sony in New York, they already knew what was going on. It’s all been very exciting.

Shelia: I read you were on tour with Destiny’s Child. Did that tour include the US?
Keshia Chante: The last show they did together was in Vancouver. I opened up for them there---I had a 40 minute set.

Shelia: When Sony Urban/Epic Records picked you up, how long did it take you to record KISS?
Keshia Chante: I had recorded a bunch of songs in the beginning, but we started all over again. I was a part of the whole process. Making the album was so exciting.

Shelia: Who did you work with on this album "KISS"?
Keshia Chante: I worked with some amazing producers and writers {i.e.,Karma Productions,Freeway, Rockwilder}. We went to producers who brought amazing records.

Shelia: When will your album be released?
Keshia Chante: Later this year, but the single should be out now.

Shelia: Are you doing any duets?
Keshia Chante: I have one, but I don’t want to say right now.

Shelia: Is there an even number of up-tempo as well as ballads on the CD?
Keshia Chante: It’s a lot of feel good uptempo and midtempo songs. I have two ballads on the album. I love ballads but for a first impression I didn’t want to make an entire album filled with ballads.

Shelia: What are some of your favorite songs on the CD?
Keshia Chante: I was a part of every song. I pretty much executive produced the album. Being able to have creative control, every song is my favorite. Every song means something different to me. I wanted people to feel that every song could be a single.

Shelia: What kind of advice would you give others trying to follow your path?
Keshia Chante: You need to love this with your heart & soul. You need to breathe music. My best advice-perform as much as you can. With every mistake, progress. Don’t take no for answer. I went as far as reading music industry books---contracts, etc.

Shelia: How do you balance music career with family/friends?
Keshia Chante: My mama is my co-manager. Pretty much my family is involved in my career. My friends are like my dancers. We’re a tight knit family.

Shelia: You have a dual career…as a singer and now as a Ford Model. Did you always want to model?
Keshia Chante: I’m really excited about modeling. Everybody else seems so tall. (side note: Keshia Chante’s only 5’2)

Random Thoughts with Keshia Chante
Do you prefer wearing jeans or a dress? Jeans
Do you prefer lipgloss or lipstick? Lipgloss
What’s your favorite perfume to wear? Intrusion by Oscar De La Renta
Are you a morning person or night owl? Both (depends on what I have to do)
Do you prefer ballads or more up-tempo songs? up-tempo

To find out more about Keshia Chante, visit her at http://www.keshiachange.com/ or www.myspace.com/keshiachante.

Please introduce yourselves.
Triza : What's good everybody. This is ya boy Triza Producer/Keyboardist/Songwriter/Manager/DJ 1/2 of EQuiKnockZ Productions.
B-Man: What it is?U already know what it is and you know who... this the guy that goes by the name of....B-Man.. These are my professions...producer/songwriter/dj/keyboardist/talkbox player.

How long have you been in the music industry?
Triza:We have been serious about production for about 3 years. But music has always been a part of our lives since we were young. We started off rapping. Then made our way to DJ-N. Now we are trying to take over this production game.
B-Man: Actually, I started DJ'n at age 6 and started actually making music at the tender age of 8... no lie. I've ALWAYS been into music. I think if it wasn't for music, I'd probably be in alot of trouble because I sit back and listen to The Reasonable Doubt ,The Score, The Blueprint, The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill, and The College Dropout LPs and they basically helped me look at life in another perspective... Ya know what I mean.

What's your creative process?
Triza: Most of the time I start off with a melody. Then Build around it. But sometimes B will send me a drum track or a sample andI play over it. Or vice versa. It just depends on the mood.
B-Man: Personally, I listen to classic hip hop records and soul music and memorize certain elements that the songs contain and where each parts come in. Believe it or not and I think alot of producers will agree... It strengthens your ability to create real music.I also do this because most of the songs today that are coming out is talking about a negative message at all time, calling women out of their name 24/7, or I got the hottest blah... nobody wants to hear that. In my opinion, I think hip hop is dead... let's take it back to when it was about the lyrics & the beat and not just a 808 based track with a simple synth line.

How long does it take you to record one song?
Triza: It all depends. We have put stuff together in 5 minutes and then we have spent days on tracks. Just whatever it takes to make it sound great.
B-Man: Basically the same answer but sometimes, I get upset because I'm searching for that perfect snare/kick to top the record off.

Who are some of the artists you’ve worked with?
Triza:Dipset, Wordsmith, 334 Mobb Streets and Young Dueces,
B-Man: We still on our grind and we got alot of stuff on the way.

How would an artist interested in working with you be able to contact you?
Triza: Man its so many ways to get at us. First you should check out our myspace(www.myspace.com/eqkz) then, you can hit us up on our e-mail(equiknockz@gmail.com) and if you wanna get at us directly hit us on the 2-way at (equiknockz@alltel.blackberry.com). Just don't be on that harrasement type stuff... haha.

What are your current projects?
B-Man: Hopefully we can get some more major placements with industry artist. Don't get it twisted though because we still keep our ears open and doors to underground artists. We have plans to launch a label in the near future and basically continue to make music,perfect our talents.

Shout Outs
Triza: Our Manager Marcus 920, Jay Rob, J Spoon, Paul Wall, DJ Irie, Spliff, P-Wonda, Monte Carlo, 334 Mobb , Dipset, S.A.S, Streets and Young Dueces, Wordsmith, Meg, Jaylee, Jeff Wooten, KJ, T Spoon, Lou Lou, Omarion, DJ Polo, Jermey Jeffries, Patrick Terry, C Keyz, Blue Phunk Drumline, All the haters who doubted us and most importantly we would like to thank you for this interview.
B-Man: God... The most important person on this list because without Him I wouldn't have the knowledge nor strength to be doing this. All of my family. My parents, my brother Tay, my grandma Pearl(who I love to death) & Marie. My aunties:Karen & Alicia(Neekie). My cousins in Virginia...Chaz, Daryl, Ke-Ke Snead, Keanna Walton, Daylon. All my peoples in V.A., Crystal Goode(longtime friend), P.T.(do ya thing), Craig Keys, GOS, Kita, Spoona, Allie, Byrd & Samantha, Lawrence, Keiarra Stuart(one of my best friends), Konic, Shane(keep ya head up), and anybody else I forgot.. I'm sorry. As far as the rappers/industry cats go... Paul Wall, Spliff, Monte Carlo, The Dipset Camp, The Runners, Brandon D, DJ Polo, 102 Jamz..ahh I know I'mma forget someone and if I did and I didn't mention you, you know who you are. In other words anybody who stuck with us from the start... and you, the person who is taking time out of your schedule to read about us. We appreciate it.