Hip Hop Press - Hip Hop Press Releases

Evolveaka E.O.D. ismakingmajor noise on the mixtape scene. DJ Kay Slay has an Evolve track that will be featured on the next "Let the Games Begin" mixtape. On a blazing Swizz Beatz track Evolve takes some hard shots at 50 Cent's need for beef.

Evolve takesa more righteous approach to his lyrical lashingand the G-Unit is taking notice.Tony Yayo made a comment on Hot 97 radio, where he says "I'll stop his E-volution before it begins". It should be an interesting summer.

Here's an exclusive release:

http://www.hiphopworld.net/evolve/HateorLove.mp3

http://www.hiphopworld.net/evolve/index.htm

Press Contact:
Phil Mack
pmack@hiphopworld.net

as his Songs are Recognized on Radio Stations from Coast to Coast

Brooklyn, NY (PRWEB) May 21, 2005 -- Teamed with Arte Multimedia, Inc., Hip-Hop artist Double A (a.k.a. The D.A.) reaches "Top Ten" status in many record pools with his hit single called "Little Game, and is quickly becoming a well known name in the music industry.

Radio stations from around the U.S., and even some in foreign countries such as Italy and Europe, are giving ear (and play) to Double A's songs.

Double A's compassion for music and a desire for bringing new life to the hip-hop industry are displayed in his music and lyrics. As a boy growing up in Brooklyn, East New York, one of the worse ghettos in the country, Double A began rapping at age 14. He knew that his life's purpose would be to share his gift of music with others around the world, and is realizing that dream as people around the U.S. and other nations embrace his talents.

"Life is an asset, and if you don't make an investment quick, expect your life to lose its worth," states Double A. Through his music and lyrics, Double A shares his life struggles, yet also offers creative beats and instrumentals that can "fit in" at any party. Due to this, one may see that where many artists have failed, Double A will succeed, and that is by bringing hip-hop to a new level and introducing new and fresh music to his audience.

Double A will soon be releasing his first solo video for his single "Little Game, and is also working on a full album which will include a DVD and other footage yet to be revealed. He has received extensive radio rotation on the following stations: WJLS, KXUA, KBEACH, KGFN, KEPC, WVOF, WSIN, WSOP, WSNU, KURE, WCRX, WKKL, WMUA, WIDR, KCOU, WASU, KRNU, WPTS, WARC, WMUH, KVRX, WRMC, WGDR, KUWS, WMSE, and WMUL.

In the CMJ (College Music Journal), Double A was featured as a new top independent artist.

A bio and recent news about Double A's new releases can be found at the web address below: http://www.itsdoublea.com/

For an interview or more information, please contact Jeffrey Ortiz by phone at: (646) 523 5192

Contact Name: Jeffrey Ortiz
Contact Phone: (646) 523 5192
Web Address: http://www.itsdoublea.com/

This 20 year old man child, Hailing from St.Louis, Mo. Has Done Far More, than Just Earn Respect from Rap Veterans

He's the best rapper from St.Louis with or without a recording contract ,says a group of hustling teens posted on the corner.But if you simply read between the lines it's their for the taking.When popping in his Cd I was mesmerized says reps from The Source Magazine."

(PRWEB) May 21, 2005 -- Nukie's debut Albulm "The Time is Now" is set to hit stores June 17,2005. This highly anticipated albulm will most definetly make every fan of music in general, a believer. When critiquing some of his music I quickly ran into witty lines like, "I told you these chumps is fake/I'm the truth, if ya squad got you gassed you should pump your brakes/cause I leave niggas dumped in lakes/like Scott Peterson did to his wife if they don't bump my tapes. "The lead single "Vibes" has been one of the most requested songs here in St.Louis. "The steet cred has been overwhelming,but I know success is based on at least two hit singles,says the very relaxed, marketable 20 yr.old.Labels have already noticed the potential in this stud, and it's just a matter of time before he rightfully shines.Sois this year the one, For Revolution Records breakout artist Nukie? I wonteven answer that.

Companys first brass-themed sound library for software samplers

(May 19,2005)

ModernBeats.com debuts it's first brass-themed sound library for software samplers entitled "Brass Elementz 1" covering today's Urban, Hip Hop, and Crunk musical genres.

Brass Elementz 1 contains 400 brass stabs, chords, and riffs across 26 multi-format sampler presets representing the latest trends in Hip Hop production. The set is organized into 2 main sub-categories titled "Brass Chordz-n-Riffz" and "Brass Instruments."

The Brass Chordz-n-Riffz presets are arranged for ease of use and grouped according to pitch, key, and duration. Certain longer chord riffs include corresponding shorter samples on adjacent keys giving users more control over creativity. Additionally, as users play higher up each preset layout, chords naturally migrate into higher key groupings.

The Brass Instrument presets contain matching instrument layouts and are categorized according to their timbre: Normal (Smooth), Classic (Moderate Overdrive), and Xtreme (Hard Overdrive) versions. The arrangement offers users a large array of textures to choose from while also allowing for seamless swapping between instruments within a sequence.

With its in-depth preset programming and layout, Brass Elementz 1 offers many creative possibilities to achieve the specific hip hop style desired.

The soundset is sold as a multi-format product for all major software samplers. Native formats include HALion, EXS24, Kontakt, Battery, Reason's NN-XT, SF2, and Wav.

"Brass Elementz 1 - Stabz, Chordz, & Riffz" is available as a download for $29.95, or can be ordered on CD-ROM.

About ModernBeats.com
ModernBeats.com is a leading supplier of downloadable Hip Hop production sound and sample libraries for Steinberg HALion, Emagic EXS24, Native Instruments Kontakt and Native Instruments Battery, Propellerheads Reason, Propellerhead NN-XT, Soundfont SF2, and Wav sample formats. ModernBeats' sounds are compatible with MOTU MachFive, Native Instruments Reaktor, Acid Pro, Fruity Loops, Magix, Hip Hop Ejay, Cubase SX, Cubase VST, Cake walk Sonar XL. Plus ModernBeats sounds can be imported into virtually every software sampler, drum machine software, music software, music creation software on the market.

For more information and audio demos, visit their web site at http://www.modernbeats.com.

Gold has been featuring in an unexpected place with latest trend seeing the precious metal being placed on teeth. Tooth jewelry is now the popular accessory in the US and the latest craze in the body art movement. Dr. Bruce Freund is a New Jersey cosmetic dentist who has seen an increasing number of hip-hop stars and young people in his practice who request a smile with some extra sparkle. As Dr. Freund says, "Every body part has been painted, pierced or tattooed... why not teeth?" However the latest fashion is not a new idea, with anthropologist Michael Coe revealing ancient Mayans used to ground their teeth down and place a jewel where the piece of tooth once existed. The idea is very popular in Canada and Europe too, with rap stars cited as a key reason behind the trend, showing off smiles set off with gold caps.

[ClickPress, Wed May 18 2005] Gold has been featuring in an unexpected place with latest trend seeing the precious metal being placed on teeth. Tooth jewelry is now the popular accessory in the US and the latest craze in the body art movement. Dr. Bruce Freund is a New Jersey cosmetic dentist who has seen an increasing number of hip-hop stars and young people in his practice who request a smile with some extra sparkle. As Dr. Freund says, "Every body part has been painted, pierced or tattooed... why not teeth?" However the latest fashion is not a new idea, with anthropologist Michael Coe revealing ancient Mayans used to ground their teeth down and place a jewel where the piece of tooth once existed. The idea is very popular in Canada and Europe too, with rap stars cited as a key reason behind the trend, showing off smiles set off with gold caps.

How does one snap on the bling bling?
They are caps that actually fit over your existing teeth...both front and back. They look exactly like permanent caps, except you can take them out when you don't want to wear them. Removable caps are caps that are individually customized to your mouth. The caps slip over your existing teeth, completely covering the original tooth. This gives the impression you have permanent silver, gold, multi-color stone or platinum teeth. What's nice, however, is that you can insert the caps and remove them as you wish. Dr. Freund designs the caps to fit a patients exact mouth by taking an impression. The finished product results in caps that fit perfectly....they will not fall or slip out. They will only come out when you willingly remove them.

Do they look real?
Absolutely, says Dr. Freund. Caps are made with precision tools in a laboratory and are custom made to a mold of a patients teeth. They will only fit this individuals teeth and will fit perfectly. No one will know they are only caps except the patient.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can a patient eat & sleep with the caps in? Depending on the shape of the teeth you can eat with them with caution. If the snap on teeth wrap around the back than it is safe to sleep with them without risk of the teeth dislodging.

How long will the caps last? Indefinitely they come in a jewelry box with a jewelers cloth for cleaning.

Can I wear caps if I have a permanent retainer? Yes. They would be made to fit with the retainer.
Are there any dangers or harm to the real teeth? No as long as they are taken out routinely.
What is the cost for the top and the cost for the bottom? It depends on the cost of the jewelry itself and if it is precious or not precious stone. Patients can be creative and draw up their own design or look at a catalog. People can put existing stones they already own on the mold.
How long does it take for the snap on teeth to be made? Typical turnaround time is a week to 10 days.
Is the procedure painful? It is 100% painless. It takes about 20 minutes to make the mold itself.

www.drbrucefreund.com

Company: KMR Communications,
Contact Name: Tashieka Brewer
Contact Email: tashieka@kmrcommunications.com

KNOU Rap-It-Up Block Party Features Free Concert and On-site HIV Testing

WASHINGTON, May 19 /PRNewswire/ -- BET's Rap-It-Up brings its award- winning national HIV/AIDS public awareness initiative to New Orleans to sponsor the Annual KNOU Block Party on Sunday, May 29 from 2 - 7 p.m. CT at Marconi Meadows City Park. Partnering with Rap-It-Up for the community effort will be KNOU-FM, Cox Communications, MTV/BET Networks, and the New Orleans AIDS Task Force.

The KNOU Block Party is free to the public and will provide numerous activities for event attendees, including a concert, community vendors, premium giveaways and free HIV testing. The New Orleans AIDS Task Force will coordinate with the Orleans Community Planning Group to administer on-site counseling and HIV testing. Mad Linx, host of BET's RAP CITY, will host the block party featuring performances from some of today's hottest hip hop and R&B artists. Among those scheduled to perform are Trillville, Paul Wall, Do or Die, Gucci Mane, Choppa, Nappy Headz, Dizzy, 10th Ward Buck, Faster Boyz and many more. BET's Mad Linx and event partners will also be on hand to mingle attendees.

Today's disturbing statistics have shown that African Americans account for the most AIDS diagnoses, people estimated to be living with AIDS, and HIV- related deaths than any other racial group. Although African-American teens make up only 15% of U.S. teens, they account for 65% of newly-reported AIDS cases. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, African Americans in the state of Louisiana accounted for 69% of the state's newly-reported AIDS cases in 2003.

"These devastating statistics reflect the urgent need to educate communities that HIV is 100% preventable," said Vikki Johnson, BET's Manager of Public Affairs. "Through Rap-It-Up's grassroots efforts, BET is able to work directly with at risk communities to provide the information and resources necessary to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS, and to help young adults change their sexual behavior in order to curb this deadly trend."

Since its launch in 1997, BET's Rap-It-Up Campaign has tested over 5,800 people nationwide for HIV infection; managed over 988,000 calls to the Rap-It- Up toll-free hotline; hosted community teen forums for over 8,600 youth; and reached millions of viewers via HIV-related programming on the BET Network, including award-winning news specials, documentaries and public service announcements.

"Recognizing the startling HIV/AIDS statistics in our local community, we knew that getting involved in this event could help make a difference," said Cox Communications' Steve Sawyer. "The Rap-It-Up Campaign has made a tremendous impact nationwide, and we are proud to be the local company who helped bring it to the New Orleans community." The BET cable network airs on Cox Communications' channel 22, as part of the local cable provider's overall line-up.

Media Opportunities: Coverage of Concert and Block Party Activities;
Interview & Photo Opportunities with BET Talent,
Concert Performers, BET Rap-It-Up Representatives,
KNOU Radio Personalities, and Event Partners.

ABOUT RAP-IT-UP


Since 1997, the Kaiser Family Foundation and BET: Black Entertainment Television have partnered on an extensive public education campaign to inform young people about sexual health issues, including HIV/AIDS and other sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs). The partnership includes special programming, public service advertisements (PSAs), online content on bet.com, and a free resource and referral service. In 2000, the campaign launched a grassroots initiative to complement the on-air and online components of Rap- It-Up. Program elements include teen forums, mobile HIV testing events, and a middle and high school curriculum on HIV/AIDS. The campaign was nominated for an Emmy for Best National Public Service Announcement in 2002 and 2001, and has received numerous other awards, including the 2002 Cable Positive POP Award for Outstanding Newsmagazine Series, the 2002 CTPAA Joel Berger Award, the 2002 NAACP Image Award, the 2002 Academy of Television Arts & Science TV Cares "Ribbon of Hope" Award, and the 2002 NBACA Community Service Award.

ABOUT BET

BET, a subsidiary of Viacom, Inc. (NYSE: VIA; VIA.B), is the nation's leading television network providing quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs programming for the African-American audience. The BET Network reaches more than 80 million households according to Nielsen media research, and can be seen in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. BET is a dominant consumer brand in the urban marketplace with a diverse group of branded businesses: BET.com, the Number 1 Internet portal for African Americans; BET Digital Networks - BET Jazz, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Event Productions, specializing in a full range of event production services, including event management, venue selection, talent recruitment, sound, lighting and stage production; and BET Books, the nation's leading publisher of African-American themed romance novels under the Arabesque imprint which also publishes compelling fiction under the Sepia imprint and inspirational fiction and nonfiction under the New Spirit imprint.

About Cox Communications (http://www.cox.com/)

Cox Communications Inc., a Fortune 500 company, is a multi-service broadband communications company with approximately 6.7 million total customers, including approximately 6.3 million basic cable subscribers. The nation's third-largest cable television provider, Cox offers analog cable television under the Cox Cable brand as well as digital video service under the Cox Digital Cable brand, featuring advanced services including digital video recording, high-definition television and video-on-demand. Cox provides an array of other communications services including local and long-distance telephone under the Cox Digital Telephone brand, high-speed Internet service under the Cox High Speed Internet brand, and home networking. Commercial voice and data services are offered via Cox Business Services. Local cable advertising, promotional opportunities and production services are sold under the Cox Media brand. Cox is an investor in programming services including Discovery Communications Inc. Cox Communications is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc.

About Hot 104.5, KNOU FM

Hot 104.5, KNOU FM, is owned and operated by On Top Communications LLC. On Top is headquartered in Lanham, Maryland and owns and operate radio stations in four markets. On Top Communications is a minority owned and operated company dedicated to serving the African-American communities in each of its markets.

Source: BET (Black Entertainment Television)

CONTACT: Lyntina Townsend of BET, +1-202-608-2745,
lyntina.townsend@bet.net; or Kara Kortman, +1-504-949-3999,
kkortman@deveney.com, for Cox Communications

Web site: http://www.bet.com/
http://www.cox.com/

PARIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 19, 2005--Vivendi Universal--

-- Positive first quarter earnings support 2005 guidance (adjusted net income of at least EUR 1.8 billion, i.e. at least 37% growth per share when compared to 2004).

-- Universal Music Group and Vivendi Universal Games confirm their turnarounds. Sustained growth in earnings from operations (on a comparable basis(1)) at Canal+ Group (+42%), Maroc Telecom (+14%) and SFR (mobile: +7%).

-- Earnings from operations amounted to EUR 877 million. On a comparable basis, earnings from operations amounted to EUR 849 million, versus EUR 697 million for the same period in 2004, a 22% growth.

-- Adjusted net income(2) amounted to EUR 512 million versus EUR 160 million for the first quarter of 2004.

-- Net income amounted to EUR 502 million versus EUR 166 million for the first quarter of 2004.

-- Financial net debt(3) amounted to EUR 4,421 million on March 31, 2005, versus EUR 4,724 million (which includes EUR 1.1 billion for the forward agreement to purchase the 16% additional stake in Maroc Telecom) on December 31, 2004. Cash flow from operations(4) amounted to EUR 1,078 million for the first quarter of 2005.

Comments on the Group's earnings for first quarter 2005

Revenues amounted to EUR 4,761 million. On a comparable basis, revenues increased 7% (+8% at constant currency). Each of the business units contributed to the growth in revenues.

Earnings from operations amounted to EUR 877 million. On a comparable basis, earnings from operations increased by 22% (22% at constant currency).

Income from equity affiliates amounted to EUR 72 million compared to EUR 78 million in the first quarter of 2004. The equity in NBC Universal's earnings for the first quarter of 2005 amounted to EUR 72 million.

Interest amounted to EUR -46 million compared to EUR -144 million in the first quarter of 2004.

Other financial charges primarily included the changes in the fair value of derivative instruments.

In the first quarter of 2005, other financial charges amounted to EUR -29 million compared to EUR -122 million in the first quarter of 2004. This variation is largely explained by the evolution of the value of the embedded option of the Sogecable convertible bond (EUR +44 million for the first quarter of 2005 versus EUR -91 million for the same period in 2004).

Income tax expense totaled EUR 163 million compared to an expense of EUR 218 million in the first quarter of 2004. This variation is linked to the positive impact of the Consolidated Global Profit Tax System (EUR +125 million) in the first quarter of 2005. In 2004, the Consolidated Global Profit Tax System's impact was accounted from the third quarter, following Vivendi Universal's admission to this system on August 22, 2004.

Excluding the positive impact of the Consolidated Global Profit Tax System in the first quarter of 2005, the income tax expense increased during the first quarter of 2005 due to the increase in pre-tax earnings of the business units.

Earnings attributable to equity holders of the parent improved significantly. It amounted to EUR 502 million (basic earnings of EUR 0.44 per share and diluted earnings of EUR 0.44 per share) versus EUR 166 million in the first quarter of 2004 (basic earnings of EUR 0.15 per share and diluted earnings of EUR 0.14 per share).

Adjusted net income amounted to EUR 512 million versus an adjusted net income of EUR 160 million in the first quarter of 2004. This improvement of EUR 352 million was mainly achieved through: improvement in earnings from operations (EUR +183 million), reduction in interest (EUR +98 million) and reduction in provision for income taxes (EUR +76 million).

Comments on earnings from operations for Vivendi Universal's Media and Telecom business units for the first quarter 2005

Universal Music Group (UMG) :

UMG's earnings from operations amounted to EUR 36 million compared to a loss of EUR 11 million in the first quarter of 2004 reflecting an improvement in activity, margins on higher sales volumes, as well as lower restructuring costs.

Vivendi Universal Games (VUG) :

VUG's earnings from operations were EUR 11 million, compared to a reported loss in 2004 of EUR 48 million. This improvement reflects combined actions taken in order to restore profitability: a significant increase in net sales (+47% when compared to 2004) due to World of Warcraft, a favourable shift in ongoing business composition more heavily weighted on the high margin World of Warcraft subscription business model and significantly lower fixed operating expenses resulting from the global turnaround plan.

Canal+ Group :

Canal+ Group reported earnings from operations of EUR 132 million representing an increase of 42% on a comparable basis. Excluding exceptional items, the period-on-period earnings from operations grew 37% due to revenues growth and positive impact on costs.

Within French pay-TV, the group's core business, earnings from operations amounted to EUR 104 million and achieved a +20% increase compared to the same period in 2004 on a comparable basis. Meanwhile, the group's subsidiary in Poland confirmed its recovery with strongly improved quarterly earnings from operations.

StudioCanal's earnings from operations amounted to EUR 23 million representing an increase of +51% compared to the previous year.

SFR Cegetel :

SFR Cegetel earnings from operations increased by 2% to EUR 567 million.

Mobile activity earnings from operations grew 7% to EUR 602 million, due to an 8% growth in network revenues (excluding rebilling of mobile termination between operators) and a continued strong control of customer acquisition and retention costs: as a percentage of network revenues (excluding mobile termination), customer acquisition and retention costs were down nearly 1 point to 10.1%.

As a consequence of the heavy commercial and technical costs of the broadband Internet retail offer launched in March 2004, the fixed telephony and Internet activity recorded operating losses of EUR 35 million for the first quarter of 2005, compared to a loss of EUR 5 million for the same period in 2004.

Maroc Telecom :

Maroc Telecom earnings from operations grew 15%, to EUR 180 million, compared with the same period last year (+14% at constant currency on a comparable basis). Maroc Telecom succeeded in maintaining its margin level and, at the same time, in continuing its acquisition policy of new customers, mainly mobile customers (net adds of 387,000 for the first quarter of 2005).

Important disclaimer:

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside our control, including but not limited to the risks that : Vivendi Universal will be unable to further identify, develop and achieve success for new products, services and technologies; Vivendi Universal will face increased competition and that the effect on pricing, spending, third-party relationships and revenues of such competition will limit or reduce Vivendi Universal's revenue and/or income; Vivendi Universal will be unable to establish and maintain relationships with commerce, advertising, marketing, technology, and content providers; and that Vivendi Universal will not be able to obtain or retain, upon acceptable terms, the licenses and permits necessary to operate and expand its businesses; as well as the risks described in the documents Vivendi Universal has filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the French Autorite des Marches Financiers. Investors and security holders are urged to read those documents at the Commission's website at www.sec.gov. Those documents may also be obtained free of charge from Vivendi Universal. Vivendi Universal does not undertake, nor has any obligation, to provide, update or revise any forward-looking statements.

(1)For the comparable basis definition, please refer to appendix II.

(2)For the adjusted net income, please refer to appendix I.

(3)Financial net debt is calculated as the sum of long-term debt, bank overdrafts and short-term borrowings, less cash and cash equivalents, non current derivative instruments in assets, current derivative instruments in assets and cash deposits backing financing; in each case, as reported on Vivendi Universal's Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. Financial gross debt comprises bonds, loans, other financial debt (including treasury bills and finance leases), obligations related to commitments to repurchase minority interests and derivatives whose value is negative.

(4)Net cash provided by operating activities net of capital expenditures and before financing costs and taxes.

Note: This press release contains unaudited consolidated earnings established under IFRS.


APPENDIX I

VIVENDI UNIVERSAL
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS
(IFRS, unaudited)

(In millions of euros, except per
share amounts) -------------------------
1st Quarter Ended
March 31
-------------------------
2005 2004
------------ ---------
Revenues EUR 4,761 4,385
Cost of revenues (2,511) (2,335)
------------ ---------
Margin of operations 2,250 2,050
------------ ---------
Earnings from operations 877 694
Other income from ordinary
activities 19 23
Income from equity affiliates 72 78
------------ ---------
Earnings before interest and
income taxes 968 795
Interest (46) (144)
Other financial charges (29) (122)
Other financial income 22 9
------------ ---------
Interest and other financial
charges and income (53) (257)
------------ ---------
Earnings before income taxes
and discontinued operations 915 538
Provision for income taxes (163) (218)
------------ ---------
Earnings from continuing operations 752 320
Earnings from discontinued operations - (a) 118
------------ ---------
Earnings EUR 752 EUR 438
============ =========
Attributable to:
Minority interests 250 272
Equity holders of the parent EUR 502 166

Earnings from continuing operations
per share-basic (in euros) EUR 0.66 EUR 0.28
Earnings from continuing operations
per share-diluted (in euros) EUR 0.65 EUR 0.28

Earnings attributable to discontinued
operations per share - basic EUR - EUR 0.10
Earnings attributable to dicontinued
operations per share - diluted EUR - EUR 0.10

Earnings attributable to the
equity holders of the parent
per share - basic EUR 0.44 EUR 0.15

Earnings attributable to the
equity holders of the parent
per share - diluted EUR 0.44 EUR 0.14


(a) For the first quarter of 2004, included 80% of Vivendi Universal Entertainment's earnings generated over the period.

Please note that:

In application of European regulation 1606/2002 dated July 19, 2002 concerning international standards, the consolidated financial statements of Vivendi Universal for the financial year ending December 31, 2005, will be prepared in accordance with the IAS (International Accounting Standards) / IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) applicable as of December 31, 2005, as approved by the European Union. The first consolidated financial statements published in accordance with IAS/IFRS will be those for the 2005 financial year, with comparative figures for 2004 prepared using the same primary basis of accounting. For each 2005 interim financial publication, comparative information for corresponding 2004 interim financial statements will be published. Given the remaining uncertainties concerning the standards and interpretations which will be applicable as of December 31 2005, Vivendi Universal reserves the right to modify certain accounting methods and options adopted during the preparation of this 2004 financial information, on final and definitive reporting of the first IFRS financial statements. Please refer to Note "IFRS 2004 transition" published on April 14, 2005 and filed with the SEC as a 6-K on April 19, 2005.

Adjusted Net Income definition:

Adjusted net income includes earnings from operations, other income from ordinary affiliates, income from equity affiliates, interest, and tax and minority interest relating to these items. As a consequence, it excludes other charges from ordinary activities (corresponding to impairment losses, if any), other financial charges and income and earnings from discontinued operations as presented in the consolidated statement of earnings, as well as provision for income taxes and minority interests in adjustments. Adjusted net income (loss) never includes adjustments in earnings from operations.


APPENDIX II

VIVENDI UNIVERSAL
REVENUES AND OPERATING INCOME ON A COMPARABLE BASIS BY BUSINESS
SEGMENT
(IFRS, unaudited)

Comparable basis essentially illustrates the effect of the divestitures that occurred in 2004 (mainly Canal+ Benelux, UMG's Music clubs, Kencell and Monaco Telecom), of the divestitures that occurred in 2005 (mainly NC Numericable) and includes the full consolidation of Mauritel at Maroc Telecom as if these transactions had occurred at the beginning of 2004. In 2004, comparable basis also includes estimated mobile-to-mobile sales at SFR Cegetel applying the 2005 rate. Comparable basis results are not necessarily indicative of the combined results that would have occurred had the events actually occurred at the beginning of 2004.


------------------------------------------
1st Quarter Ended March 31,
------------------------------------------
%Change
(in millions of euros) at constant
2005 2004 %Change currency
---------- --------- ------- -----------
Revenues
---------
Universal Music Group EUR 1,038 EUR 933 11% 14%
Vivendi Universal Games 113 77 47% 52%
Canal+ Group 836 824 1% 1%
SFR Cegetel (a) 2,326 2,182 7% 7%
Maroc Telecom 423 383 10% 12%
Non Core operations
and elimination
of intercompany
transactions (b) (20) (8) na(1) na(1)
---------- --------- ------- -----------
Total Vivendi Universal EUR 4,716 EUR 4,391 7% 8%
========== ========= ======= ===========

Earnings from Operations
------------------------
Universal Music Group EUR 36 EUR (4) na(1) na(1)
Vivendi Universal Games 11 (48) na(1) na(1)
Canal+ Group 104 73 42% 40%
SFR Cegetel (a) 567 555 2% 2%
Maroc Telecom 180 160 13% 14%
Holding & Corporate (47) (44) -7% -7%
Non core operations (b) (2) 5 na(1) na(1)
---------- --------- -------- -----------
Total Vivendi Universal EUR 849 EUR 697 22% 22%
========== ========= ======== ===========
na(1): not applicable



(a) As of January 1, 2005, SFR revenues include mobile-to-mobile sales of EUR 217 million for the first quarter of 2005. 2004 comparable basis includes estimated theoretical mobile-to-mobile sales applying the 2005 rate, i.e. EUR 204 million. Mobile-to-mobile sales have no impact on earnings from operations.

(b) Corresponds to Vivendi Telecom International, Vivendi Valorisation and other non core businesses.


APPENDIX III

VIVENDI UNIVERSAL
REVENUES AND OPERATING INCOME BY BUSINESS SEGMENT AS PUBLISHED
(IFRS, unaudited)

---------------------------------
1st Quarter Ended March 31,
---------------------------------
(In millions of euros) 2005 2004 % Change
--------- --------- -----------
Revenues
--------
Universal Music Group EUR 1,038 EUR 977 6%
Vivendi Universal Games 113 77 47%
Canal+ Group 881 918 -4%
SFR Cegetel (a) 2,326 1,978 18%
Maroc Telecom 423 368 15%
Non core operations and
elimination of intercompany
transactions (b) (20) 67 na(1)
--------- --------- -----------
Total Vivendi Universal
(excluding VUE) EUR 4,761 EUR 4,385 9%
========= ========= ===========
Vivendi Universal Entertainment - - na(1)
--------- --------- -----------
Total Vivendi Universal EUR 4,761 EUR 4,385 9%
========= ========= ===========

Earnings from Operations
------------------------
Universal Music Group EUR 36 EUR (11) na(1)
Vivendi Universal Games 11 (48) na(1)
Canal+ Group 132 72 83%
SFR Cegetel (a) 567 555 2%
Maroc Telecom 180 156 15%
Holding & Corporate (47) (44) -7%
Non core operations (b) (2) 14 na(1)
--------- --------- -----------
Total Vivendi Universal
(excluding VUE) EUR 877 EUR 694 26%
========= ========= ===========
Vivendi Universal Entertainment - - na(1)
--------- --------- -----------
Total Vivendi Universal EUR 877 EUR 694 26%
========= ========= ===========
na(1): not applicable.



(a) As of January 1, 2005, SFR revenues include mobile-to-mobile sales of EUR 217 million for the first quarter of 2005. These sales have no impact on earnings from operations.

(b) Corresponds to Vivendi Telecom International, Vivendi Valorisation and other non core businesses.
Contacts
Vivendi Universal
Media
Paris
Antoine Lefort, +33 (0) 1 71 71 11 80
Agnes Vetillart, +33 (0) 1 71 71 30 82
Alain Delrieu, +33 (0) 1 71 71 10 86
or
New York
Flavie Lemarchand-Wood, +(1) 212-572-1118
or
Investor Relations
Paris
Daniel Scolan, +33 (0) 1 71 71 32 91
Laurence Daniel, +33 (0) 1 71 71 12 33
Edouard Lassalle, +33 (0) 1 71 71 30 45
or
New York
Eileen McLaughlin, +(1) 212-572-8961

(May 18, 2005 Chicago, IL) THE RED LEMON STORE.COM is killing you again with the hotness by releasing the limited edition Nike sneaker designed by hip-hop mainstay Common and celebrity shoe designers Krispy Klean. The Nikes drop May 24th. And, as everyone knows, thats the same date as the most anticipated album of the year, BE! There will only be 100 pairs of these sneakers made and after that its a wrap! The sneakers will be available exclusively through www.TheRedLemonStore.com

Krispy Klean has designed shoes with such celebrities as Usher, Missy Elliot, Damon Dash, Nicole Richie, Nelly, Busta Rhymes, Method Man, Randy Jackson, TI, and Omarion.

THE RED LEMON STORE.COM is home to new, hip & sexy fashion and beauty lines that are generating a strong buzz within the fashion and cosmetic industries. Most of these lines are fashionista favorites while others are fantastic secrets awaiting their must have status. The lines include James Perse, Evisu, Aem Kei, Frankie B., James Jeans, Boxfresh, Rock Republic, Junkfood, Tokidoki, Anti Panti, Soyology, Wry Baby, Kinder Cashmere, Tocca, Deep Steep, Baxter of California, and Joey of New York.

Phnewfula (pronounced new-fa-la), founder and owner, understands the impact of fashion on the marketplace and thus created THE RED LEMON STORE.COM as a website that would provide access and convenience for everyone. As a genuine connoisseur of music, fashion, and beauty products, Phnewfula wants to supply her customers with a service that offers one-stop shopping. There is nothing worse than sitting in your house drooling over an item you saw in the latest In Style Magazine and not being able to find the item you so desperately want because you live in Frost Lake, Omaha, Nebraska says Phnewfula. In the past, I have found it incredibly annoying to stop in five separate stores to get five different items, the owner explains. This high-end boutique simplifies life and keeps those in the know in style by offering everything catering to socialite baby and soccer mom, skater kids and dimed-out-divas.

Clients include Amarie, Talib Kweli, NAS, Kanye West, Fantasia, Jadakiss, Bumpy Johnson, oh and of course Common.

Contact:
Bettina Lee

Digital Music Distribution Company Continues Expansion and Growth

TORONTO -- (Market Wire - May 19, 2005) -- Musicrypt Inc. (TSX-V: MCT) (OTC BB: MCYPF), the industry's leading digital music distribution company, today announced the expansion of its Marketing Department by appointing Jon Klein as Senior Director, East Coast Marketing, based in New York, and Drew Ferrante, Senior Director, West Coast Marketing, based in Los Angeles. In addition, Paul Johnson was promoted to Senior Director, Marketing for the Nashville / Central Region. These appointments take place immediately for Drew Ferrante and Paul Johnson, with Jon Klein coming on board June 16.

Jon Klein, former Senior Director of Promotion for Virgin Records, and Senior Director of Promotion for Epic Records, brings over 20 years of Marketing & Promotion expertise to Musicrypt. Klein also held positions with Arista Records and Maverick Records prior to joining Epic Records. Klein will be directly responsible for all East Coast Marketing for Musicrypt.

"We are looking forward to building upon our early success and acceptance into the U.S. marketplace with strong additions to our team," said Peter Diemer, Vice President, Marketing & Sales for Musicrypt. "Both Jon and Drew have great relationships within the music industry and bring tremendous value from both a record label and a broadcaster perspective as the industry continues to make the transition to digital delivery."

Drew Ferrante, based in Los Angeles, was former National Director of Promotion and Marketing for Hollywood Records, a Disney company distributed by Universal Music. Prior to that, he spent seven years at Sony Music as Regional Promotion and Marketing Manager for divisions of both Columbia Records and Epic Records. Ferrante will be directly responsible for all West Coast Marketing for Musicrypt.

Prior to joining Musicrypt in July 2003 as Manager of Customer and Technical Support, Paul Johnson was the Western Region Promotion Supervisor for Capitol Records - EMI Music Canada. Previously, he was a key member of Polygram's Western Canada Promotion Team.

"Paul's experience and background was instrumental in Musicrypt's successful and dominant deployment in Canada," stated Cliff Hunt, Chairman and COO of Musicrypt. "His success with the Country and Christian labels will help ensure our continued growth in the Nashville / Central Region. We are extremely pleased and excited to make these very positive additions and changes to our team."

Musicrypt's Digital Media Distribution System (DMDS) is the premier digital music distribution system in North America, having delivered over 850 tracks to over 300,000 destinations. Musicrypt is partnered with Billboard Radio Monitor and endorsed by Clear Channel Radio, the largest radio broadcaster in the United States.

About Musicrypt:

Musicrypt's patented Digital Media Distribution System (DMDS) is the leading secure B2B digital delivery solution for the music industry. DMDS is a web-based delivery system that pioneers secure digital file distribution by incorporating biometrics, high-value encryption and watermarking. The first application of DMDS replaces the physical distribution of new musical recordings by record companies from the studio, internally, and to radio stations with more secure, more effective and less costly digital distribution of broadcast quality media via the Internet. Musicrypt trades on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V) under the symbol MCT and in the U.S. under (OTC BB: MCYPF). For more information on Musicrypt, please visit www.musicrypt.com

The statements contained in this release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause such statements to differ materially from actual future events or results. Such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The TSX Venture Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

PR Contact for Musicrypt:
Sarah Miller
Axis Marketing & PR
323 653-7800
smiller@axismarketingpr.com

Distribution Source : Market Wire

Primary Elements announces significant price reductions on their royalty-free buy-out production music CD Collections. They are also announcing a wide range of new production music tracks from around the globe and are now donating 3% of their web music licensing sales to UNICEF, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the American Cancer Society.

Petaluma, CA (PRWEB) May 19, 2005 --

Primary Elements (http://www.PrimaryElements.com/) announced today that they have significantly reduced pricing for their royalty-free buy-out production music CD Collections, have unearthed over 100 new compositions from artists all over the world, and are now donating 3% of their web music licensing sales to UNICEF, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the American Cancer Society.

The newly reduced CD Collections, which include First-Class shipping and are processed within 48 hours of ordering, contain from 8 to 39 unique themes on each CD-ROM. The discs include both full-res masters and 128k mp3 audio files and are now priced from just $25 to $50. Several of the CD's include bonus precision-edited Flash-ready loops based on the enclosed themes and continue to be a huge hit with media producers worldwide, with several new CD releases now in the making.

With new artists from California, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, New York, Ontario, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK, Primary Elements extends its existing libraries and adds 3 more - GlobalMix, JazzGreats, and SpecialSeasons. Poised to serve a growing global clientele, the new selections range from authentic acoustic World Folk music to Experimental Jazz, and include a variety of seasonal favorites, intricate cinematic themes, and a few eclectic vocal tracks perfect for indie film projects from groups "Smooth" and "The Kind."

In addition to their affordable instant-downloads, the service is now offering their entire 17-CD buy-out library for 20% off the already discounted individual CD licenses - an $813 value for only $650 and almost $3000 off their individual license prices for the same material.

This bulk licensing package contains over seven hours of original music in 293 music tracks, and also includes 1142 bonus GrooveElements Flash-ready full-resolution music loops ready to drop right into any digital production environment. Like the individual CD's, the package comes with a 100-year multi-use multimedia synchronization license and includes both full-resolution and mp3 audio files.

The music on Primary Elements covers a wide range of styles and caters to the advertising, interactive, video game, film, theater, broadcast, DV, Flash, QuickTime, corporate, telephony, podcasting, education, and other multimedia markets. All tracks can be previewed online as full-length, high-quality demos using their custom-designed Flash Audio Player, and are available as individual synchronization licenses for any market.

Primary Elements is now donating 3% of its web music licensing sales to UNICEF, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the American Cancer Society.

About Primary Elements
Since 1998, Primary Elements has been offering unique music for evolving media, providing producers in all markets with high-quality production music licensing at very affordable rates.

Owned and operated by composer/producer Mark Lindsey, the first person to offer online production music audio previews as "Snip-Clips" from his original company, Lindsey Sound Design, on then emerging services CompuServe and America Online in 1994. Lindsey and his team of artists around the world are also available for music scoring, production, editing and sound design services.

Note to Editors: For additional information please contact Mark Lindsey by email at e-mail protected from spam bots or by phone for an immediate response. Additional linking options can be found on our web site at (http://www.PrimaryElements.com/html/affiliates.html).

Primary Elements and the Primary Elements logo are trademarks of Mark Lindsey and Primary Elements. Additional company and product names in this press release may be trademarks or registered trademarks of the individual companies and are hereby respectfully acknowledged.

Copyright 2005 Mark Lindsey and Primary Elements

Website:
http://www.PrimaryElements.com/

From Scratch is a company offering custom made films and animated backdrops for bands to use when touring, to liven up their shows. Also suitable for presentations, dj's, events and venues.

(PRWEB) May 19, 2005 -- From Scratch started in 2005. We offer exciting possibilities to enhance any type of (live) performace by creating custom made animated backdrops. An animated backdrop can make the performance of an artist more eventful and memorable.

Bands who are starting out or are looking to be signed with a label would benefit greatly from adding a professional backdrop, custom made to their tracks, to their performance. Scratch animation is a creative process in which (abstract) images are being scratched directly into film celluloid, projected, filmed again and edited.

Bands who have their backdrop custom made, will get their backdrops delivered to them on cd-rom, an easy to play solution that can be hooked up to a projector and played numerous times. From Scratch is a low-cost production company and can be found at: http://www.from-scratch.info

Website:
http://www.from-scratch.info/

Students Include P. Diddy, Brandy, Usher, Alicia Keys, Clay Aiken, Beyonce, Dido, Mario, Missy Elliott, JoJo and Many More

Set for Second Season of MTV's Hit Show Making the Band III Now Filming

LOS ANGELES, May 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Laurie Ann Gibson, the choreographer who teaches P. Diddy, Brandy, Usher, Alicia Keys and Clay Aiken their moves is set to release to national retail "Breakin' It Down," a instructional dance DVD on June 7, 2005. The video was successfully launched in February of this year on her website www.superstardance.com. The video is being released by Mediawerks Entertainment Inc. in association with Xenon Pictures Inc. and will be distributed by Universal Visual Entertainment. It will be supported by a series of TV commercials airing nationally. One version of the commercial features testimonials from Diddy, Brandy, Keys, JoJo and another Gibson student Missy Elliott. Part I of the DVD which will retail for $19.95 is made to instruct the amateur dancer in several easy steps how to transform a few simple moves into a superstar routine. Gibson's choreography features energetic hip hop moves infused with a variety of other dance styles. It allows the user to choose their own moves, create their own style and build confidence. The second bonus DVD "Making The Dancer" chronicles Gibson auditioning a group of professional dancers for an upcoming Brandy tour. It features a then unwed Kevin Federline, now married to pop star Britney Spears.

Gibson is also set to star in a second season of MTV's hit show "Making The Band III" which will begin filming in May 2005. During the first season in which P. Diddy did not choose a band, Gibson starts out as choreographer to the legion of new dancers who want to join P. Diddy's new girl group but she turns out to play a much more pivotal role offering advice and council to the newcomers. She will take on a larger role next season which will begin airing in the Fall.

Gibson is a Toronto native who started dancing at a young age. In her teens, she boarded a Greyhound bus and went to New York City with a months rent in her pocket. She quickly landed a slot in the prestigious Alvin Ailey dance company and shortly thereafter landed a gig as an original Fly Girl on the hit Fox comedy series In Living Color. There she performed along side a then unknown actress named Jennifer Lopez. Gibson parlayed that opportunity into Director of Choreography positions at both Motown and Bad Boy Records. Recently, her story was brought to life on the big screen in the Fox motion picture "Honey." In it, Jessica Alba plays a Gibson inspired character. The film allowed Gibson to test her acting chops too playing Katrina, Alba's arch nemesis in the film.

Gibson will kick off auditions for "Making The Band III" May 19-20 in New York. The following is the audition schedule and locations:

Thursday, May 19-20, 2005
New York
Lotus
409 West 14th Street New York, NY 10014

Sunday, May 22-23, 2005
Washington DC
Five
1214 B 18th Street NW Washington DC, 20036

Wednesday, May 25-26, 2005
Virginia Beach
Peabody's
211 21st Street Virginia Beach, VA 23451 21st Street and Pacific Ave. at
the beach

Saturday, May 28-29, 2005
Orlando
Club Paris
122 W Church Street Orlando, FL 32801

Tuesday, May 31-June 1, 2005
Detroit
ENVY
234 West Larned Detroit, MI 48226

Friday, June 3-4, 2005
Minneapolis
Mall of America (Sam Goody Central)
60 E. Broadway Bloomington, MN 55425

Monday, June 6-7, 2005
Dallas
Club Uropa
2600 Main St. Dallas, TX 75226

Thursday, June 9-10, 2005
San Francisco
Suede
383 Bay St. San Francisco, CA 94133

Source: Mediawerks Entertainment Inc.

CONTACT: Courtney Barnes, +1-323-466-9300, for Mediawerks Entertainment Inc.

Web site: http://www.superstardance.com/

Improved Previewing, All New Galaxy Structure, Better Search, Open Content Formats and New Personalization Features Top The New Feature List

PLEASANTON, Calif., May 19 /PRNewswire/ -- FunMail announced Wallpaper Universe 3.0 today, an all-new version of their leading mobile wallpaper portal. The new version sports a stylish new look, a huge catalog of over 10,000 eye-popping wallpapers, and an expanded feature set including:

-- Content Galaxies: Wallpaper Universe is now organized into "galaxies"
of content each organized for easy browsing. Wallpaper Universe has
always offered the largest and most varied selection of wallpapers, and
the new galaxy structure makes it easier than ever for consumers to
find what they are looking for.
-- New Personalize It! Wallpaper Galaxy: Wallpaper Universe 3.0 offers a
vast selection clever and fun personalized wallpaper, a popular
feature where consumers can enter text which is rendered with FunMail's
Rendering Engine into a unique wallpaper. Selections include Peanuts,
Dilbert, Shrek 2, Harold and Kumar, Classic Horror such as Freddy vs.
Jason or a Nightmare on Elm Street, Love, Hip Hop, and many more.
-- Open Content Formats: Wallpaper Universe 3.0 leverages FunMail's Open
Mobile Media Platform (OMMP), enabling content partners to easily
integrate new regular or personalized wallpaper.
-- Better Thumbnail Previewing: Wallpaper Universe 3.0 now displays one,
four or nine thumbnails, depending on the consumer's phone screen size.
-- Wallpaper Search: Wallpaper Universe 3.0 enables consumers to search by
wallpaper title or keyword. Results are queued into browseable
thumbnails, making it easier than ever for consumers to find exactly
the right wallpaper for their phone.

Wallpaper Universe 3.0 is available in BREW and WAP form, and is expected to be shipping by early June.

FunMail Contact: Andy Baldocchi,
VP Sales & Marketing
Phone: 925-455-1200
Fax: 925-455-1927

About FunMail, Inc.

FunMail creates engaging, unique and fun wireless entertainment products. FunMail offers popular consumer visual services including comics, interactive wallpapers, mobile greetings, ring tones, and community-driven peer-to-peer camera applications. Founded in 1999, FunMail has achieved an industry reputation for creativity, innovation and reliability, and is considered one of America's most fresh and interesting wireless entertainment companies.

Source: FunMail, Inc.

CONTACT: Andy Baldocchi, VP Sales & Marketing of FunMail,
+1-925-455-1200 or Fax: +1-925-455-1927

Web site: http://www.funmail.com/

Eminem and Dr. Dre Join the Cast as the Characters 'McVicar' and 'Grizz' in 50 Cent's Upcoming Video Game

LOS ANGELES, May 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Vivendi Universal Games ("VU Games") and 50 Cent today debuted 50 Cent(R): Bulletproof(TM) at the Electronic Entertainment Expo ("E3"), the game industry's largest global event, May 18-20, 2005. In his videogame debut, 50 Cent, the multi-platinum global hip-hop sensation, is the star of 50 Cent: Bulletproof, an explosive new game coming this fall to PlayStation(R) 2 computer entertainment system, Xbox(R) video game system from Microsoft, and PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R) Portable) entertainment system in 2006.

50 Cent: Bulletproof will feature an unprecedented lineup of the hottest recording artists in the music industry today, including 50 Cent and G Unit's Tony Yayo, Lloyd Banks and Young Buck, as well as Eminem and Dr. Dre, who will be making their interactive debuts as the characters "McVicar" and "Grizz."

"I'm as excited about 50 Cent: Bulletproof as I am about the success of my album, The Massacre and that means a lot since music has always been my life," said 50 Cent. "The new freestyles and the addition of Eminem and Dre show that this game is on the right course to follow in the successful footsteps of my music."

"50 Cent: Bulletproof captures the heart and soul of everything 50 Cent -- his music, his life, the G Unit family -- in an action-packed interactive experience with music and star power that is unrivaled," said Bruce Hack, CEO of VU Games. "We are delivering a 50 Cent experience that is much more than a video game. It is also a definitive collection of 50's multi-platinum albums, G Unit mixes and music videos."

50 Cent has been heavily involved in the game's creation and content, which features the star's voice, likeness and music. He collaborated on the game's mechanics and storyline with former Sopranos executive producer and Emmy(R) award winner Terry Winter, who wrote the game's script and the screenplay for 50 Cent's forthcoming theatrical release, Get Rich or Die Tryin'.

50 Cent: Bulletproof will feature new songs from 50 Cent recorded exclusively for the game, music from Get Rich or Die Tryin', The Massacre and 50 Cent and G Unit music videos. In addition, the game will offer a sound studio mode in which gamers can mix and match new original freestyles by 50 Cent with new beats straight from the G Unit camp.

About 50 Cent: Bulletproof

In 50 Cent's video game, 50 gets caught in a web of corruption, double-crosses and shady deals that lead him on a bloody path through New York's drug underworld. Working with the unlikeliest of allies, the streets heat up as 50 Cent takes on the most dangerous crime families in the city, uncovering an international conspiracy with devastating implications. The streets are watching as 50 Cent blasts his way to the truth.

50 Cent: Bulletproof is being created in partnership with Interscope Records, Shady Records and Aftermath Records.

More information about the game can be found at http://www.the50centgame.com/.

About 50 Cent

Go ahead. 50 Cent wants you to bet against him. It's that same street-born confidence that led hip-hop dream team Eminem and Dr. Dre to sign the former Jamaica, Queens crack dealer and music industry-shunned MC to their Shady/Aftermath imprint. The same sneering swagger that propelled 50 from underground mix-tape king to the top of Billboard album charts with his 2003 major-label debut Get Rich or Die Tryin', a landmark record that to date has sold well-over 10 million copies worldwide. And the same two-fisted ambition that saw the savvy 'hood entrepreneur lead his infamous G Unit clique to multi-platinum glory, making 50 Cent's G Unit record label a major player in the music biz.

Now with the release of The Massacre, easily the most anticipated album of 2005, 50 Cent will continue his dominance of the hip-hop world and beyond. And for the man born Curtis Jackson that means destroying the competition. "They have to survive me going around the country with this record," laughs the self-assured MC whose beef-igniting reputation has become as infamous as his street worn past. "My thought process going into The Massacre took me back to the days when I was hustling. I'm looking to move the competition off the block. I feel like anything less than what I've accomplished with Get Rich is a disappointment. I had time to grow during the last two years, so I just feel like I'm a better artist."

50 Cent epitomizes the hustler's spirit. While most artists would have been content with the massive spoils of multi-platinum album sales, high profile magazine covers, sold-out tours and omnipresent coverage on MTV and BET, 50 Cent wanted more. He set up his own label with longtime partner Sha Money XL and presented his juggernaut G Unit clique with the 2004 triple platinum Beg For Mercy. 50 oversaw the immense solo shine of Lloyd Banks (The Hunger For More) and Young Buck (Straight Outta Cashville), further expanding G Unit's takeover agenda. A clothing deal with Ecko Unlimited for his G Unit line and an unprecedented shoe endorsement pact with Reebok can be added to his successful resume.

50 Cent's rags to riches ascension did not go unnoticed by Oscar(R)- nominated director Jim Sheridan (In America, My Left Foot), who signed on to direct the rapper in the upcoming motion picture drama Get Rich Or Die Tryin'. And more recently 50 teamed up with Dr. Dre for the Aftermath/G Unit joint release of West Coast savior The Game, whose no. 1 debut The Documentary sold over a remarkable 500,000 units its first week.

Vivendi Universal Games (VU Games)

Vivendi Universal Games (www.vugames.com) is a global developer, publisher and distributor of multi-platform interactive entertainment. The company is a leader in the subscription-based massively multi-player online (MMO) games category, and also holds leading positions in the PC, console and handheld games markets. Its development studios and publishing labels include Blizzard(R) Entertainment, Radical Entertainment(TM), Sierra(R) Entertainment and Massive Entertainment(TM). VU Games' library of over 700 titles features owned intellectual properties including Warcraft(R), StarCraft(R), Diablo(R) and World of Warcraft(TM) from Blizzard; Crash Bandicoot(R), Spyro The Dragon(R), Empire Earth(R), Leisure Suit Larry(TM), Ground Control(R) and Tribes(R). VU Games also maintains strategic relationships with industry leading content partners, including Universal Music Group, NBC Universal and Twentieth Century Fox.

"50 Cent: Bulletproof" interactive game (C) 2005 Vivendi Universal Games, Inc. All rights reserved. Sierra and the Sierra logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Sierra Entertainment, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Vivendi Universal Games and the Vivendi Universal Games logo are trademarks of Vivendi Universal Games, Inc. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Xbox is a registered trademark in the United States and/or other countries.

PlayStation and the PlayStation logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. PSP is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Source: Vivendi Universal Games

CONTACT: Erik Reynolds of Vivendi Universal Games, +1-310-431-4530,
Erik.Reynolds@vugames.com; or Yvette Gayle, +1-310-865-6278,
Yvette.Gayle@umusic.com, or Dennis Dennehy, +1-310-865-7934,
dennis.dennehy@umusic.com, both of Interscope Publicity, for Vivendi Universal
Games

Web site: http://www.the50centgame.com/

Web site: http://www.vugames.com/

San Francisco, California (PRWEB) May 15, 2005 -- Baybop Radio is
launched as the first African-American, woman-owned and operated radio
station in the world. Mixing streaming technology and music, founder
and owner Adrienne Anderson programs music by independent artists and
features endangered music or music that wouldnt normally be heard
on todays radio.

Started in June of 2004, Baybop Radios audience has grown. Artists
like
indie Seattle rappers Optimus Rhyme and underground folk artist Edith
Frost are in regular rotationsomething youd never find on Top Ten
radio. San Francisco-native Adrienne Anderson knows the public is ready
for the next wave in radio streaming. Better equipment and better home
computers have revolutionized how people hear music.
People cant listen to their iPods at work, or keep rotating their
CDs.

What are they doing? Plugging into Internet radio, says Adrienne. Sick
of hearing the same music and a lot of commercials, Baybop Radio is
ahead of the pack with its creative programming and minimal
commercials. Baybop Radio is streamed through Live 365.com. In June
2005, Baybop Radio will be expanding because the number of listeners
keeps growing.

For additional information on the news that is the subject of this
release, contact station owner Adrienne Anderson or visit
http://www.baybop.com . You can click directly to Baybop Radio at
http://www.live365.com/stations/310109?play.

About Baybop Radio:
Baybop Radio was founded in June 2004 and was officially expanded in
May
2005. Established as a nonprofit, community radio station, it features
endangered music by indie artists, as well as classic soul,
bluegrass, rock, swing, reggae, rap and American roots music. Founder
and owner Adrienne Anderson is also the founder and director of the
International Black Womens Film Festival in San Francisco, California,
and the author of WORD: Rap, Politics + Feminism (available through
Amazon.com). Baybop Radio is the only African American and woman-owned
and operated Internet radio station in the world.

Contact:
Adrienne Anderson, Owner & Programmer - Baybop Radio
Press Release Available Online at:
http://www.prweb.com/releases/2005/5/prweb240818.htm
music@baybop.com
http://www.baybop.com
http://www.live365.com/stations/310109?play

Music Plus TV develops a unique advertising package plan and extends a trial run to all potential sponsors.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) May 17, 2005 -- Music Plus TV (MPTV) intends to become an advertising hot spot on the web, as the independent live internet TV station announced its Ads Plus package plan to potential sponsors.

The Ads Plus package will regularly extend to all of its new sponsors a free 30-day advertising trial, allowing them to simultaneously place ads in all of MPTVs available media formats. Marc Cubas, MPTVs Business Director, has temporarily added an additional 15 days to the trial period.

I want to invite advertisers to do business with us, and I want them to experience the variety of advertising platforms well have to offer them as we continue to grow, said Cubas. Music Plus TV will be on broadband, cable, satellite, and in print via our Print/PDF magazine. Well have the ability to reach consumers all over the world.

With the official website alone, MPTV has already acquired 250,000 registered domestic and international users, a number which is steadily growing larger everyday.

Dennis Tzeng, MPTVs Creative Director, sees several benefits to advertising with MPTV. Advertisers will reach an audience that is looking for something new and cutting edge, said Tzeng. And because well have a worldwide reach, advertisers looking to brand their name or product worldwide will be able to do so in a low-cost way.

MPTV will have a menu of advertising choices available to sponsors, such as short commercial spots, product placement opportunities, content sponsorship and limited website banners.

Scheduled to officially launch its live internet TV station on June 15th, Music Plus TV will provide 24/7 online exposure for independent and unsigned bands and musicians. By the beginning of next year, MPTV will also have a cable network TV station up and running.

http://musicplustv.com/nuke/index.php

Contact: Terry Nelson
Global Artists Coalition
(917) 855 7772
terry@unsigned-artists.net

DURING HIP-HOP APPRECIATION WEEK

A Celebration of Harlem Hip-Hop History, Co-sponsored by Columbia University,
Will Provide Historical and Cultural Linkages Through Discussion,
Artistic Exhibitions, and Creative Displays by Rap Pioneers

New York, NY May 14, 2005 On Thursday, May 19 and Friday, May 20, during Hip-Hop Appreciation Week, Global Artists Coalition, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of hip-hop history and culture, will present A Celebration of Harlem Hip-Hop History a free, interdisciplinary exploration of hip-hops roots in the Harlem community in conjunction with Columbia University and the Harlem Arts Alliance.

The event will take place at Columbia Universitys Alfred Lerner Hall and include a symposium exploring Harlems significance to present-day hip-hop as well as music demonstrations, artistic exhibitions, and a sneaker-painting competition, sponsored by Converse.

The program is as follows:

Thursday, May 19
Hip-Hop Symposium
Location: Columbia University; 115th Street & Bway; Alfred Lerner Hall; Satow Room; 5th fl.
6 p.m. 9 p.m.
Featuring:
M1 (Dead Prez), music artist and cultural activist
Michael A. Gonzales, journalist, author and cultural critic
Havelock Nelson, Billboard magazines first rap columnist
Eddy Petit, scholar and artist
Paul Winley, pioneering rap music producer
Moderator: Dowoti Desir, activist, journalist, professor, Brooklyn College/CUNY

Friday, May 20
Exhibitions and Displays
Location: Columbia University, Alfred Lerner Hall, Satow Room, Basement, 115th Street & Bway.
1 p.m. 5 p.m. Converse Sneaker Art Battle
Emerging artists will use graffiti and illustrative art skills to creatively tag plain white sneakers. The winning design will be featured on a limited-edition Converse sneaker.

1 p.m. 5 p.m. Exhibition of Rare Hip-Hop Handbills and Classic Period Photography
The Hip-Hop party handbill was the first form of street marketing in the late 70s/early 80s. These particular handbills are a part of a collection on permanent exhibit at the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Photography from Jamal Shabazzs book Back In the Day will also be displayed.

1 p.m. 2 p.m. True School: Rap as a Teaching Tool
Master mix tape blender Silva Sir-Fa drops science about how rap can be used to help students become more open to learning math, grammar and spelling.

2 p.m. 3 p.m. Presentation of Original Break beats by DJ Neil Armstrong
Break beats are the rhythmic foundation of hip-hop music. This crowd-pleasing mix tape magician will cut and mix seminal sample-spotting musical tracks.

3 p.m. 4 p.m. Demonstration of Scratch Techniques by Grand Wizzard Theodore
The acknowledged inventor of turntable scratching and the needle drop, will illustrate his groundbreaking techniques.

A Celebration of Harlem Hip-Hop History is the second interdisciplinary initiative presented by Global Artists Coalition. The first event at Miamis Para Deisos Design Center last May attracted 8,000 attendees and showcased such icons as Doug E. Fresh and Biz Markie.

The Global Artists Coalition is a 501C3 nonprofit multicultural arts organization that provides emerging artists with the support services and programs they need to build successful, sustainable careers. GAC works in conjunction with other related organizations to raise awareness dispel myths and effect positive change across communities, ethnicities and countries by promoting cultural exchange and free artistic _expression.

For more information about the Global Artists Coalition and previous events, please visit our website at www.GACNY.COM or www.globalartistscoalition.org.

The April edition of the Source magazine called him the next biggest name in hip-hop. Now Renegade Foxxx's Debute Album drops May 17th.

ThugLifeArmy.com Press Release -- (ArriveNet - May 17, 2005) --The April edition of the Source magazine called him the next biggest name in hip-hop.

He has been in XXL magazine, has been showed love from the east to the west coasts and everywhere in-between; and now his long awaited debut album Still Hustlin' is being released today May 17th.

Renegade Foxxx is certainly a new force to be reckoned with in hip- hop and rap. His style is not only overwhelming but he is truly a likeable dude.

His album Still Hustlin shows his Alabama roots as it is heavy in the southern influence. Tracks with rap artists Bone Crusher and Pitbull are already banging thru the airwaves and people cant seem to get enough.

The album also has tracks with Trina, Kym Rae, west coast rap icon E-40, rappers The YoungBloodz and also rap artist Petey Pablo; the newly signed inmate to Suge Knights Death Row Records.

The album has a little bit of something for everyone.

Also featured on the album are a few skit which feature out takes from an interview Renegade Foxxx did back in December with a web site writer Robert of www.ThugLifeArmy.com , and www.TLA-PROnline.com . Robert is also a contributing writer and staff member at www.RapNews.net .

The skits allow you to see that Foxxx is out to have fun and to enjoy what he is doing.

Playing the duel role of hip-hop rap artist and CEO of Still Hustlin Records is a demanding position and when he can, Foxxx is all about having fun, enjoying life and being real.

Make sure you take a look at this album and experience for yourself why the bible of hip-hop, The Source, calls Renegade Foxxx the next biggest name in hip-hop.

Album available in stores and online May17th.

Visit Still Hustlin Records - Home of Renegade Foxxx for audio, video and more info: http://www.stillhustlinrecords.com/site/

TRACK LISTING

Song Title

1. Anything U Want - (with Petey Pablo/YoungBloodz)

2. Skit

3. Scream (Get It Right) - (with Trina)

4. Royal Rumble - (with Bone Crusher)

5. Skit

6. War Music

7. Skit

8. Leave Me Alone

9. Real Recognize Real - (with E-40)

10. Skit

11. Tough Love - (Marley Marl remix, with Prodigy)

12. Skit

13. That Thang

14. Skit

15. Royal Rumble - (with Bone Crusher/Pitbull)

16. Skit

17. Come Ova - (with Kym Rae)

18. Skit

19. Signs, The

20. Skit

21. Wonderful

22. Outro

Read the entire interview Robert did with Renegade Foxxx - http://www.thuglifearmy.com/news/?id=601

Distribution Source : ArriveNet

Company's Latest Celebrity Responsibility Ad Sends Strong Message to Parents

ST. LOUIS, May 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Anheuser-Busch (NYSE:BUD) is striking a chord with parents on underage-drinking prevention by collaborating with hip- hop artist Nelly on a new ad that emphasizes the important role parents play in helping teens make smart, responsible choices about not drinking.

In the :30 ad titled "Who Am I?", Nelly admits that, at first glance, some of the parents watching may not recognize him as a hip-hop icon, so he helps them eliminate what his profession might be by humorously pretending to be a chef, a boxer, and a golfer. After failing in those roles, he notes that contemporary adult fans know him as one of America's hottest music stars, but when it comes to teens, he reminds parents, "Your kids are your biggest fans, so talk with them about underage drinking." Created by DDB Chicago, "Who Am I?" will debut Wednesday, May 18 during Law and Order on NBC.

"Underage drinking is a serious issue, and working with parents to address this problem is the responsible thing to do," says Nelly in response to why he teamed up with Anheuser-Busch on this project. "It's very important for parents to talk with their children about everything, and underage-drinking prevention is definitely one of those things you need to jump on early."

According to the 2004 Roper Youth Report, a nationally representative survey of teens (ages 13-17), 75 percent reported their parents are the primary influence in their decisions about whether or not they drink alcohol.

"We're very excited to work with a music star like Nelly to help focus attention on the power parents have in preventing teens from drinking," states John Kaestner, vice president of Consumer Affairs for Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. "Responsibility matters, and we want to encourage parents to remind their teens that underage drinking is not only wrong, it's against the law."

The good news is that most teens are heeding the message. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that 71 percent of underage youth (ages 12-20) -- more than 26 million -- are doing the right thing by not drinking. According to a study recently released by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America, all measures of teen alcohol use have dropped significantly from 1998 to 2004. Additionally, the number of fatalities in teen drunk- driving crashes has declined by 60 percent since 1982, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The spot with Nelly marks the debut of Anheuser-Busch's third responsibility ad this year, following an underage-drinking prevention spot featuring company Chairman August A. Busch III that debuted in January and a designated driver spot with Cedric "The Entertainer" that aired on the Super Bowl in February.

This latest commercial continues Anheuser-Busch's 20-year tradition of promoting responsibility through television advertising. In 1985, Anheuser- Busch was the first alcohol beverage company to air a responsibility ad on network television. In that spot, Los Angeles Dodger Steve Garvey reminded individuals to "Know When to Say When." And for the past two decades, Anheuser-Busch has continued to integrate creative messaging with celebrities in television ads featuring such spokespeople as John Schneider, Patrick Ewing, Dan Marino, George Strait, Oscar de la Hoya, Wayne Gretzky, Dale Earnhardt Jr., *NSYNC, and Tim McGraw to promote responsibility, encourage the use of designated drivers, and help parents prevent underage drinking.

In addition to celebrating 20 years of responsibility television advertising, the investment by Anheuser-Busch and its 600 independent wholesalers nationwide in these efforts has now reached more than a half- billion dollars since the company introduced its "Know When to Say When" community-based programs in 1982. More information is available at http://www.beeresponsible.com/ .

Source: Anheuser-Busch

CONTACT: Alissa Pinck, +1-212-725-4500, ext. 315, apinck@schwartz.com ,
or Steve Mastorakos, +1-314-765-7286, steve.mastorakos@anheuser-busch.com ,
both for Anheuser-Busch

Web site: http://www.beeresponsible.com/

First Time Awards Ceremony to Be Telecast on Premium Network

Gala Ceremony Features Tribute to Ossie Davis and a Celebration of the Best in Multiethnic Programming

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., May 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Starz Entertainment Group (SEG) announced today that it will present the first national broadcast of the 11th Annual NAMIC Vision Awards. The unique awards ceremony, which celebrates the cable industry's best in multiethnic original programming, will be telecast at 6:30 p.m. ET/PT, Saturday, May 28th exclusively on Starz InBlack.

"We are thrilled to be the first to televise this important celebration of diversity in cable programming," said Brett Marottoli, director, program acquisitions, Starz Entertainment Group. "We join NAMIC in their commitment to diversity and are proud to share this prestigious industry event with our subscribers."

"We are proud of our decade long history of producing the Vision Awards," said Kyle Bowser, founder and executive producer, NAMIC Vision Awards. "Our partnership with Starz Entertainment Group provides a wonderful opportunity to communicate our message to millions of viewers who share our concerns about the absence of diversity on the air."

The 11th Annual NAMIC Vision Awards were presented on Friday, April 29th at The Beverly Hilton. Hosting the gala event were Lisa Ling ("Explorer"), Lisa Vidal ("The Division") and Chris Spencer ("Significant Others"). Participating in the show were a roster of stars from stage and screen, including Mario Van Peebles ("Baadasssss"), Michael Clarke Duncan ("Sin City"), Glynn Turman ("Sahara"), Kimberly Brooks ("Huff"), Georg Stanford Brown ("Mystery Woman: Snapshot"), Tim Reid ("On the One"), Judge Mablean Ephriam ("Divorce Court"), Richard T. Jones ("Judging Amy"), Benito Martinez ("The Shield"), Kristoff St. John ("The Young and the Restless") and AJ and Free ("106 and Park"). Further highlighting the evening were live performances from singer/songwriter Brenda Russell and Asian R&B Hip-Hop group Far East Movement.

In addition to recognizing the best in multicultural original content in nine programming categories, the 11th Annual NAMIC Vision Awards paid homage posthumously to legendary actor, director, writer, producer and activist Ossie Davis for his longstanding commitment to advancing the cause of diversity. Davis' widow, actor, writer, producer Ruby Dee was present to accept the North Star Award.

In accepting the award, Ms. Dee said, "Only yesterday it seems cable was a dream and it took the work of many visionaries to bring it to where it is today. If Ossie were here I think he would charge us with the task of keeping multicultural stories alive, serving the nature and needs of our times. He would urge us to keep cable and all media alive, relevant and telling it like it is."

SiTV co-founder and chairman Jeff Valdez was honored with the Quasar Award for his work in helping to illuminate and advance diversity in the communications industry. "Sesame Street" and its production company Sesame Workshop received the Legacy Award for their impact on the diversity landscape. For a complete list of winners visit www.namic.com.

Starz InBlack is the source for the biggest, coolest movies and urban entertainment. Starz InBlack has produced several original film projects, most recently, "UNSTOPPABLE: A Conversation with Melvin Van Peebles, Gordon Parks and Ossie Davis," "The Last of the Mississippi Jukes," and the Peabody Award winning "A Huey P. Newton Story" starring Roger Guenveur Smith and directed by Spike Lee, also nominated for two NAACP Image Awards. Other productions include the critically acclaimed "Funny Valentines" (in association with Studio USA Pictures and STARZ! Pictures), starring Alfre Woodard, Loretta Devine and CCH Pounder, and original documentaries "Scandalize My Name: Stories from the Blacklist," hosted by actor Morgan Freeman and the highly regarded "Classified X" by the godfather of contemporary African American cinema, Melvin Van Peebles.

About NAMIC, Inc.

Founded 25 years ago as a non-profit 501(c)(6) trade association and comprised of 2,000 industry professionals, NAMIC (National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications) has developed programs to help educate, empower and advocate for multi-ethnic diversity in the telecommunications industry through 17 nationwide chapters. Such initiatives are achieved through the Annual NAMIC Conference, a cornerstone of Cable Diversity Week, the L. Patrick Mellon Mentorship Program and the Executive Leadership and Development Program (ELDP) at the UCLA Anderson Graduate School of Business.

About Starz Entertainment Group

Starz Entertainment Group LLC (SEG) is the largest provider of premium movie services in the United States with approximately 174 million pay units. SEG offerings include the Starz Encore Movie Pack with 13 digital movie channels and more than 750 movies per month, Starz HDTV, Starz On Demand, and Starz Ticket, the first and only on-demand premium TV subscription service available on the broadband platform. Starz Entertainment Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation, www.starz.com.

Contacts: Chelsye J. Burrows Charmaine Chapman
Starz Entertainment Group BTB Communications
720.852.5838 310.285.9443
chelsye.burrows@starz.com char@btbcommunications.com


Source: Starz Entertainment Group LLC

CONTACT: Chelsye J. Burrows of Starz Entertainment Group,
+1-720-852-5838, chelsye.burrows@starz.com; or Charmaine Chapman of BTB
Communications, +1-310-285-9443, char@btbcommunications.com, for NAMIC, Inc.

Web site: http://www.starz.com/
http://www.namic.com/

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 16, 2005--H3Enterprises Inc. has announced the final closing of its FransAction acquisition and the public debut of its common stock under the symbol "HTRE.PK." H3 is the first publicly traded company dedicated to Hip Hop both music and lifestyle. H3Enterprises is the owner, creator, licensor, and franchisor of HipHopSodaShops, Halls of HipHop, H3Raps, H3WhiteTea, H3CyberSports, H3'sWorldSeries of CyberSports, and H30 (hthreeonline.com).

H3 has engineered several major deals for the immediate rollout of HipHopSodaShops, a totally unique fast-food franchise in concept as well as menu. The Company recently signed a Master Franchise Agreement with M-Four International of Montreal to open 100 units across Canada, and a 30 store Area Development Agreement for Las Vegas with a group led by Jackie Robinson. H3 is in the process of opening 10 flagship units in key markets across North America and has also developed an aggressive program to convert existing food establishments into HipHopSodaShops. H3 expects to announce several important conversion and Area Development Agreements in the next few weeks.

"We are in the process of opening community conscious establishments across America and Canada that celebrate the greatness of the Hip Hop culture," says top Hip Hop DJ and Company co-founder Jamar "J Niice" McNeil. "HipHopSodaShops have the healthiest menu combos on earth, with price points suitable for everyone's budget, including our signature H3Raps, a delicious selection of 'Biggie' and 'Smallie' wraps that have 80% fewer carbs than subs and sandwiches.

HipHopSodaShops are introducing H3WhiteTea Beverages, our own line of great tasting sodas, teas, lemonades, and energy drinks containing rare, organic white teas sweetened with pure chicory syrup, and boasting five times the healing and overall health benefits found in a 20 oz. bottle of Green Tea. We also offer the best in music, videos, merchandising and memorabilia, and we'll be the first franchise to feature competitive CyberSports, both in-store and on H30 (Hthreeonline.com.)

"I see the HipHopSodaShops as one of the greatest fast-food franchise opportunities of our time," said Hall of Fame Athlete and Las Vegas entrepreneur, Jackie Robinson. "I love the entire concept and especially the fact that its creators and developers are committed to using the enormous wealth being generated by Hip Hop to create better jobs and educational opportunities for the entire black community. I look forward to being a major player with this extraordinary concept," said Robinson, former owner/operator of 53 Pizza Hut franchises.

According to top Canadian Hip Hop personality Scott Boogie, "The HipHopSodaShop can quickly become the heart and soul of our communities. I believe the SodaShops can be the vehicle that brings the excitement of Hip Hop to people everywhere."

"We have created the only business model that incorporates the two fastest growing forms of entertainment on earth," states H3's award-winning President, Brian "H3" Peters. "The signs are everywhere that Hip Hop has gone mainstream when we see corporations like GM, McDonalds and Coke using Hip Hop as a major part of their marketing campaigns. Right now 85% of Hip Hop related sales are coming from whites 13-35. By bringing the 'street' to Wall Street we hope to give everyone the opportunity to participate in the Hip Hop boom."

This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 or Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 and is subject to the safe harbor created by these sections. Certain information included herein may contain statements that are forward-looking, such as statements relating to plans for future expansion and other business development activities. Such forward-looking information is subject to changes and variations which are not reasonably predictable and which could significantly affect future results.
Contacts
H3Enterprises Inc.
Tom Lisker, 914/376-6767

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 12, 2005--H3 Enterprises, Inc., the first publicly traded company dedicated to the Hip Hop culture and community, has shaken the business and entertainment scene with today's unveiling of the "Franchise Dream Team." Award winning 25 year-old co-founders "H3" Peters and "J Niice" McNeil announced the signings of Clyde Culp, Jackie Robinson, George Lois, Bob Palmer, and Harold Kestenbaum to long-term deals. The Company has enlisted these highly decorated battle tested generals to ensure that H3's dream of job creation, youth education, health preservation, and equal opportunity for the entire Hip Hop community becomes a lasting reality. H3Enterprises is the owner, creator, licensor, and franchiser of Halls of HipHop, HipHopSodaShops, H3Raps, H3WhiteTea, H3CyberSports, H3'sWorldSeries of CyberSports, and H30 (hthreeonline.com).

H3 has attracted Clyde Culp, one of the all-time legends of food and hospitality franchising, to be its Chairman and CEO. Over the last 30 years Culp has served as CEO and President for Holiday Inns, Long John Silver's, Embassy Suites Hotels, among many other industry giants, and was owner, CEO and President of Wendy's largest franchise group, Davco (146 Wendy's units). Culp is known throughout the franchise industry as one of its greatest tacticians and leaders.

After a series of extremely profitable business ventures, Las Vegas basketball legend Jackie Robinson landed a spot in Black Enterprise Magazine's "Top 100 Business People" (#51). Jackie was the owner/operator of 53 franchised Pizza Hut Restaurants, and will be opening 30 HipHopSodaShops in the booming Las Vegas market over the next three years. Robinson will be directing H3's West Coast operations and is already using his wealth of contacts to gain the largest Las Vegas stage for H3's $5,000,000 World Series of CyberSports.

Bob Palmer has been tabbed to lead H3's Franchise Operations. Mr. Palmer has been CEO and President of New York New York Franchising, Inc., a company he founded in 2001. In the last 25 years Palmer has developed several well known franchises including Grease Monkey, Taco Rancho, New York Burrito, Auto Spa, Re-Bath and New York NY Fresh Deli. Palmer has proven to be one of the world's top innovators in franchise development and sales programs.

Since 1977, Harold Kestenbaum has been at the highest level of Franchise Law, with dozens of publicly traded companies among his clients. From 1982 to 1986, he was the Franchise Attorney for Sbarro's and has been a Director of that company for the last 20 years. He is now engaged in the independent practice of Franchise Law, representing a virtual "Who's Who" of food concepts nationwide. Kestenbaum will serve as H3's Franchise Attorney and General Counsel.

Marketing icon and social maverick George Lois is the most creative, prolific advertising communicator of our time. Lois is responsible for an incredible list of culture changing campaigns, including "I Want My MTV," ESPN "In Your Face," Lean Cuisine and Tommy Hilfiger. Lois is the only person ever inducted into all three marketing related Halls of Fame, and will serve as the Company's Creative Director. Lois also led the crusade that eventually freed "Hurricane" Carter and has recently teamed with H3 to educate the public about the plight of former NBA All-Star, Jayson Williams.

H3 will soon be announcing the details of its highly anticipated "Peoples Press Conference" in which the entire H3 Team will be introduced, including its All Star Canadian line-up. Other major Company developments will be unveiled along with a whole host of stars from the Sports and Hip Hop worlds that are expected to participate in the Company's future development.

This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 or Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 and is subject to the safe harbor created by these sections. Certain information included herein may contain statements that are forward-looking, such as statements relating to plans for future expansion and other business development activities. Such forward-looking information is subject to changes and variations which are not reasonably predictable and which could significantly affect future results.
Contacts
H3 Enterprises, Inc.
Tom Lisker 914-376-6767

Four-Disc Set Featuring Autobiography And Unheard Hip Hop Tracks Set To Drop In Fall 2005

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 16, 2005--Urban Box Office (UBO), an innovative entertainment and distribution company, has signed legendary hip hop sensation Luke Campbell to its newly formed hip hop label, Insurgent Records. The former front man of 2 Live Crew, Campbell is UBO's newest FREEDOM artist. Campbell's first project Luke Campbell's Soup for the Freaky Soul: The Sexploits of Uncle Luke is a four-disc set consisting of a two-disc audio book of choice autobiographical moments, compilation soundtrack CD and a DVD featuring stimulating footage of his notorious Luke Girls.

Hip hop music changed forever when Campbell introduced 'Luke's Girls' to the urban circuit in the days of 2 Live Crew. The popular formula of "booty dancers" and hip hop music became its own phenomenon as a result of the Luke Girls. Luke Campbell's Soup for the Freaky Soul is a collection of some of the nastiest tales from the legendary rapper's life: stories about singers, celebs and athletes who hung at Luke's crib. Campbell is famous, wealthy and notoriously single, with access to hoards of sexy women who are willing to do anything to get his attention and Luke Campbell's Soup for the Freaky Soul chronicles it all.

Campbell relates his experiences with a two-disc autobiographical audio-book, in addition, the compilation CD features new recordings (some performed as a tribute to or as covers from original Luke hits from Jacki-O, Petey Pablo, Pitbull, Trick Daddy, and other hip hop artists.

His project will be supported by UBO's proprietary FREEDOM MODEL, a method of distribution that provides artists the opportunity to maintain maximum revenue while selling and promoting in nontraditional venues. Consumers purchase music at a value price at a broad spectrum of outlets, including both traditional stores and non-traditional retailers that range from bodegas to barber shops.

By bringing music to the people through this integrated marketing approach, UBO will promote Campbell with intense campaigns, from contests to find the next Luke Girl to an 800-number dial-in television campaign.

About Urban Box Office

Urban Box Office (UBO), a subsidiary of Contemporary Holdings and Equities Inc., is an innovative entertainment and distribution company that directly supplies media products to its core target consumers through its proprietary FREEDOM MODEL. Through this business format, artists keep as much revenue as possible from each recording, while consumers purchase music when, where, and how they want it, at a value price. The company is headquartered in New York City. For more information about UBO products, visit www.ubo.com.

For more information, interviews, and press kits please contact: Tremedia; Tresa L. Sanders at 845.623.2325 or email at tre@tre-media.net or Urban Box Office; Ginelle Nicolas at 212.918.0049 or ginelle@ubo.com.
Contacts
Tremedia
Tresa L. Sanders, 845-623-2325
tre@tre-media.net
or
Urban Box Office
Ginelle Nicolas, 212-918-0049
ginelle@ubo.com

'Lonely' #3 Two Weeks in A Row on Billboard's U.S. Singles Charts: Hot 100 Pop 100

#1 Single ('Lonely') and #1 Album (Trouble) in the U.K.

NEW YORK, May 16 /PRNewswire/ -- SRC artist Akon continues his unprecedented global success both here and abroad. The talented singer/songwriter holds steady this week with his smash hit single, "Lonely," nearing the top of the Billboard's Hot 100 and Pop singles charts at #3 for a second week in a row. The sizzling song from the platinum-plus album, Trouble, is also Top 10 in on the Hot Digital Songs (#5) chart.

Akon explodes across Europe with one of the best selling albums in recent months. This week, the unstoppable Akon emerges as a worldwide phenomenon, landing a remarkable feat of chart domination, with the #1 single ("Lonely") and album (Trouble) in the UK.

The provocative artist has also landed upcoming sold out performances in several countries around the globe, including Denmark, Spain, Germany, France and the UK, with plans in the works for Japan, Australia and New Zealand, later this summer. Akon will also perform in his parent's homeland, Dakar, Senegal for two sold-out stadium shows June 3 - 4.

Akon's debut single, the acclaimed "Locked Up," is also still putting up stellar numbers around the world, becoming a Top 5 single in the UK, garnering the #3 spot in France, as well as topping the charts in other territories throughout Europe. The inaugural single from Trouble made a monumental splash here in the states, becoming a huge hit on the R&B and hip hop charts.

Akon's roots in music can be traced back to his father, the legendary percussionist and jazz musician Mor Thiam. Exposed to many forms of music at an early age, Akon gravitated towards hip-hop as a teen-ager, but he is a true musician who refuses to be limited. The charismatic performer has collaborated with a diverse range of artists that include: Baby Bash, Jesse McCartney, Brian McKnight, Styles P and Bobby Vinton -- whose "Mr. Lonely" inspired Akon's current hit "Lonely."

Source: Universal Motown

CONTACT: Shirronda Sweet, +1-212-841-8622, Shirronda.sweet@umusic.com,
or Wendy Washington, +1-212-373-0702, wendy.washington@umusic.com, both of
Universal Motown

Web site: http://www.universalrecords.com/

SANTA MONICA, Calif., May 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Geffen Records artist Hush comes out swinging with a multi-song performance on the season finale of NBC's hit boxing reality show "The Contender." Set for 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 24, live from Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas, the show features the match to determine the top "contender" and winner of a $1 million prize. Hush provides the musical backdrop, performing four original songs during the show.

Hush is no stranger to "The Contender." His music has been featured on almost every episode since the hit series debuted earlier this year. For the two-hour May 24 finale, Hush performs the songs "Fired Up and "Put 'Em Down" during the semi-final bouts, and the song "All I Got" during the main event. Hush then performs his tune "Adrenaline" during the closing credits.

Given all this high profile attention, it's remarkable to note the rapper's debut Geffen CD "Bulletproof" isn't even out yet. In advance of the CD's summer release, Hush has just finished shooting the video for his song "Hush is Coming," featuring Nate Dogg on the hook and production by Eminem. Di