E-Spire Entertainment News

Don't forget to stop by the new site for your latest in entertainment news.

eSpot - The Entertainment Spot (formerly E-Spire Entertainment News): www.espot.wordpress.com

Just an update to let you know I've started posting over on the new site. Please bookmark it and stop on by.

Also, for those who leave comments at the new site, you'll be eligible to win one of several contests going on between now and the end of August. Prizes: Rush Hour 3 gift pack or CD from the brand new recording artist Ledisis ( http://espot.wordpress.com/2007/08/21/rave-reviews-for-ledisis-lost-and-found/).

Stop on by and surf around at www.espot.wordpress.com.

It's that time of year again. As you prepare for your return to school or your child's return to school, you'll be needing to purchase a backpack. For quality, get the Jansport brand. It's durable and stylish and most importantly dependable. Whether you're young or old; male or female, Jansport has the style for you. Jansport has a variety of styles and colors. To learn more about Jansport, visit their website at: http://www.jansport.com/js_tbsp_landing.php.
The Jansport brand is available at a store near you.

Children in my family use Jansport. ~ Shelia M. Goss, entertainment writer and national bestselling author of Paige's Web and Double Platinum

Five Questions with Author Monica Carter By Kisha Green

What was the premise for you writing your novel Sacrifice The One?

I wanted to tell a story of love and sacrifice. The story that turned out ended up being a family drama encompassing love and sacrifice, but a whole lot more. Sacrifice the One asks the question: Is there any sacrifice too great for love? And we're not just talking about the romantic love of a guy and a girl, but the desire we all have to be accepted into another's heart. For some, it's the quest for love from a romantic interest. For others, it's the quest for love from a parent. In this book, we see both.

Describe your writing life? You do freelance writing as well as the daily operations of your business. How do you find the time?

I find the time because I love what I do. You know that old saying: do what you love and it won't feel like work? Well, I do what I love and so it certainly does not feel like work. I have the wonderful opportunity to run a copywriting and design firm, RootSky Creative, LLC, with my husband. So I can be found working all hours of the day -- 11 p.m. feels just as good as 11 a.m. Now, granted, I don't do a lot of very early mornings because I work late at night. But that's the beauty of my work: I don't have to get up and go to somebody's 9 to 5 and punch a clock. I get the opportunity to work on projects of my choosing, on my schedule ... well, pretty much on my schedule. Sometimes I have clients who come to me for rush projects and I do work to accommodate that.

You ask how do I balance writing as well as the daily operations of my business. Writing is a business, and I treat it as such. Many people view writing as their pained art, too revered and precious to be considered in the same sentence with money. To me, my writing is my money. God gives us all gifts to make our way in this world, and I want to use my gift to the best of my ability so that I can have a good life and in turn, share with others and support causes and projects I believe in.

Because I do so many types of writing, I had to learn how to balance my approach to it. When I am writing a project of my own, such as one of my books or my newspaper column where I will have a byline, then I approach projects one way. But when I am writing something for someone else and it is going to be a piece under their name or company, then I know I cannot approach that project in the same way. It's not mine; I'm just someone helping along the way.

I feel blessed to be able to help clients write their books, because many of these are projects that have been on their hearts for years, yet they could not find a way to get them done. Not many people want to stay in the background as a ghostwriter, because we human beings do like our credit, but for me, staying in the background here is fine because I know I am helping someone achieve a dream. The same goes for the work I do in helping people put together projects to help promote their works. Not all writing is about the writer. Sometimes, it's about helping someone else out.

From the organizational standpoint, I'm pretty low-tech. I just keep a sticky note with my to-do list on it. That helps me make sure I'm taking care of the business end of what I do -- project quotes, follow ups, client calls, etc.

Being a motivational speaker you must come across an assortment of people, do you ever consider writing a story from any of those experiences?

I am always considering writing a story about something I encounter. Some story ideas I file away, others I discard nearly as quickly as they occur to me. But yes, I'm always interested in what's going on around me.

I write a regular column for my local newspaper, so I sometimes use elements from my life, though I've toned that down quite a lot! When I started writing the column at 25, I wasn't sure what all went into a column, so I just wrote what was going on with me and those around me -- a recipe for trouble! It was fun for a while and I had a large readership doing that, but I eventually decided I wanted to limit the amount of personal life I included in the newspaper -- after all, I didn't need people knowing so much about me! So now I look for things I find interesting in the news, community, or pop culture and write about them.

When did you decide to pen your first novel?

Hmmm. I decided to pen my first novel when I decided I'd be a writer, back in the fourth grade. I knew I would do it, it was just a matter of when I'd get around to it. So I finally sat down somewhere around 25 or 26 and wrote As If Nothing Happened, a story about best friends who let secrets come between them. I self published that in 2002 at 27 and then in 2004 self published my second novel, Sacrifice the One, a story of a father and daughter struggling to come together, but having a hard time getting over their own complicated emotions. Sacrifice the One was picked up by Urban Christian/Kensington and republished in April 2007. I'm thrilled about that opportunity, especially as it means sharing the book with a wider audience because of the great distribution this publisher has.

I'm amazed at the feedback I receive from those who read Sacrifice the One, because it elicits such an emotional response in so many people who can identify with the characters in the book struggling through hurt, rejection, and trying to fit forgiveness in their hearts. Sacrifice the One is a faith-themed book because it allows the characters to search their souls for the answers to their hurts. And that's true for many of us. If we will listen to that inner voice in our hearts instead of just lashing out, we can resolve our issues in a much better way. This book has an inspirational message for the human spirit.

What are your long term literary goals?

My long-term literary goals are to produce good books that strike a chord with readers. I plan to be around a long time, so I am going for longevity in both fiction and nonfiction. I love telling stories that come from the imagination through novels, but I also have certain information I want to share so I can help others. My nonfiction projects include motivation, education, and enlightenment so I help people live better lives.

And, of course, I do want to have a few best sellers in there somewhere -- who wouldn't?

Thanks for allowing me to be a part of your work. I appreciate your time and that of your readers. I always enjoy sharing information about the business of writing. If you or your readers need other information, feel free to visit http://www.rootskycreative.com/, or drop me an e-mail at monica@rootskycreative.com.

Interview by Kisha Green. To learn more about Kisha, visit her website: www.divabooksinconline.com.

Constantine Maroulis talents were showcased on the CBS soap opera "The Bold and the Beautiful." I'm a fan of the show and didn't realize until I got the CD, that Constantine was an ex-American Idol contestant. Listeners won't be disappointed. The track "Girl Like You," "Everybody Loves," "Fading into You," and "So Long," are my favorite songs on the 12 track CD.

Constantine has been wooing fans on the hit CBS Daytime Soap The Bold and the Beautiful all summer playing the role as "Constantine." Fortunatey for fans, Mr. Bell saw Constantine, loved one of his songs and asked him to be on the show. Constantine's no stranger to acting. He grew up in theater. He was acting long before he made his debut on American Idol a few years ago.

Post-Idol has seen Constantine touring, hosting shows on MTV on Yahoo, starring in plays and on TV. He now has a hit CD with his self-titled CD Constantine. Constantine could have easily gotten with a major label, but decided to release his first solo album independently.

Fans of Constantine should be on the look out for a tour. He says, "I love being on the road. I love meeting new people."

About his personal life. Constantine says, "I'm not married, but I'm dating and having a good time."

As the youngest of three, Constantine's family is behind him 100 percent. "My immediate and extended family have been very supportive," says Constantine. "The Greek community has been supportive."

Constantine doesn't seem to be slowing down. He hasn't had a vacation since 2000, but he doesn't mind. With his music and acting, Constantine enjoys both and enjoys being busy as long as he can do one or the other or both.

"Constantine is proof there's success after Idol. He's gained a new fan." ~ Shelia M Goss, entertainment writer and author of Paige's Web and My Invisible Husband.

These two music artists put together a CD with a collection of songs that will take you back down memory lane. Listeners will get a chance to enjoy the mixture of old school music with some of today's top music stars. This review is short and simple. If you like the original version of the songs and if you like the current sound of Joss Stone & Avril Lavigne, then you can't go wrong by adding "Influences" to your music collection. ~ Shelia M. Goss, entertainment writer & national best-selling author of Paige's Web and Double Platinum.

Track Listing For Joss Stone - Influences

“Please, Please, Please” James Brown
“I Can’t Stand The Rain” Ann Peebles
“Never Too Much” Luther Vandross
“No Diggity” Blackstreet
“Devil’s Pie” D’Angelo
“Lovin’ You” Minnie Riperton
“I’ve Got Love On My Mind” Natalie Cole
“Put Your Records On” Corinne Bailey Rae
“Me And Mrs. Jones” Billy Paul
“Let’s Stay Together” Al Green
“I Only Want To Be With You”Dusty Springfield
“Ain’t No Way” Aretha Franklin

Track Listing For Avril Lavigne – Influences

“Anthem Part Two” Blink 182
“Sing Sing Death House” The Distillers
“This Is The New *hit” Marilyn Manson
“All I Really Want” Alanis Morissette
“Iris” Goo Goo Dolls
“Dreams” The Cranberries
“Tubthumping” Chumbawamba
“Sugar, Sugar” The Archies
“I Get Around” The Beach Boys
“Me And Bobby McGee” Janis Joplin

http://www.target.com http://180music.com/

Bestselling Author Launches Multimedia Company

2007 will be an extremely busy year for Linda Dominique Grosvenor. Her multimedia company Princess Dominique Multimedia (www.PrincessDominiqueMultimedia.com ) officially launches with a soiree in New York City this Fall, but she will also release two long-awaited books, begin filming her documentary 'The Black List' this summer, and continues to maintain a hip and edgy pop culture blog at PrincessDominique.com/blog--this multi-dimensional phenom couldn't be happier.

For almost ten years as the literary industry tweaked itself and came up with creative sub-genres to accommodate new trends, Linda Dominique Grosvenor had taken a back seat, while those who hadn't even picked up a pen when she was totaling sales in the thousands of copies of her self-published debut novel, came onto the scene and garnered the spotlight. She's spent the past three years creating a multimedia plan and polishing up her 8th novel. Her love of the written word and letters from readers who are discovering her past novels are what helps her forge on. "People tell me all the time that I have a universal writing style, it's not dated with slang and other terminology. Some say that my books are more like modern classics and I love the idea of writing that way. I can still remember books I read in my teens. Twenty years from now I still want readers to be able to relate to my stories that way and I pray they leave that kind of legacy for generations to come."

Although her second novel Like Boogie On Tuesday assisted with launching Sepia Books (BET) in 2001 and the sequel Fever followed in 2002, she was determined that there was still a place in the market for stories that didn't use wild sex or drugs kingpins as its selling point. "Don't get me wrong, I love creating seductive scenes just as much as the next person, however, the true art of seduction is to get readers part of the way and then let them turn off the lights and roll over with their significant other and make it come to life for themselves." Having offered her novels to several start-up companies that didn't have the marketing savvy to garner her independent releases the recognition they deserved, she confesses, "I've been generous to a fault. I offered my talent to more than just a few companies, but with no stake in the companies other than royalties from the sale of the books, I've finally decided it was time to implement a long-overdue idea--Princess Dominique Multimedia."

In 2005 Grosvenor founded Princess Dominique Multimedia (www.princessdominiquemultimedia.com ) and launched the publishing division with her non-fiction book for singles The Plural Thing: Spiritually Preparing for Your Soul Mate in April 2007, which was met with an energetic reception from a ready audience. On the heels of her acclaimed collection of poetry Love Lingers to which Black Issues Book Review touted her, "an apprentice of language" she is slated to release Body Language; her sophomore collection that poetry-lovers across the U.S. have been anxiously anticipating. Currently seeking well-written fiction titles for possible publication, the new multimedia company will re-release Grosvenor's sixth novel The Hamptons (the first book in a 3-part chick-lit styled series) in paperback. This will be the third book in the company's 2007 line up.

"I'm not limiting my work to Princess Dominique Multimedia, that's why I'm currently on my third agent," she says. "I'm a writer and I will always find a variety of ways to express myself. A lot of things have ended for me, but there are plenty of things that have started over brand new for me in this season of my life, and this company is one. I've been soured on the idea of a partnership, so, Princess Dominique Multimedia is my baby and my goal is to use my 10 years of marketing and promotion experience and develop products in the vein of what I find fascinating; work by novelists such as Jenoyne Adams, Colin Channer and Sandra Cisneros and musicians like Maxwell, Alicia Keys and Teena Marie. I want my company to produce more of the same. Princess Dominique Multimedia is taking me places I've never been before. It has a film division too. I just love having the options. In this day and age, you need them!"

Linda Dominique Grosvenor has made her foray into non-fiction with the inspirational smash hit The Plural Thing: Spiritually Preparing for Your Soul Mate. The author of several popular novels including the summer sizzler The Hamptons, she maintains a popular online advice column at AskPrincessDominique.com and a pop culture blog at PrincessDominique.com/blog. Visit her at www.LindaDominiqueGrosvenor.com and browse the submission criteria for her multimedia company at www.PrincessDominiqueMultimedia.com.

eSpire Entertainment News will be migrating over to eSpot - The Entertainment Spot...a place where you get your entertainment news, interviews and reviews!

Wordpress is easier to navigate and it's easier for you all to keep track of comments.

I'll be doing dual posts on here until we all get used to being over at eSpot.

Here's the new link: www.espot.wordpress.com.

New Line Cinema's RUSH HOUR 3 starring Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker will be in theaters on August 10, 2007.

As a reader of eSpire, you have a chance to win one of many prizes--Rush Hour 3 T-shirts, Baseball Caps and Tattoos.

If you're signed up to the eSpire mailing list, you're automatically entered. If not, click on the image below or the link to sign up to the mailing list.



Sign Up to eSpire Mailing List

Celebrity News and Gossip

Five Questions with Kerry Wagner
By eSpire writer Kisha Green

In the literary world there are numerous obstacles one has to overcome if he or she intends to be a success. Often times enough, authors do not get their just due and will sometimes release a book and because of bad marketing (or no marketing) these books, as well as the authors, go unknown. Well, for author Kerry E. Wagner, failure was not an option. He came through the literary doors demanding R-E-S-P-E-C-T. While some backed away from this man for his "in your face" persona; at the end of the day, Kerry has the mentality of “if it don’t make cents then it won't make dollars!"

KG: Kerry, give the readers a little background on who you are.
KW: I'm just your regular ole' Joe with hopes, dreams and aspirations like anybody else. Nothing more, nothing less and I guess I am partial to grounded people as such. Not bothering anybody, not out to hurt anyone. Just trying to master my mistakes fast enough, so that eventually they will become lessons. Keeping my options open, maximizing some opportunities if possible and making sense out of nothing so that I don't get too discouraged. A simple cat that some want to make complicated. Those are the ones who don't understand dedication. Kerry Wagner is just a bad boy trying to not do well, just better. I am very approachable if you are genuine. I am ABSOLUTELY NOT APPROACHABLE when you are condescending. I'm going to strip you of that bulls*** so we're on aa even playin' field potna...ERRY'TIME..

KG: When did you decide that you could actually write a book?
KW: I didn’t; somebody else did. I was writing as a form of therapy after being incarcerated. A good friend of mine, Willie D of the Ghetto Boys, picked me up when I was released. We were hanging out and I let him hear a few chapters, He was blown away apparently after knowing me all that time and not knowing of this gift. I initially was against the whole idea. I have this thing about trying to be accepted amongst peers who don't want to accept you. It's a total turn off for me and even more waste of time and energy. Not something I would suggest to anyone. But he insisted that I do it my way...with my voice and uniqueness. He exclaimed, "NO ONE TALKS THE WAY YOU DO MAN!...Write how you talk , you move people "Wag." Willie is not typically impressed by too much of anything, so for him to exude that type of energy behind and express backing it. He sort of was the catalyst behind it. I basically experimented with the idea. That's why it says "Limited Edition in the top right corner." Having the presence of mind to test market it first turned out to be one of the better strategy moves we did. Now I know exactly what to give them; along with giving them a piece of me to set myself apart from the rest. I love and am more proud of the fact that even amongst avid readers, the one thing they will say about my style is, "It has its own voice, nothing out there like it." That is a bigger compliment than it is a good book to me. Only one Kerry and the hard part about it is, I know it can't be duplicated. What you are getting from me has my personality and character all over it. You are going to know me in a way you were not prepared to when I'm through with you.

KG: Describe your writing life, what is a typical day like for you?
KW: Well as you know, I am self published. So I work for me completely. When you have books, it's like you have your job. When you don't have the books, it's like you lost it. So it is very important for me to have more books than I can sell out this round. I ran out a lot with the Limited Edition version of "She Did That." I rather be the guy out there hustling books, making a full profit than messing around online making a little one. Less drama also, online is the breeding grounds for drama. You have to know how to let that roll right off. Otherwise it will consume you to a negative. I love the sport of hustling my own books, creating my own destiny, fulfilling my fantasies and desires as oppose to just day dreaming about it. It makes me feel alive; the art of the deal is bliss to me. I was built for this part of the game. This is where I make my mark. NO ONE is going to out work me...I won't allow it. I am not a fan of thinking about it. I DO IT! The completion, the set backs, the obstacles and the bounce back all play a major part in my confidence level right now. I don't care to ask for any help in the game. I came prepared this time. When I run out of gas in my car along the way of this journey, I got my motorcycle ready and gassed up. When my motorcycle runs out of gas, I got my bicycle ready. When that tire goes flat, I got my skate board on stand by. When that breaks in half, I got my tennis shoes laced up. When I done wore a hole in them, I got some knee pads ready...I'll crawl. And when I can't crawl no more, you know I am dead. I'm going where I'm going, because I'm willing to die trying. Can you match that? I ain't asking nobody for near breath to hang around here any longer than I'm suppose to be. I am quite comfortable with making due with the time God is, has and will allow me. I ain't making no excuses...I'm just gonna get it done and anybody around me will have to understand that attitude if they don't happen to have it. You better get it, ain't anything halfway about me!

KG: So there is a lot of buzz about your debut novel She Did That why do you think that was?
KW: Because of my resourcefulness, because I learned from my mistakes in the rap game and applied and turned it into a lesson in the literary game. Having the presence of mind again to understand the psyche of the consumer, understand characteristics of humans and especially females...applying that. TARGETING MY AUDIENCE was and is deliberate and the key to any successful anything. You have a product is one thing, knowing when and where the audience is for it is PARAMOUNT. I didn't have Christians in mind when I wrote this book. So I don't hang out outside of churches trying to sell the book ya know? I know where my audience is and I have learned to make the necessary adjustments for that audience that is just outside of my demographics. Can't alter too much, you will loose it that way. Got to stay in the confines and of what will definitely work for you and not against you. At least deal in the PROBABILITY...never the possibility when dealing in business. 50/50 is never good odds to operate under trust me. 75/100 is better. Ain't it? Just look at it. But that 100/100 is what I strive for. I'm gonna make that deal every f***ing time without hesitation. Like I said, an offer you can't refuse and I also apply that when offering a consumer. You gonna see the benefit to that purchase when I'm done with your a**. Gonna be hard not to buy that book from me. It’s hard to not buy this. You glued to this interview, captivated, mesmerized and it's even better in person. I'm a hard act to follow...and where this takes practice for someone else...it comes natural to me. I'm built for this...simple as that. Yet I don't mind sharing the info or resources I have with anyone. Don't have to be intimidated by anyone or anything. There's only one me and I'm being that where as everyone else is trying to be someone else. THERE IS ONLY ONE OF YOU TOO! Do that to the fullest and find a few people who are interested and the rest will gravitate towards that. Like-mindedness is as like-mindedness does...promise!

KG: Tell us about your novel She Did That.
KW: She Did That is basically a love story. It is a classic relationship drama filled with pearls of wisdom in the form of riddles to keep the reader engaged and interested. It's not an erotic story. Some of the chapters required some intense visualization and that to some readers seemed to overtake the whole story line (lol) It’s a book about life, love and responsibility, pain, tragedy, and triumph. You wanna know what men think as oppose to what we say, it’s in there. You wanna believe that a situation and circumstance don't control any and everyone...it's in there ...and WE all love to say what we will and will not go through or will not do. YOU A LIE...and I can prove it and I dare you to take the challenge...It's all in the there. No way around these characters, now most of us try to disassociate ourselves from them...unless they were and or are someone we care about GENUINELY. He might not have been your boyfriend, but he was your sisters. He was your brother, uncle, nephew and most undeniably if you are blessed to have more than one. He will be YOUR son...one day if he hasn't been already. I will find the compassion in your soul and rob you of it with this read. You might be cold initially, but you will bleed, by the end, a warm, caring, compassionate, human, thick, rich hillbilly blood before it's over with. All by design.

Readers can reach Kerry E Wagner by sending an email kerrywagner@hotmail.com or visiting one of his websites: www.myspace.com/kerryewagnerlive or http://www.shedidthat.com/

To order your copy of She Did That, go to: http://www.shedidthat.com/Order_Now.html

Interview by Kisha Green. To learn more about Kisha, visit her website: www.divabooksinconline.com.

California native, Leroy Powell will bring his old-time-country-and-blues-with-a-little-bit-of-old-school-rock-thrown-in-for-good-measure sound, to a digital player near you with the release of his self-titled solo debut album LEROY POWELL on July 31 on all major digital music service providers.

Best known as lead guitarist for the SHOOTER JENNINGS’ BAND, the .357’s, Leroy finally made the time to record his own album in 2006. The 11 song album features the single “Keep the Diamond”, “I Go To Extremes” and “Vacation.” Notably, the video for “Keep the Diamond” was co-directed by actress GINA GERSHON and ROBIN DAVEY of the band The Bastard Fairies.

Described in a recent interview by Guitar Player Magazine as having, "half his riffs smell like beer and honky-tonks, while the other half sound like redneck cousins of Led Zeppelin," Powell combined the many musical influences he's been surrounded by over the years to create an, "honest, tell it like it is" album that will appeal to both his fans from Shooter as well as new ones.

Originally a tenor saxophone player, Leroy started playing guitar at the age of 10. He started his first band at the age of 12 with his brother Chris (with whom he still plays). He started playing guitar, harmonica, pedal steel, and vocals with SHOOTER JENNINGS in 2003. He went on to record four SHOOTER JENNINGS albums, as well as touring regularly with the band. He also has several original cuts on those records, including "Lonesome Blues," "Hair of the Dog," "The Alligator Chomp" (performed by TONY JOE WHITE), "Slow Train" (on the new record, sung with THE OAKRIDGE BOYS). His song, "Busted in Baylor County," was featured in the movie "The Dukes of Hazzard." His touring with Shooter has allowed him to share the stage with the likes of WILLIE NELSON, HANK JR, DAVID ALLANCOE and LYNYRD SKYNRD. And he wrote the single, "Dream," for R&B artist, ALICE SMITH. Leroy played all of the guitars on the upcoming posthumous WAYLON JENNINGS album. In addition, LEROY produced, co-wrote, and played for GINA GERSHON's upcoming album In Search of Cleo set for release on August 28.

"It's about time I started singing my own songs" - Leroy

http://www.leroypowell.com/
http://www.myspace.com/wwwleroypowellcom

# # #

Geffen Records is proud to present the debut EP from Emmy Rossum. Available now.

“Slow Me Down” Streaming Audio Links:
Real Player

Windows Media

Official Site:
http://www.geffen.com/emmyrossum

MySpace Page:
http://www.Myspace.com/emmyrossum

The best fiction is always based in some truth, even if the truth hasn’t
happened yet. 17 year-old rapper K-Smith has already lived a life that has
entertained millions. The nephew of box office superstar and Grammy Award
winning MC, Will Smith, K is intimately acquainted with the character his uncle
popularized on television.

After cutting his teeth at local shows K-Smith is putting the finishing touches
on his debut album, Streetz to Hollywood. The first single, “Better Man”
features a lady-pleasing cameo from Omarion and establishes K-Smith as a
charismatic young talent that is eager to make his own mark on the music
industry.

For more info on K Smith, check out http://www.myspace.com/ksmithmovement.

K Smith is on tour.

INDIANAPOLIS, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2007
Venue:
Indiana State Fair Grounds
1202 East 38th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202

Artists:
K Smith
Kin Folks
Eric Darnell
Yung Berg
Alliance
Cupid
Al Fats
B5
HUEY
HURRICANE CHRIS

LOUISVILLE, THURSDAY, AUGUST 9, 2007
Venue:
Kroger
2710 West Broadway
28th & Broadway

Artists:
K Smith
Kin Folks
Eric Darnell
Yung Berg
Alliance
Cupid
Al Fats
B5
LIL MAMA

CINCINNATI, FRIDAY, AUGUST 10, 2007
Venue:
Music Hall
Ballroom
1241 Elm Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202

Artists:
K Smith
Kin Folks
Eric Darnell
Yung Berg
Alliance
Cupid
Al Fats
B5
MIMS

MACON, GA MONDAY, AUGUST 13, 2007
Venue:
Georgia Music Hall of Fame
200 MLK Jr Blvd.
Macon, GA 31201

Artists:
K Smith
Kin Folks
Eric Darnell
Yung Berg
Alliance
Cupid
Al Fats
B5

RALEIGH, TUESDAY, AUGUST 14, 2007
Venue:
Chris Leith Chevrolet

Artists:
K Smith
Kin Folks
Eric Darnell
Yung Berg
Alliance
Cupid
Al Fats
B5
HURRICANE CHRIS
RICH BOY

RICHMOND, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 15, 2007
Venue:
Richmond International Raceway
600 Laburnum Ave.
Richmond, VA 23222

Artists:
K Smith
Kin Folks
Eric Darnell
Yung Berg
Alliance
Cupid
Al Fats
B5
CHRIS BROWN
HURRICANE CHRIS
RICH BOY
DJ UNK

WASHINGTON, DC, FRIDAY, AUGUST 17, 2007 (FINALE)
Venue:
Union Station

Artists:
K Smith
Kin Folks
Eric Darnell
Yung Berg
Alliance
Cupid
Al Fats
B5

Madi B
Street G.E.D. In Stores Now!
Anytime Records
www.myspace.com/mrmadib

My Money's Long Video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCbsLcSLm6s

Kia Shine
Due Season - In Stores Now
Universal Motown
www.myspace.com/kiashine

Hear Single "Krispy:"
Windows Media
Real Player

About Kia Shine

As the 2007 recipient of the Southern Entertainment Award for the Independent Artist of the Year, Memphis based recording artist Kia Shine has proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that he is a force to be reckoned with. Kia Shine is a major figure on the South’s hip-hop underground scene. Now with his national debut on Universal Motown Records entitled Due Season Kia Shine is finally stepping up to take his rightful place in the hip-hop world.

Born in and raised in Memphis’ infamous Frazier neighborhood, Kia Shine witnessed first hand the devastating effect that drugs and poverty had on his community. “When I think about Frazier I think about New Jack City,” says Kia. “I remember when there wasn’t any such thing as crack and I remember when it first came into the neighborhood and how it was affected. It looked like you were either selling it or your folks were using it.” Thankfully Kia Shine was able to resist the temptation of the cheap high and the fast money that crack offered many ghetto youth. “I knew God had bigger plans for me. It just took me a little bit longer to realize that music was the thing that he wanted me to do.”

While it may have taken him a while to figure out that music was his true calling, it was always a huge part of his life. He grew up listening great soul artist like David Ruffin, Willie Hutch and Womack & Womack and classic hip-hop by pioneers artists like Eric B & Rakim, Grand Master Flash & the Furious Five and Kurtis Blow. This music had a profound impact on him as a youth and would eventually mold Kia Shine into the artist/producer he is today.

But before Kia Shine answered the call to be a rapper/producer he first answered to the call of corporate America, working for the casino conglomerate Harris Entertainment. He did well with the company, eventually earning a promotion that would have taken him to company’s headquarters in Las Vegas. But at that point the call to music was too loud for him to ignore.

In 1998, Kia Shine’s little brother’s L.I. wanted to release a record. Kia Shine invested his own money and poured himself into his brother’s project from start to finish. Later that year the group dropped their album on a local label called Diamond Cut, which was distributed by Select-O-Hits through a deal procured by Kia Shine. Although the record wasn’t a huge hit locally, it opened many doors for Kia Shine. As luck would have it, a Universal Motown executive was in town trying to sign a local artist and bumped into the budding producer. Impressed with Kia Shine’s business savvy and entrepreneurship the executive urged him to come to New York and play some music for him.

“At that time I was working on [L.I.’s] third album,” recalls Kia Shine. “So I went up to New York to try and let him hear the music. He didn’t really like the music but he liked one of the beats. I sold him that beat and came back and signed every hot producer that I could find in the city. I even bought some equipment and started making beats myself.”

Kia Shine also teamed up with another burgeoning entrepreneur Jack Frost and formed Rap Hustlers Entertainment. Using buddy passes for Northwest Airlines Kia Shine would fly to New York and sell beats to high profile recording artists like Jersey Mone, Juvenile, 8 Ball and Ludacris. His work led to a production deal with Ruff Ryders and a publishing deal with Universal Music. He also went back to his independent roots in Memphis and signed some of the city’s biggest underground artists, including TVT recording artist Yo Gotti, La Chat, Kingpin Skinny Pimp, Criminal Mane and Gangster Blac. Through indie deals with Koch and various other joint ventures Rap hustlers managed to sell over 200,000 units, making them one of Memphis’ most successful independent labels, but things soon fell apart. “At one point my company was going through some hard times,” explains Kia Shine. “I lost a lotta money recording for various artists, but I never got paid for my work. All my artists left me and before I knew it I was broke. God says do it yourself so that’s what I did.”

Making the transition from producer to rapper was a natural progression for Kia Shine. In the past three years Kia Shine has featured on some of the South’s biggest underground hits like “TVs,” featuring 8 Ball and Kingpin Skinny Pimp “Dirty South Soldiers” featuring Lil Jon and “Round & Round” featuring Mike Jones. When he dropped the club banger “Respect My Fresh” the public was more than ready to receive their Kia Shine with open arms. They were even more receptive when he dropped “I Be Everywhere.” The song garnered over 5,000 Media Based spins. The buzz around Kia Shine piqued the interest of Universal Motown Records which promptly signed him to an unprecedented deal to release his debut CD Due Season.

Due Season contains a bevy of bass-laded, trunk-rattling beats, catchy hooks and extra fresh rhymes that makes the album a unique listening experience. The CD is filled with club friendly joint like the blazing “I Be Everywhere,” featuring Jim Jones, an ultra hyper song with a thunderous bass line and a dark gothic strings that play a haunting melody. “Respect My Fresh,” is a funky ditty about Kia Shine’s reputation for wearing the freshest gear including his own line of high end sneakers called Traffic Jams. Built around a bubbling bass line, an arresting guitar riff and a pounding 808 beat, “Respect My Fresh” is one of the flyiest jams on the album. He continues to flaunt his fresh on the slamming heaters “Krispy” and “Wow.” Replete with bangers like these, Due Season proves emphatically that Kia Shine’s time to shine is right now.

“Last year I made people respect my fresh,” says Kia Shine. “This year I made them respect my grind.”

ABOUT SEAN KINGSTON

Sean Kingston, a 17 year old native of Jamaica, is not just a new face in popular music; he’s accomplished the rare task of creating a new genre where rap, reggae, dancehall, pop, a touch of doo-wop and remarkable songwriting all combine into something totally fresh. Add in Sean’s family roots which cite Jamaican legendary producer Jack Ruby as his grandfather and reggae king Buju Banton as a close family friend and you have one of the most exciting debuts this year. And while hip-hop lyrics have sparked the biggest debate in years, Sean finds himself in the center of the controversy - but not where you might think. The teen prefers to show his creativity without using profanity.

It’s no wonder then that Sean is quickly becoming a household name with his first single “Beautiful Girls,” a song cross-pollinating on both urban and pop radio stations coast to coast. The unmistakable hit boasts the instant hook of “Stand by Me” which acts like a muse for the song produced by savant J.R. Rotem. Sean is the first signing on J.R.’s label Beluga Heights and his debut album Sean Kingston is due out on July 31 on Beluga Heights/Epic.

“I heard the track ‘Stand by Me,’ one night in the studio, the radio was on. I asked J.R., did anybody ever use this sample? He made the beat right there on the spot and I wrote the words down while he played it back to me. I loved the way it turned out and I think my sound is a lot different than what else is out there. It all just worked and we knew we had something special with the track. I’m also singing about something people can relate – being in love and this other person who you think is your world tells you they want to end the relationship.”

Kingston wants to make it clear that he is no cookie cutter artist that has the songs laid out for him. He comes up with 100 percent of his lyrics. Sean also understands that at 17 years old and making urban music he has a responsibility to fans, “With this album I thought it was important to not use curse words or negative slang that might offend people. I write my own songs so it’s like if I can write a great track without using those words than that’s the style for me.” Sean continues, “As an artist, my whole goal is to make powerful and classic album. I want everyone to feel my music and understand my heritage and that’s what this album will do. The music is all about the authentic Sean Kingston vibe. JR is a talented dude and a dope producer and he saw that I had something different to offer from other artists out there. Together we’re a powerful force and I’m ready to share it with the world.”

Sean talks about J.R. more like a big brother, rather than an Executive Producer of his album. Couple of years ago, Kingston started randomly hitting music industry contacts on MySpace. Although none of the A&R reps responded, Rotem emailed him back. J.R. almost had no choice. “Sean would hit me up at least three times a day!” J.R. says.

“He had a real distinct sound,” Rotem remembers. “I worked with some of the best and I don’t see why Sean can’t grow to be one of them. His potential is limitless.” Rotem invited Sean for a meeting in Los Angeles; coincidentally the young performer was already in the process of moving to California. Shortly after their initial meeting, Rotem had a flagship artist for his Epic records joint venture, Beluga Heights. For Sean, it was almost like a prophecy beginning to be fulfilled. Not only is music his love, it is in his blood. Now Kingston says he’s looking forward to making music and living out his dream.

In just a short time, Kingston has already done what few in his age bracket can accomplish - get people excited about music again. His album is shaping up to be filled with a string of hits including “Me Love,” “Got No Shorty,” “There’s Nothin’” featuring Paula DeAnda, “I Can Feel It” and “Take You There.”

Perhaps one of the most eye opening tracks is “Dry Your Eyes” where Sean visits the hardship of watching his mother and sister be sent to prison when he was just 15 years-old. He sings to his mother to not let herself be saddened that she’s away from the family and to know that they’re always there for her.

“I always had my sister and my brother,” he began to explain. “My brother was there but he was running around doing his own thing most of the time. When my mother and sister went away, it took a lot out of me. My sister went away for four months and my mom has been away for over a year. When she went away, I was like ‘nah man, this is too much.’ I was only 14. I missed her like crazy but I pulled through and used it as my motivation. “Dry Your Eyes” is a defining song on the album for me because it touches on something that’s very personal to me. The dope melody that’s on there makes me feel even closer to it.”

Sean has a certified hip-hop knocker on his hands with the reggae remix of “Colors” (2007) which features the legendary Vybz Kartel and the always profound Kardinal Offishall and will appear on Sean’s album as a bonus track. “Unity and representation is where Colors came from,” Kingston elaborated. “The song is about representing whatever flag that you’re loyal to – whether it is Jamaica, the States, your block etc. It’s a lifestyle record that can be a street anthem no matter where you’re from and where you at now. The reggae version came up because I knew I had to do one special for my native Jamaica. The first person I thought of was Vybz Kartel. His verse came out crazy. Then Kardinal, that’s my homie, really attacked the track.”

“In the future I want to have my own label and work on the business side,” he said. “I went to acting school when I was younger, so I want to get into that. I want to get into every aspect of the business. It took me a little while to develop and build my sound, to find out who the real Sean Kingston was. I didn’t know if I wanted to harmonize, or to rap. But I found out that I can do it all.”

LEDISI
LOST & FOUND
IN STORES AUGUST 28
VERVE MUSIC GROUP
www.myspace.com/ledisi

LOST AND FOUND showcases the multi-talented artist who co-produced all of the songs with veteran music producer/composer Rex Rideout, Jamey Jaz, Mano Hanes, Lorenzo Johnson, and her longtime producing and writing partner Sundra Manning, with whom she formed LeSun Music the independent label which released her two earlier projects.

Each song on LOST AND FOUND is a poignant look at life and love in all its phases – whether it’s an examination of what it means to fall in love with one’s “Best Friend,” or the disappointment and sense of defeat that accompanies the decision to call it quits, “I Tried,”(which features Errol Cooney on guitar), or the sensual, R&B-drenched “In The Morning,” each track expresses a particular point-of-view and is an honest outpouring of Ledisi’s heart – both as an artist and as a woman. The first single, “Alright,” is a life-affirming message of comfort, warmth, and reassurance that will remind the listener that no matter what, in the end, everything will be alright. The title track features Ledisi’s textured vocals showcased against the simple accompaniment of Rex Rideout on piano and Karen Briggs on violin.

LOST AND FOUND is a sonic mélange of jazz, classic R&B, and scat, all fused with rib-thumping bottom notes of unadulterated funk and gospel, and Ledisi moves fluidly between these genres, mixing it up to create a flavorful aural Gumbo that is melodically lush, lyrically appealing and unabashedly soulful. After hearing it, music aficionados will understand why Stephen Holden of The New York Times said: “Her voice is her own portable playground.”

Nate Herr, General Manager of The Verve Music Group enthused: “Artists like Ledisi come along so rarely. She is a peerless singer whose many talents are matched only by her remarkable spirit. Verve is a label with an incredibly rich legacy, and Ledisi is the kind of artist who will enhance that legacy in the years to come.”

Prior to recording LOST AND FOUND, Ledisi made the move from her home base of Oakland to New York where she played a pivotal role in inspiring characters and musical compositions during the development of Oprah Winfrey’s stage adaptation of THE COLOR PURPLE. More recently, Ledisi performed “Blues in the Night” as part of the talent line-up that appeared in the PBS special “We All Love Ella.” Ledisi’s cover of “Blues in the Night” was previously recorded for the companion CD with Phil Ramone serving as the project’s executive producer.

Later this year, Ledisi will appear in Leatherheads, a feature film starring George Clooney.

Check out her brand new single, "It's Alright":
http://verve.edgeboss.net/wmedia/verve/ledisi/alright.wax

COMMON
"Finding Forever"
G.O.O.D Music / Geffen Records
http://www.common-music.com/
http://www.myspace.com/common

COMMON - "The People" (prod. by Kanye West)
Window

COMMON - "The Game" (prod. by Kanye West with scratches by DJ Premier)
Window
Real

NOW That’s What I Call Music! Vol. 25 features current chart favorites from superstar artists like Daughtry, Carrie Underwood, T-Pain, Beyounce and Shakira, Fergie, Pink, Justin Timberlake, Gwen Stefani and Kelly Clarkson. Also included are huge hits from hot newcomers like Huey, Boys Like Girls, Lloyd, Mims and Elliot Yamin.

Head to your local Walmart store or check out www.walmart.com to pick up the NOW That's What I Call Music! Volume 25 exclusive CD, featuring a bonus access card for 27 exclusive downloads and 32 bonus streams, a behind-the-scenes look at your favorite artists and a sneak peek at tomorrow's biggest stars! You can order the exclusive NOW 25 CD and bonus card here: http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=6014576.

NEW CAST, NEW BEACH, AND NEW DRAMA IN
“NEWPORT HARBOR: THE REAL ORANGE COUNTY”
PREMIERING WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 15TH AT 10:30PM ET/PT

GRAND OPENING OF VIRTUAL NEWPORT HARBOR TRANSPORTS FANS NORTH TO LIVE THE NEW DRAMA FOR THEMSELVES

GET A SNEAK PEEK NOW AT NEWPORTHARBOR.MTV.COM: http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?id=1565260

For three seasons fans have lived, loved and come of age with the teenagers of “Laguna Beach.” This season, MTV is moving up the coast to Newport Harbor. Join a new circle of friends as they discover first loves, face new rivalries and suffer new heartbreaks as “Newport Harbor: The Real Orange County” premieres on Wednesday, August 15th at 10:30pm ET/PT on MTV.

“It has been three years since the Stephen, Lauren and Kristin love triangle drew viewers to the real life drama of Laguna Beach,” said Tony DiSanto, Executive Vice President, Series Development & Programming for MTV. “Now we are moving up the coast to a new town with new faces and a new high school, but with the same drama of dealing with relationships, cliques, family and friends. The real OC is a beautiful backdrop to this universal story and this year we go back to the heart of the drama...that wistful last year of school."

And on the same day as the television premiere, fans will be able to hang out with the new cast, party, relax and shop in the same places they see on-air for themselves in Virtual Newport Harbor, available at www.vmtv.com. From checking out the Main Street Surf Shop, to running to the store known as Etc. Etc. Etc. for the perfect outfit to wear, viewers will be able to virtually live the same story-lines they see on-air, including some of the biggest events of the year like the prom and graduation, and meet new cast member Chrissy on opening night.

Beginning July 23, fans can log onto newportharbor.mtv.com to view video cast bios, exclusive behind the scenes photos, test their Laguna Beach knowledge with episode quizzes, and watch full episodes from previous seasons. Viewers can also check out the official Newport Harbor blog for exclusive content about the cast and show.

Fans will be able to watch full episodes on the MTV Mobile 24-hour, live TV service, as well as view video cast bios, clips of the best moments from each episode and more on MTV Mobile video on demand through its wireless carrier distribution partners. Fans will also be able to read cast bios, view photo flipbooks, take weekly polls and keep up with weekly episode guides on the MTV Mobile WAP site at wap.mtv.com.
As the cast prepares to leave their childhood behind, they will find that high school isn’t always a day at the beach. On the road to their first kiss, the newest couple at school contends with a protective father and a girl that’s used to getting everything she wants. Meanwhile, former best friends compete for the affection of a younger beauty.

A new town means new beauty, new drama, and new faces. Meet the cast of “Newport Harbor: The Real Orange County”…

Chrissy
Pretty and popular, Chrissy is a senior who grew up in Newport Beach and is lifelong friends with Sasha and Grant. An only child to doting parents, Chrissy has recently blossomed into a head-turning high school senior. As smart as she is beautiful, Chrissy has three colleges to pick from as she prepares to leave the family nest. While everything seems to be going her way, Chrissy longs for the one thing that has eluded her: a boyfriend. Now that the hottest guy in school – a junior named Clay who also happens to be her neighbor – has taken an interest in her, Chrissy appears headed for a storybook romance. Along the way she’ll need to navigate roadblocks including an overprotective dad and rivals for Clay’s affection.

Clay
Clay is a junior and although shy with girls, he is regarded as Newport Harbor’s hottest guy. Born and raised in Newport, he takes full advantage of his oceanfront playground. Whether he’s fishing from his own speed boat off Balboa Island or surfing at one of Newport’s famous breaks, Clay catches girls’ glances wherever he goes. Clay’s humble attitude belies his looks – and he often turns to Grant, his gregarious friend, for a boost of confidence. While it seems Clay could have any girl he wants, his shyness has kept him from having a relationship. But when Clay develops real feelings for Chrissy – and she responds accordingly- it could be his chance to break out.

Allie
A stunning senior, Allie is the girl that all the boys want and all the girls want to be. She seems to have it all: a beautiful home on the tip of Balboa Peninsula, carte blanche with her dad’s credit cards, and a hip family restaurant in which she holds parties for dozens of her friends. But all this wealth and confidence masks a vulnerable side to Allie. She may be a huge flirt with the boys, including Clay, but Allie really longs to rekindle romance with her seventh-grade boyfriend, Chase. Apart from romantic challenges, Allie struggles with leaving her privileged life behind as she prepares to strike out on her own.

Grant
While only a junior, Grant rules the school. Whether it’s throwing parties, his luck with the ladies or his money supply, Grant is the epicenter for entertainment. Grant is constantly living up to his nickname - G-ball, for “Goofball”- and keeps a smile on everyone’s faces. Not one for a serious relationship himself, Grant is content to act as a sounding board for both his childhood friend Chrissy and her new crush Clay. Former childhood friend Chase has recently turned into Grant’s nemesis, as they compete for the affection of Chase’s on and off girlfriend, Taylor. After spending a summer at military school, Grant is trying to reform his bad boy ways, or at least think about his future beyond Newport.

Chase
A strapping senior, Chase lives just a skateboard ride away from the surf shop where he works. He has a way with girls; no matter how many hearts he breaks. Although dating a sophomore named Taylor, he openly flirts with his ex flame, Allie and often gets in hot water with both of them. To make life even more complicated, Chase has a bitter rivalry with his former best friend Grant as they often compete for the same girls. For the time being, Chase seems to regard love as a game to be won. Although he acts as a player at school, he has a close relationship with his mom and brothers at home, who he has formed a close bond with since his parent’s divorce.

Taylor
While it looks like Taylor just walked off the pages of Sports Illustrated, she is really just a sophomore in high school. When she’s not with girls her own age Taylor hangs out with Chrissy’s clique. The boys have taken notice of Taylor and the attention presents many challenges for this fragile girl. She wants to be serious with her boyfriend, Chase, but he seems to have an eternally wandering eye. When other boys, including Chase’s arch rival Grant, show an interest in Taylor she is torn.

Sasha
A loyal childhood friend and neighbor, Sasha is part of Chrissy’s inner circle. Blonde and beautiful, Chrissy and Sasha share a passion for tennis and are partners on the high school team. Their heart to heart talks often occur courtside between matches where Sasha gives Chrissy advice about how to get closer to Clay. Apart from scholastic achievement and school crushes, the girls also share a value system instilled by their strict parents.

The third season of “Laguna Beach” reached over 70 million fans and was the most watched program in its time period among viewers ages 12-24 across all of television, even out-delivering broadcast.

Virtual Newport Harbor is the latest virtual world from MTV Networks that is intricately tied to a hit MTV franchise and allows fans to connect with one another, create their own drama and live out the story arcs they see unfold on-air.

Liz Gateley is creator and executive producer of “Newport Harbor.” Gary Auerbach, Tony DiSanto and Kathryn Takis are executive producers. Keith Hoffman and Jan Lane are co-executive producers. Adam DiVello and Heather Olander serve as development executives for MTV.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 137 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services – MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, with all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 260 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.
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Catch All The Drama of “The Hills” with the Season 2 DVD, A Virtual Hills Viewing Party with Cast Members and The Season 3 Premiere on MTV

Party with Lauren and Audrina on August 10 at 6pm ET
When You Pre-Order “The Hills” -- The Complete Second Season DVD,
Hitting Stores August 7

“The Hills” Third Season Premieres on August 13 at 10pm ET/PT

Dive right back into all the drama of MTV’s popular series “The Hills” with the release of the Season 2 DVD, a virtual world viewing party when cast members Lauren and Audrina go virtual, and the Season 3 premiere on MTV.

All the excitement begins immediately when you pre-order “The Hills” – The Complete Second Season DVD from http://www.thehills.mtv.com/. By pre-ordering the DVD, you’ll receive an invitation to enjoy an exclusive Virtual Hills viewing party on Friday, August 10 at 6 p.m. ET – with Lauren and Audrina – in which you get a VIP advanced screening of the third season premiere of “The Hills,” three days before its television premiere on Monday, August 13 at 10 p.m. ET/PT.

If you’re not one of the lucky few who can party with the girls, don’t worry. All fans inside the popular virtual world, can also get an exclusive first-look at the season premiere Friday, August 10 at 6pm, 9pm and midnight ET before it hits the air by going to www.virtualhills.mtv.com. But like all those other wannabes out there who don’t make it into the popular clubs where Lauren and her girls party – you won’t get a chance to mingle with them virtually – unless, of course, you pre-order the DVD.

“The Hills” – The Complete Second Season DVD is a three-disc set including 12 drama-filled episodes, plus deleted scenes, interviews and two featurettes: “The Hills Season 2 Premiere Party” and “The Hills Season 2 Photo Shoot," and a special code to access a Virtual Hills swag pack, including a virtual "The Hills" t-shirt and hand held DVD to carry in-world. The DVD will be available in stores on August 7.

“The Hills” season kicks off on MTV on Monday, August 13 at 10 pm ET/PT when viewers will find out if Hollywood is big enough for one group of close friends who have been torn in two.

Now forced to juggle a variety of difficult situations, the four girls of "The Hills" are back for yet another season of even more drama. Newly single, Whitney has graduated college and now has to deal with the added stress of her first real job. Audrina is enjoying her first serious relationship, but hitting the town every night with her single roommate Lauren won’t make it easy. And now that Heidi’s playing house with Spencer and dealing with the separation from her best friend Lauren, Spencer wants to take their relationship to the next level. Lauren’s had enough of being single and is looking for Mr. Right, but with new responsibilities at Teen Vogue, a new roommate, and a boyfriend from her past back in her life, how will she ever find him? And the biggest issue of all – Lauren and Heidi haven’t spoken since Heidi moved in with Spencer. And when this feud comes to a head, how will Lauren hold it all together?

Show enthusiasts can further delve into the fun with "The Hills After Show," an interactive talk show streamed immediately following "The Hills." Each week, Jessi Cruickshank and Dan Levy are joined in-studio by special guests to discuss, debate and sometimes mock the things that just happened on "The Hills" while aficionados add their opinions and observations to the conversation by webcam. Fans can visit http://www.hills.mtv.com/ for all the latest details. And following the premiere on August 13, fans can chat with Lauren via webcam for immediate reaction to the show. In addition, http://www.hills.mtv.com/ will feature exclusive behind-the-scenes photos, bios, full episodes, as well as a dedicated blog to “The Hills” where fans can dish on the latest news and check out exclusive interviews and photos.

The second season of “The Hills” was the most watched program in the time period (Mon 10-10:30p) among P12-24 across all of television, cable and broadcast. P18-24 posted growth of 25% from season to season, while season two was up by 6% among P12-34. Season two of “The Hills” reached 60 million viewers. Additionally, “The Hills” content on http://www.hills.mtv.com/ has had more than 23 million streams this year, while the live After Shows alone have garnered nearly 1 million streams.

“The Hills” was created by Adam DiVello. Adam DiVello, Sean Travis, Tony DiSanto and Liz Gateley serve as Executive Producers.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 137 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services – MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, with all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 260 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

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Taking a revolutionary approach to music marketing, Jonah Fialkoff, otherwise known as the 'indie renegade' is making available for the first time the 7 Key Code System to success in marketing music online. Fialkoff, a successful indie music entrepreneur developed the 7 Key Code System in conjunction with top sales and marketing consultants to provide proven and practical techniques that will bring tangible results to any indie artist or label.

Jonah Fialkoff is an indie record label owner, digital distributor, music business consultant to multiple top Billboard charting artists, known speaker, IBS (Intercollegiate Broadcast System) panelist in NYC and Boston, and author. He is known for his humor, sarcasm, harsh reality checks, but always tells it like it is. He cuts straight to the point and has dedicated himself to arming indie artists and labels with the knowledge to break through the music business without any major label interference.

The 7 Key Code System is designed to put the power in the hands of the indie artist. It gives them all the tools and techniques they need to create and maintain a successful and profitable career, without the need of a major label.

The 7 Key Code System will explain how to:-- Triple album sales, quadruple your fan base and get distribution in a matter of months.-- Use your website to develop and cultivate your fanbase into a loyal, buying audience.-- Drive traffic to your website, capture email addresses, and put in place a system to interact with your fans.-- Make the most of social networking sites, podcasting and other web 2.0 tools-- Develop a turnkey online music store-- Develop a smart promotional system-- Turn your fanbase into your own grassroots marketing team-- Make money selling digital downloads and ringtones-- Use proven methods to create additional revenue through licensing your music to TV, film and video games-- Take advantage of satellite, internet and mp3 radio to break as an independent artist
...And much more.

Early adopters of this system will also gain access to an exclusive music business networking group to consolidate and further develop what they learn and implement.

Visit www.7keycode.com to claim your free music industry report. Read the Indie Renegade Blog at www.rocktheindieworld.com/blog

Audio Streams:
Listen Here!

Imeem:
http://junkscience.imeem.com/

MySpace:
http://www.myspace.com/junksciencerap

http://www.myspace.com/nuclearfamily

Label:
http://www.embeddedmusic.net/
http://www.definitivejux.net/

Check out “Cyclone”
Cyclone (radio edit)
Windows Media
Cyclone (radio edit)
Quicktime

If you love the song, then you should be a part of it by submitting your own idea for the official “Cyclone” dance: http://www.youtube.com/group/bashcyclone

Baby Bash on Myspace: www.myspace.com/babybash.

“Shout It Out Loud” live concert footage

“Firehouse” live concert footage

Order your copy, by CLICKING HERE.

Check out this new contest website:
www.yourticket2drive.com

ARTIST: Lyle Lovett
ALBUM TITLE: It’s Not Big It’s Large
RELEASE DATE: August 28, 2007
CURRENT SINGLE:
LABEL: Lost Highway
ARTIST SITE: http://www.lylelovett.com/
MYSPACE SITE: http://www.myspace.com/lylelovett

After a four year hiatus, multi-grammy winner Lyle Lovett is back with his Large Band with his new album, It’s Not Big It’s Large. Seamlessly incorporating aspects of country, gospel, jazz, & bluegrass musical genres has always been a forte of his, but never has it been so effortless than with this most recent outing with his Large Band.

1. TICKLE TOE
2. I WILL RISE UP / AIN'T NO MORE CANE
3. ALL DOWNHILL FROM HERE
4. DON'T CRY A TEAR
5. SOUTH TEXAS GIRL
6. THIS TRAVELING AROUND
7. UP IN INDIANA
8. THE ALLEY SONG
9. NO BIG DEAL
10. MAKE IT HAPPY
11. AIN'T NO MORE CANE
12. UP IN INDIANA (acoustic)
PRODUCED BY BILLY WILLIAMS

AUDIO STREAMS - Caravanserai
WMA:
http://boss.streamos.com/wmedia/verve/loreena_mc/wma/caravanserai.wax

Real:
http://boss.streamos.com/real/verve/loreena_mc/real/caravanserai001.smi


“A reverent, resonant blend of Celtic-rooted ballads and exotica.”—The New York Times
“Fusion comfort food…packed with spirituality.”—USA Today

This fall Loreena McKennitt will release her first live concert DVD, Loreena McKennitt: Nights From The Alhambra. The performances were filmed in Granada, Spain at the Palacio de Carlos V in the Alhambra Palace historic monument over three nights in September 2006; McKennitt is one of very few artists to have been granted the opportunity to perform in this breathtaking Unesco World Heritage site. Selections from the concerts originally aired on PBS as a “Great Performances” special. The DVD includes debut performances of material from her first new album in nine years, An Ancient Muse, which the Los Angeles Times has called “a musical fusion that unites entire cultures,” as well as newly orchestrated renditions of all of her familiar favorites, including “The Mummers’ Dance,” “All Souls Night,” “The Bonny Swans” and “Cymbeline.”
“You’re within the compound of this circular environment, and you think, ‘Oh, I’m in a small performance space.’ Then you look up, and it’s open to the sky.” McKennitt said of the experience of playing in the breathtaking 16th century building—a masterwork of Spanish Renaissance architecture. In Nights From The Alhambra, McKennitt shares the stage with a diverse lineup of world musicians including all-Britain champion on uilleann pipes Steáfán Hannigan, noted composer and jazz violinist Hugh Marsh, Syrian-born oud virtuoso Haig Yazdjian and classically trained lyra player Sokratis Sinopoulos. “You really see the interplay with the musicians and how they spark each other,” McKennitt says of the recorded performances.
The international roster of musicians on the DVD mirrors the focus of her new album. Produced by McKennitt, An Ancient Muse takes the listener on a journey that sweeps across eras and musical genres, from the British Isles to ancient Greece and Byzantine- and Ottoman-era Turkey. Scripps News calls the album “a literary-flavored, Celtic-oriented travelogue of the Mediterranean region of centuries ago,” and McKennitt herself describes the album by saying “I don’t know where I’m going to go on this trip. I’m just going to get on board the train and allow each encounter to lead to the next.”
In a recording career spanning two decades, McKennitt has won worldwide critical acclaim and gold, platinum and multi-platinum awards in 15 countries across four continents. She has won numerous awards including the Billboard International Achievement Award and two Juno Awards.
Nights from the Alhambra is offered as a three-disc set comprising one DVD (with a running time of nearly 140 minutes) and two audio CDs. The package is available in both a DVD-format digipak and a CD-format digipak.

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ARTIST: Loreena McKennitt
ALBUM TITLE: Nights from the Alhambra
RELEASE DATE: August 21, 2007
CURRENT SINGLE:
LABEL: Verve Music Group http://www.vervemusicgroup.com/artist.aspx?ob=art&src=rslt&aid=7075
ARTIST SITE: http://www.quinlanroad.com/

Best-selling hitmaking performer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist is back with his first new album in two yearsWatch Babyface's Career EPK VIDEO STREAMS

(July 2007 – New York, NY) 10-time Grammy award-winning megastar Kenny ‘Babyface’ Edmonds, an icon figure of live performance, songwriting, and production whose work on his own music and others’ has resulted in more than 100 million career sales, has completed his 11th album, PLAYLIST, which will arrive in stores September 18th as the first album on the newly re-launched Mercury Records label, it was announced today by Antonio “L.A.” Reid, Chairman Island Def Jam Music Group and David Massey, President, Mercury Records.

PLAYLIST will be Babyface’s first album devoted (mostly) to cover versions of some of his favorite songs, among them James Taylor’s “Fire & Rain,” Bob Dylan’s “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door,” Dan Fogelberg’s “Longer,” Jim Croce's "Time In A Bottle," Eric Clapton's "Wonderful Tonight," and many others. The album will also include original material.

Over the course of the ’90s, Babyface not only distinguished himself as the decade’s single greatest hitmaker, but as one of the greatest hitmakers in the history of popular music. His imprint (to date) extends to over 125 top 10 pop and R&B hits which include 47 #1 R&B hits, 51 top 10 pop hits, and 16 #1 pop hits. For one span of time on Billboard’s pop and R&B charts, Babyface was listed as the writer, producer and/or performer on twelve separate songs in the Top 20.

His countless Grammy awards (which include Producer Of the Year in 1995, ’96 and ’97 – the only person in history to win three consecutive years), NAACP Image Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and American Music Awards are just one indication of Babyface’s penetration into pop culture. In addition to co-founding LaFace Records with Antonio “L.A.” Reid in 1989 (home of Toni Braxton, OutKast, TLC, Pink and Usher), Babyface’s name is linked to the world’s biggest-selling and most universally popular recording artists – including Mary J. Blige, Boyz II Men, Brandy, Toni Braxton, Tevin Campbell, Mariah Carey, Eric Clapton, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, Dru Hill, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Lionel Richie, TLC, and Vanessa Williams – to name a few.

Babyface is also responsible for such phenomena as the 7 million-selling Waiting To Exhale movie soundtrack album, and the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games anthem “Power Of the Dream” (which he co-wrote, and which was sung by Celine Dion). As a movie producer, Babyface’s company debuted in 1997 with Soul Food (which grossed over $43 million, and spun off a double-platinum soundtrack album), followed by Hav Plenty in 1998, Light It Up in 1999 and Josie & The Pussycats (2001).

Babyface’s albums and singles include: Lovers By Babyface (1987); Tender Lover (1989, double-platinum), a #1 R&B album in Billboard for 11 weeks, including the #1 R&B singles “It’s No Crime” and “Tender Love,” “Whip Appeal” (#2), and “My Kinda Girl” (#3); For the Cool In You (1993, triple-platinum), on the R&B album chart for 87 weeks, with the top 10 R&B singles “For the Cool In You,” “Never Keeping Secrets,” “And Our Feelings,” and “When Can I See You”; The Day (1996, double-platinum), with the top 5 R&B/pop crossover hits “This Is For the Lover In You” (platinum) and “Every Time I Close My Eyes” (gold); MTV Unplugged NYC 1997 (gold); Christmas With Babyface (1998); Face2Face (2001); and Grown & Sexy (2005).

Recipient of the NAACP Lifetime achievement Award, the Essence Award For Excellence, GQ magazine’s Man Of the Year honor, and named One Of the Most Influential People In America by TIME magazine, Babyface’s caring and generosity are well-known. He is national spokesman for the Boarder Baby Project in Washington, DC, which provides transitional housing for babies abandoned at birth, awaiting adoption.

In July 1999, Babyface became the largest single personal donor to VH1’s “Save the Music” campaign when he donated $60,000 to the campaign in his home state of Indiana, to help improve the quality of music education in public schools by restoring and supporting music programs and raising public awareness. That same month in Indianapolis, the Governor of Indiana renamed a 23-mile stretch of Interstate 65 “Kenneth ‘Babyface’ Edmonds Highway,” the first time that a living African-American has been bestowed an honor of such magnitude.