E-Spire Entertainment News

eSpire Male Author of the Year



Brian Mcknight has a new label and a new
CD
"10". Reader's voted him as the eSpire
2006 Male Artist of the Year.

Shelia: What's different from this album than
from some of your previous ones?

Brian Mcknight: I think the only
difference
is my outlook. I'm finally at a place where my view of
myself and the view the label has of me is the same.
I'm emancipated. I got out of a situation I wasn't
happy in. I think this music here is very light, not too
deep and it seems like I'm having a lot more fun and I
am.


To read the entire interview: CLICK HERE.

eSpire Rap Artist of the Year



T.I. released the "King" CD along with a
movie this past year. Reader's voted him as the
eSpire
2006 Rap Artist of the Year and "King" as
Rap Album of the
Year.

T.I. is back with a vengeance. The debut
single "What You Know" (track #3) is only a snippet
of what to expect on the KING CD.

To read full review: CLICK HERE.

eSpire New Artist of the Year



Penning songs for others has helped Ne-Yo
with his own debut solo project "In My Own Words."
Readers voted him as the eSpire 2006
New Artist of the Year.

To access the interview with Ne-Yo, CLICK HERE.

eSpire New Rap Artist of the Year



Yung Joc had everyone from kids to the
stars rocking
with "It's Going Down" with his debut CD "New Joc
City." Readers voted him as the eSpire 2006 New
Rap Artist of the Year.

To read more about Yung Joc, CLICK HERE.

eSpire Comeback Artist of the Year



Lionel Richie won this category hands down
according to the readers. With the release
of "Coming Home," he's eSpire's 2006 Comeback
Artist of the Year.


Lionel Richie's "Coming Home" CD is classic Lionel. If I
could give it more than five stars, I would. ~ Shelia
M. Goss, author & entertainment writer for e-Spire
Entertainment & BellaOnline Women in Music


To read entire review, CLICK HERE.

eSpire Movie of the Year



Tyler Perry's Madea's Family Reunion" made
you laugh, cry and every thing else in between. Readers
voted it as eSpire's 2006 Movie of the
Year.

Book Announcement



Entertainment writer Shelia M. Goss has
penned a new novel My Invisible
Husband.


My Invisible Husband is the tale of one
woman's desperate attempt to stop the age-old
question posed to all women at some point in their
lives: So when are you getting married? To appease
her family and friends, 34-year-old Nicolette Montana
fakes a Las Vegas wedding. How she handles her
web of deceit makes for a dramatic and sometimes
comical story.

To order your copy of My Invisible Husband go to Amazon.com or go to: http://www.sheliagoss.com/

"When I listen to Reflections, I hear a singer who has come full circle. Mary J Blige and her fans have a bond that only gets stronger with each CD. If you're a true MJB fan, then Reflections-A Retrospective is a must have." ~ Shelia M. Goss, author of My Invisible Husband & Entertainment Writer for e-Spire Entertainment & BellaOnline Women in Music

AUDIO: 'We Ride' (New Single from Reflections-A Retrospective)
WM

REAL

Shelia Goss: You're from New York right?
Jeremiah: Upstate New York--Rochester.

Shelia: How did you get involved in music?
Jeremiah: I grew up in a musical family. My mother is a classical pianist. I grew up listening to classical music. My mom also played at church. My sisters were aspiring singers at one point and my brother a percussionist. I grew up around it.

I really fell in love with music when I was about 9 or 10 years old. Instead of going outside playing with my friends, I would be in the house at my piano. It got to a point that I would fake sick so I could stay at home and write songs. I was an overweight kid and my siblings would call me fat boy.

Shelia: How did you lose all the weight?
Jeremiah: For me, I woke up one day and I just didn't love myself. I didn't love what I looked like. I felt like I could change. I started to love myself and started working out.

Shelia: When did you decide to do it?
Jeremiah: A couple of years ago in college.

Shelia: Now you can tell those same people "how you like me now." (smile).
Jeremiah: I was definitely one of those kids who was an ugly duckling that turned into a swan. People see me now who I haven't seen in years and they can't believe it's me. Sometimes they even pass me by on the street because they don't know who I am.

Shelia: Back to your new CD "Chasing Forever," did you write the songs for it?
Jeremiah: I wrote every song on there. I co-wrote "Love for A While" with Shanice--which is my new single. She wrote the bridge on the song. I'm not like some others who have to have someone write for them. I not only wrote the songs, but I produced the album myself.

Shelia: I don't like doing comparisons, but you remind me of a younger Brian Mcknight.
Jeremiah: That's a great compliment. I think he's supertalented. I'm honored. I feel like he's a very talented artist and he has his own original voice.

Shelia: You have to have a distinctive voice to stand out.
Jeremiah: Exactly. We've gotten to a place of unorginality. I don't listen to the radio that much. So many people sound so much alike. I think artists like Alicia Keys and John Legend are creating opportunities for artists like myself.

Shelia: True music lovers appreciate originality. We really do.
How does your family feel about your music success?
Jeremiah: They have been very supportive. My mom is like my number one fan. They are superexcited and are always calling to see how things are going. Between my family, friends and the label, the word of mouth campaign has been really inspirational.

Shelia: What was your major in college?
Jeremiah: I was a music major in college--classical voice major. I tried to write my vocal lines to expose the vulnerability in my voice. I want to tell a story.

My upbringing in church and listening to R & B...all of those experiences are infused in my music as well. I wanted to bring every piece of my experience into my album. I can only write what I am--which is all of those experiences.

Shelia: What advice give other aspiring singers?
Jeremiah: Do your homework. Learn the business. I believe in studying to show yourself approved. Learn your craft. When you learn your craft, it brings you the ability to have longevity.

Shelia: What kind of message are you trying to get across with your album?
Jeremiah: Hope...inspiration...ablility to love again. I'm a crooner in sort of that sense. I'm like a slow song kind of person. At the heart of me, I'm a balladeer. I want people to be inspired...to love and to hope...that's what I want people to walk away feeling.

Shelia: Is there anything else you want to share with my readers that we haven't discussed?
Jeremiah: I hope that your readers will be inspired to take a chance on something different. If you're tired of the same old thing, I'm the new fresh voice for the times.

To learn more about the new R & B crooner Jeremiah, visit one of his websites.
Myspace page: www.myspace.com/jeremiahsoul or Website: www.jeremiahonline.com




Shelia M Goss is an entertainment writer and National Bestselling author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. For a full bio, go to www.sheliagoss.com/espire.htm.

Erica Campbell and Tina Campbell make up the spirit-filled Gospel duo Mary Mary. They've recorded several CDs, most recently the "A Mary Mary Christmas." I listened to it throughout the holidays and it ranks as one of my favorite Christmas CDs.

Right before the Christmas break, I got a chance to speak with the ladies of Mary Mary.

Shelia Goss: Why did you ladies decide to do a Christmas CD?
Mary Mary: It's one of our favorite holidays. We wanted to add our own Christmas tracks. We're always listening to other people's music so this year we wanted to add a Mary Mary Christmas.

Shelia: How did you decide on what songs to record for the CD?
Mary Mary: Purely on the songs we enjoyed the most...such as Come All Ye Faithful and we wrote originals.

Shelia: The title is befitting. Who came up with it?
Mary Mary: During the holidays we would say, "Have a Mary Mary Christmas." We were calling it that before it came to be.

Shelia: Do you have another CD coming out soon?
Mary Mary: We haven't even started doing another CD. We're still working the self-titled album. People seem to be really enjoying the song "Yesterday." We've been visiting women shelters. The song highlights domestic violence. We might have another album coming - maybe at the end of next year or at the top of 2008. Not sure at this time.

Shelia: It's good that you're tackling the subject of domestic violence. Is or was someone in your life dealing with domestic violence?
Mary Mary: No. Unless they just hadn't told us. When you start hearing the stats, you just lose it. It's an issue that we need to take on; especially since we serve an almight God and we need to offer support to women going through those things.

Shelia: Your music appeals to several generations and reaches a different audience; an audience who may not normally listen to gospel. Is that why you went for a contemporary gospel sound?
Mary Mary: It wasn't a plan that we put into place. We just did what naturally came to heart. Our interpretation comes off as urban and relevant.

Shelia: What advice would you give a new artist who wants to pursue a gospel singing career?
Mary Mary: Get into it because you're doing it for God. If they are doing it to be a star or blow up, they need to be doing something else; not gospel. Gospel is spreading the good news of Jesus Christ and the focus is on God and not you.

Although it's gospel music, it's also a business. Learn the business. Surround yourself with wise counsel. Get a lawyer. Be well advised going into this. Increase your information (via books, talking to people, etc).

Do it because you love God and not because you want to be a star.

Official Site:
http://www.mary-mary.com/




Shelia M Goss is an entertainment writer and National Bestselling author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. For a full bio, go to www.sheliagoss.com/espire.htm.

"On Small Town Girl, there are songs about going out having a good time. There are slower songs about getting your heart broken. It's a very intimate album--a song on there for everyone." ~ Kellie Pickler

Shelia Goss: How long have you been singing?
Kellie Pickler: I've always been singing. Music has always been a passion of mine. I always knew that this was what I wanted to do with my life, but had to figure out how to get to this point. When I auditioned for American Idol I had no idea that I would make it as far as I did. I made it to the top 6 and toured the country with the top 10, so it's been very exciting.

Shelia: Has everyone always been supportive?
Kellie: There were some people who thought it was impossible to do. Some people told me I needed to go to school for something because I was living in a fantasy world. I knew I wouldn't be happy unless I was doing something I wanted to do.

Shelia: Regardless of what other people say, sometimes you have to follow your dreams.
Kellie: I have to live with the decisions that I make. My grandfather went with me to the auditions. There was between 8500 to 10,000 other people there. It was very intimidating, but my grandfather said, "Kellie, what do you have to lose?"

I'm so glad I stuck in there. Sometimes your dreams are all you have and you should never doubt yourself. I think you should always go for your dreams. You can let the people who say you'll never make it, make you stronger

Shelia: Have you ever considered motivational speaking?
Kellie: Absolutely. I used to speak in schools before I made it on Idol. I would give testimonial speeches. There are different things I've overcome in life.
I love to be a witness to other people. With the exposure I've gotten from Idol, I can have a bigger effect on people now.

Shelia: If you could compare yourself to other singers, who would it be and why?
Kellie: I don't really compare myself to anyone else. I think being different makes you who you are. I don't want to be someone else. If I had to be compared to anyone, I would want to be compared to Dolly Parton. She's my Idol. I really admire her. She's an incredible singer, songwriter, performer and has the best personality. She can act. She's the whole package. I think years later, people will look at me and see some of her in me. I hope to follow in her footsteps.

Shelia: Have you met her yet?
Kellie: Not yet, but hopefully I will. I've always wanted to write with her.

Shelia: When someone picks up your CD, what should they expect?
Kellie: It's going to be like an open book in my life. I put a piece of my life in every song. It's very personal and honest. American Idol showcased some of my life but there are so much they didn't show. I co-wrote five of the songs--including Red High Heels. The songs are very personal to me.

Shelia: What's been one of the hardest obstacles you've faced recently?
Kellie: Every since Idol, everything has been easy for me. There's a lot of hard work and dedication, time and preparation for putting an album together, but it's been all worth it. I'm having fun. I can't really complain about anything.

Shelia: Since American Idol, your life has been at a fast pace. How do you juggle your professional and personal life?
Kellie: A few family members or friends might drive or fly out here to Nashville. This is my life now. Right now I'm paying my dues as a new country artist. I see my family when I can. They know this is my lifelong passion and dream. They are very supportive of me.

Shelia: Do you still keep in contact with other American Idol contestants?
Kellie: Yes. We're all busy working on our own projects. We text each other and speak regularly.

Shelia: Do you plan on doing any acting--like your idol Dolly Parton?
Kellie: Absolutely. I've always been interested in TV and film; however right now I'm focusing on my album and establishing myself as a country artist. It's something I would look into doing in the future.

Website: http://www.kelliepickler.com

Shelia M Goss is an entertainment writer and National Bestselling author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. For a full bio, go to www.sheliagoss.com.

Keith Lee Johnson is the author of several books, including Little Black Girl Lost, Pretenses, Sugar and Spice and his most recent release is "The Honeymoon is Over."

After hearing so many great things about Johnson's latest book, I couldn't wait to read it for myself. The Honeymoon is Over is full of surprises--just when you think you have everything figured out, there's another twist.

As an avid reader, I sometimes like to know the backstory. I recently asked Keith Lee Johnson a few questions about his latest creation.

Was your main character in The Honeymoon is Over based on you or anyone you know?

Nelson Kennard is a depiction of all men and what they go through when they truly love a woman, but it isn't based on anyone per se. It's about the emotions that men deny. What I find truly interesting is that men, professional ballplayers and coaches alike, claim to be so hard, yet often cry on television when its time to retire from the gridiron. This in and of itself proves men are emotional creatures. Case in point, this past weekend, in the world of sports, Terrell Owens spit in the face of an opposing player. Why? According to Terrell, the opposing player got under his skin. In my opinion, here's what really happened. The opposing player indeed got under Mr. Owens' skin, but what Mr. Owens didn't say was this: "He said something that hurt me and my hurt turn to anger in microseconds." What Mr. Owens and most men won't admit to is the fact that words hurt. However, I showed you this in THIO when Parris used powerful words to rip her new boyfriend. As a result of her unfeeling diatribe, the hurt he felt, which turned to anger in microseconds, he first beat her, then raped her. Why? To regain the sense of losing his manhood--I said the SENSE of losing his manhood. And that's how it is with all men, bar none.

Why did you choose to show him dealing with various relationship issues?

I chose to show him dealing with various relationships issues because it's overdue. Most of the time men are considered the dogs in relationships. But the truth is what I showed you in The Honeymoon is OVER. For example, consider this: Since men are dogs (most anyway), who are they being dogs with? Women, right? And the women, most of them anyway, know the dog is either married, or in a committed relationship. The men tell the women this and the women still get involved with them. Yet, men are the dogs. I showed you in THIO that the knife cuts both ways and always have.

Do you think this well help women realize men also love deeply and share similar feelings when it comes to dealing with a broken heart?

No, I don't think women will realize men love deeply because most women think that any man that loves as deeply as Nelson is a wimp. This school of thought promotes another school of thought: Be a dog and a woman will never think of you as a wimp. More importantly, being a dog will ensure you of getting laid even though she knows you're a dog.

What do you feel is the biggest issue amongst the sexes, besides communication?

I think sex itself is the biggest issue. Few people realize that when they lay down with a person with no marital commitment, they are undermining their own relationship in terms of trust. People want exclusivity, but neither the man nor the woman are chaste enough to expect it or demand it. This sad truth manifests itself in that men from the beginning of time have been granted carte blanche in terms of sex and now women are exercising that same mentality. So what we have is a nation of men and women who have no idea what commitment means, but the reason for this universal attitude can be traced back to the behavior of men and what all of society has always sanctioned--his lewd ways.

What is next for Keith Lee Johnson?

The final installment of the Little Black Girl Lost series is due in stores February 6, 2007. After that, look for Hell has no Fury: A Phoenix Perry novel. In stores October 2007.

To learn more about this dynamic author, visit his website at www.keithleejohnson.com.

www.myspace.com/fantasiabarrino
www.fantasiabarrinoofficial.com

Just in time for the holidays, Fantasia's self-titled CD is in stores.

"I've let go of things from the past and I'm having a good time," she reflects. "I was able to let go of the past with the Lifetime movie and now I'm on a whole different level. I worked with some really great people on this album like Missy Elliott, Dre & Vidal, Midi Mafia, Johnta Austin, Babyface, Diane Warren, Kwame' Holland and Swizz Beatz among others and I'm letting everyone know that I've moved on from where I was when I recorded my first album."

Fantasia - in stores now.

Ninth Grader, Jordan Lewis, Is Dreamin' and Schemin' and Just Trying to Get Around Life's Injustices in a New Multi-Generational Comedy

New York, NY. - December 15, 2006 - Nickelodeon will ring in the New Year with the TEENick series premiere of Just Jordan - Sunday, January 7 (7:30-8:30 p.m. ET/PT) -- starring breakout teen comedian/actor Lil' JJ (Beauty Shop, Yours, Mine & Ours) in a multi-generational, half-hour comedy based on his standup routine. Back-to-back episodes mark the special one-hour launch of the sitcom centering on outspoken, ultra-confident ninth grader Jordan Lewis, who pipes up about kid inequalities while navigating a new life in Los Angeles. Creator Alison Taylor (The Cheetah Girls, Lizzie McGuire) and Ralph Farquhar (Moesha, Proud Family) serve as executive producers of the Nickelodeon Television Production, which will air regularly, Sundays, 7:30-8 p.m. (ET/PT) during TEENick.

"Lil' JJ is a star for Nick and a champion for kids," said Tom Ascheim, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Nickelodeon Television, of the 16-year-old Arkansas native who segues from hosting "Friday Night Slimetime" and recurring on the sketch comedy series All That and now in Just Jordan. "His smart, unabashed sense of humor about everyday kid injustices is the perfect ingredient for Lil JJ's very own show and poises him to become the Seinfeld of his generation."

In the 7:30 p.m. series premiere, "Air Jordan," a disgruntled Jordan loses his spot on the freshman basketball team to Tony after his desire to make a big impression causes him to hog the ball and showboat. To add insult to injury, Tony turns up at his side as the new part-time waiter at Grandpa Grant's diner. The two teens go over the top competing with each other – until they discover that by teaming up, they both can be winners. Then, at 8:00 p.m. in "Fools in the Hood," Jordan, Tony and Joaquin put on a tough-guy act to attract girls. It works like a charm with Tamika who accepts Jordan's invitation to the school carnival. However, he's courting nothing but trouble when a bunch of real hoodlums blow his masquerade -- and it's mom to the rescue.

Rebels Album Preview E-Card
http://www2.fanscape.com/rbd/3p/ecard.aspx

RBD is a group that originated in 2004 as part of the story of the Latin soap opera "Rebelde." The group, formed by Anahi, Dulce, Maite, Alfonso, Christian and Christopher soon surpassed fiction and became a reality. Their debut album "Rebelde" launched great radio hits in Mexico like "Rebelde," "Solo Quedate en Silencio," "Salvame" and "Un Poco de Tu Amor."

Rebels is their first English album. Listeners won't be disappointed. They will surely gain new fans.

Tour Dates:

February 2, 2007 Don Haskins Center-El Paso, TX
February 3, 2007 Gibson Amphitheatre-Los Angeles, CA
February 3, 2007 Gibson Amphitheatre-Los Angeles, CA
February 4, 2007 Performing Arts Center at The Aladdin Casino-Las Vegas, NV

Enjoy the Ride, Sugarland's latest album has gone platinum. "After only five weeks, one single and a platinum certification, this album has already proved itself a success," said Universal Music Group Nashville's Co-Chairman Luke Lewis. "This solidifies Sugarland's path to superstardom."

Sanctuary Records is pleased to announce they have signed the multi-talented Dolores O'Riordan for her first solo album, ARE YOU LISTENING? The record will come out in North America on the Sanctuary Records imprint and in Europe on Sanctuary's newly reactivated Sequel label, which is focused on providing a home to contemporary artists, particularly those with an established fan base and are looking for an alternative to the major labels.

Dolores, iconic former lead singer of Ireland's The Cranberries, who sold in excess of 40 million albums worldwide with the band, will be releasing the lead single from her album in late April 2007 with the album itself slated for a May 8th 2007 release. Dolores will be embarking on a world tour in support of ARE YOU LISTENING Spring/Summer 2007.

Bob Cahill, Executive VP and GM of Sanctuary Records N.A said: "The Voice is outstanding and instantly recognizable, the songs are poignant and memorable, and her impact indisputable. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to introduce her solo career with this brilliant piece of work."

Adding to this, Joe Cokell, Sanctuary Records Worldwide CEO said:

"Dolores is a fabulous addition to our roster of newly signed artists. The record sounds absolutely brilliant & we are very excited about the release & are confident of having worldwide success during the course of next year."

Ciara: The Evolution (La Face/Zomba Label Group) reached the #1 spot on the Billboard charts. This is her second album.

http://www.jiverecords.com
http://www.zombalabelgroup.com

A&E Television Networks Combines Real-World Media with an Online Game
To Create the Most Unique Fantasy Gaming Experience Ever

To learn more about the game and register, visit the official The Sopranos A&E Connection website – http://www.suitcaseofcash.com/.

CODENAME: THE CLEANER
NEW LINE CINEMA
IN THEATERS JANUARY 5TH

See Trailer

SYNOPSIS

Director: Les Mayfield
Starring: Cedric the Entertainer, Lucy Liu, and Nicollette Sheridan

Cedric the Entertainer, Lucy Liu and Nicollette Sheridan star in the fast-paced action comedy, Code Name: The Cleaner. Cedric plays Jake, a seemingly regular guy who has no idea who he is after being hit over the head by mysterious assailants. When he finds himself unexpectedly entangled in a high-level government conspiracy, Jake and his pursuers begin to believe that he is an undercover agent who subconsciously holds a key piece of information that could expose an arms deal involving the CIA and FBI. Lucy Liu (Charlie's Angels) and Nicollette Sheridan ("Desperate Housewives") co-star as the women Jake may or may not be involved with. Code Name: The Cleaner is directed by Les Mayfield (Blue Streak) and will be released nationwide on January 5th, 2007

This holiday season, see one of the most profound movies this year!


THE NATIVITY STORY is in theaters now
New Line Cinema
http://www.thenativitystory.com Congratulations Ellen Jones and John Spearman - You are the winners of the movie tickets for The Nativity Story.

ABOUT THE NATIVITY STORY
From humble beginnings, great things can come. The Nativity Story tells the extraordinary tale of two common people, Mary and Joseph, a miraculous pregnancy, an arduous journey, and the history-defining birth of Jesus. Brought to life with an unprecedented attention to detail and commitment to historical accuracy, The Nativity Story is the very human, very dramatic, and uniquely inspiring saga of a journey of faith.

The Nativity Story stars Keisha Castle-Hughes (Whale Rider), Oscar Isaac (Guerrilla), Hiam Abbass, Shaun Toub, Alexander Siddig, Said Amadis with Ciaran Hinds and Academy Award® nominee Shoreh Aghdashloo (House of Sand and Fog).



The Nativity Story is directed by Catherine Hardwicke (Thirteen, Lords of Dogtown) from a screenplay by Mike Rich (The Rookie, Finding Forrester).

OFFICIAL TRAILER
Quicktime

Windows





TRACKLIST
1. O Come, O Come Emmanuel - Jaci Velasquez (audio streams coming soon)
2. For Unto Us - Point Of Grace
3. Breath Of Heaven (Mary's Song) - Amy Grant
4. O Little Town Of Bethlehem - Natalie Grant
5. Labor Of Love - Andrew Peterson feat. Jill Phillips
6. Mary Sweet Mary - Selah w/ Plumb
7. Silent Night - Jo Dee Messina
8. Mary, Did You Know - Wynonna w/ Kenny Rogers
9. Angels We Have Heard On High - Nicole C. Mullen
10. The First Noel - Mark Schultz
11. O Holy Night! - Le Ann Rimes
12. For The Beauty Of The Earth (Re-write) - BarlowGirl
13. Virgin's Lullaby - Natalie Grant, Point Of Grace, Jason Roy (B429), David Phelps, Michael Farren (PFOR), Mike Weaver (BDW), Todd Smith (Selah)

eSpire Male Author of the Year



Brian Mcknight has a new label and a new
CD
"10". Reader's voted him as the eSpire
2006 Male Artist of the Year.

Shelia: What's different from this album than
from some of your previous ones?

Brian Mcknight: I think the only
difference
is my outlook. I'm finally at a place where my view of
myself and the view the label has of me is the same.
I'm emancipated. I got out of a situation I wasn't
happy in. I think this music here is very light, not too
deep and it seems like I'm having a lot more fun and I
am.


To read the entire interview: CLICK HERE.

eSpire Rap Artist of the Year



T.I. released the "King" CD along with a
movie this past year. Reader's voted him as the
eSpire
2006 Rap Artist of the Year and "King" as
Rap Album of the
Year.

T.I. is back with a vengeance. The debut
single "What You Know" (track #3) is only a snippet
of what to expect on the KING CD.

To read full review: CLICK HERE.

eSpire New Artist of the Year



Penning songs for others has helped Ne-Yo
with his own debut solo project "In My Own Words."
Readers voted him as the eSpire 2006
New Artist of the Year.

To access the interview with Ne-Yo, CLICK HERE.

eSpire New Rap Artist of the Year



Yung Joc had everyone from kids to the
stars rocking
with "It's Going Down" with his debut CD "New Joc
City." Readers voted him as the eSpire 2006 New
Rap Artist of the Year.

To read more about Yung Joc, CLICK HERE.

eSpire Comeback Artist of the Year



Lionel Richie won this category hands down
according to the readers. With the release
of "Coming Home," he's eSpire's 2006 Comeback
Artist of the Year.


Lionel Richie's "Coming Home" CD is classic Lionel. If I
could give it more than five stars, I would. ~ Shelia
M. Goss, author & entertainment writer for e-Spire
Entertainment & BellaOnline Women in Music


To read entire review, CLICK HERE.

eSpire Movie of the Year



Tyler Perry's Madea's Family Reunion" made
you laugh, cry and every thing else in between. Readers
voted it as eSpire's 2006 Movie of the
Year.

Book Announcement



Entertainment writer Shelia M. Goss has
penned a new novel My Invisible
Husband.


My Invisible Husband is the tale of one
woman’s desperate attempt to stop the age-old
question posed to all women at some point in their
lives: So when are you getting married? To appease
her family and friends, 34-year-old Nicolette Montana
fakes a Las Vegas wedding. How she handles her
web of deceit makes for a dramatic and sometimes
comical story.

To find out more about this dynamic writer, go to:

http://www.sheliagoss.com/

See one of the most profound movies this year! Contest: Win a pair of tickets to go see The Nativity Story. Sign up to the e-Spire Entertainment News mailing list and you'll automatically be entered. To sign up, see the box on the top right hand side of the page.

THE NATIVITY STORY is in theaters now
New Line Cinema
http://www.thenativitystory.com

ABOUT THE NATIVITY STORY
From humble beginnings, great things can come. The Nativity Story tells the extraordinary tale of two common people, Mary and Joseph, a miraculous pregnancy, an arduous journey, and the history-defining birth of Jesus. Brought to life with an unprecedented attention to detail and commitment to historical accuracy, The Nativity Story is the very human, very dramatic, and uniquely inspiring saga of a journey of faith.

The Nativity Story stars Keisha Castle-Hughes (Whale Rider), Oscar Isaac (Guerrilla), Hiam Abbass, Shaun Toub, Alexander Siddig, Said Amadis with Ciaran Hinds and Academy Award® nominee Shoreh Aghdashloo (House of Sand and Fog).



The Nativity Story is directed by Catherine Hardwicke (Thirteen, Lords of Dogtown) from a screenplay by Mike Rich (The Rookie, Finding Forrester).

OFFICIAL TRAILER
Quicktime

Windows




TRACKLIST
1. O Come, O Come Emmanuel - Jaci Velasquez (audio streams coming soon)
2. For Unto Us - Point Of Grace
3. Breath Of Heaven (Mary's Song) - Amy Grant
4. O Little Town Of Bethlehem - Natalie Grant
5. Labor Of Love - Andrew Peterson feat. Jill Phillips
6. Mary Sweet Mary - Selah w/ Plumb
7. Silent Night - Jo Dee Messina
8. Mary, Did You Know - Wynonna w/ Kenny Rogers
9. Angels We Have Heard On High - Nicole C. Mullen
10. The First Noel - Mark Schultz
11. O Holy Night! - Le Ann Rimes
12. For The Beauty Of The Earth (Re-write) - BarlowGirl
13. Virgin's Lullaby - Natalie Grant, Point Of Grace, Jason Roy (B429), David Phelps, Michael Farren (PFOR), Mike Weaver (BDW), Todd Smith (Selah)

Young Jeezy is back with a new CD "The Inspiration." Look for it in stores 12/12/06. In the meantime, watch the new video "Bury Me A G" or check out his new single.



"Bury Me a G" VIDEO
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"I Luv It" AUDIO

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Buy the soundtrack to "Ten Days Out."

"Ten Days Out:" Directed by Noble Jones, Ten Days Out captures the stories and music of some of America's best-known blues artists including B.B. King, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown and Honeyboy Edwards as well as some of the genre's lesser-known rare talents.

Ten Days Out Trailer: http://streamos.wbr.com/wmedia/wbr/kennywayneshepherd/kws_ten-days-out-trailer_300.wvx

Official Site:
http://www.tendaysout.net

You Tube Link:
http://www.youtube.com/beheard

Common with will.i.am "A Dream" streaming audio

"Freedom Writers" movie trailer:
Windows Media

Taking Back Sunday includes lead vocalist Adam Lazarra, guitarist-vocalist Fred Mascherino, guitarist Eddie Reyes, bassist Matt Rubano, and drummer Mark O'Connell. The band released their major label debut Louder Now, in April 2006 on Warner Brothers Records which debuted at #2 on the Billboard charts, and quickly became their third Gold Record.

TOUR DATES:

Thu, 2/22/07 Univ Park (Penn State), PA Bryce Jordan Center

Sun, 2/25/07 Birmingham, AL Boutwell Auditorium

Tue, 2/27/07 San Antonio, TX Sunset Station

Thu, 3/01/07 Oklahoma City, OK Lloyd Noble Center

Fri, 3/02/07 St. Louis, MO The Pageant

Sat, 3/03/07 Milwaukee, WI Eagles Ballroom

Sun, 3/04/07 St. Paul, MN Myth

Tue, 3/06/07 Des Moines, IA Val Air Ballroom

Wed, 3/07/07 Kansas City, MO Uptown Theatre

Thu, 3/08/07 Denver, CO The Fillmore Auditorium

Fri, 3/09/07 Salt Lake City, UT Salt Air

Sat, 3/10/07 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues (matinee show)

Sun, 3/11/07 San Bernadino, CA Orange Pavilion

Tue, 3/13/07 Irvine, CA UCI Bren Events Center

Wed, 3/14/07 San Francisco, CA The Concourse

Thu, 3/15/07 San Luis Obispo, CA SLO University Rec Center

Fri, 3/16/07 Reno, NV Grand Sierra (formerly Hilton)

Sat, 3/17/07 Boise, ID Taco Bell Arena

Tue, 3/20/07 Edmonton, AB Northlands Agricom Arena

Wed, 3/21/07 Calgary, AB Stampede Corral

Thu, 3/22/07 Saskatoon, SK Prairieland Park

Fri, 3/23/07 Winnipeg, MB Burton Cummings Theater

Sun, 3/25/07 Thunder Bay, ON Community Auditorium

Tue, 3/27/07 Ottawa, ON Congress Centre

Wed, 3/28/07 London, ON Centennial Hall

Thu, 3/29/07 Toronto, ON Arrow Hall

Fri, 3/30/07 Montreal, QC Theatre Olympia

Sun, 4/01/07 Albany, NY Armory

Visit their website for more information: http://www.takingbacksunday.com

The Clipse are searching for the web's best MC to appear on their first mixtape of 2007. To learn how you can enter, go to the site: www.clipseonline.com/micbattle.

To see an online interview with the Clipse:
http://media.bmgonline.com/zombalabelgroup.com/clipse/video/clipse_clean_56.ram
http://media.bmgonline.com/zombalabelgroup.com/clipse/video/clipse_clean_56.asx

Capitol Records releases J Holiday's Back of My Lac in March 2007. To learn more about this artist: CLICK HERE

To listen to the Audio of the single "Be With Me" (Produced by Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins): CLICK HERE.

DJ Clue releases The Professional, Part 3 on December 19th.

E-Card for Taylor Hicks: http://www.jrecords.com/ecard/taylorhicks/

Taylor Hicks, the 30 year-old Birmingham, AL native that captured the hearts and minds of more than 63 million people who voted him this year's American Idol, is gearing up to release his debut album on December 12. After spending many years honing his talent, playing local bars, recording a pair of indie albums, and giving up his personal life to pursue his dreams, Taylor's moment has finally arrived.

The self-titled Arista Records debut from American Idol Taylor Hicks hits stores on December 12. Click below to listen to two new tracks from the album including The Runaway and Dream Myself Awake.

The Runaround (full length version)
http://www2.fanscape.com/taylorhicks/redirects/runaroundwinhino.aspx

Dream Myself Awake (song snippet)
http://www2.fanscape.com/taylorhicks/redirects/dreamwinhino.asx

http://www.taylorhicks.com/

How did you get your start in the music industry?
Rasco put me on his album, but I've been recording ever since I was 15.

Did you always know you wanted to do something in the music field?
Definitely - ever since I went to my first hip hop show in 1984.

What was the motivation behind this album?
Getting back to real music, back to home-cooked meals.

Who all did you work with?
Black Thought of The Roots, Dilated Peoples, Rasco, Strong Arm Steady, Shake Da Mayor, Jonell, and Evidence produced the whole album.

What can listeners expect when they pick up your CD?
The Medicine.

If your life was a reality TV show, what would be the title of the show
and why?
The Lifestyle of a Cali MC - because that's what I live.

What kind of advice would you give others wanting a music career?
Don't ever let nobody tell you what you can and can't do and work on your craft every single day.

How can readers learn more about you and your album and tours?
www.myspace.com/planetasia

UGK NEW ALBUM RELEASE DATE: February 27, 2007

New York, NY - Jive recording artist UGK returns after a long hiatus with their long awaited seventh album U.G.K. Underground Kingz. Group members Bun B and Pimp C return with a double album that features twenty new tracks.

The album lists production by UGK's own Pimp C, as well as Atlanta hit makers Jazzy Pha and Lil Jon. New York super producer Swizz Beats adds some East Coast flavor to the double package. Scarface produced 3 tracks. Pimp C's production is filled with the live instruments that always distinguishes the groups original sound. The album features a fleet of guests that includes Rick Ross, Slim Thug, Sleepy Brown, Three Six Mafia, Willy D and others. On the Marley Marl's produced "H-Town" Bun B and Pimp C team up with New York's veterans Kool G Rap and Big Daddy Kane.

The first single will be the Jazzy Pha's produced Stop & Go. The b-side will feature the songs 2 Kind Of B*****s and Chrome Plated Woman.

UGK put the South on the map in 1988 with their first album release The Southern Way. Since then, the group has maintained a presence in the rap world with albums, mixtapes, indi releases and cameos on numerous prominent artists'tracks. In 2000, they made a high-profile appearance on Jay-Z Big Pimpin. In 2005, Bun B released his first solo album Trill. The CD debuted at # 6 on the Hot 200 Billboard Charts, peeked at # 1 on Billboard Top R&B/Hip Hop album Chart and has been certified gold. Pimp C released his solo album Pimpalation in Summer 2006.

Robin Givens stars in the suspenseful new movie "Restraining Order." Givens plays a distraught wife. When she turns to a male friend for emotional support, all hell breaks lose. You will find yourself involved in the story. Other cast members include Sean Blakemore (plays Given's husband), Reggie Gaskins, N' Bushe Wright, Mari Morrow and James Avery. They all do a great job in bringing the story to life.

With a riveting story line, Restraining Order shows you what happens when someone goes over the edge.

If you're looking for something different and suspenseful with several different twists, I suggest picking up a copy of "Restraining Order."

View the trailer:
CLICK HERE.

~ Shelia M. Goss, Essence Magazine Bestselling author of My Invisible Husband & Entertainment Writer for e-Spire Entertainment & BellaOnline Women in Music. For a full bio, go to www.sheliagoss.com.

"10" has to be one of Brian McKnight's best albums to date. I caught up with Brian McKnight two weeks ago while he was promoting his album as well as enjoying some time on the golf course.

Shelia Goss: Do you have any special plans for the Christmas holidays?
Brian Mcknight: I'll go to one of my mother's siblings houses and eat as much as I can.

Shelia: We'll all be stuffing our mouths this Christmas. Are you excited about your new album release?
Brian Mcknight: I'm anxious...I go with every situation in the middle...a little bit of hope and ready for whatever happens.

Shelia: Why do you think you've had longevity in this business?
Brian Mcknight: I wish I had the answer to that question. I don't have it. That question would be better answered by the people who have been fans. All I do is go to the studio to write songs that I love and hope that there are people out there who love them as well. Up until now, there have been a few (smile).

Shelia: You're very humble. When you write, do you write from personal experiences?
Brian Mcknight: A lot of its personal...some of it is what other people are going through I suppose. If I had to do percentage wise, it's about 80 percent personal and 20 percent emphatic.

Shelia: The name of your album is "10" which is befitting since it's your tenth album. What do you want listeners to feel after they hear "10?"
Brian Mcknight: That's a hard question to answer. When I make a record all I'm hoping for is that people will hear one song that makes them feel something familiar about one thing or another...the songs will probably make you cry...make you think about your own relationships--ones you've been in or one you're hoping to have...that's all I hope for.

Shelia: With this album did you have a lot of creative control?
Brian Mcknight: I always have creative control.

Shelia: Not too many artists can say that.
Brian Mcknight: From the beginning...I said if I didn't have creative control, I didn't want to do it; so I've had that since my very first album.

Shelia: What's different from this album than from some of your previous ones?
Brian Mcknight: I think the only difference is my outlook. I'm finally at a place where my view of myself and the view the label has of me is the same. I'm emancipated. I got out of a situation I wasn't happy in. I think this music here is very light, not too deep and it seems like I'm having a lot more fun and I am.

Shelia: How do you stay motivated in between albums?
Brian Mcknight: I just love to write music.

Shelia: Do you have plans on recording a gospel album?
Brian Mcknight: Not at this time. I choose to put an inspirational song on every album as opposed to doing an entire gospel album.

Shelia: What are some of your goals for the upcoming year?
Brian Mcknight: Single digit handy cap on the golf course.

Shelia: It sounds like golf is one of your favorite pastimes.
Brian Mcknight: Yes. I've only been playing about eight months but I'm bit by the bug.

Shelia: What do you like to do besides play golf?
Brian Mcknight: I still play basketball, skydive, and motorcycles, but right now golf is taking precedence over everything.

Shelia: Will you be doing some of those celebrity golf tournaments?
Brian Mcknight: Soon. Not yet, but soon.

Shelia: I know it's hard to pick favorite songs on your own album; especially when the whole album means so much to you, but tell me about three songs in three different categories on your CD--one that makes you feel good, one that makes you think and the third one in any category.
Brian McKnight: A feel good song would be "For the Rest of My Life." It's probably one of the best songs I've every written. The title says it all. It's the kind of love you're looking for.

One song that makes you think about things is sort of my theme song and it's "Should Have Been Loving You." It's a song where it makes you look at your life and ask yourself what would you change? You know you can't change the past, but you can go back and tell the people whose lives you've affected that you're sorry.

I wrote a song for the troops called "Red, White, and Blue."

Shelia: Sylvia Hubbard is a huge Brian McKnight fan and she's the winner of the "Speak with Brian Mcknight" contest that I had last month. After Sylvia got over the excitement of speaking with "the Brian Mcknight", she was given an opportunity to ask him a few questions.

Below are her questions and his responses.

Sylvia: Where do you get your inspiration from when you make your music?
Brian Mcknight: I get it from everywhere. Most of it comes from personal experiences but there's some from other people's affairs...

Sylvia: How do you feel about the type of music being made in your genre and how does it compare to your music?
Brian Mcknight: I don't do comparisons...I kind of live in my own world. I listen to the same music I listened to when I was a kid. My kids keep me up to date on what's going on, but everything kind of sounds the same so I don't know who's who. People are expressing themselves the way that they are. Every next generation is different than the last one, so I don't know.

I just do what I do.

Shelia: Brian Mcknight's voice and music is timeless. "10" is a testament to how he's grown over the years. "10" hit stores on December 5th, just in time for the holidays.

To learn more about Brian Mcknight, be sure to visit his website.

Shelia M Goss is an entertainment writer and National Bestselling author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. For a full bio, go to www.sheliagoss.com/espire.htm.

When I heard that Patti Labelle was doing a gospel album, I got excited. She has such a powerful voice that doing gospel was a natural transition. I'm surprised it took this long. There's 11 songs on the CD. Patti starts off asking "Did You Pray Today?" If you didn't, after listening to that song, you will be. Whether she's singing a solo or sharing the spotlight, "The Gospel According To Patti Labelle" is a spirtually-filled CD. I highly recommend it for not only Patti Labelle fans, but those who love gospel and inspirational music.

Patti Labelle - Anything feat. MaryMary
http://boss.streamos.com/wmedia/umvd/pattilabelle/audio/anything/pattilabelle_anything-300.asx

Patti Labelle - Where Love Begins feat. Yolanda Adams http://boss.streamos.com/wmedia/umvd/pattilabelle/audio/wherelovebegins/pattilabelle_wherelovebegins-300.asx

~ Shelia M. Goss, author of My Invisible Husband & Entertainment Writer for e-Spire Entertainment & BellaOnline Women in Music