E-Spire Entertainment News

I'm a long time Prince fan so I anxiously awaited the arrival of Planet Earth. Like a kid on Christmas, I unwrapped the wrapper and before pulling out of the parking lot at the post office, I put the CD in. The first thought that came to my mind as I scanned the songs was "The old Prince is back."

This CD made me want to see Prince perform live again. I could visualize him with his guitar doing an instrumental on several of the songs like "The One U Wanna C," "Chelsea Rodgers," and of course "Guitar." I chuckled as I listened to "Guitar" and you will too when you hear the lyrics. The single "Future Baby Mama" and "Somewhere Here on Earth" slows it down and both have sexy grooves.

"Planet Earth" is funky, meaning good, and is a CD that not only Prince fans can appreciate but those who are borderline. ~ Review by Shelia M. Goss, entertainment writer and National Best-selling author of Paige's Web, My Invisible Husband and Double Platinum (coming Spring 2008).

Confessions of a Call Girl stars Tamala Jones and Bokeem Woodbine. Tamala plays Tory Adams. Tory is married to Bokeem's character and unbeknowst to him, his wife is a call girl. During the course of the story, Tory tries to deal with her secret life by seeing a psychiatrist played by Lynn Whitfield. The psychiatrist tries to get to the root of Tory's sex addiction. One of Tory's clients becomes obsessed with her and attempts to blackmail her. Tory tries to keep her regular life and secret life seperately but things happen that threaten to make both of her worlds collide.

VIEW TRAILER

Confessions of a Call Girl takes you into the mind of a call girl and has an unforgettable surprise ending. ~ Review by Shelia M. Goss, entertainment writer and National Best selling author of My Invisible Husband, Roses are thorns, Violets are true and Paige's Web.

Ms. Jody Watley is back, and though she never left, this cd shows her need to continue to try new things and she does just that on her latest album, "The Makeover." She remakes some classics while recreating her own songs. It is a smooth ride from start to finish, but the stand out tracks are "I Want Your Love", "Love Hangover", and my personal favorite "The Makeover (Superstar)." It is a positive message put to techno, telling others about self-love, not being afraid to stand out, while also taking time to makeover the inside. This cd gets the highest grade possible, and I can only hope she will keep the music coming.

Review by eSpire writer Kendall.

http://myspace.com/elliottyamin

Tour Schedule:

Dates as of 7/27/07 - Subject to Change Without Notice:

Jul 29 2007 1:00P AT&T Park - National Anthem @SF Giants game San Francisco, California
Jul 31 2007 8:00P JDRF "Promise To Remember Me" Campaign Washington DC, Washington DC
Aug 1 2007 5:00P JDRF "Promise To Remember Me" Campaign Washington DC, Washington DC
Aug 8 2007 5:00P WAVEHOUSE for KHTS San Diego, California
Aug 24 2007 12:30P Appearance on "The Bold And The Beautiful" soap opera Los Angeles
Aug 29 2007 8:00A Rachel Ray Show New York, New York
Aug 31 2007 7:00P Z100 Six Flags Great American Concert Series Jackson, New Jersey
Sep 1 2007 8:00P B93.7 "Last Chance Summer Dance" Clemson, South Carolina
Sep 15 2007 12:00P JDRF Appearance - UK London
Sep 16 2007 12:00P JDRF Appearance - UK London
Sep 21 2007 8:00P Trinoma - Philippines Manila
Sep 22 2007 8:00P Glorietta - Philippines Manila
Sep 23 2007 8:00P Market! Market! Mall - Philippines Manila
Sep 24 2007 8:00P Appearance on "Lincoln Heights" -ABC Family Channel Los Angeles, California
Sep 26 2007 8:00P Ayala Mall - Philippines Cebu
Sep 29 2007 8:00P Alabang Town Center - Philippines Manila
Nov 14 2007 12:00P World Diabetes Day - NY New York, New York

BEWARE THE FORCE OF NATURE, AND THE NATURE OF MAN
Killer Wave World Premiere Sunday August 5th 7/6c Only on ION Television

Prepare for the next wave… of terror. Massive tidal waves hit the East Coast and a team of scientists discover the terrifying reason behind the phenomenon. Killer Wave is an action-disaster miniseries which tells the tale of a sinister plot aimed to manufacture fear for profit.

Renegade scientist John McAdams (Angus Macfadyen), an expert on man-made ecological disasters and weapons of mass destruction, is called upon to pin point the cause of what appears to be a bizarre series of natural disasters. Partnered with the beautiful, young Sophie Marleau (Karine Vanasse) of the Oceanographic Institute, McAdams has grave suspicions that the deadly waves are man-made cataclysms triggered to wipe out half of the world. When another scientist sets out to prove who’s behind the undersea explosions, he’s murdered, and McAdams becomes the prime suspect. With the stakes raised, McAdams is on the run.

His greatest fear becomes a reality when he discovers the identity of the terrorist with undersea nuclear missiles set to detonate another full-scale assault. But as the earth rumbles and the waters rise, it may already be too late. Killer Wave is the action-adventure miniseries to top them all—ten stories tall and ready to strike.

Killer Wave was filmed in more than 45 locations throughout Canada during the summer of 2006. The miniseries was directed by Bruce McDonald (Queer As Folk, Degrassi: The Next Generation) and executive produced by Robert Halmi, Sr. and Robert Halmi, Jr. (Arabian Nights, Human Trafficking, Merlin).

RHI Movie Weekend presents the world premiere miniseries event, all in one night, only on ION Television.

Premieres Sunday August 5th, 2007 (7/6c)—Miniseries airs all in one night

The miniseries airs on ION Television. Check your local listings or visit http://titantvguide.titantv.com/apg/ion.aspx to find ION

Watch Trailer: CLICK HERE

The release date of Elvis: Viva Las Vegas is particularly significant as it is timed to hit the market right before the 30th anniversary of Elvis’ death. “Elvis Week,” takes place over 9 days in Elvis’ hometown of Memphis (August 11 -19). This year’s celebration will draw more Elvis fans than ever from all over the world to Memphis for an array of events including the 30th Anniversary Concert and the Midnight In Vegas concert. For all the details about Elvis Week visit http://www.elvisweek.com/.

Elvis: Viva Las Vegas Audio Streams:

Viva Las Vegas

See See Rider

Elvis Presley Official Site:
http://www.elvis.com

Elvis: Viva Las Vegas Track Listing:

1) Viva Las Vegas
2) See See Rider
3) The Wonder Of You
4) Polk Salad Annie
5) Release Me
6) Let It Be Me
7) I Just Can’t Help Believin’
8) Walk A Mile In My Shoes
9) Bridge Over Troubled Water
10) Patch It Up
11) You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me
12) You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling
13) An American Trilogy
14) Never Been To Spain
15) You Gave Me A Mountain
16) The Impossible Dream

DailyMotion
Watch Video Here

Comedy Central has put up a site where you can upload your own roast of Flava Flav. Check out what America's amateur roasters have had to say!

Jason Fox - "Aunt Jackie"
Listen by clicking here!

Jason Fox- "Aunt Jackie" video:
Watch video on YouTube.com

www.myspace.com/jasonfox

Tour Schedule

AUGUST
1 Norfolk, VA - Norva
3 Atlanta, GA - Earthlink
5 New Orleans, LA - House of Blues
6 Dallas, TX - House of Blues
10 Las Vegas, NV - House of Blues
11 San Diego, CA - House of Blues
12 Anaheim, CA - House of Blues
14 Sacramento, CA - TBD
20 Chicago, IL - House of Blues
21 Chicago, IL - House of Blues
22 Detroit, MI - Elysium Lounge
23 Cleveland, OH - House of Blues



Interview with the multi-talented J Records recording artist EMILY KING.



Shelia Goss: Why did you start singing?
Emily King: My parents are professional singers. I've always been around it. They put me in their shows. My parents have been my biggest influence.

Shelia: Did you write the songs on your album "East Side Story"?
Emily K.: Yes, I did. I'm a self-contained writer. It was a huge collaboration with Chucky Thompson. Chucky was a "hit man" with Bad Boy. He did Mary J Blige's "My Life" and worked with Faith Evans. He's an incredibile producer.

Shelia: You're on J Records right?
Emily K.: Yes.

Shelia: How did you get discovered?
Emily K.: My mother had a friend at Sony music publishing and one of his writers was Chucky. I brought a demo to my mom's friend and he ended up playing it for Chucky. Chucky and I met the following week and we hit it off. We started going up to different labels. I would bring my guitar, sing and play to the executives. One day we made it to Clive Davis. I sang and got a great respond wand we've been working every since. .

Shelia: Congratulations.
Emily K.: Thank you...I'm excited.

Shelia: Before meeting up with Chucky, were you looking for a record deal or just writing and singing with hopes of pursuing a record deal later?
Emily K.: I was really prepping myself. I got out of high school at 16 and had been doing gigs and playing in coffeehouses. I made a demo and thinking positive, I knew somebody was going to hear it.


Shelia: How do your friends feel about your record deal?
Emily K.: They feel good. They're excited. They want to see me on MTV or BET one day.

Shelia: Have you filmed the video for your single yet?
Emily K.: We're actually in the process of putting that together. It's going to be exciting.

Shelia: Besides Clive Davis, who is someone you met recently that you were like in awe of?
Emily K.: I opened up for Common. I'm a fan of Common and he's such a cool dude.

Shelia: When will your album be coming out?
Emily K.: The single will be out soon and the album(East Side Story) will be out at the top of 2007.

Shelia: How many more songs do you have to record?
Emily K.: The album's actually done. There's 12 songs on the album. I had a lot of interesting collaborations. It was good.

Shelia: Is there more fast paced songs verses slow paced songs or mixed?
Emily K.: We mixed it up. We want to give you that roller coast ride. I want people to play it straight through.

Shelia: For those readers who may not have heard of Emily King, what singer would you compare yourself with?
Emily K.: That's a tough one. I get a lot of comparisons. Sometimes people say Teena Marie, Alicia Keys or Norah Jones. I'm honored to be compared to them but I'm trying to bring my own thing and I hope people like it. Everybody is unique.

Shelia: What do you do in your spare time when you want to relax and unwind?
Emily K.: I like to crotchet. I knit. I cook. I like to bake. I oil paint. Anything creative. I like hanging out with people and friends, going to the movies and playing pool. There's always something to do here in NYC.

Shelia: What was the last good movie you saw?
Emily K.: Snakes on a Plane

Shelia: What artists do you listen to the most?
Emily K.: I listen to singer/songwriters, but I listen to a lot of different things.

Shelia: Pick three songs from your CD and tell me about it.
Emily K.: Color Blind: It talks about how I feel about life; how I was raised. I'm interracial and it deals with that.

You & I: I wrote it and it was effortlessly. It has a really pure love message in it. I enjoyed singing that one a lot.

It Was You: Definitely a favorite. I wrote it a time ago. I wrote it about my parents actually getting divorced.

Shelia: Last question. How does it feel to be on the label headed by one of the most respected men in music--Clive Davis?
Emily K.: It's mind blowing.

Be on the look out for Emily King's new CD release "East Side Story" on J Records.

Interview by entertainment writer Shelia M Goss. She's also the national bestselling author of My Invisible Husband. To read more interviews or find out more about this writer, visit her website www.sheliagoss.com.

Hear My Love Single:
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Ain't Nothing Like Me, Joe's latest CD, is for the mature at heart. It's the right music to spice up your night. If I Was Your Man, one of the first singles, enticed me to want to listen to the entire CD.

There's not a bad song on the 14 track CD. It was hard choosing favorite tracks, but if I had to, they would be If I Was Your Man, My Love, Go Hard, Ain't Nothing Like Me, Feel For You, and You Should Know Me.

Whether you're planning a romantic evening or relaxing by yourself, I recommend adding Joe's new CD Ain't Nothing Like Me to your playlist. ~ Shelia M. Goss, entertainment writer and National Bestselling author of Double Platinum (coming Spring 2008), Paige's Web (coming Fall 2007), My Invisibile Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true.

JOHNTA AUSTIN
"OCEAN DRIVE" IN STORES September 4
So So Def / Island Urbanhttp://www.johntaaustin.com/
MYSPACE: http://www.myspace.com/johntaaustin

AUDIO: Turn it Up REMIX, featuring Jadakiss
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WATCH Johnta Austin's VIDEO Turn it Up, featuring Jermaine Dupri

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Turn it Up AUDIO, featuring Jermaine Dupri

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MORE ABOUT JOHNTA AUSTIN

His name is already familiar to record buyers who make note of the songwriting credits on major hit records by such superstar artists as Mariah Carey and Mary J. Blige. Music industry insiders know him as the Grammy-winning ‘go-to’ writer which is why the legendary Whitney Houston, Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson, global multi-platinum artist Usher and hitmaker Chris Brown have tracks on forthcoming projects by this unassuming Atlanta native. While he may have spent the last eight years behind the scenes, penning songs for the likes of Toni Braxton, Tyrese, Enrique Iglesias, Ginuwine, Aaliyah, Faith Evans, B2K, Ciara, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, and Mario, that’s all about to change with the 2007 release of Johnta Austin’s much-awaited debut album, OCEAN DRIVE.

Signed to super-producer Jermaine Dupri’s So So Def label, Johnta (pronounced “John-tay”) Austin is stepping out front with a first record that is reminiscent of the finely-crafted work of such soulful icons as Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross and in more recent times, Babyface. For, like all three, Johnta brings the skill of his honed penmanship to his work as a recording artist. Indeed, if Gaye – one of Johnta’s musical influences – were around today cutting his groundbreaking “Let’s Get It On” album, it might sound a little like Austin’s auspicious debut in terms of lyrical content, smooth’n’sexy vocals and masterful production. The analogy is particular interesting: when asked if any artist or album provided the inspiration for OCEAN DRIVE, Johnta is quick to mention Gaye’s 1973 masterpiece which he heard when he was just fifteen. Like Marvin and other ‘triple threat’ artists such as Babyface and R. Kelly, who write, produce and sing, Johnta describes himself as “a storyteller, writing songs that are lyrically relevant, without too many gimmicks.”

OCEAN DRIVE, the bulk of which was produced by Dupri with songs written by Dupri and Austin, is, in the words of the artist himself, "classy, sexy, fresh, which is what you think of when you think of Miami’s Ocean Drive.” A heady mix of infectious club-flavored grooves and old school-styled slow jams, OCEAN DRIVE is a breath of fresh air, with its emphasis on real songs with memorable hooks. Case in point: “The One That Got Away,” which Johnta says is a good indicator of what listeners can expect from his album. “I wrote it from personal experience,” he says of the Stargate-produced cut. “Even with all the success you may have in life, you can get tired of acting like you’re not hurting, thinking about that one girl you never forget, the one who crosses your mind time after time.

With a big up to the club scene, “Video” (featuring Atlanta-based rapper DJ Unk) is the infectious new single from OCEAN DRIVE, produced by Dupri while “Let’s Take It Back” is Johnta’s way of paying homage to house parties “where folks would slow dance up against the wall!” Then there’s “Lil’ More Love,” a ‘back-in-the-day’ ballad that Johnta says “will definitely appeal to the ‘grown’ folks!” The standout cut has an interesting history to it: “That’s the song that got me signed to Jermaine’s label. I sent him a demo while he was on vacation. He played it to Janet (Jackson) and she asked Jermaine, ‘is he going to do his own album?’” The ultimate result of that conversation? OCEAN DRIVE, whose release has been anticipated by music listeners who were captivated by “Turn It Up,” the track featuring Jadakiss that sparked major excitement in late 2006 at radio, online and on television (with a popular video that aired on BET, BET-J an VH1-Soul). It’s an ode to soul music greats like Vandross, Kelly, Blige, Faith Evans and Jodeci among others, Johnta says. “Those artists create different moods with their music. This is my way of expressing the influence of music on our everyday lives.”

Johnta’s focus on writing, producing and singing songs that reflect real life experiences and situations is the constant theme throughout OCEAN DRIVE, whether on “Hood Love,” featuring none other than the unmatchable Mary J.Blige, the story of two people who “fight more than they get along…but at the end of the day, really love each other…” or “A Mess” (produced by Teddy Bishop) which speaks of a couple in a long-term relationship “which is no longer working.” On a more positive tip, “Joy” is Johnta’s upbeat commentary on “the pinnacle of love” while “Up In My Room” (with shades of Gaye’s sexually-charged lyrics on “Let’s Get It On”) is, well, “self-explanatory!” and the chill cut “Mutual” – originally planned by co-producer Jazzy Pha for as a track for Chris Brown – sets the mood for some serious love-making.

For Johnta, the journey from Grammy-winning songwriter to the making of his first album had its original roots when, as an aspiring child actor and singer in his church choir, he landed a gig at the age of 12 as co-host of a children's television series on Turner Broadcasting Station (TBS). Austin got the chance to interview entertainment icons like Michael Jackson and Michael Jordan. This high profile gig gained the attention of late night talk show host Arsenio Hall, who invited Austin to be a guest on his popular show. When Johnta revealed that he liked to sing, Arsenio immediately prompted him to sing with the show's band. Coincidentally, an A&R rep from RCA Records was watching that show and later reached out to Johnta which led to the then-13-year-old's first record deal with RCA in 1994.

The experience was short-lived when inevitably, as a young teen, Johnta’s voice changed; his connection with RCA however took an interesting turn when, a few years later, he submitted the lyrics to the song “Sweet Lady" to then newly-signed Tyrese for his debut album. By the time Johnta graduated from North Atlanta’s School of Performing Arts high school in 1998, "Sweet Lady" was a Top 10 hit on the Billboard charts. "I was happy to get the opportunity to write a record for Tyrese," says Austin. "I didn't know it was gonna be as successful as it was…”

With the success of "Sweet Lady" came opportunities to work with numerous other artists: in 1999, Johnta had his second hit as a songwriter with Ideal’s “Get Gone”: subsequently, he’s scored with “Miss You,” a top 3 pop hit for Aaliyah as well as cuts on Jessica Simpson (“A Public Affar”) and Mary J. Blige (“Be Without You”), co-writing a series of massive hits for Mariah Carey, including “Don’t Forget About Us,” “Shake It Off”, “It’s Like That” and the record-breaking single, “We Belong Together” which earned Johnta a Grammy as “Best R&B Song” in 2005. Says Carey, “As a fellow songwriter, I really had an incredible experience working with Johnta. I’m really excited for him and happy that such a true talent is getting a chance to shine as a solo artist.”: Blige declares, “Johnta is the best thing to happen to the music industry,”; Chris Brown enthused: “His pen is like a basketball to Michael Jordan. He’s creative and not afraid to go outside the box in his writing.” Adds Ciara: “The way that he tells stories through music is so vivid that you can paint the picture.”

That skill as a contemporary storyteller drawing on his own life experiences led to Jermaine Dupri’s insightful decision to sign Johnta to his So So Def label in 2005 after Dupri began taking notice of Johnta’s singing talents on demos for songs they were writing for various projects. Taking time to ensure that Johnta’s first album would reflect the span of his skills as a soulful vocalist, songwriter and producer, Dupri has supervised the project from inception to its release in 2007.

For Johnta, who cites Sam Cooke and Stevie Wonder as primary vocal influences, R. Kelly and Babyface as among those who have inspired his craft as a songwriter and Quincy Jones as a producer whose work he deeply admires, the release of OCEAN DRIVE is the culmination of patiently waiting: "I don't think I’ve ever stopped being an artist," maintains Austin. "I focused on the songwriting thing for so long because I knew when I got another chance to do an album, I wanted to bring more to the table."

That he succeeds is self-evident for OCEAN DRIVE is indeed a soulful showcase for Johnta who says it simply: “Subject matter is key to a good song. You have to talk about things that people can relate to. And as far as singing goes, I try to sing with a lot of emotion," he says. "When it's a painful song, I want you to feel the pain in my voice. When it's a love song, I want you to feel the love.” Those words could easily be quotes from the late Mr. Gaye: rather, they are the words of Johnta Austin, a multi-talented artist who’s bringing that ‘old school’ feeling to today’s music scene, full on.

DAVID BANNER READIES NEW ALBUM FOR FALL RELEASE
First Single “Speaker,” features Akon, Lil Wayne & Snoop Dogg

“GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD”
In-Stores October 9th
Universal Motown/SRC Records
www.myspace.com/davidbanner

(New York, NY) - Mississippi hip hop icon David Banner is putting the finishing touches on his much anticipated new SRC/Universal Motown album, Greatest Story Ever Told, preparing it for a fall release. The first single from the charismatic star’s fifth studio album, “Speaker,” features a select trinity of superstar talent – Akon, Lil Wayne and Snoop Dogg. Other stars joining the compelling producer/artist Banner on this album (either as guest artists or behind the boards) include Chris Brown, Jim Jones, UGK, Cool & Dre and Nitti, to name a few.

The prolific rap star is also slated to join hip-hop’s elite on what is fast becoming the hottest live show of the summer, the 2007 Rock The Bells North American Festival Series. Featuring a revolving pantheon of legendary street-edged/rap stars, including Wu-Tang Clan, Rage Against The Machine, Pharoahe Monch, Slum Village, Jedi Mind Tricks and others, Banner will kick off the celebrated journey, which will perform for nearly a quarter of a million people during its five week run in Mansfield, MA on July 26. (see dates below).

Emerging from more than a year of in-depth humanitarian and philanthropic efforts to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina, the Jackson, Mississippi native was eager to get back into the studio and practice his craft. “Everybody wants to hear the hits and I got ‘em,” says Banner. “But I wouldn’t be calling it ‘The Greatest Story’ if it also wasn’t truthful. My fans know I’m going to be telling it straight-up however I’m coming.”

It was Banner’s 2005 release Certified that set a new standard for hip-hop scorchers, with his smash single “Play” garnered more then 50 million in radio audience and climbed into the Top 5 on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Chart, causing more than one esteemed urban publication to peg the star as hip-hop’s ‘thinking man.’ The outspoken Banner has been perfecting his signature brand of rap rock and street tinged anthems ever since his stunning 2003 Gold-plus debut, Mississippi – The Album. The album’s genre-altering single "Like A Pimp," featuring Lil' Flip, was hailed as Banner’s breakthrough song. Banner has also gone on to become one of hip-hop’s most sought after producers as well, igniting groundbreaking collaborations with revered artists such as T.I., Nelly, Young Buck, Shop Boyz, Chris Brown, and others.

Banner and his home-grown charitable organization, ‘Heal The Hood,’ have been honored by the Black Caucus of Mississippi’s state legislature for their Herculean efforts on behalf of the victims displaced by the terrible devastation from Hurricane Katrina. Banner’s ‘hands-on’ philosophy about ‘affecting’ positive change was in full effect during the crisis and its aftermath, with the socially conscious star personally dedicating a year out of his schedule to aid and support those in need, raising more than $500,000, and distributing the funds to dozens of southern communities and organizations in ravaged southern Mississippi, Alabama and New Orleans. The driven activist was also awarded the Lisa ‘Left Eye’ Lopes Humanitarian Award in 2006 by Atlanta radio station Hot 107 in recognition of his selfless humanitarian endeavors.

The multi-talented Banner also made his acting debut in last year’s acclaimed Craig Brewer directed (Hustle & Flow) movie, Black Snake Moan, starring Samuel L. Jackson and Christina Ricci.

2007 Rock The Bells North American Festival Dates:

August 7th Dallas, TX Smirnoff Music Center
August 8th Houston, TX Reliant Park
August 11th San Bernardino, CA Hyundai Pavilion at Glen Helen
August 12th San Diego, CA Coors Amphitheatre (parking lot)
August 18th San Francisco, CA McCovey Cove (parking lot)
August 19th Sacramento, CA TBD
August 21st Salt Lake City, UT TBD
August 22nd Denver, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre
August 25th Minneapolis, MN TBD
August 26th Chicago, IL Charter One Pavilion
August 29th Detroit, MI DTE Energy Music Theatre
September 1st Honolulu, Hawaii TBD

Chuck’s Secret Revealed!!

Hack into Chuck’s Laptop at ChucksSecret.com To Access to His Personal Profiles on Flickr, Myspace, Facebook, Last.FM, Digg and More

Chuck Premieres on NBC September 24th

VIDEO - Stay

AUDIO - Stay

Simply Red, one of the UK’s most talented, successful and enduring bands, are here to stay. To prove it, they return with the aptly titled new album ‘Stay’which is in stores now. The third LP, available on their own label SimplyRed.com, is a smooth, passionate collection of soulful tunes and vibrant lyrics, all driven with Mick Hucknall’s inimitable vocals.

Written and produced by Mick Hucknall, with contributions from Andy Wright - whose previous credits include Natalie Imbruglia and Annie Lennox - the album was recorded between London’s ‘Home’ and ‘Metropolis’ studios late last year. Featuring the irrepressible new single ‘So Not Over You’, it also boasts 10 other brand new tracks.

Highlights include: the electric glow of Ronnie Lane’s classic ‘Debris’; the sparkling title track ‘Stay’; the almost autobiographical ‘Good Times Have Done Me Wrong’ & the decadently romantic ‘The World And You Tonight’.

The new album follows a triumphant 18 months, which saw them earn their tenth Top Ten album, play three sold-out dates at London’s Royal Albert Hall and perform at Oslo’s Nobel Peace Prize concert. Their last LP – the critically acclaimed ‘Simplified’ - entered the UK album chart at Number 3, adding to the bands extensive list of successes. It followed on from ‘Home’, which sold over 2.5 million copies worldwide.

The new single ‘So Not Over You’ is available on two CDs and features must-have B-sides. The first includes the shimmering ‘Beside You’, while the second boasts revitalised ‘So Not Over You’ mixes by Motivo and Johnny Douglas, as well as the new video, which was directed by Russell Thomas (Maroon 5, Placebo, Kylie Minogue) in Cape Town.

AUDIO – So Not Over You

VIDEO – So Not Over You

Sept 1 Boulder, CO Macky Auditorium
Sept 2 Kansas City, MO Uptown Theatre
Sept 3 Minneapolis, MN Orpheum Theatre
Sept 7 Indianapolis, IN Murat Theatre
Sept 8 Detroit, MI The Fillmore at State
Theatre
Sept 10 Louisville, KY Louisville Palace Theatre
Sept 11 Knoxville, TN Tennessee Theatre
Sept 12 Nashville, TN Ryman Auditorium
Sept 14 Pittsburgh, PA Benedum Center for the Performing Arts
Sept 15 New York, NY Radio City Music Hall
Sept 22 Upper Darby, PA Tower Theatre
Sept 23 Boston, MA Orpheum Theatre
Sept 24 Montreal, Quebec Theatre St. Denis
Sept 25 Montreal, Quebec Theatre St. Denis
Sept 28 Toronto, ONT Massey Hall
Sept 29 Toronto, ONT Massey Hall
Oct 27 New Orleans, LA Voodoo Music Festival
Oct 28 Birmingham, AL Alabama Theatre
Oct 29 Memphis, TN Orpheum Theatre
Oct 31 Miami, FL Gusman Center
Nov 1 Jacksonville, FL Florida Theatre
Nov 2 Atlanta, GA Fox Theatre
Nov 4 San Antonio, TX Majestic Theatre
Nov 5 Dallas, TX Majestic Theatre
Nov 6 El Paso, TX Plaza Theatre
Nov 10 Oakland, CA Paramount Theatre
Nov 12 Portland, OR Kelly Auditorium
Nov 13 Vancouver, BC Orpheum Theatre
Nov 14 Seattle, WA Paramount Theatre
Nov 15 Seattle, WA Paramount Theatre


For ticket and on sale dates please visit www.Benharper.net

Hear new Papoose single "Bang It Out":

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ABOUT PAPOOSE

Born and raised in the notorious Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, Papoose took his first jabs at being a rapper at the young age of 11. Given the name by his grandmother meaning "Indian baby", whom he resembled as a child, Papoose is the true definition of a real mc. Inspired by rap legends Rakim, Kool-G-Rap and Big Daddy Kane, he has been well respected in the underground street circuit for a long period of time now. Papoose has survived the trappings and politics of the rap industry, which uses gimmicks as well as fake street and jail images to sell records and destroy the essence of what a true mc really is.

His first big break happened when he earned a spot on Kool-G-Raps "Roots of Evil" album in 1999. After proving he could hold his own with the veteran rapper, Papoose released his own unique underground smash "Alphabetical Slaughter” where he flows venomously from A to Z, using each letter perfectly and precise. After turning down a bad record deal, Papoose hit the streets and pressed his own mix tape titled “Art of War". With it’s powerful and unique lyrics, the record soon found its way into the hands of Dj KaySlay who immediately signed Papoose to Street Sweepers Entertainment. Ever since then he has dominated the mix tape scene worldwide.

His 1st hit record "Charades” he spoke about the unfair tactics of the ”hip hop police”. This record went in rotation at Hot 97 in New York City and many other stations around the globe. Papoose has already put out 12 mixtapes and has a total of 227 songs and freestyles all within a year and a half. That is equivalent to 12 albums during that period and more than any signed or unsigned artist has ever done. Papoose has continued to drop classics such as “Monopoly”, “Flashback” and “Mother nature” where he spoke about the politics surrounding hurricane Katrina and the disaster that followed.

Bottom line, Papoose is the hottest upcoming artist in the world and his street buzz is immaculate. His Internet following is tremendous and he has the same amount of downloads as most platinum artist. Papoose’s music captures audiences with its intelligent wordplay, stunning metaphors and cunning street knowledge while still carrying a message. At this time, a bidding war has ignited and a record deal will be an option rather than a question. Papoose is the future.

--DJ KaySlay aka The Drama King

Awards

2005 JUSTO “Artist of the Year” Underground Mix Tape
2005 UMA'S “Underground Artist of the Year”

Collaborations

Papoose appeared on songs with Nas, Jim jones, Bun-B, Busta Rhymes, Mike Jones, Paul Wall, Talib Kweli, Mobb Deep, Remy Martin, Hell Rell, Juvenile, Ghostface Killah, Black Rob and D-Block just to name a few.

Listen to the single "Future Baby Mama"


Prince
Planet Earth
IN STORES TODAYColumbia Records
http://www.3121.com

Sherri Shepherd is a talented actress/comedian. Her resume includes roles on a variety of television shows such as The Jamie Foxx Show, Less Than Perfect, Everybody Loves Raymond, and numerous movies such as Guess Who and Beauty Shop. Sherri's been guest hosting on ABC's The View and stars in the movie Who's Your Caddy? (in theaters this weekend).

My first memory of you was as Sheila from The Jamie Foxx Show. Since then, I've seen you on various TV shows as well as guest hosting on The View. You appear to be a natural behind the camera. Did you always know you wanted a career in entertainment or was it something that "just happened"?
Sherri Shepherd: I knew at 4 years old, that I loved performing in front of people. At 4, my grandmother use to cook Sunday dinner for all of the family (cousins, 2nd cousins, aunts, uncles, great aunts, etc.) and after we ate, she'd put me in front of them and say "do your little program" and I would make everyone laugh. As I got older, I knew I'd either be a radio deejay or I would marry Michael Jackson. My career did not just "happen". As a Christian, I don't believe in "coincidences". I believe that God appoints and directs everything. So this career is truly a blessing from above.

What has been one of your most unforgettable roles?
Sherri Shepherd: I LOVED playing the crazy "Sheila" on the Jamie Foxx show. Jamie allowed me to improv a lot of my scenes, and sometimes he'd be laughing so hard at my antics, he'd make me do take after take! There was one episode where I wanted to be in his music video, and I came out dancing crazy in a red dress... I fasted on water for 5 days before wearing that tight dress... after Jamie made me do that dance scene about 6 or 7 times, I was ready to pass out!

You wear multiple hats (mother/actress/comedian/etc). a) How do you balance it all and b) How do you stay grounded with your success?
Sherri Shepherd: Girl... PRAYER!!!! And this baby has made me run to the grocery store to purchase some One-A-Day multivitamins! I stay grounded, cuz' I know that this success is a blessing... God giveth and God taketh away.

What advice would you give someone who is interested in pursing a career as an actor?
Sherri Shepherd: Make sure that is really what you want to do, cuz' this business is not for the fainthearted. There are very few "overnight" successes. Most successful people you see, worked their butts off...so unless you get on American Idol and get in the Top 10 and make it to the Top 2, get ready for the long haul.

What's next for Sherri Shepherd? Any more TV shows or upcoming movies?
Sherri Shepherd:
Movies: The Transformers
and Who's Your Caddy (starring Big Boi from the musical group "Outkast" & Faizon Love)

Be sure to check out Sherri Shepherd's upcoming movies as well as watch her on TV. To learn more about this dynamic actress, visit her website at: http://www.norefundnoexchange.com/ or http://www.myspace.com/sherrishepherd.

Interview by Shelia M Goss, an entertainment writer and author of My Invisible Husband, Roses are thorns, Violets are true and Paige's Web. For more information, visit www.sheliagoss.com.

Playaz Circle in Supply and Demand
By eSpire writer Shani Greene-Dowdell

Playaz Circle is a well-seasoned Atlanta-based group that has ignited a flame in the rap game that is spreading like wildfire. This week, I had the privilege of chatting it up with the duo - Titi Boi and Dolla Boy. Having teamed up with Disturbing tha Peace for their sophomore CD Supply and Demand they are recharged and on the grindstone.

Growing up in College Park in the 90's, Titi Boi and Dolla Boy's friendship began over a game of B-ball. Titi Boi recalls, "We were in gym back in the day, about to play ball when I was like 'Dolla let me roll with you…and from that day 'til now we've been down." When asked how their music will contribute to the southern legacy in rap, Dolla says with certainty, "We are from here...the south is home. We are going to bring the world to the Southside."

In 1997, the childhood friends put their money together to release their independent album United We Stand, United We Fall. The album had features from Lil' Fate, I-20 and other's from the Disturbing tha Peace family. They were introduced to Ludacris by Lil Fate and soon became good friends as they all shared the same dream.

As luck would have it Titi and Dolla suffered a few hard knocks (Dolla being incarcerated and Titi having been shot) and had to put their music careers on hold. When asked where they see PC in the next few years, Dolla sees great things on the horizon, "I want to see the Duffle Bag Boys record label opening up doors for other artists from our hood, the people that have been down with us for a long time." Titi adds, "When we make it big, we want to give others the same opportunity."

The PC not only plans to open doors for other artists, but they also feel strongly about giving back to the community. Whether it's sponsoring football teams, giving out Jerseys to the kids, or throwing neighborhood barbecues, being an active part of the community is important to Titi and Dolla.

When their single Duffle Bag Boys featuring Lil Wayne hit the airwaves all over America, some thought Lil Wayne wrote Titi and Dolla's lyrics, but Titi says, "We create all of our own music. As a matter of fact a lot of the time we don't write we just flow freestyle." Dolla assures that Supply and Demand will have something for everyone, "There are 360 degrees to Dolla so you can expect us to get it crunk, keep it real from the streets and at the same time have that 'rub your feet' music for the ladies." Titi confirms, "Creativity can't be categorized, but you can expect our music to have a comfortable feel."

Titi Boi and Dolla Boy are prepared to do their part to keep the eye on the south. Titi says, "While others come to Atlanta and on the first day they want to make it home. We are from here...the south is home. We are going to bring the world to the Southside and keep bringing the southern flava to living rooms across America. As proof that PC is serious about this claim, Titi shares, "The video for Duffle Bag Boys was shot in our hood, which has never been done before, so this is huge."

So just when does the Supply and Demand drop? Titi and Dolla assure fans it is coming soon.

For more information on the Playaz Circle, go to www.myspace.com/playazcircle or www.playazcircle.net.

Interviewed by Shani Greene-Dowdell, author of Keepin' It Tight. To learn more about Shani, go to www.shanibooks.com.

The Blueprint Interview by eSpire writer Kendall

You have a beautiful name, what does it mean?
In Saskrit, Suphala literally means "producer of good fruit", and symbolically means "one who leads to excellent results."

How did your collaborations with artists such as Edie Brickell come to be?
I met Edie in the studio when Harper Simon had an idea to have us all collaborate. Edie, Harper, Sean Lennon, Yuka Honda, and I had a great jam session that day and discovered there was a wonderful musical chemistry there. Since that day, Edie and I collaborate on each other's music whenever we get a chance.

What is your hope for the future female musicians in Afghanistan?
Young girls should be given a chance to learn music just like everyone else. Music is much larger than ourselves and anyone who has the ability to tap into it, should be supported.

Did you know you were changing history by being the first female to play in Afghanistan since the fall of the taliban?
No. I went to play a concert just like anywhere else. I was very interested in visiting due to the fact that Afghanis share the same Hindustani Classical music with us. It was lovely to meet the Tabla artists especially, hear their stories, and exchange rhythms. I didn't know there hadn't been a big concert since the fall of the taliban.

Your current album has an interesting title "Blueprint", is there a story?
The concept behind, "Blueprint," is that recordings are blueprints or prototypes. Each finite recording is interpreted in an infinite number of ways. Just as each listener has there own unique moments and mood with the songs, as musicians we can play these pieces in several different ways. And we do.

Who were some of your musical influences growing up?
Its hard to say who my influences were, but I can tell you some artists i listened to: N.W.A., Prince, Chopin, Michael Jackson, Beethoven, and Bhimsen Joshi.

What are the benefits to having your own production company?
I can roll out of bed and start working in my studio....that's the main one.

Being in the music business, you are surrounded by so much of everything, how do you stay grounded?
Practicing Tabla is like a meditation.

What can we expect from you in the years to come?
More music you've never heard before.

What is in your ipod/cd player?
Recordings of live concerts made by my ipod mic.

For more information about Suphala, visit her website:
http://www.suphala.com/

Interview by Kendall. For more interviews and reviews at eSpire, visit http://www.e-spire.blogspot.com/.

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.”

AUDIO "Ridin"
Windows Media
Real Player

Mya
Universal Motown
Liberation IN STORES FALL 2007

“This album may remind people of my early Rufus albums because I’m in a similar ‘soul space’. I’ve been on a little journey in the last few years, finding Yvette again... I’ve changed. This album is different from any other album I’ve recorded because it reflects what I’m about, who I am now.” ~ Chaka Khan

CHAKA KHAN
"FUNK THIS" IN STORES SEPTEMBER 25
BURGUNDY RECORDS / SONY BMG ENTERTAINMENT
http://www.myspace.com/officialchakakhan

AUDIO: Disrespectful (Featuring Mary J. Blige)

CHAKA KHAN “FUNK THIS” BIO

Say the name “Chaka” and most folks in the know instantly think of a woman who has made an indelible and lasting impression on the music scene of the past three decades. First, as the lead singer of the massively successful R&B, funk and pop band Rufus, then as a solo artist in her own right who has influenced an entire generation of female vocalists (think Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu, Ledisi, Maysa among others). Like Aretha, like Joni, like Tina, a first name will do. For there’s only one Chaka, woman of fire, possessed of a powerhouse, unforgettably distinctive trademark vocal style who sings with unrelenting passion, honest emotion and authenticity; no matter what the song, you can count on Chaka to deliver with realness, every time.

Seldom has that been more evident than on the aptly-named FUNK THIS, in some ways a return to her musical roots with Rufus, a glorious collaboration with the super hitmaking team of Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. It’s the album that many a Chaka fan will instantly say they’ve been waiting for, a tough’n’earthy showcase for the gritty, in-your-face sound that first attracted the solid and loyal audience that have been with Chaka “through the fire” (also the title of her autobiography), through the ups and downs and ins and outs of a career filled with accomplishment, achievement and, as she herself admits, its share of highs and lows.

The iconic singer says it best: “This album may remind people of my early Rufus albums because I’m in a similar ‘soul space’. I’ve been on a little journey in the last few years, finding Yvette again,” she notes, referring to her birth name. “I went through a period of being insecure. I’m walking a different path now. I’ve changed. This album is different from any other album I’ve recorded because it reflects what I’m about, who I am now.”

Distinct from recent recordings – such as the critically-acclaimed “Classikhan,” the 2004 album, partly recorded with the London Philarmonic Orchestra, that included songs from her years growing up in Chicago – FUNK THIS embodies the essence of Chaka’s fiery approach to music, bringing together a selection of her own compositions and collaborations with fresh readings of classic tunes originated by longtime musical pal Prince (“Sign ‘O’The Times”), one of Chaka’s musical heroines Joni Mitchell (“Ladies’ Man”) and Jimi Hendrix (“Castles Made Of Sand”) There’s a brilliant revisit of two Rufus classics – “Pack’d My Bags,” and “You Got The Love”– fused into an unforgettable medley and for good measure, “Disrespectful,” a hardcore duet with superstar Mary J. Blige.

“The album’s called FUNK THIS because it’s funky!” Chaka grins, when asked how she came up with the title and concept for the CD, her first for Burgundy Records. “Honestly, the idea for it came to me in a dream and I like that we’re calling it FUNK THIS because it gives people an indicator of what to expect.” With the masterful production of fellow Grammy winners Jam & Lewis (whose list of credits, like Chaka’s, would fill pages), FUNK THIS gives the dynamic singer an opportunity to do what she does best: whether revealing her own recent journey through the words of “Super Life” or adding her stamp to the turgid 1969 soul classic “Foolish Fool” (originally recorded by Dee Dee Warwick), the album presents the diversity of Chaka Khan, from the poetic (“Angel”) to the revelatory (“Will You Love Me?”).

Of working with Jam & Lewis and their talented crew of musicians (including the Avila brothers, ‘Big Jim’ Wright and special guest Jesse Johnson), Chaka says, “When we first met, it was like a mutual admiration society! I mean, who wouldn’t want to work with Jimmy & Terry?” The combination is dynamic: track by track, FUNK THIS represents Chaka, 2007, at the top of her game.

She gladly reveals her thoughts on each of the album’s 13 cuts. “I first heard Dee Dee’s “Foolish Fool” when I was growing up and it made a deep impression on me. It’s been part of my fibre ever since. When we were discussing cover songs to do, I said, ‘I gotta one for you!’ It’s intense and Dee Dee must have been through something traumatic to sing it the way she did. I know a lot of women feel what the song says, ‘she’s gotta be crazy if she thinks she can take you from me!’ Yeah!”

The poignant ballad “Angel” was based on a poem Chaka wrote “a few years ago when I was in an ‘altered’ state. I pulled out the words and I thought, ‘wow, I wrote this? The lyrics are pretty intense for someone who was out of their mind at the time. It’s a very special song to me, especially since I’ve started walking a different path, since I’ve been through a whole life change.”

The upbeat “Will You Love Me?” co-written with Doug Rasheed is “a sad, pleading song. It’s about my own insecurities – like who is coming to my rescue? It’s deep, beautiful.”

The beautifully acoustic “One For All Times,” penned by Chaka with Terry Lewis, “has a Rufus kind of feel to it. It’s about eternal love, the kind of song that Joni Mitchell might have written if she were black!” Chaka grins. Speaking of Mitchell, “Ladies’ Man” is a gem from the legendary singer/songwriter’s catalog: “I’ve known Joni for about twenty years and I was so honored to be asked to honor her at a Songwriter’s Hall Of Fame in Toronto. We got to hang out for the first time in some years and I told her I wanted to record one of her songs. She said (imitates Joni), “No, Chaka you have to do ‘Ladies’ Man’” so how was I going to say ‘no’ to Joni Mitchell?”

In the realm of musical legends, Prince has also occupied a special place in Chaka’s heart, from the days before his “I Feel For You” gave her a million-selling Grammy-winning No. 1 international hit record in 1984: the biting “Sign ‘O’ The Times” seems like a perfect choice for FUNK THIS. “I’ve always loved the song and its message seems very prophetic now.
I included a part of “I’m Every Woman” because adding that felt very natural when we were recording,” Chaka notes, referring to her original 1978 Ashford & Simpson-penned first solo hit. “Castles Made Of Sand” from the Jimi Hendrix classic LP, “Axis, Bold As Love” is given a Khan workout: “I listened to that song a lot in my ‘acid’ days,” Chaka says. “That album was one of those jam records we all listened to back then. The lyrics are sad and tragic but I tried to make it positive. The question is, if you build your castle, is it gonna stand?”

Chaka’s self-penned, self-affirming “Super Life” addresses that very same question in its own way: it’s a very special, very personal song. “I wrote it a few years ago when I started walking on a more life-sustaining path and it’s about the promise I made to myself for the rest of my life. The lyric says, ‘I’m gonna life a superlife, for the babies, for the children’ and that’s what I’m doing.” In the realm of honest lyrics, “Disrespectful” comes from the pen of Mary J. Blige: “We were going to write together but Mary started writing this song and it was so strong, she finished it herself,” Chaka reveals. “It’s an absolute powerhouse, crazy, insane track! When you listen to it, it’s hard to tell which of us is singing! It’s a tour-de-force about one of the few subjects two women can sing about!”

With a nod to the successive gold and platinum albums and non-stop hit singles that catapulted Rufus to the top from 1974 to 1981, a medley of two Rufus favorites reunites Chaka with the band’s guitarist Tony Maiden who also co-penned “Back In The Day” with Chaka. “I chose ‘Pack’d My Bags’ because I wrote it, I love it and I’ve never tired of singing it; we put in “You Got The Love” and it turned out very well.” Another notable cut on FUNK THIS is a soulful duet with Michael McDonald on “You Belong To Me,” the classic Carly Simon song.

FUNK THIS is an important new addition to the extensive Khan catalog of close to a dozen solo albums, spanning almost twenty years of recording and performing worldwide. An eight-time Grammy winner, Chaka Khan can truly claim the title ‘renaissance woman.’ Her distinctive vocal style has influenced and impacted a whole generation of hit making contemporary artists and her commitment as a humanitarian and philanthropist has continued to thrive through the work of her own Chaka Khan Foundation.

Growing up in Chicago during the 1950s and ’60s, Chaka – born Yvette Marie Stevens – developed an early awareness of the creative and political movements around her. She formed her first singing group when she was 11 and joined the Black Panthers in her late teens, heading up their free breakfast program for kids. By age 20, she had found the perfect outlet for her creative energy as the singer for Rufus, and five years later, as a breakout solo artist. Known for a catalog of classic hits: “Tell Me Something Good,” “Sweet Thing,” "Once You Get Started," "Everlasting Love," "Do You Love What You Feel," "Ain’t Nobody," “I’m Every Woman,” “I Feel For You,” “Through The Fire,” “Clouds”, “I’ll Be Good To You”, and “Whatcha Gonna Do For Me,” Chaka has worked in practically every genre of music from pop, R&B, rock, disco, world music and fusion to jazz, rap, hip-hop, and classical. The diverse list of distinguished collaborators with whom Chaka has recorded includes but is not limited to Ray Charles, Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Ashford & Simpson, Rod Stewart, Manhattan Transfer, Dizzy Gillespie, Gladys Knight, Joe Henderson, Me'Shell Ndegeocello, Lenny White, Bobby McFerrin, Melle Mel, Lionel Hampton, Eric Clapton, Fourplay, Peter Cetera, Queen Latifah, Brandy, Tamia, Kanye West, Shaggy, Freddie Hubbard, Stanley Clarke, Ry Cooder, Bruce Hornsby, Guru, Phil Collins, De La Soul, Michael MacDonald, Steve Winwood, and, Miles Davis. Emotive vocals have been the trademark of Ms. Khan who has graced the soundtracks of several movies including “Clockers,” "Set It Off," "To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar," "Miami Vice," "White Knights," "Moscow on the Hudson," "Disappearing Acts,” "Waiting to Exhale," and “Standing In The Shadows Of Motown,” and the recent Tyler Perry hit “Madea’s Family Reunion".

Winner of the 1995 London’s Best Actress Capitol Radio Listener’s Poll Award Recipient for “Mama, I Want to Sing", a Diamond Life Awardee of Excellence from the International Association of African-American Music (IAAAM), recipient of the “Soul Train’s Lena Horne Lady of Soul Career Achievement Award”, declared a "power mover" by Vibe Magazine, and given the date October 19th as Chaka Khan Day by the State of Illinois and the City of Chicago, Chaka’s impact on popular culture is undeniable.

A renowned proponent of ‘old school’ soul music, her energy, dynamism, and passion through live performances for over three decades, Chaka has brought her special brand of vocal magic to audiences the world over. Her prowess as a credited creative force behind her impressive catalog of solo albums is one that is held in high regard by her peers: executive producer for the 1992 Grammy-winning "The Woman I Am” and Chaka’s 1998 album “Come 2 My House” featuring a number of Khan compositions. Chaka’s range as an artist is both timeless and limitless as demonstrated in her ability to interpret a range of enduring songs associated with artists such as Peggy Lee, Patsy Cline, Shirley Bassey, Oscar Brown Jr. and Lena Horne, captured on her 2004 release “Classikhan,” recorded with the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

But it’s away from the stage and the recording studio that Chaka’s light has continued to promote a need for change. Her inspiring autobiography “Through The Fire” was acclaimed for its soul-bearing candor and honesty and her commitment to women and children at risk is seen through her countless hours of dedication to the Chaka Khan Foundation. Formed in 1999, the Foundations’ initiative has involved a partnership with the Los Angeles Unified School district mentoring 5th and 6th grade students who are college-bound. Of her work with the Foundation and her other philanthropic endeavors which include participation in numerous charity benefits devoted to conquering AIDS and HIV prevention, Chaka simply says, "It’s time to build up and time to give back".

Entrepreneurial in spirit, Chaka’s entertainment company Chaka Khan Enterprises is definitely a family affair. Her mother, Sandra Coleman, works as her business manager; and her sister, Tammy McCrary, is her personal manager; while her daughter Milini (who enjoyed success as the lead singer for the group Pretty in Pink) has a burgeoning solo career and her son Damien is also an aspiring record producer. In addition to the Chaka Khan Foundation, Chaka is also responsible for her own line of chocolates (“Chakalates”), sold in Nieman Marcus Stores and the guiding force behind her own Earthsong record label.

Honored by BET with a much-deserved “Lifetime Achievement Award,” Chaka’s enduring spirit and passion for music and life have endeared her to music lovers the world over. “Music has always been the background theme to life,” she states, “and people are profoundly affected by what they hear. I think I always knew I’d forever be doing this. It’s what I was put it for. It’s always been kind of like a ministry – now it’s a conscious one,” she says referring to her own recent life changes. “Every song on this new album has a message, an in-depth message which can be applied to many things in life. Every word is heartfelt and I didn’t sing anything I didn’t feel.”

The provocatively-titled FUNK THIS is, she says, “the album I’ve been promising my fans for the past ten years.” And the kind of funk on the CD? “It’s funk of many kinds with a wide range of different feelings. It’s soulful, soul-felt and from my soul.” That about says it all!

Back Flipping Forward is in stores October 02, 2007.

Will Dailey “Rise” Audio Streams:
Windows Media
Quicktime
Real Player

Will Dailey Official Site:
http://www.willdailey.com/
And My Space page:
http://www.myspace.com/willdailey

Metafore - Nah Mean
Click Here to Listen

Itunes

Metafore EPK

Metafore
In Stores Fall 2007
Luckybug Entertainment
www.teammetafore.com
www.myspace.com/teammetafore

WHO’S YOUR CADDY?
DIMENSION FILMS
IN THEATERS JULY 27TH
www.whosyourcaddythemovie.com

VIEW THE TRAILER HERE
http://www.whosyourcaddythemovie.com

CHECK OUT AN EXCLUSIVE CLIP HERE
[WARNING: EXPLICIT CONTENT]

SYNOPSIS

Who’s Your Caddy? is a hilarious, fish-out-of-water comedy about superstar rap mogul, C-Note (Big Boi), who runs into fierce opposition when he tries to join the super stuffy Carolina Pines Golf & Country Club. Undeterred, C-Note gets the brilliant idea to buy the land adjacent to the golf club’s 17th hole, which he cleverly leverages to gain membership. C-Note’s crew wreaks havoc as they bring their larger-than-life style to the club. As the club’s hoighty-toighty leadership desperately tries to revoke C-Note’s membership, our hero realizes that his family’s honor – and secret record-breaking golf history – is at stake. As he takes on the fight of his life, C-Note pulls out all the stops to bring down the club’s backwards establishment and welcome them to the 21st century.

Mario performed the National Anthem at The White House to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of Jackie Robinson joining Major League Baseball. With approximately 200-300 people in attendance, including President Bush, Frank Robinson, Tommy Lasorda, Jackie Robinson's former teammates from both the Negro and Major Leagues, Tee Ball teams from Los Angeles and Brooklyn and several other invited guests, Mario impressed the audience with his voice and charisma.

For more info on Mario's Go!, please visit:
www.myspace.com/mariojrecords & www.mario2u.com

New York Knicks fans, you can't beat this offer.

Season tickets at $25 a game:
http://www.nba.com/knicks/tickets/tix_25season.html

Dallas Independent Record Label, Clout Records, Receives Major Distribution Deal from EMI

Dallas, TX – July 2007 - Dallas based independent record label, Clout Records, has acquired a national distribution deal with EMI. Head of Urban Music at EMI Music Marketing, Jesse Flores, offered the popular local label the agreement after retail consultant Billy Bowles, a former EMI executive, arranged a 3-day meeting with Mr. Flores in Dallas to evaluate Clout Records.

“We at EMI are excited about our newly formed partnership with Clout Records. When it comes to the rap genre it is crucial to have your hometown behind you 100%; Corey and his team have proven to me that they have the Dallas market on lock. The Clout brand means something in Texas and I look forward to helping them extend their reach to other markets the way other successful Indie rap labels have in the past“, states Mr. Flores.

Owned and operated by CEO Corey Cleghorn, Clout Records has been in business for nearly 3 years. When asked why he chose to go with EMI rather than other major labels, Mr. Cleghorn states, “ It was a great deal for us with a great company. Our agreement with EMI includes 75% of all of our sales and ownership of our masters. This type of deal doesn’t happen much these days especially through a major distributor.

Cleghorn also admits that he knows with the opportunity comes a lot of responsibility. EMI will do what they do best which is distribution and Retail and Clout is responsible for everything else. Clout has always specialized in excellent street promotions and has kept good industry relationships as an independent label. Clout must now prove that they have the same ability nationally as they have regionally to make hit songs that move from the streets to the club and graduate to radio such as their most recent single "Hit the Dance Floor" by 18 year old rapper Lil Peace.

" The situation is perfect for our company because EMI seems prepared to let us build our brand, keep creative control, be aggressive by quickly releasing our upcoming projects, and help us take our Dallas style global." Mr. Cleghorn continues, "EMI has helped create major labels underneath their umbrella. They've also distributed for Virgin and Capital as well as partnered up with Rap-A-Lot, Ruff Ryders and Priority in the past, so of course, it was an easy decision for me."

Clout doesn't require that a major label supervise all facets of their company since they have shown to be capable of creating a buzz on the streets and radio as an independent label but the question is will this convert to success on a national level? Mr. Cleghorn affirms the obstacles ahead, "This is a very big challenge for me but I’m confident that with a little budget support and the professionals I already work with we can make a major impact. Because of the support of our city and our fans in other cities we have a chance to be successful and make Dallas very proud."

Clout and EMI have a tentative release date of September 25th for Lil Peace's Album "Young and the Wreckless" and Clout Cartel’s "Changing The Game" Clout's Compilation and DVD Documentary.

For more info on Clout Records log on to:
www.myspace.com/cloutrecords
www.cloutrecords.com

Clout Media Department: 972-814-2713
cloutmarketing@yahoo.com

Kandel Media
www.kandelmedia.com

Lenny Kravitz’s most anticipated album is set to release in February 2008. Fans will get a chance to get not one but two albums in 2008. "IT IS TIME FOR A LOVE REVOLUTION" and "FUNK."

Be on the lookout for more information as I get it.

Lucky Brand Jeans is hitting the highways in our custom made Denim Highway bus, looking for adventure!

To find out more, click on the link:
http://www.denimhighway.com

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS ORIGINAL TELEVISION SOUNDTRACK
TOUCHES DOWN JULY 24, 2007 ON ARTISTS’ ADDICTION RECORDS

Exclusive Remix of The Killers’ “Read My Mind,” Iron & Wine and Calexico’s “Dead Man’s Will,” Tony Lucca
Cover of Daniel Johnston’s “Devil Town” Heard Alongside Whiskeytown, Drive-By Truckers, OutKast, More

July 17, 2007 - LOS ANGELES, CA — Friday Night Lights Original Television Soundtrack will be released July 24, 2007, on Artists’ Addiction Records. A weekly drama centered around small-town Dillon, Texas, “Friday Night Lights” premiered in October of 2006 to mass critical acclaim and with season two making its’ debut on October 5th. The album’s producers are Artist Addiction principals Jonathan Miller, Jonathan Platt and veteran music executive Jonathan McHugh. Jason Katims is executive producer of “Friday Night Lights” and executive soundtrack producer of Friday Night Lights Original Television Soundtrack.

“Every song on the ‘Friday Night Lights’ soundtrack was used in the show, most of them in prime spots where they really enhanced the emotional impact of the scene,” says Liza Richardson, music supervisor for the critically acclaimed NBC TV series. “

“We were adamant that the soundtrack be a true reflection of the show,” adds Katims. But we had an embarrassment of riches of great music to choose from, so we narrowed down the track listing by making sure whatever we chose was especially representative.”

“We’re thrilled to be bringing the “Friday Night Lights” fans another piece of the show they can identify with, as well as help build excitement for the upcoming season,” comments Shelli Hill, Vice President of Video, Music & Product Development for NBC Universal Television Distribution.

Inspired by the celebrated 2004 film “Friday Night Lights,” the program is set in small-town Dillon, Texas, home of the state-champion Panthers high school football team. And though the gridiron is the show’s ostensible raison d’être, its action is driven by a compelling ensemble of characters who, even when their team wins the game, must struggle with the vagaries of daily life in West Texas. Hailed as one of the top ten shows of 2006 by Time magazine and Entertainment Weekly, the critically acclaimed drama “Friday Night Lights” also received 2006 honors by the American Film Institute (AFI) for Television Program of the Year and the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award.

The eclectic Friday Night Lights Original Television Soundtrack, which was licensed to Artists’ Addiction Records by NBC Universal Television Distribution, is a worthy companion to the primetime drama. Offering listeners the opportunity to relive some of the show’s pivotal moments are Tony Lucca’s rendition of Daniel Johnston’s “Devil Town”; the Like Rebel Diamonds Mix of The Killers’ “Read My Mind”; “I Turn My Camera On,” by Austin, Texas, outfit Spoon; OutKast’s jazzy “Idlewild Blues”; Whiskeytown’s “Everything I Do”; “Rewind,” by Stereophonics; Starsailor’s “Keep Us Together”; the beat to “Big Big Kid,” from rapper Jibbs; “So Divided,” by
… And You Will Know Us By the Trail of Dead; the Drive-By Truckers’ “Goodbye”; “Dead Man’s Will,” one of Iron & Wine’s shimmering collaborations with Calexico; the previously unreleased José González cut “Storm”: a cover of Suicide’s “I Remember,” from Chris Brokaw; and “First Breath After Coma,” courtesy of the Austin post-rock instrumental outfit Explosions in the Sky, who scored the film “Friday Night Lights” and contribute much to the television show, including its hypnotic theme music.

Richardson, a highly respected player in film and television music whose credits extend from “Y Tu Mamá También” (2001) and “Lords of Dogtown” (2005) to the animated feature “Surf’s Up” (2007), agrees with Katims that the show’s music serves as another character, taking on the role of omniscient narrator.

* * *

Expanding on the hit feature film and best selling book “Friday Night Lights,” this poignant series centers on the small rural town of Dillon, Texas, where the coveted state football championship rings are held in the highest regard. The Dillon Panther’s faced many challenges their first season with Coach Eric Taylor (Kyle Chandler, “Grey’s Anatomy”) at the helm, but after much hard work, determination and a victory at the State Championship Game, the team’s fate at the start of yet another new season and Taylor’s family’s future with them, continues to remain uncertain.

The talented cast also includes: Scott Porter (“Music & Lyrics by…”) as the Panther’s injured former star quarterback, Jason Street; Gaius Charles (“The Book of Daniel”) as feared running back Brian “Smash” Williams; Taylor Kitsch (“The Covenant”) as reckless and self-destructive full back Tim Riggins; Connie Britton (“The Brothers McMullen,” “24”) as Taylor’s supportive wife and high school guidance counselor, Tami; Zach Gilford (“The Last Winter”) as Matt Saracen, the new team captain and star quarterback, and Minka Kelly (“What I Like About You”) as Lyla Garrity, Panther cheerleader and Street’s on again off-again girlfriend. The series also stars Aimee Teegarden (“Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide”) as Coach Taylor’s daughter, Julie; Adrianne Palicki (“South Beach”) as Tyra Collette, and Jesse Plemons (“Grey’s Anatomy”) as Landry Clarke.

Executive producers are Peter Berg (the film “Friday Night Lights,” “The Rundown”), who also wrote and directed the pilot, Jason Katims (“Roswell”), Brian Grazer (“The Da Vinci Code,” “Cinderella Man,” “A Beautiful Mind”), David Nevins (“Arrested Development”), Sarah Aubrey (“Bad Santa,” “The Kingdom”) and Jeffrey Reiner (NBC’s “Surface”). “Friday Night Lights” is a production of Imagine Entertainment, Universal Media Studio and Film 44.

About Artists’ Addiction Records
Artists’ Addiction Records, formed in 2005 by principal Jonathan Scott Miller, encompasses Artists’ Addiction Music Publishing, Artist Addiction Soundtracks (with principals Jonathan Miller and Jonathan Platt) and Stop! Go music supervision. The multifaceted company’s mission is to bring consumers and clients the finest in branded entertainment and music supervision. This includes soundtracks to contemporary films and television shows, album releases from established artists, and music supervision of various high-profile films, television programs and commercials.

About NBC Universal Television Distribution
NBC Universal is a leader in providing entertainment programming to the domestic and international marketplaces. This includes distribution of current and library film and television product, including formats and non-scripted programming, in the pay, free, and basic markets, as well as the domestic syndication of first-run syndicated TV programs and theatrical and TV movie packages.

http://artistsaddiction.com/FNL.htm
http://www.nbc.com/Friday_Night_Lights/
# # #

TRACK LISTING:
01. Devil Tow Tony Lucca
02. Read My Mind (Like Rebel Diamonds Mix) The Killers
03. I Turn My Camera On Spoon
04. Idlewild Blues Outkast
05. Everything I Do Whiskeytown
06. Rewind Stereophonics
07. Keep Us Together Starsailor
08. Big Big Kid Jibbs
09. So Divided …And You Will Know Us By The Trail Of The Dead
10. Goodbye The Drive By Truckers
11. Dead Man’s Will Iron & Wine/Calexico
12. Storm Jose Gonzalez
13. I Remember Chris Brokaw
14. First Breath After Coma Explosions In The Sky

"Easy" featuring Bow Wow Video

Hailing from Corpus Christi, Texas, 16-year-old Paula DeAnda is part of the groundswell of rhythmic radio performers based in that region. Her first single "Doing Too Much" was co-written with Baby Bash who appears on the track with Paula. It's enjoying tremendous rotation on Rhythm and Top 40 stations across the country. She was signed to Arista Records within a day of her audition after performing for Clive Davis. This young, talented singer/songwriter is on the rise with her soulful voice and R&B sensibility.

"Walk Away" Audio - Full Version (4:25)
Windows Media
http://www2.fanscape.com/pauladeanda/3p/audio/walkaway_wmhi.aspx
http://www2.fanscape.com/pauladeanda/3p/audio/walkaway_wmmed.aspx
http://www2.fanscape.com/pauladeanda/3p/audio/walkaway_wmlo.aspx

Check out Music Nation (http://www.rock.musicnation.com/) for the chance to win a recording contract with Original Signal Recording/Epic Records and a performance on FUEL TV’s The Daily Habit, among other prizes.

The Honorary Title is Jarrod Gorbel on lead vocals and guitar, Aaron Kamstra on bass and keyboards, Jon Wiley on guitar, and Adam Boyd on drums. Based in Brooklyn, the band started in 2003 with Gorbel and Kamstra playing gigs on the New York City club circuit. In 2004 the group released their full-length debut Anything Else but the Truth. On the heels of this critically-acclaimed, Shortlist-nominated album, the group recruited Wiley and Boyd, and The Honorary Title began to tour nationally with such diverse groups as Switchfoot, Taking Back Sunday and AC Newman.

Tour Schedule:

7/18 Houston, TX Meridian
7/20 Orlando, FL The Club @ Firestone
7/21 Jacksonville, FL Fuel Coffeehouse
7/22 St. Petersburg, Fl Jannus Landing
7/24 Ft. Lauderdale, FL Culture Room
7/25 Atlanta, GA The Masquerade
7/26 New Orleans, LA House of Blues
7/27 Memphis, TN New Daisy Theatre
7/28 Tulsa, OK D-Fest
7/29 Albuquerque, NM Sunshine Theatre
7/31 San Diego, CA SOMA
8/1 Los Angeles, CA Avalon
8/2 Anaheim,CA House of Blues
8/3 San Francisco, CA The Great American Music Hall
8/4 Portland, OR Hawthorne Theatre
8/5 Seattle, Wa Neumos

Cassidy - "My Drink n My 2 Step"
Quicktime
Windows Media

More information: http://www.myspace.com/cassidy

Grammy® nominee KT TUNSTALL became one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters in the world in one giant step, with the amazing two-year global journey of her multi-million selling debut album, Eye To the Telescope. This year KT will release her second album DRASTIC FANTASTIC that promises to be guitar-heavy and very sexy.

For DRASTIC FANTASTIC KT again tapped Telescope producer Steve Osbourne (U2, New Order, Happy Mondays). The album was mixed by Michael H. Brauer (Coldplay, The Rolling Stones, My Morning Jacket). The release of the album will follow a very busy summer which included a notable live appearance on the Live Earth worldwide music event for environmental awareness.

On September 18, 2007, Virgin Records will release Tunstall’s second album, DRASTIC FANTASTIC.

For more information from KT Tunstall and album pre-order details visit her official site www.KTTunstall.com.

"Bubbly:"

Quicktime
Windows Media
Real Player

Colbie Caillat Official Site:
http://www.colbiecaillatmusic.com/
and on MySpace:www.myspace.com/colbiecaillat

TOUR DATES:
7-18 Tom Ridge Pavillion at Mountain Laurel Center Bushkill Falls, PA
7-20 PNC Bank Arts Center Holmdel, NJ
7-21 Jones Beach Wantagh, NY
7-22 Tweeter Center Boston, MA
7-24 Saratoga Performing Arts Center Saratoga Springs, NY
7-25 Mohegan Sun Uncasville, CT
7-27 Borgata Events Center Atlantic City, NJ
7-28 Darien Lake Performing Arts Center Darien Center, NY
7-29 A.J. Palumbo Center Pittsburgh, PA
7-31 Chastain Parl Amphitheatre Atlanta, GA
8-1 Pensacola Civic Center Pensacola, FL
8-3 Sound Advice Amphitheatre West Palm Beach, FL
8-4 Ford Amphitheatre Tampa, FL
8-23 Charter One Pavillion Chicago, IL
8-24 Minnesota State Fair Minneapolis, MN
8-26 Freedom Hall Detroit, MI
8-28 Tower City Amphitheatre Cleveland, OH
8-31 Smirnoff Music Centre Dallas, TX
9-1 The Backyard Austin, TX
9-2 Cynthia Wood Pavillion Houston, TX

“The Kiss” Audio Streams:
Windows Media Player
Real Player
Quicktime

Karmina Official Site:
http://www.karmina.us

And MySpace Page:
http://www.myspace.com/karmina

AUDIO: Everlast "Saving Grace"

Video- Everlast "Saving Grace":
Windows
Real Player

LOS ANGELES - (July 2007) - Multi-platinum recording artist, Everlast, has written and recorded the theme song for TNT's new drama series, "Saving Grace," starring acclaimed Academy Award-winning actress, Holly Hunter, and premiering July 23 at 10 p.m. on TNT.

The song, also called "Saving Grace," will play during the show's main title sequence and end credits. It will release as a full-length track and video, available at major online music retailers including iTunes (www.itunes.com) and Rhapsody (www.rhapsody.com). The song will also stream at TNT.com (www.tnt.tv).

The music of Everlast (born Erik Schrody) proved inspirational to show creator and executive producer Nancy Miller, who listened to Everlast recordings - particularly the 2004 track "Lonely Road" - while writing the pilot script. Once TNT ordered the series, Fox Television Studios (FtvS), which produces the show for TNT, and Fox Music worked to harness that inspiration, ultimately striking a deal with the Grammy-winning artist to write and record "Saving Grace." FtvS is currently exploring licensing other Everlast material for use in individual episodes.

Miller said, "I was turned on to Everlast by our music supervisor. The second I heard his voice I went crazy over it. He has such a sexy, interesting voice. I fell in love with his music; in fact, I listened to his CDs in my car so much that I burned them out. His lyrics speak so much to the struggle of Grace - her pain, her heroic nature - that I immediately connected to them. I feel like Everlast is the musical 'Godfather' of our series."

Everlast commented, "It was great to get the call from Fox - not only to find out that Nancy Miller was a fan, but also to be asked to write a song for such a cool show. The timing couldn't be better; I'm back in the studio working on a new album. This project was a great way to kick that off."

About The Show
Saving Grace is a provocative new hour-long drama series starring Academy Award-winner Holly Hunter as Grace Hanadarko, an intense, cynical and sexy Oklahoma City police detective. Despite being at the top of her field, Grace lives life wild - hard, fast and on the edge. She drinks too much. She sleeps with the wrong men. Wicked-smart and tough, Grace hits bottom one night when she slams into a pedestrian while she is driving drunk. Horrified at the realization of what she's done, Grace uncharacteristically asks for help, and receives it in the form of an unconventional angel named Earl. The journey, for both of them, will not be an easy one. For Grace, it will bring up life's most complicated issues. Each episode of "Saving Grace" revolves around a specific case that the detectives are trying to solve, while delving deeper into the characters' personal lives.
SAVING GRACE is produced for TNT by Fox Television Studios and creator Nancy Miller (Any Day Now). Miller also serves as executive producer on the series, along with Gary A. Randall (Any Day Now, Leaving LA) and Artie Mandelberg (Leaving L.A., Mr. & Mrs. Smith).

About Everlast
Everlast (born Erik Schrody) is a Grammy-winning musician known for alternating between hip-hop and rock. The front man for rap group House of Pain until 1996, Everlast released his first solo album, ''Forever Everlasting,'' in 1990. After suffering a major heart attack, he came back strong with a second solo album, "Whitey Ford Sings the Blues'' (1998) which featured the hit singles "What It's Like" and "Ends." His third solo album, ''Eat at Whitey's,'' was released in 2000. That same year, Everlast won a Grammy (with Santana) for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, for "Put Your Lights On." Everlast's fourth solo album, "'White Trash Beautiful,'' was released in 2004. Everlast is currently at work on his next album, which will be released by Sony/ATV.

About Fox Television Studios
Fox TV Studios is a program supplier to the major U.S. and international broadcast and cable networks. The studio is currently producing Saving Grace, starring Academy award-winner Holly Hunter, for TNT (premiering July 23); Burn Notice, for USA Network; The Shield and The Riches for FX; the late-night Talkshow with Spike Feresten for the FOX Broadcasting Company; Crowned: The Mother of all Pageants, premiering in 2008 on The CW; and The Girls Next Door for E! Entertainment Television. Through Regency Television (a partnership with New Regency) productions include New Amsterdam, premiering fall 2007, and The Return of Jezebel James, premiering in 2008, both for FOX. FtvS' international format production division is currently in production on more than 25 shows in Europe and Latin America. Fox Television Studios' series and TV movies have earned numerous Emmy, Golden Globe, Peabody and Humanitas awards.

About Fox Music
Fox Music oversees the music needs for all of Twentieth Century Fox Film and Television divisions. Fox Music is currently supervising the music for more than 20 motion pictures and 40 television series including Live Free or Die Hard, The Simpsons Movie, and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, as well as all current Fox TV Studios productions. The division has partnered directly with iTunes and Rhapsody for digital distribution of its recorded product. Over the past 10 years Fox Music has garnered 17 Academy Award, 26 Golden Globe, 28 Grammy and 64 Emmy Award nominations.

About TNT
Turner Network Television (TNT), television's destination for drama and one of cable's top-rated networks, offers original movies and series, including the acclaimed detective drama The Closer, starring Golden Globe? winner and Emmy® and Screen Actors Guild Awards? nominee Kyra Sedgwick; Saving Grace, a bold new drama starring Oscar®-winner Holly Hunter; Heartland, a powerful medical drama with Treat Williams and Kari Matchett; and this summer's eagerly anticipated television event The Company, executive-produced by Ridley Scott and starring Chris O'Donnell, Michael Keaton and Alfred Molina. TNT is also home to powerful one-hour dramas, such as Without a Trace, Law & Order, Las Vegas, Cold Case, ER, Charmed and Judging Amy; broadcast premiere movies; compelling prime-time specials, such as the Screen Actors Guild Awards?; and championship sports coverage, including NASCAR and the NBA. TNT is also available in high-definition. Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a TimeWarner company, is a major producer of news and entertainment product around the world and the leading provider of programming to the basic cable industry.

Five Questions with Asia By Kisha Green

As many young girls growing up play with dolls and pretend to often escape their world by dreaming of that perfect place. This land of make believe is almost as amazing as Peter Pan had with Never Never Land. For author Asia she was dreaming bigger than the stars literally with thoughts of being an astronaut and if that failed, a rock scientist. Asia didn’t pick writing it was almost in a sense that writing picked her and when that amazing event happened, Asia ran with the thought of having a promising literary career and the end result with one book under her belt is an authoress who knows that the sky is the limit in regards to her literary destiny.

When did you realize you had a gift and that you wanted to share it with the world?
I did not start out like most writers/authors. I started out wanting to be a scientist or an inventor. However, there were a few things that were indicators about my writing talents. The first was the ability to stir up controversy in some of the topics I would debate around the water cooler. The second was when I played hooky from church and starting blogging and writing out of the blue. As time went on, I had a full manuscript. The third was when I signed up for a writing program and the instructors gave me a lot of positive feedback, some negative as well, but a lot of positive feedback. As cliché as it sounds, I really had something I wanted to say.

How receptive has the public been of your work?
So far most people have been very receptive. There have been a few naysayers but that's to be expected. I want my work to be provocative. Many so far have found some commonality in the underlying theme of my novel.

Tell me one word to best describe you.
Atypical

What can we expect from you next?
Currently, I'm working on a second fictional novel, which I'm definitely aiming for it to be better than the first (and hopefully more provocative). I enjoy writing about real life "stuff" with a fictional twist.

What are your inspirations/influences?
My main inspiration is my two year old son. As lame as it sounds, I watch how he keeps trying to tie his shoes (and he's still unsuccessful at this point), but never gives up. Other sources of inspiration are "roadblocks". I've always been an achiever. Therefore, when I meet a roadblock, I'm compelled to figure out a way around it. And then there's Oprah...need I say more?

To learn more about Asia, go to http://www.authoressasia.com/ or
www.myspace.com/authoressasia.

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

Listen to the single "Future Baby Mama"


Prince
Planet Earth
IN STORES JULY 24th
Columbia Records
http://www.3121.com

Kelly Rowland's latest CD Ms Kelly is way better than her last one. I was able to listen to the entire CD in one sitting. I only found myself pressing the "skip" button a few times. Overall, Ms Kelly's 12 track CD is great to listen to when chilling at home or riding in the car. Ms Kelly should validate Kelly Rowland's solo career. If you like the first single "Like This" featuring Eve, then you'll like track #2 "Comeback." The music for both tracks will have you bopping your head. "Flashback," "Still in Love with my Ex," and the duet with Tank "The Show" are three of my favorite tracks on the entire CD. "Better Without You" is another favorite and I would love to see it as a single.

"Kelly Rowland has redeemed herself as a solo artist with Ms. Kelly." ~ Shelia M. Goss, entertainment writer and national bestselling author of My Invisible Husband, Paige's Web and Double Platinum.

How did you get your start?
I started composing at an early age with a toy-piano. I was gifted when I was four years old. I think I always loved to create stories out of my imagination that sometimes took the shape of writings, drawings and even songs. I would have loved to study music but sadly I did not and then I stopped for quite a lot of years during my university studies as a scientist. I really found out though that music and art (illustrating) was really my devotion and rescued my old high school keyboard from the wardrobe to get back to composing. But it was back in 2002 when I wrote and uploaded “I steal the leaves” to mp3.com. By then I was a composer “looking for a vocalist” but people liked the first demo as it was and I felt very encouraged to find out that I don’t only love to sing but also I cannot live without singing. I took Internet resources to spread it, and the first recordings were really hideously recorded compared with the actual studio versions. I think Internet is a pivotal key to the promotion of any indie artist nowadays… and most of it it’s free. I keep a humble list of resources for newcomers since then. My Internet experience lead to real deals and offers but at the end I found out that being independent is what I worshiped above all and thus I ended up creating my own label and publishing company to make my first official release. Ancient Shadows (buy link: http://priscillahernandez.yidnethfanclub.com/product).

What artists have influenced your music?
I think the most important influence in my music are movie scores and soundtracks: Joe Hisaishi, Danny Elfman, Jerry Goldsmith and many many others… I’m fond of cinematic texturas and I like the storytelling concept of the music in the movies that flows along with the story rather than staying rigid within a determined structure. About the voice, many people have compared me with Enya and Tori Amos, actually I think the first has a nice voice and I didn’t know the second (though I do know and I take it as a huge compliment, it’s more of my taste) but to be honest the singers who inspired me were Roland Orzábal (from Tears for Fears) which pessimist tone and lyrics really influenced me, and even Cyndi Lauper (especially in her most recent ballad mood).

As a songwriter, how long does it take you to compose a song?
It depends on the random forces of the universe… some songs have been evolving for years, as they were wrote at an early age and then rescued… I really like to find some old stuff because I think it trapped my feelings then and it’s a way to bring back and convey those feelings into something tangible. Others like “I steal the leaves” came quite sudden in two or three days. Sometimes I can improvise songs just while I play, and I even end up using them, but I take longer in polishing it, and sometimes fusing stories. I prefer to build the music and lyric exactly at the same time, thus I’m not limited by the metrics afterwards and I think this is the most conflictive point when I songwrite that I really have to delay and have clear both music and words at the same time to fit perfectly.

What are some obstacles you've faced trying to break into the music business?
Well, unfortunately facing the reality and being aware I’m just another struggling indie artist and for certain archievements some investments are mandatory. My store is strange as I got up to 9 record deal offers including majors but I finally made the decisión to decline them. I had no luck with the offers as they saw “a voice” and I’m a componer that sings. Deals were too long and compromising and I felt discouraged a long while. Listeners started to donate through my official website ( http://www.yidneth.com/).

What do you want listeners to feel when they listen to your music?
Ancient Shadows has been a very personal project to me as it’s a compilation of my fantasies during a long while. It was also dedicated to my dear friend Kira, my dog that died several years ago, and thus I wanted to make something I’d feel proud to dedicate to her. My music could be described as “ethereal” but it often has a darker meaning. I used the songs to face my dreams and fears bringing them to life using the music. This vibe can also be felt in the live performances (http://youtube.com/yidneth) we really want to STORYTELL using songs and music to share stories. Things we have forgotten back in our childhood… invisible friends, fairies, ghosts, haunted houses, bitter willows, nightmares, a fantasy in the realms of twilight.

Priscilla Hernandez myspace: http://myspace.com/priscillahernandez
Official website: http://www.yidneth.com/

Interview by entertainment writer Shelia M. Goss. She's also the national bestselling author of Paige's Web, My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. For more info, visit her website: www.sheliagoss.com.

Memory Almost Full is Paul McCartney's latest music CD. He's a veteran and he's able to showcase his lyrical and musical skills on Memory in Full. I'm sure his fans will probably like the majority of the songs. For the most part, Memory in Full is well worth the money. Whether you're a fan of rock or pop, Paul McCartney has fused the two. If he was aiming to make a comeback, he did it with Memory in Full. ~ Review by Shelia M. Goss, entertainment writer and national best-selling author of Paige's Web and My Invisible Husband.

"Pop, Lock, & Drop It" was a favorite dance song for 2007. Not a bad way to make your debut on the music scene for Huey. The next song on the CD I would like to see as a single is "When I Hustle" featuring one of my favorite new singers Lloyd. T-Pain makes a guest appearance on a few songs, but I prefer his appearance on the "Pop, Lock, & Drop It" remix version that also features Bow Wow. Notebook Paper gets 3 stars and I look forward to hearing more from Huey. ~ Shelia M. Goss, entertainment writer and national best-selling author of Double Platinum, Paige's Web and My Invisible Husband

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 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.

Rihanna "Good Girl Gone Bad" (Island/Def Jam):

On her latest disc from Island/Def Jam, Rihanna has never made being bad sound so good or sexy. On the opening track "Umbrella" with guest vocal by Jay-Z, she it has an infectious beat and her vocals are tight, it isn't hard to see why this has been a big hit this summer, but it doesn't stop there, she has a couple of dance tunes, and the sick bass guitar on "Shut Up and Drive" make you want to take her wherever she wants to go. But as the set moves along she slows down long enough to give us "Rehab" about the pain of getting over a relationship. She has really come into her own with the disc, and it is without a doubt one of the best discs to drop this summer.

Review by Kendall.

Larry The Cable Guy has released the Comedy Central special Morning Constitutions on DVD. To be honest, this DVD is my first time watching the comedian do a full performance. I can take his type of humor in small doses but not for an hour; however fans of Larry The Cable Guy will probably enjoy the entire DVD. I give him credit, he makes small things seem funny. If you're looking for a few good laughs, "Morning Constitutions" is entertaining. ~ Shelia M. Goss, entertainment writer and national best-selling author of Paige's Web and My Invisible Husband.

rm"One Love (It Don't Make Any Difference To Me)" will be featured on Kevin's self-titled Downtown/ Atlantic Records debut, coming this fall. The acoutic version, "It Don't Make Any Difference To Me", is featured on Kevin Michael's EP, available exclusively on iTunes.

Kevin Michael feat. Wyclef Jean
"One Love (It Don't Make Any Difference To Me)"

Kevin Michael
"It Don't Make Any Difference To Me" (Acoustic Version)

VIDEO

"LOVE AIN'T GOT NO COLOR." - KEVIN MICHAEL
http://myspace.com/kevinmichaelmusic
Downtown Recordings/ Atlantic Records

Official website: http://www.the-ugks.com/

Track listing:
DISC 1:

Swishas And Dosha
Int'l Players Anthem (I Choose You) featuring OutKast
Chrome Plated Woman
Life Is 2009 featuring Too $hort
The Game Belongs To Me
Like That (Remix)
Gravy
Underground Kingz
Grind Hard featuring Young T.O.E. and DJ B-Do
Take Tha Hood Back featuring Slim Thug, Vicious and Middle Fingaz
Quit Hatin' The South featuring Charlie Wilson and Willie D
Heaven
Trill N****** Don't Die featuring Z-Ro

DISC 2:
How Long Can It Last featuring Charlie Wilson
Still Ridin' Dirty featuring Scarface
Stop-N-Go featuring Jazze Pha
Cocaine featuring Rick Ross
Two Type Of B****** featuring Dizzee Rascal and Pimpin' Ken
Real Women featuring Talib Kweli and Raheem DeVaughn
Candy
Tell Me How Ya Feel
Shattered Dreams
Like That
Next Up featuring Big Daddy Kane and Kool G Rap
Living This Life
Outro

Bonus Track: Int'l Players Anthem featuring Three 6 Mafia (Chopped & Screwed)
Bonus Track: Int'l Players Anthem featuring Three 6 Mafia

UNIVERSAL MOTOWN RECORDS RAP STAR
CHAMILLIONAIRE TO RELEASE SOPHOMORE ALBUM

First Single "Hip-Hop Police" featuring Slick Rick
#1 Most Added at Rhythm Crossover
#4 Most Added at Urban Radio

ULTIMATE VICTORY
IN STORES SEPTEMBER 18TH

(New York, NY) - Universal Motown groundbreaking hip-hop artist, Chamillionaire has marked September 18th as the official release date for his much-buzzed about sophomore effort, Ultimate Victory, the follow-up to his Award winning, platinum-plus debut The Sound Of Revenge.

The first single from the new disk, "Hip-Hop Police," featuring legendary rap star Slick Rick, has already set hip-hop chat rooms a blaze and is the #1 Most Added song at RhythmCrossover and the #4 Most Added on Urban Radio.Chamillionaire promises the song is just 'the tip of the iceberg' when it comes to Ultimate Victory, which he describes as 'A very conceptual album where I really pushed my creativity.'

Chamillionaire's rise from Houston underground rap pioneer to award-winning, mainstream music luminary was again affirmed last month when the prolific artist was nominated for two Grammy Awards, garnering nods in the Best Rap Song category and for Best Rap Performance By Duo or Group for the hit single "Ridin'," featuring Krayzie Bone, from his platinum-plus debut album The Sound Of Revenge. The prestigious nods came on the heels of his two trophy-takedown at the First Annual BET Hip-Hop Awards in mid-November, where Chamillionaire walked away with both the Rookie of the Year Award and the coveted Alltell Wireless People's Champ (Viewers' Choice) Awards. The Houston rapper began his incredible run as the most honored hip-hop star of the past year by beating out proven superstars 50 Cent, Busta Rhymes and T.I. for Best Rap Video for "Ridin'" at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards.

Chamillionaire's platinum-plus debut disc has become one of the most lauded albums in hip-hop history, with the single and video for "Ridin'" topping almost every chart and single-handedly transforming the digital landscape, as well. Incredibly, Chamillionaire became the biggest selling Ringtone artist in history, surpassing an amazing 4 million in ringtone sales, in addition to his groundbreaking Myspace site closing in on an astounding 6 million profile views.

As a special gesture to fans, Chamillionaire will be releasing the new Mixtape Messiah 3 CD and Mixtape Messiah DVD later this month.The magnitude of Chamillionaire's rise from Mixtape Messiah to multi-platform entertainment entrepreneur can best be gleamed from a mainstream news story that ran earlier this year as to how the rapper's Robin Hood-like image even penetrated the sacred halls of the White House. Presidential Press Secretary Tony Snow called worldwide attention to the hip-hop artist's ringtone prowess when he heard a reporter's cell phone playing the opening chords of "Ridin'" during his daily briefing. When Snow humorously pressed other reporters to see if she did indeed 'have the ringtone on her phone,' one ABC scribe replied" 'Doesn't everyone?'

“We want to unify our communities,” Divine says of The DEY’s mission. “By being bilingual, we address all those people — the non-English speaker and the non-Spanish speaker — and we create a bridge between them, a space where they can all exist.”

The DEY
TBD - Fall 2007
Epic Records
http://www.thedey.com
http://www.myspace.com/thedey


"Get The Feeling" audio

RUSH HOUR 3
IN THEATERS AUGUST 10TH
NEW LINE CINEMA
http://www.rushhourmovie.com

OFFICIAL TRAILER


SYNOPSIS

Director: Brett Ratner
Starring: Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker, Hiroyuki Sanada, Youki Kudoh And Max Von Sydow

Chris Tucker returns to the big screen after a six-year absence as he reunites with the all-star team of co-star Jackie Chan, director Brett Ratner (Rush Hour, Rush Hour 2, X-Men: The Last Stand, Red Dragon), and screenwriter, Jeff Nathanson (Rush Hour 2, Catch Me If You Can) to deliver the third installment of the blockbuster Rush Hour franchise. Arriving in theaters on August 10, 2007, Rush Hour 3 sees the beloved action comedy duo of Tucker and Chan reprising their roles as LAPD Detective James Carter and Chinese Chief Inspector Lee respectively. This time around, the two must travel to Paris to battle a wing of the Chinese organized crime family, the Triads. Based on Characters created by Ross La Manna, Rush Hour 3 is being produced by Arthur Sarkissian, Roger Birnbaum (Memoirs of a Geisha), Jay Stern, Jonathan Glickman (The Pacifier) and Andrew Z. Davis

Reba McEntire upcoming CD Reba Duets album is scheduled to be released on September 18th. "Because of You" is a duet with Kelly Clarkson. Other guests on the CD include: Kenny Chesney, Ronnie Dunn, Vince Gill, Don Henley, Faith Hill, Carole King, Rascal Flatts, LeAnn Rimes, Justin Timberlake and Trisha Yearwood.

Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson – Because of You
CLICK HERE to listen.

eSpire Entertainment welcomes Kendall. Kendall is one
of the newest members to join the team. He'll be doing music reviews
and interviews.

Kendall was born in Chicago and after 17 years he moved
to Indiana and graduated from high school there. He has
always had a strong interest in music and movies, and
reading books. His childhood home was overloaded
with books and has carried on to his adult life. Kendall says,
"I just can't get enough, I like meeting new people,
having new experiences, and this job is ideal."

Surfing with the Alien was the album that ignited Joe Satriani’s career as a solo performer. The acclaimed guitarist’s second full-length release, Surfing with the Alien was originally issued in October 1987 on Relativity Records. It became a left-field bestseller that reached No. 29 on the Billboard Top 200 and was certified Platinum for US sales of over one million copies. It was the first rock guitar instrumental album to reach Billboard’s Top 200 Album Chart. It includes the charting hits “Satch Boogie” and “Surfing With The Alien”, plus the Grammy-nominated “Always With Me, Always With You”.

Surfing... launched Satriani on an ever-evolving creative path: eighteen further audio and video releases (nine of them certified gold and/or platinum) totaling over 10 million albums sold worldwide, fourteen Grammy Award nominations, and multiple world tours both as a headliner and as founder of the all-star “G3” guitar extravaganza.

On August 7th, 2007, Epic/Legacy Recordings will celebrate the 20th anniversary of this groundbreaking album with the release of a new expanded edition of Surfing with the Alien. This meticulously restored two-disc set includes the newly remastered album and a previously never-before-seen live show filmed at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1988. It will also feature new liner notes written by Joe and special deluxe packaging featuring photos, notes and other memorabilia from Joe’s personal archive.

Joe Satriani Audio Streams:
“Surfing With The Alien”


“Satch Boogie”


“Always With Me, Always With You”

(Brooklyn, NY – July 2007) Independent record label Embedded Music will release the self-titled debut album of hip-hop duo Iller Than Theirs this fall. Brooklyn-based Iller Than Theirs is a mellow opposition to the commoditization of hip-hop culture that has resulted in fake MC’s peddling their own posturing while crazed billionaires buy up and tear down the old neighborhoods. In a world that’s growing more convoluted, complex, and corrupt, they’ve decided to respond with a simple, easygoing honesty of lyricism, free of pretension and thug theatrics. “We’re not saying that we’re better than anybody, alright? We’re not better than nobody. We’re just Iller.”

Iller Than Theirs is made up of Tone Tank and Krayo, artists from the Nuclear Family collective. Known as Nuk Fam for short, these New York-based musicians pride themselves on their unique humor and humility. Nuk Fam boasts artists Junk Science, who released their debut Feeding Einstein in 2005, as well as Iller producers DJ Snafu, J. Howells Werthman, and Scott Thorough. The album is set for bn release on September 18, on Embedded Music, and will feature guest appearances from Mastah Ace, Cool Calm Pete, and varied Nuk Fam artists.
###

"I Fell In Love With the DJ" (featuring Cham)
Hear Single Here

WHO IS Cha'Nelle?

An exuberant songstress of entrancing yet accessible proportions, the twenty-three year old American transplant simply cannot be marginalized and indeed refuses to be defined. She relishes country music but breathes R&B; she is a student of dancehall but has a degree in pop. The true definition of a genre-buster, it's only natural then that the tunes on her Capitol Records debut, Things Happen For A Reason, is every bit as motley as her lineage, personality, musical taste and upbringing.

Official Sites:
http://www.chenelle-world.com/
http://www.myspace.com/chenelleworld

New Jaw-Dropping Series
From the Minds of Ashton Kutcher and Jason Goldberg
Premiering Tuesday, July 17 at 10pm ET/PT

Fans Also Get Extended Season of Viral Video Series “Scarred” at 10:30pm ET/PT
Along with Special One-hour Installment
“Scarred: The Worst of the Worst” at 11:00pm ET/PT

Beware!! MTV turns Tuesdays into a night of chills and thrills with the premiere of new series “Room 401,” as well as an extended season of the popular stomach-turning series “Scarred” -- all beginning July 17 at 10pm ET/PT. Also premiering that night is the one-hour special, “Scarred: The Worst of the Worst.”

Viewers are asked to enter the mind-blowing journey through the weird, absurd and shocking world of illusion in the new series, “Room 401.” The show sweeps unaware victims into the center of mini horror movies that play out live in front of their eyes. From the reanimation of the dead, to chain-saw mishaps, to sinister sushi experiences, each episode will contain four “scares” sure to tingle the spine. Featuring some of the most talented, up-and-coming illusionists, “Room 401” will make viewers scream, jump and even laugh... uncomfortably. In this age of CGI and edit room after effects, “Room 401” unfolds live. We don't manipulate the film... we manipulate the mind.

“Scarred,” the half-hour series exploring the stories behind the sickest clips on the web, continues its run in a new 10:30pm ET/PT timeslot offering more gross-out viral exploits. Every day, young people are posting and sharing the hardcore footage of their most severe mishaps and accidents on the web making them some of the most popular and talked about viral videos. Now viewers get to hear from the people that experienced the pain and agony firsthand. Hosted by Papa Roach's Jacoby Shaddix, "Scarred" provides a cautionary view of this growing and hugely popular trend. And at 11:00pm ET/PT, fans can catch a special one-hour edition, “Scarred: The Worst of The Worst” for the grossest clips from the first 10 episodes. Host Jacoby counts down what viewers voted on as the nastiest spills -- broken arms, compound fractures, blood loss, this special has got it all.

“Room 401” is created and executive produced by Ashton Kutcher and Jason Goldberg for Katalyst Films and Billy Rainey and Lois Curren for MTV.

Nicole Perry is creator and consulting producer for “Scarred.” The concept is developed by Brian Nashel who is also co-executive producer. MTV executive producers for “Scarred” are Tony DiSanto, George McTeague and Liz Gateley.


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.

###

MXPX PREVIEW NEW ALBUM ON MYSPACE
SECRET WEAPON OUT JULY 17

MxPx is Mike Herrera on vocals and bass guitar, Tom Wisniewski on guitar, and Yuri Ruley on drums. Formed in 1992 by Herrera and Ruley, the Bremerton, Washington-bred band’s line-up has remained constant since Wisniewski joined the group in 1995. Over the course of seven studio albums, an array of EPs, a live disc and a DVD, MxPx has become a fixture on the pop/punk scene, with numerous songs appearing on TV and alternative radio, including “Punk Rawk Show,” “Chick Magnet,” “Move To Bremerton,” “I’m Okay, You’re Okay” and “Running Out Of Time.”

MxPx is streaming Secret Weapon in its entirety on their MySpace page before you can buy it next Tuesday! Secret Weapon is the band’s eighth studio effort and finds them returning to the legendary Tooth & Nail Records for the first time in eleven years. The album hits stores on July 17.

Visit MxPx’s MySpace page now to listen to the full album stream of Secret Weapon: http://www.myspace.com/mxpx

“My Entourage Gives You the Back Massage While Wearing Camouflage
(Up In the Garage).”

Check out the video here:
http://www.veoh.com/videos/v663187NbmjqR55

For more information about the guys, go to their MySpace:
http://www.myspace.com/kingsolomonandgiggles/

LUDACRIS AND DISTURBING THA PEACE RECORDS READY FOR STRENGTH IN NUMBERS, 3rd DTP ALL-STAR COMPILATION, DUE AUG. 28th

Starring: Ludacris, Bobby Valentino, Block Xchange, Brolic D, Chingy, I-20, Serius Jones, Steph Jones, Lil’ Fate, Playaz Circle, Shareefa, Shawn Jay, Shawnna, Small World, Smoke, and Willy Northpole

TWO ADVANCE TRACKS IMPACTING NOW AT RADIO MIX SHOW FORMATS:

“Duffle Bag Boy” by Playaz Circle feat. Lil’ Wayne (impacts at Urban radio July 23rd)

“Celebrity Chick” by Ludacris, Chingy, Steph Jones, and Small World (impact at Rhythm format, on August 27th, and at Pop radio on Aug. 27th)


(July 2007 – New York, NY) Call it the ultimate mixtape event of 2007, as STRENGTH IN NUMBERS showcases the label’s family of artists on 12 brand new previously unreleased tracks, set to arrive in stores on August 28th.

In addition to multi-platinum DTP core artists Ludacris, who is CEO of the company (distributed worldwide by Island Def Jam Music Group), and Bobby Valentino, the new comp­ila­tion stars (in alphabetical order): Block Xchange, Brolic D, Chingy, I-20, Serius Jones, Steph Jones, Lil’ Fate, Playaz Circle, Shareefa, Shawn Jay, Shawnna, Small World, Smoke, and Willy Northpole.

With one exception, every track on STRENGTH IN NUMBERS is a collaboration of two or more DTP artists. In advance of the album’s street date, two tracks have been singled out for impact last week and this week at all radio Mix Show formats: “Duffle Bag Boy” by Playaz Circle featuring Lil’ Wayne; and the album’s opening track, “Celebrity Chick” by Ludacris, Chingy, Steph Jones, and Small World. Looking ahead, “Duffle Bag Boy” will impact at Urban radio on July 23rd; on the same date, “Celebrity Chick” will impact at the Rhythm format, and on August 27th, it will impact at Pop radio.

The video for “Celebrity Chick” was filmed earlier this week in Los Angeles, and is expected to premiere in mid-July, date to be announced shortly. Also, look for a special BET “Access Granted” feature on the making of the video on July 18th. The video for “Duffle Bag Boy” will be shot soon.

As of this writing, the track sequence for STRENGTH BY NUMBERS is as follows:

1. “Celebrity Chick” – by Chingy, Steph Jones, and Small World
2. “Hot Tamales” by Small World, Chingy, and Serius Jones
3. “Jealous Of Me” by Small World, Shawn Jay, and Tity Boi
4. “Don’t Check Me” by Ludacris, Playaz Circle, and I-20
5. “Windy City” by Block Xchange, Shawnna, and Ludacris
6. “The Game” by Shareefa, Serius Jones, Chingy, and Small World
7. “DTP” by Willy Northpole and I-20
9. “Speakers In the Trunk” by Brolic D and Tity Boi
10. “Let’s Go”(Remix) by Bobby Valentino featuring Lil’ Fate
11. “Duffle Bag Boy” by Playaz Circle featuring Lil’ Wayne
12. “Live On Stage” by DTP Family (including Small World, Brolic D, Playaz Circle, Smoke, Willy Northpole, and Ludacris)
13. “Act Like Us” by Playaz Circle, Serius Jones, and Willy Northpole
14. “We Ain’t Worried ‘Bout U” by Ludacris

STRENGTH BY NUMBERS marks the third time that Ludacris has dedicated an entire album to spotlighting his label roster. After debuting in 2000 with his triple-platinum Incognegro (aka Back For the First Time, with “What’s Your Fantasy” and “Southern Hospitality”), followed in 2001 with the triple-platinum Word Of Mouf (with “Area Codes,” “Move B***h,” and “Saturday (Oooh Oooh!)”) – 2002 brought Golden Grain. The 15-track album presented tracks with Shawnna, Lil’ Fate, Tity Boi, I-20, and others (as well as guests Scarface, Mystikal, and Too Short).

Luda came back strong in 2003 with the double-platinum Chicken-N-Beer, the #1 Pop/#1 R&B, success that gave him his first across-the-board #1 Rap/#1 R&B/ #1 Pop cross­over hit, “Stand Up.” It was followed by the double-platinum The Red Light District in 2004.

The second DTP compilation was released in December 2005, Ludacris Presents … Disturbing Tha Peace. The 17-track package that starred Ludacris, Bobby Valentino, Shawnna, Playaz Circle, Lil’ Fate, I-20, Shareefa, Field Mob, Lazyeye, Norflck, as well as guest shots by Jamie Foxx, Stat Quo and others. The platinum Grammy Winning Release Therapy, the most recent solo album by Ludacris, was released September 2006, and spun off the #1 single “Runaway Love” featuring Mary J. Blige.

# # #

Dave Stewart’s career spans 25 years of writing and producing 100’s of classic songs known all over the world with some of the most legendary artists of our time. These songs, along with groundbreaking productions have seen him win just about every music award there is to win!

Many “hit” songs he has written with Annie Lennox (his longtime partner in Eurythmics) but it also includes songs he has co-written or recorded with an eclectic mixture of artists including Mick Jagger, Gwen Stefani, Daryl Hall, Sinead O ’ Connor, Bryan Ferry, Alison Moyet, Bono, Tom Petty, Jon Bon Jovi, Terry Hall, Anastacia, Lamont Dozier, Bob Dylan, Joe Strummer, Mick Jones, Shakespeare ’s Sister, Bob Geldof, Al Green, Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, Dr.Dre, Timbaland, The Neptunes, Beyonce, George Harrison, Joss Stone and the immortal Jimmy Cliff.

“Don’t Be Afraid” is a single from Dave’s upcoming new album.

“Don’t Be Afraid”
Windows Media:
Audio

Video

Real Player:
Audio
Video

Dave Stewart's Website: http://davestewart.com/

July

Thur
7/19/2007
Chicago, IL
Martyrs

Fri
7/20/2007
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor Art Festival

Sat
7/21/2007
Louisville, KY
Phoenix Hill Tavern

Sun
7/22/2007
Cleveland, OH
Agora Theatre

Mon
7/23/2007
Columbus, OH
Basement

Fri
7/27/2007
Atlanta, GA
Vynyl

Sun
7/29/2007
Nashville, TN
The Rutledge

Mon
7/30/2007
Greenville, SC
The Handlebar

Tues
7/31/2007
Raleigh, NC
Casbah

August

Thur
8/2/2007
Washington, DC
Rock N Roll Hotel

Fri
8/3/2007
Philadelphia, PA
World Café

Sat
8/4/2007
Boston, MA
Tommy Doyles

Mon
8/6/2007
New York, NY
Knitting Factory

Thur
8/30/2007
Salt Lake City, UT

View E-Card

The Alliance has linked up with Mr. Cartoon for a one of a kind contest. The Alliance and Mr. Cartoon now want to make history by giving one lucky fan a free trip to Los Angeles to receive a free tattoo from Mr. Cartoon himself.

Official contest page: http://www.showallianceyourtatts.com/photos/

The Alliance
Goin' Digital
IN STORES JULY 17
NCE Records / Asylum Records
MySpace.com/TheAllianceATL

NCE (Nothin Comz Eazy) Records is the movement. THE ALLIANCE is the click. Comprised of rappers BLACKOUT, P.O.P., SKINNY, female rapper BLISS, and in-house producer TY-CUTTA, their hit song "TATTOO" featuring FABO, is sweeping the nation faster than you can say "Tat-Tat-Tatted Up". This club banger is one that's not going anywhere! One thing is certain; regardless of your set, the fact of the matter is that The Alliance inked up just right! The tattoo, whether if it's displayed in clothing apparel designs or directly on the skin, is an expression of a lifestyle that represents total individuality and freedom of expression.

Listen To The Tattoo Remix!
The Alliance - Tattoo REMIX featuring Lil' Boosie,
Foxx, Webbie, Gucci Mane and Juvenile AUDIO

eSpire Entertainment welcomes Shani Greene-Dowdell. Shani is one of the newest members to join the team. She'll be doing music reviews and interviews.

SHANI GREENE-DOWDELL is the author of Keepin' It Tight, a wife and mother of three. Born and raised in Tuskegee, Alabama, Shani was fascinated by creative writing and writing plays as a child. She attended Troy State University at Montgomery and Southern Union Community College in Opelika, Alabama with the goal of becoming a nurse, but motherhood changed her career path to becoming a work-from-home medical transcriptionist. Shani found very little time for writing while raising her children until 2005. With her children older and her determination to change the dynamics of her career, Shani started writing Keepin' It Tight and she hasn't put her pen down since. Keepin' It Tight (released May 28, 2007 through www.lulu.com) is a poignant tale about a black woman's search for love and one white woman's quest to tear down the relationship that the sistah finds. It's racy, it's daring, it pushes the envelope - It's Shani!!

Shani's first love for literature is reading. She is a reviewer for Strive Magazine (online publication) and Big Time Publishing Magazine (print publication). She is a contributing author in Jessica Tiles' spicy erotic anthology, Erogenous Zone: A Sexual Voyage, and has her very own erotic anthology Mocha Chocolate: Taste a Piece of Ecstasy coming in March 2008. Whether Shani is writing poetry, blogging, or working on one of her several writing projects, she is determined to follow her heart and become a best-selling author. "To be able to write full time one day," Shani says, "that is my dream!"

eSpire Entertainment welcomes Kisha Green. Kisha is one of the newest member to join the team. She'll be doing book reviews and interviews.

Kisha Green's gift of story telling and writing about realistic feelings, not only makes her novels exciting but emotionally accurate as well.

In addition to writing novels, Kisha also does freelance wriing for various websites as well as overseeing the daily operations of her latest venture, a new literary website The Write Vibe.

Kisha, is a firm believer of "If God brings me to it, he will bring me through it!" and with that mentality, she is ready to take "Literary Hollywood" by storm!

Kisha, resides with her husband and children in New Jersey.

Be sure to check out her website: www.divabooksinconline.com

GO SEE A PRE-RELEASE ADVANCE HAIRSPRAY SCREENING!http://www.hairspraymovie.com/evitescreening/

CHECK OUT THE HAIRSPRAY AUTOGRAPH GENERATOR HERE
www.hairspraymovie.com/tt/autograph.html
(I tried it and it worked. It's a great online tool.)

The Hairspray Movie Soundtrack surprised me. After listening to it a few times, it has become my movie soundtrack pick for the year. Last year, it was Dreamgirls. The songs chosen for the movie soundtrack will have you singing along. The 19 track CD is well worth the money and if you listen to the soundtrack, you'll definately want to go see the movie. ~ Shelia M. Goss, Entertainment Writer and National Bestselling Author of Paige's Web and My Invisible Husband





HAIRSPRAY
In Theaters July 20
New Line Cinema
http://www.hairspraymovie.com/
http://www.myspace.com/hairspray

Photo Credit: ©2007 David James/New Line Cinema

John Travolta (left) stars as “Edna Turnblad” and Queen Latifah (right) stars as “Motormouth Maybelle” in New Line Cinema’s upcoming release of Adam Shankman’s HAIRSPRAY.


Click Here to See Movie Trailer


About the Movie

Sixteen years after the release of the original film, New Line Cinema is bringing a feature film adaptation of the Tony award-winning Broadway production Hairspray to life. Featuring new and original material based on John Waters’ 1988 cult classic about star-struck teenagers on a local Baltimore dance show, the comedy features a remarkable collection of talent including John Travolta, Queen Latifah, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, Allison Janney, Brittany Snow, Zac Efron, Elijah Kelley, producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron (Chicago), and director Adam Shankman (Bringing Down The House). The new screenplay for Hairspray was written by Leslie Dixon (Freaky Friday, Outrageous Fortune).

Director: Adam Shankman
Starring: John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, James Marsden, and Queen Latifah

e-Spire Entertainment News (http://www.e-spire.blogspot.com/) is expanding. The site currently provides interviews, reviews and news in all areas of entertainment (music, books, tv & film). In the fall, we'll be launching a new look. As we get prepared for the launch, we will be needing more writers.

We are looking for interns (average number of hours per week - 1 to 5). Send in your writing samples in one of the following categories:

CDs - Have you heard a CD or song that made you want to listen to it over and over or did it make you want to throw it away with yesterday's trash??? Send us a sample review.

BOOKS - Have you read a book that kept you reading into the night or did it having you throwing the book across the room??? Send us your sample review.

FILM - Have you seen any good movies lately? Is there a movie that just didn't live up to the hype? Send us a sample review.

If you have any questions or to submit your sample review, post it here on the blog or send an email to askohshelia@aol.com.

Romance author Patricia Sargeant speaks candidly with Gwyneth Bolton about her current novels and her works in progress. Check out the interview for an intriguing look at the publishing industry through the eyes of a new author.

Gwyneth Bolton: Your novel, You Belong to Me , has the perfect mix of romance and suspense. Often times as a reader I’ve found that authors have a hard time keeping that balance. What are your secrets to writing really good romantic suspense that has the right proportions? Come on… spill it. (smile)

Patricia Sargeant: I try to write stories in which the suspense, romance and personal grown are actually entwined. Those are the stories I enjoy reading. Stories in which the external conflict the characters face forces them to deal with their internal conflict, and that internal conflict is connected to the romance.

For example, in You Belong to Me , Malcolm and Nicole divorced basically because he shut her out emotionally. His internal conflict is learning to let people in; learning to accept help. Malcolm wants Nicole back, but someone is trying to kill them. That’s the external conflict. Once he learns to accept help (internal conflict), not only will he be able to stop the killer (external conflict), but he’ll also reunite with Nicole (romance).

To read the full interview, CLICK HERE.

Interview by guest columnist Romance Author Gwyneth Bolton. She's the recipient of several awards including the 2007 Emma Award for Best New Author and Book of the Year. To learn more about Ms. Bolton, visit her website:
http://www.gwynethbolton.com.

The Hairspray Movie Soundtrack surprised me. After listening to it a few times, it has become my movie soundtrack pick for the year. Last year, it was Dreamgirls. The songs chosen for the movie soundtrack will have you singing along. The 19 track CD is well worth the money and if you listen to the soundtrack, you'll definately want to go see the movie. ~ Shelia M. Goss, Entertainment Writer and National Bestselling Author of Paige's Web and My Invisible Husband



HAIRSPRAY
In Theaters July 20
New Line Cinema
http://www.hairspraymovie.com/
http://www.myspace.com/hairspray

Photo Credit: ©2007 David James/New Line Cinema

John Travolta (left) stars as “Edna Turnblad” and Queen Latifah (right) stars as “Motormouth Maybelle” in New Line Cinema’s upcoming release of Adam Shankman’s HAIRSPRAY.


Click Here to See Movie Trailer


About the Movie

Sixteen years after the release of the original film, New Line Cinema is bringing a feature film adaptation of the Tony award-winning Broadway production Hairspray to life. Featuring new and original material based on John Waters’ 1988 cult classic about star-struck teenagers on a local Baltimore dance show, the comedy features a remarkable collection of talent including John Travolta, Queen Latifah, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, Allison Janney, Brittany Snow, Zac Efron, Elijah Kelley, producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron (Chicago), and director Adam Shankman (Bringing Down The House). The new screenplay for Hairspray was written by Leslie Dixon (Freaky Friday, Outrageous Fortune).

Director: Adam Shankman
Starring: John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, James Marsden, and Queen Latifah

Listen to Chris Brown's new single "Wall To Wall:"

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Watch the Video:
CLICK HERE TO WATCH

Check out NOW That’s What I Call Music! Vol. 25. It'll be in stores on July 17, 2007.

Tracklisting:

1. Fall Out Boy Thnks Fr Th Mmrs (UMG)
2. Avril Lavigne Girlfriend (Arista)
3. Gwen Stefani w/Akon The Sweet Escape (UMG)
4. Pink U & UR Hand (Zomba)
5. Fergie w/Ludacris Glamorous (UMG)
6. Beyonce/Shakira Beautiful Liar (Sony BMG)
7. Justin Timberlake Summer Love (Zomba)
8. Ne-Yo Because Of You (UMG)
9. T-Pain w/Yung Joc Buy You A Drank (Zomba)
10. Lloyd Get It Shawty (UMG)
11. Huey Pop, Lock & Drop It (Zomba)
12. Mims Like This (EMI)
13. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony w/Akon I Tried (UMG)
14. Bow Wow w/T-Pain and Johnta Austin Outta My System (Sony BMG)
15. Kelly Clarkson Never Again (RCA)
16. Boys Like Girls The Great Escape (Sony BMG)
17. Keith Urban I Told You So (EMI)
18. Carrie Underwood Before He Cheats (Arista)
19. Elliot Yamin Wait For You (RED)
20. Daughtry Home (RCA)

To Order - Click Here.

Hear Ciara's new single Can’t Leave Em Alone feat. 50 Cent:

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July 2007 – What made your favorite artists who they are today? What music did they listen to? What are their favorite songs? Who influenced them the most? Today’s artists are the sum total of everything they’ve ever heard, ever enjoyed and ever played and 180 Music’s Spotlight Influences Series gives them the chance to tell their story.

Music has the power to inspire, influence, and impress and now Target customers will get the chance to listen to songs that have done just that for Joss Stone & Avril Lavigne. Each CD is a collection of tracks from their favorite artists highlighting the songs that had a significant impact on their own songwriting and career. Each artist has handpicked an album’s worth of specific songs that they have a strong connection with as well as liner notes written by the artist about why they chose their particular selections.

Multi-platinum singer/songwriter/guitarist Avril Lavigne lists among her influences The Beach Boys, The Archies, Janis Joplin and Alanis Morissette.

“Alanis Morissette is my favorite female artist and ‘Jagged Little Pill’ is my favorite record of all time,” Lavigne commented. “Alanis has definitely been a major influence on me. One of the greatest nights of my life was when I got to sing her song “Ironic” with her onstage.”

Even at 20 year old Joss Stone admires the who’s who of vintage soul, 70’s R&B and Motown Pop including Al Green, Aretha Franklin, James Brown and Natalie Cole.

“I like real singers, not just a pretty girl dancing around or a bunch of good-looking boys,” Stone remarked. “For me, it’s all about the voice. That’s why I go back to these kinds of artists. The classic soul singers and the people working today who’ve taken to heart what they did – I feel their energy so deeply, and they inspire me to be real.”

Joss Stone and Avril Lavigne’s Influences albums will join the already impressive entries in this series which also includes releases from Sarah McLachlan, The Dave Matthews Band, Wynonna, Jason Mraz, and Jamie Cullum.

About 180 Music
180 Music is a brand new record label that takes a fresh non-traditional approach to creating, marketing, and distributing music. Based in Los Angeles, 180 Music believes that the fracturing of the retail music industry in the past few years has created more opportunity than ever for those who discard their old patterns of thinking. 180 Music believes that demand for great music is actually expanding. The company is targeting their releases to adults and music lovers of all ages that have been ignored by the narrow scope of releases from the major labels and turned off by the narrow playlists offered by the ever consolidating radio scene. CEO and founder Jim Brandmeier formed the company to address that demand. Do a 180… Let’s get back to Music.

"DJ Turn It Up" - Audio Stream

Who Is Omillio Sparks?
Kenneth Johnson p.k.a. Omillio Sparks came from the trenches of the ghetto in the most notorious neighborhood of West Philadelphia. As a young man, he faced the hardships of any black man running the streets, often fighting his way through the justice system. He's experienced his fair share of turmoil's but also lived the life. Although having made his way through the music industry, he's also been faced with many setbacks preventing him from realizing his full potential. Many know him as Omillio Sparks of State Property from the infamous record label, Roc A Fella Records, but most do not know his journey. This is his story...

The Beginning
Although having been signed to Roc A Fella Records in 1999, his career started well before then. Like most independent artists, Omillio Sparks first made his skills known on the streets of Philadelphia. as part of a huge Philly rap coalition by the name of I.C.H. aka Inner City Hustlas, consisting of himself and his long time friend, Oschino. The two would later become known as Oschino & Sparks and ultimately, as members of the rap group State Property.

The Journey
Oschino & Sparks got their exposure together along with the other members of State Property when they visited Hot 97 along with Jay Z and ripped the mic!

The Talent
Omillio Sparks wrote on seven songs on the State Property 1 album and six on State Property 2- writing his verses as well as the hooks. He also wrote the hook for Jay Z's, I Just Wanna Love You off the Dynasty album and also had a verse on the single, As One, off of Jay Z's, Blueprint 2: The Gift & The Curse.

Moving Forward
Forget what you heard. State Property is not dead! As a matter of fact, all of the members communicate frequently and are all featured on his upcoming album, The Payback. There have also been talks for a reunion album, State Property 3.

Since the split between Jay Z and Damon Dash, Omillio Sparks has formed his independent label, Colossal Entertainment, which is Omillio Sparks taking his destiny and career into his own hands. The upcoming album, The Payback, is scheduled for release in 2007

Omillio Sparks is back, but don't call it a comeback- he's been here for years!

http://www.omilliosparks.com
http://www.myspace.com/sparksmusic1

Audio – China Wine
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ARTIST: SUN
SINGLE: CHINA WINE
RELEASE DATE: digital single release 7/24
LABEL: Carnival House Records

ARTIST SITE: http://www.sunmusic-us.com/
MY SPACE: http://myspace.com/sunmusicus

Who is Sun?

SUN AKA GEISHA, a four-time platinum music artist and singing sensation in Asia, has signed a production deal with legendary producer and musician, Wyclef Jean, to executive produce SUN’s upcoming North American debut album. The first single from her album, “China Wine,” which was written by SUN and Wyclef Jean, will drop in July 2007 along with their much anticipated music video.

SUN exploded onto the international music scene just over five years ago with her Asian debut album, “Sun with Love,” which she followed with three other albums which continued to double in sales - all going platinum. SUN has performed sold-out concerts in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Australia, Singapore and China for as many as 20,000 people a night. She has been awarded everything from the MTV Asia Award, to the Hong Kong Metro Music Award, to the Yahoo! Singaporean of the Year Award. SUN broke into the US and UK music industry with four back-to-back dance and rhythm singles that all hit the top of the Billboard Dance Club Chart and the UK’s Music Week Dance Chart.

Wyclef Jean is currently at the top of the charts with his songwriting and executive producing efforts. His Grammy-nominated single and video with Shakira (Hips Don’t Lie) continues to be played globally on radio and television stations everywhere. As a songwriter and producer, his musical talent has influenced projects for Whitney Houston, Santana, Destiny’s Child , The Black Eyed Peas and of course the multi Grammy winning Lauren Hill, who along with Wyclef made up two thirds of the legendary Fugees

SUN’s single, “China Wine,” was recorded at Wyclef Jean’s famed Platinum Sound Recording Studio in New York City. “China Wine” brings elements of Asia, the United States and the Caribbean together to create a world party dance hall – reggae-tone vibe that is completely original.

Along with SUN and Wyclef Jean, who appears courtesy of Columbia Records, the song will feature Elephant Man, appearing courtesy of VP Music Group Inc., and Tony Matterhorn, who had a massive Caribbean hit with “Dutty Wine.” “China Wine” is building a buzz in clubs, with dance hall and radio audiences in Jamaica, the Caribbean Islands and the United States, including hotbeds like Miami, Atlanta and New York. China Wine also features SUN’s alter ego The GEISHA. This alter ego will feature heavily in each of SUN’s first two singles, “China Wine” and its follow-up, “Mr. Bill.” The two singles were written as a two-part story arc involving SUN’s journey from her mainland China upbringing to her immersion in a Carribean neighborhood in New York where she becomes involved in a dangerous relationship with one of the island’s kingpins, played by Beckford.

Both the “China Wine” and “Mr. Bill” videos were shot on location by renowned music video director, Wayne Isham (Britney Spears, Sheryl Crow, Shania Twain, Faith Hill, Bon Jovi, Keith Urban and the Rolling Stones), whose videos often read like feature-length films, incorporating Isham’s intricate use of cinematography and art direction. The videos bring together Carribean, Asian, and US musical influence with a sound and a visual style that is fresh and totally original.

To help with this vision, Christian Audigier, creative director of Ed Hardy Vintage Tattoo Wear, Christian Audigier Atelier and SMET, was brought on to style the clothing and special look for SUN and her backup dancers. Christian Audigier is based in Los Angeles and has taken the casual urban street scene by storm with his Asian-inspired twist on tattoos, denim and camouflage.

SUN is currently in Asia busily promoting her newest platinum selling album. She spent April, May and June in Taiwan, Hong Kong and China performing to sold-out stadiums in city after city. Her fifth record-breaking Asian album has already surpassed the sales of her previous albums.

SUN will fly back to the United States in July 2007 where she will finish her debut English speaking album. Along with Wyclef Jean and his team of producers, SUN plans on recording several more songs for her US album at Platinum Sound Recording in New York with an intended release date for the first quarter of 2008.

“The Kiss” Audio Streams:
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Karmina Official Site:
http://www.karmina.us/

Introduce each member.
Isaac Koren (vocals, Rhodes keyboard)
Thorry Koren (vocals, guitar)
Shakerleg (Drums)

We were both front men of separate bands, we were sick of bands politics – we knew we would have to see each other at Christmas and so we thought we may as well join forces.

What makes The Kin different than other groups out there?
Its emotional without being ‘Emo’, its heavy without distorted guitars, its dark through choice of notes and the lyrics tell a story...

For someone not familiar with your music, how would you categorize it?
Alternative music for your human

Did you write the songs on your upcoming CD?
Yes

What producers did you work with?
Nic Hard

What will be the first single?
“Blue on Blue”

Do you plan on shooting a video for it?
Yes, check The Kin’s Myspace page for the official release date!

How can readers purchase your new CD and/or listen to your music?
To listen: www.thekin.com or on www.myspace.com/thekin
To buy downloads: iTunes
To buy CDs now: www.buyswag.com (not up yet...will be soon!)
Sept. 11 will be the official street date, so look for their CD in stores then!

Interview by entertainment writer Shelia M Goss and national bestselling author of Paige's Web (Nov. '07), My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. To learn more, visit her website at www.sheliagoss.com.

Simply Red, one of the UK’s most talented, successful and enduring bands, are here to stay. To prove it, they return with the aptly titled new album ‘Stay’which is in stores now. The third LP, available on their own label SimplyRed.com, is a smooth, passionate collection of soulful tunes and vibrant lyrics, all driven with Mick Hucknall’s inimitable vocals.

Written and produced by Mick Hucknall, with contributions from Andy Wright - whose previous credits include Natalie Imbruglia and Annie Lennox - the album was recorded between London’s ‘Home’ and ‘Metropolis’ studios late last year. Featuring the irrepressible new single ‘So Not Over You’, it also boasts 10 other brand new tracks.

Highlights include: the electric glow of Ronnie Lane’s classic ‘Debris’; the sparkling title track ‘Stay’; the almost autobiographical ‘Good Times Have Done Me Wrong’ & the decadently romantic ‘The World And You Tonight’.

The new album follows a triumphant 18 months, which saw them earn their tenth Top Ten album, play three sold-out dates at London’s Royal Albert Hall and perform at Oslo’s Nobel Peace Prize concert. Their last LP – the critically acclaimed ‘Simplified’ - entered the UK album chart at Number 3, adding to the bands extensive list of successes. It followed on from ‘Home’, which sold over 2.5 million copies worldwide.

The new single ‘So Not Over You’ is available on two CDs and features must-have B-sides. The first includes the shimmering ‘Beside You’, while the second boasts revitalised ‘So Not Over You’ mixes by Motivo and Johnny Douglas, as well as the new video, which was directed by Russell Thomas (Maroon 5, Placebo, Kylie Minogue) in Cape Town.

AUDIO – So Not Over You

VIDEO – So Not Over You

Watch "Bubbly" Video:
http://video.umrg.com/colbiecaillat/bubbly

Hear new single from Colbie Caillat "Bubbly:"

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Colbie Caillat Official Site:
http://www.colbiecaillatmusic.com/
and on MySpace:www.myspace.com/colbiecaillat

ANDRÉ “3000” BENJAMIN SET TO RELEASE“CLASS OF 3000: MUSIC VOLUME ONE”SOUNDTRACK TO THE ANIMATED SERIES“CLASS OF 3000”

"Class of 3000 Theme Song"

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"Oh Peanut"

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New York, NY – The music from the critically praised animated series Class of 3000 has jumped from the TV into your home. Executive produced by André “3000” Benjamin the soundtrack Class of 3000: Music Volume One will be in-stores July 3, 2007.

On the heels of kicking off an eagerly awaited second season of Class of 3000, André “3000” Benjamin selected 14 of the songs he exclusively wrote and produced for the show. The songs feature the voices of the kids/characters from the innovative series, including the kids’ music teacher’s, Sunny Bridges, who borrows his voice from Andre 3000 himself. All the songs were heard throughout the episodes of the highly rated first season of the Cartoon Network original show. Class of 3000, which was created by executive producers Thomas W. Lynch (Romeo!) and André “3000” Benjamin, premiered in November 2006 and quickly won over both critics and the masses alike garnering one of the network’s highest rated original series debut.

Set to the backdrop of Atlanta, Class of 3000 follows international music star Sunny Bridges, voiced by Benjamin, who gave up his flourishing music career to teach a group of gifted musical prodigies at his alma mater, the Westley School for the Performing Arts. New episodes of the series air Thursday at 7 p.m. (ET, PT) on Cartoon Network.

André “3000” Benjamin is known world-wide as one-half of the multi-Grammy winning musical group OutKast. His acting career includes roles in the upcoming feature films Semi-Pro, starring Will Ferrell and Battle in Seattle due out later this year co-starring Charlize Theron. He has also starred in the feature films Idlewild, Four Brothers, Be Cool and Hollywood Homicide. Moxie, his Atlanta-based production company, develops original feature films as well as episodic television.

Sanctuary Records is pleased to announce the beta launch of the new sanctuaryrecords.com, powered by Echospin. For the first time, listeners of reggae, classic rock, metal, r&b and pop can come together to explore the extensive and eclectic catalogue from the Sanctuary roster. The new website brings variety to music lovers, making Sanctuary’s entire repertoire available any way fans want it – from CDs and DVDs to MP3s, iPod-friendly videos, mobile ringtones and more - using the latest cutting-edge technology for an effortless and value-packed experience.

Sanctuary Records understands that success in the digital arena means giving fans the flexibility they deserve. That's why Sanctuary was the first catalog of its size to offer unprotected MP3s and why they’ve decided to partner with Echospin, a leading technology company whose patented Delivery Wizard software has enabled Sanctuary artists to sell MP3s and iPod-friendly videos directly to fans from their own websites, blogs and MySpace pages. Sanctuary has been using the revolutionary Delivery Wizard to sell and give-away music and video on websites for artists such as Morrissey, Iron Maiden, and Dolores O’Riordan, among others, and in the coming weeks, the Wizard will be deployed on Sanctuaryrecords.com. The site is now available as a public beta with more features launching soon, including over-the-air ringtone delivery to handsets.

The new sanctuaryrecords.com offers content in previously unreleased configurations, such as albums and singles bundled with bonus tracks, which previously could only be purchased from separate download sites. Many products are specially priced and on average cost $0.89 or less for digital tracks, $8.99 or less for full digital albums, $9.99 for physical CDs, $1.99 for videos.

Sanctuaryrecords.com has a regular newsletter web surfers can sign up for to get the latest news on the jam-packed musical offerings in the store. A home for music lovers and the casual fan alike, this website definitely has something for everyone.


For more information on the Sanctuary website, please email mike.oliverio@sanctuarygroup.com.

For more information on Echospin, please visit echospin.com.

The Police, Gwen Stefani, Beyonce, Counting Crows and More Keep Fans in the Know with the Attendio Widget

Attendio Event Widget Enables Bands and Event Promoters to Get the Word Out

Bands Stay Connected with their Fans and Fans Help Promote Their Favorite Bands

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. -- This summer, some of the biggest bands on the planet are going Web 2.0 thanks to a new event widget from Attendio (www.attendio.com)--a social event discovery service that automatically connects you to local events that match your interests.

The Attendio event widget is currently available on the official websites for The Police, Gwen Stefani, Beyonce, 311, the Van’s Warped Tour, Third Eye Blind and Counting Crows, so that fans can stay in the know about their summer tour schedules. Built to be 'grabbed' and shared virally across the Web, the Attendio widget enable bands to leverage their fanbases to promote their tours.

“We couldn’t be more excited that the hottest bands of the summer concert circuit have chosen to use the Attendio widget to keep their fans ‘in the know’,” said Gerardo Capiel, CEO of Attendio. “In addition, our widget has proven to be an effective sales vehicle, with bands and fans driving thousands of ticket sales.”

The Attendio widget displays a band’s photo and event dates/venues. Fans can get more information on the events and take action by buying tickets, saving event information to their calendars, or emailing it to friends. They can even set a mobile reminder about the event, so they’re sure never to miss another show again. Most importantly, they can ‘grab’ the widget and post it to their own MySpace, Facebook, blog or homepages to help promote the tour.

“Not only is the Attendio widget an amazing tool for promoters, bands, and fans, but it is incredibly easy to use,” said Larry Weintraub, CEO of Fanscape, Inc., a leading Los Angeles-based music marketing company. “The folks at Attendio should be commended for creating a piece of technology that solves the age old problem of alerting people that their favorite band is coming to their town while not making it so complicated that the average person can’t figure out how to use it.”

Anyone can easily grab and share the Attendio Event widget for The Police, Gwen Stefani, Beyonce, 311, the Van’s Warped Tour, and Counting Crows by visiting: www.attendio.com/widgets.

“We embrace all technologies which enhance our relationship between our artists and their fanbases. Attendio is an amazing tool that we're excited to launch with Beyonce and that we’ll be using across our entire roster,” added Max Grousse, executive vice president, strategic business and A&R, Music World Entertainment.

In addition to mega music acts, smaller bands, organizations, sports teams and anyone interested in promoting events can create and share their own Attendio Widget on their website, MySpace, Facebook, or blog. To find out how, visit www.attendio.com/widgets.

Attendio keeps you "in the know" about local music, family, sporting, film, and cultural events that match your interests by connecting you with a user community that is continually adding relevant local events, reviews, and recommendations to the website and members’ calendars. You can also easily share information on interesting and worthwhile events via the Web site, the Attendio Facebook application, email notifications, or mobile alerts.

Within a few clicks, Attendio members can set up their own personalized profiles, see suggestions from local celebrities and request that events automatically populate their personal calendar through popular programs, including Apple iCal, Microsoft Outlook, Windows Calendar (Vista (TM)), and Google Calendar.
Artist Links
311: http://311.com/html/widget.html
The Police : www.Thepolice.com/eventswidget
Sting sites: www.Sting.com/eventswidget
Warped Tour: http://www.myspace.com/warpedtour
Gwen Stefani: http://www.gwenstefani.com/
Beyonce: www.welovebeyonce.com

About Attendio
Attendio is a national event discovery service based in San Francisco, California that helps people find local events fast. Launched in February 2007 at DEMO, Attendio intelligently matches people's interests to events and suggests events based on friends’ picks and local celebrities in the know. Attendio’s Get Social application is also available on the Facebook platform. For more information, visit www.attendio.com.

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"Hot Thing" produced by Will.i.am

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Kenny Vasoli, bassist and lead singer of The Starting Line, formed the suburban Pennsylvania quartet some eight years ago. His friends and original band mates, guitarists Matt Watts and Mike Golla, and drummer Tom Gryskewicz, have been along for the ride ever since. The band sold nearly 300,000 copies of their 2002 debut, Say It Like You Mean It, and scored a surprise hit with “The Best Of Me,” a pop-punk anthem that was embraced by MTV. The Starting Line released their sophomore album, Based on a True Story, in 2005 and were asked to headline the Van’s Warped tour that year. In early January 2006, the band signed with Virgin, where they just finished recording their newest full-length album, Direction.

Direction may not hit stores until July 31st, but The Starting Line want to give fans something special. Pre-order Direction now for only $10 and get your copy signed by the band! You can also purchase a t-shirt/CD bundle for $15 that comes with a limited edition Direction Clover tee.

Don’t forget to vote for The Starting Line on AOL Music’s Sessions Under Cover! Visit http://music.aol.com/sessions-under-cover/ to vote. Voting ends Friday, July 6th at 5
p.m. EST.

You can pre-order Direction here: http://www.merchdirect.net/TheStartingLine