Hip Hop Press - Hip Hop Press Releases

Charlie Wilson and The Gap Band Honored as BMI Icons

MIAMI, Aug. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. performing rights organization BMI saluted the premier r&b, rap and hip-hop songwriters, producers and publishers at its 2005 BMI Urban Awards, staged tonight in the Grand Ballroom of the Fontainebleau Resort in Miami Beach.

Lil Jon and R. Kelly were named Songwriters of the Year, each receiving four "most performed song" awards. "Yeah!," written by Sean Garrett, Lil Jon and Patrick "j.Que" Smith, was named Song of the Year, Kanye West received Producer of the Year honors, and EMI Music Publishing was awarded the BMI Crystal for Urban Publisher of the Year. The first Urban Ringtone Award went to Lil Jon and Craig D. Love for "Freek-A-Leek." A highlight of the gala was a tribute to urban funk legends Charlie Wilson and The GAP Band, who were named BMI Icons for their "enduring influence on generations of music makers."

The ceremony was hosted by BMI President & CEO Del Bryant and Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations Catherine Brewton, who presented awards to the 70 songwriters of the 35 most performed songs of 2004 in the urban music format.

Lil Jon, who was honored with three major BMI awards -- Songwriter of the Year, Song of the Year and Urban Ringtone of the Year -- was also named one of BMI's top songwriter/producers of the year. Lil Jon was also named Songwriter of the Year at BMI's Pop Awards held in May, marking the first time that a songwriter earned both Pop and Urban Songwriter of the Year honors in the same year.

R. Kelly received his second BMI Crystal as Urban Songwriter of the Year (he also won in 2002) with four songs on the most-performed list -- "Gigolo," "Hotel," "Step In The Name of Love" and "Thoia Thoing" -- and was also named one of BMI's top songwriter/producers. His latest CD, TP.3 Reloaded, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 the week of its release, instantly becoming his fifth #1 album.

"Yeah!," recorded by Usher featuring Ludacris and Lil Jon, was named Urban Song of the Year for tallying the most U.S. broadcast performances in 2004. The #1 Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop song earned awards for songwriters Sean Garrett, Lil Jon and Patrick "j.Que" Smith, and music publishers Christopher Matthew Music, Hitco Music and White Rhino Music, Inc.

BMI Producer of the Year honors went to Kanye West for logging the most producer credits on charting songs. The BMI Top Urban Producers list also included Cool & Dre, Eminem, Fat Joe, Jazze Pha, R. Kelly, John Legend, Lil Jon, Mannie Fresh and The Neptunes (Pharrell Williams & Chad Hugo).

On the list of BMI's 35 most-performed urban songs, four songwriters contributed three songs each: Eminem, Sean Garrett, Kanye West and Pharrell Williams.

EMI Music Publishing was named BMI Urban Publisher of the Year by accumulating the highest percentage of copyright ownership in award songs. Big Jon Platt, Executive Vice President, Urban Music, U.S., accepted on behalf of the publisher.

The evening culminated with The GAP Band being honored as BMI Icons. Four of the band's nine albums were certified Platinum plus (The GAP Band II, The GAP Band III, The GAP Band IV and GAP Band V - Jammin') and featured 15 Top Ten and four #1 r&b hits, including "You Dropped a Bomb On Me," "Party Train," "Burn Rubber," "Outstanding," "Oops Upside Your Head," "Early in the Morning," and the smooth love song, "Yearning for Your Love." "Outstanding" alone remains one of the most sampled songs in history and has, astonishingly, been used by over 150 artists.

In addition to the BMI performance awards, music trade magazine Billboard recognized the BMI-affiliated writers who had #1 songs on the R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, Hot Rap Tracks, Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay and Hot 100 charts during the past year.

Now marking its 65th year in business, BMI is an American performing rights organization that represents more than 300,000 songwriters, composers and publishers in all genres of music. With a repertoire of more than 6.5 million musical works from around the world, the non-profit-making corporation collects license fees from businesses that use music, which it then distributes as royalties to the musical creators and copyright owners it represents.

For a complete list of 2005 BMI Urban Awards winners, please visit bmi.com/urban.

Source: BMI

CONTACT: Hanna Pantle of BMI, +1-310-289-6328, hpantle@bmi.com

Web site: http://bmi.com/urban

Size Twelve Incorporated announces an evening of legendary hip-hop and R&B when Tony da Sktizo and DJ Buddha perform with the underground group Living Legends at 'Canes in Mission Beach. A great evening of live performances by 2005 San Diego Music Award Nominee Tony da Skitzo, and DJ Buddha awaits fans of hip-hop, R&B, funk and soul.

(PRWEB) August 27, 2005 -- San Diego's very own Tony da Skitzo and DJ Buddha are to perform live on stage with the legends of underground hip-hop Living Legends. Tony da Skitzo will perform the tracks from his latest SDMA nominated full length release "The Good, The Bad, The Skitzo" such as Talkin' 2 U, We Ride, and Brown Bag. His dance hall energy will be sure to get the crowd hyped up.

DJ Buddha is just returning from a recent performance with The Digital Underground, where he wrecked the turntables with his style of funky mixing and scratching. People will remember that performance.

These talented local artists will show their stuff as they set the tone for the Living Legends. It should be a great evening for lovers of urban music and the growing hip-hop music scene in San Diego.

Join us on Sunday, September 4th at 9:00 pm at 'Canes Bar and Grill. General admission tickets are available for $22. To purchase your tickets, please call (858) 488-1780, or log onto www.canesbarandgrill.com. Tickets are almost as legendary as this show! You must be 21 to attend.

About Size Twelve Incorporated
Size Twelve Incorporated is a diversified San Diego-based, entertainment company that is the parent organization of Size Twelve Entertainment and Size Twelve Records. The creative musical community of Size Twelve Incorporated includes local performing musicians in Hip-Hop, Latin, Rock, Rap, Blues, and Jazz. We have twenty plus years of diverse experience in the music industry at all levels, from production to performing and are a totally independent entity backed and funded by ourselves. Our goal is to contribute a positive creativity to the local music and art community.

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CONTACT INFORMATION
Brian Moore
SIZE TWELVE INCORPORATED
http://www.sizetwelve.com/
619-517-2481

Mr. Del: The Future, in-stores 8/2/05 (third week), has attained a #15 ranking on BillBoard Magazine's Top Gospel Chart. Simultaneously, Canton Jones: Love Jones, in-stores 8/16/05 (first week), has attained a #23 ranking on BillBoard Magazine's Top Gospel Chart.

Memphis, TN/Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) August 26, 2005 -- Mr. Del: The Future, in-stores 8/2/05 (third week), has attained a #15 ranking on BillBoard Magazine's Top Gospel Chart. Simultaneously, Canton Jones: Love Jones, in-stores 8/16/05 (first week), has attained a #23 ranking on BillBoard Magazine's Top Gospel Chart.

Specials thanks to the entire Global Holy Hip Hop and Gospel community for your support of the August 2, 2005 album release titled: Mr. Del: The Future and the August 16, 2005 album release titled: Canton Jones: Love Jones, as these milestones for Ministers of the Gospel are not attainable and impossible without each and everyone of you telling your families and friends, playing tracks, purchasing albums and sharing the good news worldwide within and throughout your respective communities, one-at-a-time. James 5:20.

Global Media Acknowledgments: The Gospel Zone, Gospel Flava, Gospel City, Taba Music Media, IMAGE, Ephraim Productions, Cross Rhythms, Urban Gospel Alliance, ManHunt, EMI CMG, Christian Examiner, Christianity Today, Nuthin But Gospel, Altared Lives, CBN, Neworld Music, Hip Hop For The Soul, Da South, Sonicbids, Cumulus, Cox, ClearChannel, RadioOne, CBS Radio and All Independent Land, Satellite and Web-based Radio Stations, AM/FM, Program Directors, DJ's and worldwide for your support of Mr. Del: The Future and Canton Jones: Love Jones, distributed worldwide by EMI Gospel.

About BillBoard.Com:
Billboard.com is the Internet home of Billboard magazine, the leading international newsweekly of music, video and home entertainment. Billboard magazine has served the information needs of the entertainment business since 1894. Headquartered in New York, Billboard has offices in Los Angeles, Nashville, Washington, D.C., London, and Tokyo, and has editorial correspondents in major cities around the globe.

Billboard.com draws off the vast experience and expertise of the Billboard magazine staff to offer daily news and weekly features and reviews that provide fans and professionals alike with the Internet's most-trusted update on music happenings and new releases. The magazine's famous charts of U.S. sales, airplay and box-office grosses are previewed in the public area of the site -- and provide a reliable guidepost for anyone seeking to discover the globe's hottest musical acts.

The Billboard.com Premium Services area includes complete versions of all of Billboard's weekly album, singles, and video charts, plus international music charts and concert grosses, in addition to all of the articles printed in each week's magazine. Search our chart and article archive databases for all Billboard articles, reviews, features and special reports dating back to 1991, weekly album, singles and video charts dating back to 1984, and year-end charts dating back to 1946. You can also access Billboard sister publications, such as Billboard Bulletin (a daily business news report) and Airplay Monitor (which covers the business of radio). To subscribe to Billboard Magazine for the latest in Music News, go to: http://www.billboard.com

EMI Gospel, a division of EMI CMG, is a global leader in the production, marketing and distribution of the best in Gospel music (including but not limited to: Kierra Sheard, Smokie Norful, Bishop Eddie Long, Bishop T.D. Jakes and more). For more information, log on to: EMIGospel.com.

About EMI CMG: Billboard Magazine's annual Top Christian Music Distributor since 1995, EMI CMG Distribution was founded in 1994 to serve as the main distribution outlet for EMI CMG's owned and distributed labels to the US Christian and general retail marketplace, and the international Christian marketplace. Awards given to EMI CMG Distribution include CBA Supplier of the Year 1998, 1999 & 2002, CBA Customer Service & Distribution Award 1998-2002 and CBA Impact Award 1998 & 1999. EMI CMG Distribution is a division of EMI CMG, which is a unit of EMI Music. EMI Music is the third largest recorded music company in the world operating directly in 50 countries. EMI Music represents more than 1,000 artists spanning all musical tastes and genres.

Holy Hip Hop Music, distributed world-wide by EMI Gospel, committed to consistently adhere to the following three (3) principles: (1) Provide Affordable Music; (2) Provide Music of Sound Production Quality; and (3) Provide Music that is Inspiring and Enlightening to the Heart, grounded in Christian Ministry First, and devoid of obscenities and innuendo harmful to children, youth, adults, the community and interests of mass media, in general. Holy Hip Hop Music, in strategic alliance with EMI Gospel, serves as the exclusive distribution partner for Arrow Records' Recording Artist: Canton Jones, Holy South Recording Artist: Mr. Del and SGR Music Recording Artist: Tragegy.

To Order Canton Jones: Love Jones- Click Here: http://holyhiphop.com/Press/cantonjonesretailpage.htm

For more information on Canton Jones, log on to: http://www.sonicbids.com/cantonjones, http://www.cajointernational.com or http://www.arrow-records.com

To Order Mr. Del: The Future - Click Here: http://www.holyhiphop.com/Press/mrdelretailpage.htm

For more information on Mr. Del, log on to: http://www.sonicbids.com/mrdel, http://www.everybodycalmdown.com or http://www.holysouth.com

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CONTACT INFORMATION
Holy Hip Hop Breaking News
http://www.holyhiphop.com/
404-893-5752

Snoop Doggs younger brother, Bing, who is currently completing the recording of the debut album with his rap duo, Lifestyle, is also bringing his new line of Snoop Skateboards into the fold. Bings Lifestyle CD is slated for release this fall, a highly anticipated work that also features his partner in the rap duo, DJ Quiks cousin, Hit (Michael Anthony Tyler).

In addition to the upcoming album, titled Lubrication, Bing also has a line of skateboards that will be available.

Shortly after the release of his Lifestyle album, which will be titled "Lubrication," his new line of Snoop Skateboards, which he is launching with his brother Snoop Dogg, will be available through Pentagon Distribution (the distributor for Academy Snowboards, Kampus Wakeskates and shoes, and CD Wakeboard Bindings).

Snoop and Bings new company is called the Snoop Dogg Board Company. They will debut a complete line of skateboarding products, including long and short skateboards, accessories, and backpacks. The decks will be manufactured with a standard of high quality, but will have competitive prices.

Bing Worthington, Snoop Doggs brother, came to us with a vision of bridging these two industries together because there is already so much crossover between skateboarding and the rap/hiphop market, says Duane Pacha, President of Pentagon Distribution.

Bing says, We are excited to work with the Pentagon group. These guys are definite hustlers in this business. We are down with skateboarding and want to get more music fans into skateboarding. Both of these should be part of everyones lifestyle.

Snoop will be heard on the Lifestyles album, Lubrication, on the track titled Bottoms Up.

The album will be released by Lethal Entertainment, headed by Greedy Greg Jessie and Thomas Bruno.

Media Contact:
Phyllis Pollack
Def Press Public Relations
18907 Vincennes St.
Northridge, CA 91324
818-349-2282
Route66@socal.rr.com

Spitzer is Rapper coming out of Saginaw, Michigan, also known as "Sag-Nasty" and turning heads. His style is unique and his flow is out of this world. Spitzer has been accepted to perform at the New York International Music Festival in November. The Festival is a week long from November 9th through the 17th. Spitzer will perform tow songs in front of the Music Industry.

It was hard growing up in "Sag-Nasty" and Spitzer knew music was his only way out. He built up his name through freestyle battles. Performed with B.G from Chopper City Records only to catch the eye of Eniq, a well known producer from Michgan. As well as the CEO from Billy Bad Azz Productions out of Detroit City.

Look for Spitzer's cd, Welcome To Spitzerland, coming out in December 2005.

Contact Info: Spitzer Entertainment
Nicole Rodriguez
1403 Cooper Avenue
Saginaw, MI 48602
989.482.0191

New York International Music Festival
Analisa San Juan
3753 Howard Hughes pkwy, Suite 200
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Director: Frankie Munoz

To celebrate the release of his third album, The Hear After, in stores August 30th on Penalty Records, J-Live has announceda remix contest, allowing up and coming producers to take a shot at producing for the legendary Brooklyn lyricist. Teaming up with online retailer HipHopSite.Com, J is offering an exclusive bonus CD featuring acapellas for the entire album, free with purchase of The Hear After, exclusively at the website.

Up and coming producers can remix any songfrom the album and submit it to the contest. J-Live will pick three winners himself, with thefirst prize winner's remix appearing on the b-side of J's next 12' inch single. Second and third place winners' remixes will appear on a volume of HipHopSite's Preemptive Hype compilation series. In addition, all three winners will receive autographed copies of the limited edition J-Live 7' inch vinyl single "School's In", of which only 500 copies were pressed. For full contest details and ordering information go here: http://www.hiphopsite.com/?p=/SEARCH/?ITEM=0275F35A-EA55-4418-B815-8723D7C97FFA

Matt Conaway
Movement Marketing
Alternate E-Mail Address: mattyc@tmo.blackberry.net
C-410-903-7568
AOL IM- Matthewbrn

August 26, 2005
New York, NY - The year was 1973. The place was 1520 Sedgwick Avenue, The Bronx. Thats where it all began. On a defining August 11th evening, DJ Kool Herc rocked a party outside a recreation center down the street from his house. But this wasnt just any party. On that evening, Hip Hop was born.

Flash forward some 30 years later. Same DJ. Different Time. Same Spirit. Different Place.

A video shoot is underway at Fat Beats record store in NYCs Lower West Side. DJ Kool Herc is behind the turntables. But in front, is a fresh face. He is Jin Au-Yeung, known nowadays as The Emcee. This is the same emcee who dominated BETs 106th and Park Freestyle Fridays competition. Its the same emcee who took home $50,000 and a new car at the 2004 Mixshow Power Summit in Puerto Rico.

The video being shot is for The Emcees first single, Top 5 (Dead or Alive). We had to get Herc in this video. There was no choice., says The Emcee. He birthed this thing we all know as Hip Hop. Everything we know about it leads right back to him.

Top 5 (Dead or Alive) is a homage to the emcees of past and present who have defined a culture which has found its way into just about every nook and cranny on the face of The Earth. The song is an important lesson to those who arent familiar with Hip Hops lineage. Emcees from Kurtis Blow to Jadakiss, Slick Rick to Scarface, Rakim to Nas. If its on your personal Top 5 list, you can bet that artist is mentioned on the record.

Kool Herc agreed to appear in the video after hearing The Emcees take on the subject matter. Herc, whos credited with founding Hip Hop admits that being in the industry hasnt been as lucrative for him as others. Take into account the multi-million dollar endorsement deals a few select artists are receiving. The Emcee even rocks a T-shirt in the video that gets right to the point. It reads: Hip HopWheres Kool Hercs Royalty Check? The shirt comes courtesy of Kool Hercs clothing line, Sedgwick and Cedar.

The video has quite a few surprises and was made possible by the people of New York who have a starring role in the video. The independent music video was produced by Kamel Pratt of Crafty Plugz in association with Draft Records, a new label founded by Howie McDuffie, formerly of Rawkus Records. Up and coming music video director, Todd Angkasuwan helmed the production. To see the video, visit www.theemcee.com or www.myspace.com/imtodd.

For more information please contact:
tnt digital media
623-451-5416
info@tntdigitalmedia.com

OCEANSIDE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 23, 2005--Pentagon Distribution, the distributor for Academy Snowboards, Kampus Wakeskates and shoes, and CD Wakeboard Bindings, has joined forces with Snoop Dogg to launch Snoop Dogg Board Company (SDBC).

The company will debut with a complete line of skateboarding products, including long and short skateboards, accessories, and backpacks. The decks will be manufactured with a high standard of quality, yet will have competitive pricing to reach the general public. The agreement also includes a complete line of lifestyle/high-end Snoop Dogg luggage and travel bags, which will launch in January 2006.

"Bing Worthington, Jr., Snoop Dogg's brother, came to us with a vision of bridging these two industries together because there is already so much crossover between skateboarding and the Rap/hip hop market. These guys work as hard as us, so it was a perfect fit," stated Duane Pacha, President of Pentagon Distribution.

"We are excited to work with the Pentagon group. These guys are definite hustlers in this business. With our music industry connections and concerts, we know this project is going to get big. We are down with skateboarding and want to get more music fans into skateboarding," commented Worthington.

Pentagon is currently interviewing qualified international distributors to represent Snoop Dogg Board Co. Any questions, please contact sales@snoopdoggboardco.com or view the website, www.snoopdoggboardco.com

Pentagon Distribution and its brands Academy Snowboards, Kampus Wakeskates, CD Wakeboard Bindings, and Snoop Dogg Board Company, are the property of Pacific Sports Group Inc.
Any investment questions, please contact investorrelations@pacificsportgroupinc.com

Contacts
Pacific Sports Group Inc.
Jeff Baughn, 760-721-7604, x223
jb@snoopdoggboardco.com

(PRWEB) August 25, 2005 -- Duman & Fiero, the newly formed San Francisco Bay Area based entertainment consulting firm, is set to debut their pioneering Independent A&R Clinic: "Utilizing A&R Resources," the first of a three part series, beginning on September 27th in Oakland, California.

The Indpendent A&R Clinics, which are the first of their kind, will help music artists get an honest commercial evaluation of their songs, and provide them with a chance to connect with traditional record label A&R, third party licensing companies, television/film music supervisors, and advertising agency reps who are responsible for the placement of music in commercials.

"For me personally, this is a natural and logical evolution considering the reputation that I've developed as an authority on commercial music through my work at Muse's Muse.com as a reviewer." COO, Gian Fiero says. "I have always wanted to actively instigate economic and creative opportunities for music artists and their songs. With the creation of this workshop, Duman & Fiero can facilitate those endeavors and business transactions while helping many deserving artists in the process."

The Independent A&R Clinics are scheduled as follows:

Title: Duman & Fiero's Independent A&R Clinic: Utilizing A&R Resources
Date: September 27th (Tuesday)
Time: 5 - 7 pm
Place: SBA Office, 519 17th St., Suite 200, Oakland, California
Admission: Free!

Title: Duman & Fiero's Independent A&R Clinic Part I: The Song
Date: November 1st (Tuesday)
Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Place: 519 17th St., Suite 200, Oakland, EastBay Entrepreneur Cntr
Admission: Free!

Title: Duman & Fiero's Independent A&R Clinic Part II: The Production & The Recording
Date: November 15th (Tuesday)
Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Place: 519 17th St., Suite 200, Oakland, EastBay Entrepreneur Cntr
Admission: Free!

*Space is limited! Those who forward their material in advance will be given priority.

Send Packages to:

Independent A&R Clinic
c/o Duman & Fiero
1714 Franklin St. Suite 100-119
Oakland, CA 94612

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CONTACT INFORMATION
Gian Fiero
DUMAN & FIERO
510.886.3394

New York, NY August 24, 2005 UA Marketing & Management, New York, is launching a "Marketing Management" group that will work with major music talent (Artists, Producers, DJs) to help align them with brands in varied capacities. UA will also work with brands and agencies seeking relevant and recognizable music talent for their mixed marketing needs. The group intends to help increase the value of its talent (though not limited to its talent) in the commercial marketplace, and help companies reach target demographics with relevance and ultimately add marketing value to their brand.

With several artists already aligned with UA Marketing & Management, including the very energized and unique Fat Man Scoop whos currently riding high with Missy Elliott, Terror Squad's deepest lyricist Armageddon - also a talented writer and producer, and LV (Fat Joe and Terror Squads Producer/DJ) whos producing records for some of the industrys biggest artists the new division has quickly paired its artists with a collection of brands for everything from mobile content to events to scores to contests/promotions to integrated marketing campaigns.

"This is a great opportunity for both artists and brands, as the possibilities of working together are endless. UA Marketing & Management is in the business of synergy -- relationships that make sense. We are looking forward to creating new and exciting relationships for artists and conversely for the brands. We have on numerous occasions helped brands find recognizable music talent for their advertising/marketing/promotions, so this was a natural progression for us" says Bernard Smith, head of UA Marketing & Management.

Fat Man Scoop added UA Marketing & Management has given me the opportunity to do more than just reach my audience through music. [With the company] I have created original music for brands; Ive done voiceovers, commercials, promotions and print campaigns. Currently, were developing a regional and national co-branded effort, created and handled by Bernard and the UA Marketing & Management team.

In addition to handling the marketing of notable music talent, UA Marketing & Management also conceptualizes, develops and executes marketing programs that reach niche demographics, with a strong hand in the urban segment working with a range of clients, from fashion and entertainment to corporate America and even educational institutions.

UA Marketing has recently developed projects for Phat Farm/Baby Phat, FILA, Request Jeans, NewYork.com and Parsons School of Design to name a few, while the Marketing Management group has already worked with a collection of leading brands in the media, fashion/lifestyle, beverage, internet and wireless industries.

For more information visit: www.uamarketing-ny.com

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Press Contact:

Bernard Smith
917-492-7716
bernard@uamarketing-ny.com

Segment Airdate Scheduled for August 26 at 6:00 PM

Hit-making Production Team Duo Discography Includes Select Tracks for Beyonce, Missy Elliot and Mary J. Blige

New York, NY August 24, 2005 Producer/Brother team Bless and K-Mack of Soul Diggaz Productions will serve as this weeks guest judges on BETs daily video music show 106th and Park, during their Freestyle Friday segment. Known for its gritty competition in pursuit of the hottest unsigned artist, this show will tape on Thursday, August 25 and air the following day, Friday, August 26, at 6:00 PM in New York (check local stations for other airtimes and complete channel listings).

Starting their business in the basement of their parents home in 1995, Soul Diggaz became fully operational after Bless and his brother K-Mack decided to start their own production company. Their hard work and dedication lead to their first significant placement on Pras solo album debut, Ghetto Superstar, entitled For the Love of This. Acquiring other projects, Soul Diggaz Productions began working with Grammy-winning artist Mary J. Blige, Loon, Cheri Dennis and Jimmy Cozier. In 2003, Missy Elliot signed them to a production deal and ever since, they have been one of hip hops most sought after production teams, working on various projects, including the Gap commercial series featuring Madonna and Missy Elliott, Beyonces LOreal commercial as well as the Eve theme song for her self-titled sitcom on UPN.

Having an ear for music at an early age, Bless and K-Mack were influenced by many genres of music, including R&B, Hip-Hop and Rock, citing Run DMC, Erik B and Rakim and New Edition as major influences in the way they listened to music. We would sit and wonder what instrument was being used, and would simply begin to dissect the music, says Bless. Carefully tracing the steps of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, their essential goal was to be identified by sound , and their handcrafted infusion of sound, sometimes using samples and at other times using synthesizers, is described by K-Mack as very street, yet soulful, but all feel-good music with a positive vibe that can inspire many.

Along with their production deal with Missy Elliot, they additionally hold a publishing deal with Warner Chappell. They also have expanded their production company, signing a female group (currently unnamed) on Atlantic Records and Young Kuntry under Universal, amongst a host of other talented artists. Their offices are located in West Orange, NJ. For more information, please visit http://www.souldiggaz.com.

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Contact Info:
Jessica Taylor Publicist 917-783-6073
Cinque Mcketty (Que) Publicist 917-676-3790

Grammy Award-Winning Artist Stars in New Commercial Directed by Spike Lee

Premieres During MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday, August 28

PURCHASE, N.Y., Aug. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Kanye West not only will be featured as a performer and nominee at the MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday, August 28, he also will appear in a new Pepsi commercial, which debuts during the telecast.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050825/LATH083)

The commercial, titled "Timeline," follows Kanye as he walks by iconic backdrops of various cities, including Paris, Cairo, Tokyo, and Chicago, via state-of-the-art computer graphics and special effects. Set to the song "Heard 'Em Say" (featuring Adam Levine of Maroon 5) from his new album "Late Registration," Kanye and his "aura" (fueled by Pepsi) have a major influence on every city he visits. The 30-second spot was directed by Spike Lee and created by Spike DDB.

"From concept, to execution, to post-production and effects, to revisions -- a lot of work went into this creative process," said Kanye West, who is managed by Gee Roberson of Hip Hop Since 1978 Management and is signed to Jay-Z's Roc-A-Fella Rec record label. "I want to thank Pepsi for working overtime to see this through."

The "Timeline" commercial is a part of Kanye's new partnership with Pepsi. On August 13, the artist headlined an exclusive Pepsi Smash concert in Miami. Performance footage of Kanye from the concert is currently featured on Pepsi's music microsite on Yahoo! (www.smash.yahoo.com), which launched in June and includes original video programming from a variety of musical artists. Las Vegas-based MEGA, INC., Pepsi's music marketing agency, facilitated the partnership with Kanye.

Pepsi has a long history in music and has featured the biggest recording artists and a diverse range of chart-topping music in marketing campaigns. Recent campaigns have featured superstars Beyonce, Gwen Stefani and P. Diddy. The commercial starring Stefani helped launch the Pepsi iTunes promotion in which 200 million free songs were made available to consumers.

About Pepsi

Purchase, N.Y.-based Pepsi-Cola North America (www.pepsi.com) is the refreshment beverage unit of PepsiCo Inc. in the United States and Canada. Its U.S. brands include Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Pepsi Edge, Pepsi ONE, Wild Cherry Pepsi, Pepsi Twist, Pepsi Vanilla, Mountain Dew, Diet Mountain Dew, Mountain Dew Code Red, Mountain Dew LiveWire, Sierra Mist, Sierra Mist Free, Mug, Slice, Aquafina, Aquafina FlavorSplash, Aquafina Sparkling, Dole single-serve juices, Tropicana Juice Drinks and SoBe. The company also makes and markets North America's best-selling ready-to-drink iced teas and coffees, respectively, via joint ventures with Lipton and Starbucks.
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050825/LATH083
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Pepsi-Cola North America

CONTACT: Nicole Bradley of Pepsi-Cola North America, +1-914-253-2964,
nicole.bradley@pepsi.com; or Gabe Tesoriero of Island Def Jam,
+1-212-445-3632, gabriel.tesoriero@umusic.com

Web site: http://www.pepsi.com/
http://www.smash.yahoo.com/

Winners Fly To NYC for The 2006 Hip Hop Honors and Hang Out Backstage

Contest Entry Forms Available Exclusively At All Magic Johnson Starbucks Locations Across The Country

NEW YORK, Aug. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- VH1 and Starbucks have partnered to launch the VH1 HIP HOP HONORS SWEEPSTAKES, a new contest created to give one lucky hip hop fan the total celebrity experience at next year's 2006 VH1 Hip Hop Honors. The contest kicks off on August 26, 2005 and will run for a month, concluding on September 26, the same date that this year's 2005 VH1 Hip Hop Honors airs (9PM ET/PT.) All entrants must fill out an official sweepstakes entry form at any Magic Johnson Starbucks location in order to be eligible.

The winner will receive a trip for two to New York, a pair of VIP all access passes to the 2006 VH1 Hip Hop Honors, limousine transportation to the event and luxury hotel accommodations. The winner will also be invited to hang out on the red carpet as hip hop icons arrive before the show begins, attend the closed-door rehearsals, and meet the performers, honorees and hosts backstage throughout the night. Although the prize package will be awarded at next year's VH1 Hip Hop Honors, the winner will be given a special gift right away to coincide with this year's event. A special collection of CDs featuring all 2005 honorees will be immediately dispatched to the winner's home upon notification.

Entry forms are available at all Magic Johnson Starbucks locations throughout the country, including Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Atlanta and Detroit. In all, there are 83 locations nationwide. The contest will begin on August 26th and run through September 26th. The winner will be selected randomly from the entries, and notified by (date). The sweepstakes was developed and is being coordinated through UMCA (Urban Marketing Corporation of America), a minority-owned firm specializing in entertainment and sport product marketing.

"As the #1 urban brand in America, it is nice to be recognized by VH1 as a source to connect their programming, their viewers and my Starbucks customers across the country," says Magic Johnson. "I am happy that VH1 is again honoring Hip Hop legends by hosting 'Hip Hop Honors' and I invite everyone into any one of my Starbucks to participate."

The second annual "VH1 Hip Hop Honors," broadcast on September 26 at 9PM (ET/PT.) This year's honorees include Big Daddy Kane, LL Cool J, Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five, Notorious B.I.G., Ice T, Salt -N- Pepa, and the film: Boyz N The Hood. The 2005 "VH1 Hip Hop Honors" will be executive produced by

"VH1 Hip Hop Honors" Lee Rolontz for VH1 and Jac Benson for Blackjac Entertainment. Louis J. Horvitz will direct. Nelson George and Fab Five Freddie are Consulting Producers.

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in over 87 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital services including VH1 Classic, VH1 Soul, VH Uno and VH1 Country. Connect with VH1 at http://www.vh1.com/.

VH1 is a registered trademark of MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom International Inc. MTV Networks also operates and offers joint ventures, licensing agreements and syndication deals whereby its programming can be seen worldwide.

Starbucks Corporation is the leading retailer, roaster and brand of specialty coffee in the world, with more than 8,000 retail locations in North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and the Pacific Rim. The Company is committed to offering the highest quality coffee and the Starbucks Experience while conducting its business in ways that produce social, environmental and economic benefits for communities in which it does business. In addition to its retail operations, the Company produces and sells bottled Frappuccino(R) coffee drinks, Starbucks DoubleShot(R) coffee drink, and a line of superpremium ice creams through its joint venture partnerships. The Company's brand portfolio provides a wide variety of consumer products. Tazo Tea's line of innovative premium teas and Hear Music's exceptional compact discs enhance the Starbucks Experience through best-of-class products. The Seattle's Best Coffee(R) and Torrefazione Italia(R) Coffee brands enable Starbucks to appeal to a broader consumer base by offering an alternative variety of coffee flavor profiles.

The Urban Marketing Corporation of America is one of the leading urban marketing agencies in the country, with a long list of best in class clients that include Nike, VH1, Nickelodeon and HBO. Recent projects include HBO's original film Lackawanna Blues, USA Network's Kojak, the VH1 Hip Hop Honors. Based in Los Angeles, UMCA designs and executes fully integrated marketing campaigns to reach minority audiences through traditional and non-traditional approaches.

Contact: Brett Henne/VH1

212/846-6752

Source: VH1

CONTACT: Brett Henne of VH1, +1-212-846-6752

Web site: http://www.vh1.com/

MTV Offers the 2005 MTV Video Music Awards Plus Exclusive, Original Broadband Content for Viewers to Create Their Own Customized VMA Experience On MTV Overdrive

NEW YORK, Aug. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- What do you get when you merge one of the biggest music events on television with on-demand access to bonus performances and original content available no where else? MTV today announced "My VMAs," where users can customize their own VMA experience on MTV's new broadband video channel, MTV Overdrive (overdrive.mtv.com.)

Officially launching on August 29th following the live VMA broadcast, "My VMAs," a dedicated channel within MTV Overdrive, will allow viewers to re-live and re-mix their VMA experience by combining their favorite moments from the star-studded night with exclusive, bonus segments, all available in an a la carte, on-demand menu. The expanded VMA footage will include in-depth "white" carpet fashion coverage; arrivals by tricked out cars; backstage artist interviews; as well as more music performances produced especially for Overdrive. "My VMAs" puts control in the hands of music fans and allows them to experience the VMAs the way they want.

"My VMAs will be a true hybrid viewer experience where the audience can either lean back and watch the show as it unfolds or lean forward and create their own unique version of the show on demand," said Van Toffler, MTV Networks Music Group President. "We know our viewers enjoy watching the show live with their friends, but we also know they are looking for the added experience of being able to customize their own VMA -- re-watching their favorite moments and performances or creating their own director's cut with highlights from their favorite artists -- and that's exactly why we created MTV Overdrive."

In addition to "My VMAs," MTV Overdrive will feature a live VMA "After Show." Once the main show ends, MTV News' Kurt Loder, John Norris, Sway Calloway, SuChin Pak, and Gideon Yago will provide a recap of the evening in the televised "Post Show" and then throw to an extended "After Show" available exclusively on MTV Overdrive. During the "After Show," users will have more access to a live continuation of the Post-Show, complete with highlights and color commentary. Following in the footsteps of the highly successful "After Shows" for hit series such as "Laguna Beach" and "Real World/Road Rules Challenge," MTV Overdrive will satisfy the audience's voracious appetite for more access to all things VMA, complete with backstage reactions from the biggest performers, the hottest celebrity interviews, fashion observations and much more.

Christina Norman, President of MTV added, "We're excited about the multi- platform combination of the VMAs on MTV and on MTV Overdrive to provide a full sensory music experience for our audience." She added, "Not only are we looking to blow viewers away on TV, but on broadband, they'll also be able to re-live the thrill of the show over and over again by customizing their very own VMAs with original bonus content, as well as show-stopping performances."

As soon as the "After Show" concludes, VMA elements will begin to be made available on Overdrive at MTV.com. And as of August 29 and for a full 30 days thereafter, the entire VMA pre-show, main show and post-show will be available on MTV Overdrive. In addition to the entire VMAs, the following is a list of more exclusive and original programming created for and available only on Overdrive as part of "My VMAs" -- leading up to and following the big night itself:

VMA to Z Nominee Special (already live)

MTV VJ Damien Fahey gives you the lowdown on all the 2005 nominees. Every single video, every category. Your ultimate crib sheet to the 2005 VMA nominees--the only way to prep for the big show.

VMA Virgins: My Chemical Romance (already live)

MTV's Overdrive spotlights rising stars, My Chemical Romance, who are first-time nominees in this year's VMAs. Overdrive probes their feelings on their virgin nomination, as well as multiple other music-related "firsts". And we get the lowdown on the scoop behind their nominated video, "Helena."

The Bling Report (8/28)

MTV.com and Minya Oh (author of Bling, Bling: Hip Hop's Crown Jewels) get access to the "bling suites" that jewelers set up in South Beach for artists to browse custom pieces to wear the big show.

VMA Fashion Attack (8/29)

MTV Overdrive storms the 2005 VMAs with Coltrane. Yes, the style king is back with the same take-no-prisoners eye for fashion that will show the only thing hotter than the weather in Miami are the stars' outfits.

Hotel MTV (8/26)

Kicking off 8/24 with a BBQ hosted by Diddy himself, the Hotel MTV will serve as base camp for a slew of events leading up to the VMAs. Overdrive will allow viewers to catch the action coming from Hotel MTV, as well as a very special performance by The Bravery as part of the MTV2 sponsored Lifebeat benefit.

Salli Frattini and Dave Sirulnick are the Executive Producers for both the "2005 MTV Video Music Awards" and "My VMAs" on MTV Overdrive. Ben White is the Executive Producer for "My VMAs." Suejin Yang is the Supervising Producer. Colin Helms is the Editorial Director. Ocean MacAdams and Michael Alex are Executive Producers for MTV News on Overdrive. Graham Johnson is the Executive Producer of MTV Overdrive. Jason Marks is the Interactive Director. Steve Azueta is the Technical Director.

Hosted by Diddy, the 2005 VMAs will broadcast live from AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami, FL on Sunday, August 28, 2005 at 8:00PM (LIVE ET/Tape Delayed PT). Performers include 50 Cent, Coldplay, Shakira, Ludacris, Mariah Carey, the Killers, Kanye West, Kelly Clarkson, Green Day and R Kelly. The star-list of presenters include Usher, Jessica Alba, Orlando Bloom, Kirsten Dunst, Lindsay Lohan, Joss Stone, Jeremy Piven, and Snoop Dogg.

Recently, Overdrive exclusively premiered "MTV News And Direct Effect Present: Inside Em & 50's Anger Management" on August 3rd. Since its recent launch in April, MTV Overdrive has received critical acclaim and widespread popularity for its unique ability to entertain viewers with both a linear viewing experience and video on demand capabilities, all in one web-based application. With exclusive updates from MTV News four times daily, an expansive music selection of videos and live performances, along with original programs and exclusive footage that compliments on-air programming from MTV and MTV2, MTV Overdrive's success continues build each week.

For more information about THE 2005 MTV VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS and to experience MTV Overdrive, visit www.MTV.com.

MTV Networks, a division of Viacom International Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , owns and operates the following television programming services -- MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, mtvU, VHI, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, MTV INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 12 digital services, all of which are trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV Networks

CONTACT: Marnie Black, +1-212-846-7004, Marnie.black@mtvn.com, Jeannie
Kedas, +1-212-846-4629, jeannie.kedas@mtvn.com, or David French,
+1-212-846-6698, david.french@mtvstaff.com, all of MTV

Web site: http://www.mtv.com/
http://overdrive.mtv.com/

Nearly 5,000 People Expected to Attend Event That Celebrates 'Hope'
for Latino Children With Cancer and Their Families

WHAT: PADRES Contra El Cancer's 20th Anniversary Picnic and Carnival
presented by the Southern California Chevrolet Dealers
Association is a free event open to all children with cancer
and their families. The day-long celebration will feature food
and entertainment, celebrity autograph signings, carnival games
and rides, arts and craft activities, and raffle prize
drawings. A special 20th Anniversary cake-cutting ceremony
will occur at 2:30 PM, when doves will be released and a
special Mariachi performance will celebrate the organization's
20-year history of community service.

WHO: Spanish Television Personality RAUL BUENFIL and LATV "Mex 2 The
Max" Host PATRICIA LOPEZ will emcee. Performers include: Urban
Regional Rappers FLAKKIS and JAE-P, Hip Hop Artists MEXICLAN,
Norteno Band INESPERADO and Mariachi Sensations MARIACHI SOL Y
MAR WITH LA TRIGUENITA. Visiting dignitaries include SENATOR
LIZ FIGUEROA, ASSEMBLYMEMBER JUDY CHU and ASSEMBLYMEMBER CINDY
MONTANEZ. Radio Personality RENAN ALMENDAREZ COELLO ("EL
CUCUY"), THE LAKER GIRLS, LOS ANGELES AVENGERS, TONY THE TIGER
and Dora the Explorer's DIEGO will also be on hand to visit
with guests and sign autographs for the children.

WHEN: Sunday, August 28, 2005 (Noon - 6:00 PM)

WHERE: Whittier Narrows Park - Meadows Area
751 South Santa Anita Avenue
South El Monte, CA 91733

ABOUT PADRES:

PADRES Contra El Cancer (PADRES) is a non-profit organization committed to improving the quality of life for Latino children with cancer and their families. PADRES programs, activities and services, while primarily oriented to the Latino community, serve childhood cancer patients from ALL races and ethnic origins. No family is turned away. Celebrating 20 years of service, PADRES brings together children, families, healthcare professionals and community leaders to promote a comprehensive understanding of childhood cancer and other blood disorders as well as effective methods for treatment. Since 2004, actress Eva Longoria has served as PADRES' National Spokesperson. For more information about PADRES, visit IamHope.org.

- www.IamHope.org -

PRNewswire -- Aug. 25

Source: PADRES Contra El Cancer

CONTACT: Brenda Alcazar of PADRES Contra El Cancer, +1-323-850-7901,
ext. 225, or mobile, +1-626-841-2203, balcazar@IamHope.org

Web site: http://www.iamhope.org/

DETROIT, Aug. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Brenda Naomi Rosenberg, the executive director of the nationally acclaimed Children of Abraham Project leads a panel discussion called "Give Peace a Shout," sponsored by Women In Communications (WIC) of Detroit to remember the fourth anniversary of the September 11th American tragedy.

The event occurs at 6 p.m., September 14 at the Arab American National Museum (http://www.theaanm.org/ ), 13624 Michigan Avenue in Dearborn. Panelists include Rosenberg (http://www.nccj.org/ ), recipient of Women in Communication's most recent Vanguard award for communication excellence, along with Lisa Lapides-Sawicki, co-director of Youth Under Construction (http://www.youngpop.com/ ), a positive hip-hop movement, and Jackie Perreca. She directs marketing at Blue Moon Partners, and led publicity efforts for a Michigan fundraiser for Seeds of Peace (http://www.seedsofpeace.org/ ), the nonprofit organization that is dedicated to empowering young people from conflict regions, primarily the Middle East, with the leadership skills required to advance reconciliation and coexistence.

Women In Communications highlights three communicators who use their consummate time and talents to bring conversations for peace that bridge political, geographic, religious and social lines. Together they help southeast Michigan journalists, publicists and marketing coordinators to discuss the concept: "Give Peace a Shout."

The Children of Abraham Project, under the auspices of the National Conference for Community and Justice and the University of Michigan Arts and Citizenship Program is currently producing a documentary for international distribution. The poignant discussions that take the form of improv theater and audience participation have propelled the group to appear in a CBS special and productions in schools, religious centers and community theaters. Its goal is to foster peace and dialog.

The cost is $30 for members and $40 for guests, including light appetizers and a tour of the museum. Call the WIC reservation line at (248) 652-1420, for more information.

Source: Women In Communications of Detroit

CONTACT: RoseAnn Nicolai of Women In Communications of Detroit,
+1-248-582-8465

Web site: http://www.theaanm.org/
http://www.nccj.org/
http://www.youngpop.com/
http://www.seedsofpeace.org/

Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/800900.html

Hip-Hop Heavyweights Revisit '80s for Hilarious Spin on Life's Pivotal Moments

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 24, 2005--Once again, lifestyle telecommunications leader Boost Mobile and its advertising agency Berlin Cameron/Red Cell have raised the bar on creativity with a cutting-edge, comedic concept for its new "Pivotal Moments" ad campaign featuring chart-topping hip-hop artists Eve and Fat Joe. The campaign showcases the two visible icons, who are at the top of their respective games, and applies some creative license and irreverence to make the Boost "Chirp" a pivotal moment in their lives and their successes in a positive and substantive way.

Boost's Pivotal Moments campaign launched with a nationwide push in select print media in mid-July. The broadcast component, highlighted by acclaimed director Chris Robinson and co-director Randy Krallman, began with the national debut of "Pivotal Moments" TV and radio commercials this month. Boost Mobile expects to continue and expand the campaign with new talent in 2006.

The campaign, designed to showcase pivotal moments when the Boost Mobile "Chirp" is the only tool to take young people to a higher level in life, was created in response to a nationwide study commissioned by Boost Mobile to identify the most common positive "pivotal moments" in the lives of 14- to 24-year-olds based on a phone call they received.

According to the study conducted by MRSI (Marketing Research Services Inc.), many "pivotal moment" calls have centered on news that would forever change the lives of young people, such as being accepted to a particular college, winning a large prize, moving to another city or securing a job. Those who participated in the study were also asked who they were with when they received their "pivotal" news and who the first person was that they shared the news with.

"According to our research, eight out of ten 14- to 24-year-olds have personally received a phone call that changed their life, and for many the call impacted their lives by changing their attitude in a positive way, increasing self esteem and confidence," said Darryl Cobbin, vice president of marketing, Boost Mobile. "Boost's aim with this campaign is to highlight those specific occasions in young people's lives. Those once-in-a-lifetime moments when you need instant information so you don't miss that golden opportunity to elevate your life."

"Pivotal Moments" goes back in time (the 1980s) when Eve and Fat Joe had yet to be discovered or realized their potential of being the celebrities that we know and love today. Boost tells the story of that pivotal moment when they got the "Chirp" that changed their lives forever and how "good things happen to people who Chirp."

Eve's commercial takes you back in the day when her friend "chirped" her to invite her to a block party. She pulls out her Boost Mobile phone and tells her she's on her way. There she sees a local MC in a heated rap battle. At this moment, she is inspired to become a rapper and the rest is history. The comedic twist in the commercial shows that had she not gotten the "chirp" and continued to dance, she would have placed second in a nationally televised talent show competition while in her teens and ultimately succumbing to a position as an assistant ballet instructor in eastern Ukraine before become the dean at a prestigious ballet academy in Russia.

Fat Joe's commercial shows him standing on his neighborhood corner back in the day when he receives a "chirp" and one of his friends invites him to a rap performance. He goes and becomes obsessed with hip-hop from this moment on. Had he not gotten that pivotal "chirp" he would have continued to discover his hidden talent of communicating with animals and become a respected NYC pet psychiatrist. Without Boost, the world would never have known this lyrical legend.

"Boost Mobile is about being connected and staying ahead of the pack in terms of being 'where it's at,' both in terms of the lives of the audience and in youth culture in general," said Berlin Cameron/Red Cell CEO and Creative Director Ewen Cameron. "So we took a tongue-in-cheek approach of showing how a call on Boost could make a profound difference in someone's life, in this case lives whose stories our audience knows and relates to. To succeed in the youth branding game you have to come across as fresh and authentic every time. Last year we did it with music video style Anthem campaign and this year we took a narrative approach."

About Berlin Cameron/Red Cell

Berlin Cameron/Red Cell is part of WPP and is the New York office of the Red Cell Network. Clients include The Coca-Cola Company (Coca-Cola Classic, C2, Mello Yello, Cool from Nestea, Pibb Xtra, Minute Maid Sodas); Samsung; Pfizer (Zyrtec, corporate); Boost Mobile; New York Life Insurance; Nestle Purina; White Wave (Silk); The Wall Street Journal; Newell Rubbermaid and Pernod-Ricard (The Glenlivet, Wyborowa Vodka).

About Boost Mobile

Based in Irvine, Calif., Boost Mobile LLC, a subsidiary of Sprint Nextel Corp. (NASDAQ:S - News), is a lifestyle-based telecommunications brand focused on offering premium Pay-As-You-Go wireless phones and services to the youth market. Boost is one of the fastest-growing wireless services in the U.S. and now has more than 1.7 million customers - the majority of which are under the age of 25. Boost-branded wireless phones with its exclusive Boost(TM) Walkie-Talkie service and Re-Boost(TM) cards are available nationwide at locations where youth prefer to shop, including national retailers and convenience stores, and merchants that focus on fashion, music, and action sports-related activities. Experience Boost on the Web at www.boostmobile.com.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact:

Miles Ahead Entertainment for Boost Mobile
Dana Hill, 201-722-1500
Dana@milesaheadentertainment.com
or
Sheila Eldridge, 201-722-1500
Sheila@MilesAheadEntertainment.com

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Boost Mobile

Washington, DC (BlackNews.com) - Rap star Zane, formerly known as Lil Zane, has joined the growing list of celebrity panelists at the upcoming Hip Hop Journalism Summit Panel at Black Press All Star Awards which takes place in Chicago, IL on September 16-17, 2005. The event also boasts a Mix Tape Competition and Poetry Slam.

By age 17, he had already contributed a song to the soundtrack for Ice Cube's hit movie "Next Friday," and started his own acting career in "Finding Forrester" with former James Bond actor, Sean Connerly, appeared with Eddie Murphy on "Dr. Dolittle 2" and stole his scenes on the blockbuster movie, "Fighting Temptations" with Beyoncé' and Cuba Gooding. For the past year or so, Zane took a much needed break from the big screen to work on other projects.

Now Zane is back in a big way. Seen recently on the 2005 BET Awards, Zane will participate in the panel discussion on the hip hop industry and its effects on Urban radio. Plus, Zane will judge the Mix Tape Competition and Hip Hop Poetry Slam with other industry executives, professionals and fans.

Zane's hit single, "Tonight I'm Yours," featuring Tank, which he dedicated to his female fans showed the depth of his talents. It's no wonder he's dropped the Lil moniker from his name can be seen on his Web site at www.lilzane.com

The Hip Hop Journalism Summit if one of three tracks at the upcoming Black Press All Star Awards in Chicago, IL. Other tracks include the Gospel Media Explosion (www.blackpress.org/allstars/gospelmedia.htm) and Media Management track for media owners, publishers and executives.

Online registration is ongoing and student registration is $59.00; Publisher registration is $75.00; Media registration is $30.00. Online registration is available at www.blackpress.org/allstars/registration.htm

PRESS CONTACT:
Quan Lynch, 812-604-0811, quan.lynch@wku.edu
Lenore D. Bruce, 847-331-1452, lenorebrucepr@aol.com
DC Livers, 646-322-3047, blackpressmagazine@yahoo.com

Lil Zane: www.lilzane.com
Hip Hop: www.hiphopjournalists.com
General: www.blackpress.org/allstars

London, 25th August 2005, 2pm
ChocolateMagazine.co.uk has published an illustrated 'Urban Legends' special edition to coincide with the 4th anniversary of R&B star Aaliyah's tragic death.

The issue features new articles on Aaliyah and five other legendary hip hop and R&B stars,includingLisa "Left Eye" Lopes, Tupac Shakur, TheNotorious B.I.G., Jam Master Jay and ODB. There will also be new reviews of many of the artists' key albums added soon.

Editor Danielle Boobyer said, "Aaliyah was such an influential artist, as well as being a special person, so we wanted to do something to help keep hermemory alive. So much as been written about her over the years that we knew it would be hard for us to say anything original, but we hope her fans will be able to get something out of the special edition and the illustrations. Maybe we can even help introduce her to a few of our younger readers."

The issue features exclusive illustrations of Aaliyah and the five other stars by UK-based artist Julian Johnson.

Chocolate Magazine publisher Richard Quick said: "We're delighted with the illustrations. There are hundreds of images of all these artists available so we knew if this issue was going to be worth doing we'd need some really original artwork. Julian's done a great job of capturing all six stars, so much so that we've decided to produce some limited-edition t-shirts based on his illustrations."

As well as the limited edition t-shirts, fans will soon be able todownload the illustrations as wallpapers, banners and avatars for personal use.

Aaliyah died aged 22 in a plane crash in the Bahamas on 25th August 2005 along with the pilot and eight of her friends and crew.

Chocolate Magazine is a UK-based online urban music magazine.All the articles can be found on the site's homepage at: www.chocolatemagazine.co.uk

L.A.'s Mixtape King DJ Warrior (Cali Untouchable DJs/HipHopWest.com) and the Soul Assassin DJ Muggs are back. You may remember their first Mixtape together, Mash Up Radio, well now they're back with the second installment to the Mash Up franchise.

(PRWEB) August 25, 2005 -- Mash Up Radio 2 features the top of the top in Hip Hop. To name a few: The Game, Nas, G-Unit, Eminem, Dr. Dre and Gang Starr. As far as Rock goes, you get legends like Pink Floyd, The Clash, Rage Against The Machine, Nine Inch Nails, Sublime
and a host of others.

Thanks to Dubcnn/Raptalk/HipHopWest, we got 7 Snippets from the Mixtape for your listening pleasure. If you heard the first one, you know the concept, if you haven't (you're sleeping!) then here's your chance to get a taste of what Muggs and Warrior have instore for you.

In the tracklist below you can hear Mannie Fresh's "Real Big" over Weezer's "Beverly Hills," QB's Nas with "Bridgin' The Gap" over the Korn classic "Freak On A Leash." Also, you'll find Eminem and Dre blended with AudioSlave, Biggie and Pink Floyd, Cassidy and Weezer and more. Click or copy and paste the links below in your web browser to hear.

Tracklisting:
01. MashUpRadio.Com & HipHopWest.Com – Intro
02. Big Timers vs. Weezer
http://www.raptalk.net/audio/warsnips/Big%20Timers%20Vs%20Weezer%20Snip.mp3
03. Eminem/Dr. Dre vs. Audio Slave
http://www.raptalk.net/audio/warsnips/Eminem%20Dr%20Dre%20Vs%20Audio%20Slave%20Snip.mp3
04. Game vs. Kasabien
05. G-Unit vs. Citizen Cope
06. Nas vs. Korn
http://www.raptalk.net/audio/warsnips/Nas%20Vs%20Korn%20Snip.mp3
07. Biggie Smalls vs. Pink Floyd
http://www.raptalk.net/audio/warsnips/Biggie%20Vs%20Pink%20Floyd%20snips.mp3
08. Kanye West vs. Black Diamonds
09. 50 Cent vs. Rage Against The Machine
10. G-Unit vs. Louis The XVI
11. D-12 vs. Tool
12. Nas vs. 311
13. G-Unit vs. Nine Inch Nails
14. Gza vs. Sneaker Pimps
15. Common vs. Sublime
http://www.raptalk.net/audio/warsnips/Common%20Vs%20Sublime%20snip.mp3
16. Gang Starr vs. The Clash
17. Lil' Flip vs. Perfect Circle
http://www.raptalk.net/audio/warsnips/Lil%20Flip%20Vs%20Perfect%20Circle%20snip.mp3
18. Cassidy vs. weezer
http://www.raptalk.net/audio/warsnips/Cassidy%20%20Vs%20Weezer%20Snip.mp3
Get this and more at: http://www.hiphopwest.com
http://www.mashupradio.com
http://www.djmuggs.com

ALL CLUB/HOSTING BOOKINGS CONTACT:
http://www.stronghouserecords.com (866)754-6580
DJ Strong/DJ Warrior/Kurupt -Cali Untouchable Radio Pt. 5 in This Month's Source Magazine!...coming soon
DJ Warrior in This Month's Tight Magazine Japan...coming soon

CONTACT INFORMATION
Stronghouse Marketing
STRONGHOUSE RECORDS LLC
http://www.hiphopwest.com/
8667546580

The site address is http://www.cdbaby.com/soulhoodfamily.

August 24, 2005 -- LA / Long Beach, Ca
The CD includes songs from Soul Hood Artists LIFESTYLE (H.I.T & P.T aka BadaBing-Snoop's Lil Bro) , P.S.C (FRATT HOUSE- G.B & E MONEY), MECCA DAWN, PRIME & TATIANA CHANEL. The album also features exclusive songs from Snoop Dogg, Lil Jon, Fiend, Daz, Bun B. of UGK, K-Ci & JoJo, Spit Fiya, and many others.

This is one of the hottest mixtapes of 2004 to drop on the WEST so if you don't have your copy yet...then get it today! Stylefornia 2 is the follow-up to "STYLEFORNIA", the groups first release collectively that hit underground and will be re-released for sale on CDBABY very soon. Coming Mid-September 2005 is the highly anticipated 3rd installment to the collection, "STYLEFORNIA 3", sure to bring more hard-hitting lyrics and fiya that'll have the streets talkin' once again.

"Stylefornia 2: The Movement" features hot songs like "California", "Speaker wire", "With You", "I Don't", "Chuuch", "Don't Mind", & "My Life" just to name a few! The list goes on with favorites that the family has performed @ their shows.

If you love good music, from hood classics, to party anthems, to hot R&B, then you don't want to sleep on "STYLEFORNIA 2: The Movement"! It's worth every penny to check out why the streets are buzzing about The Soul Hood Family!

If you want to check out a few songs off of the album you can go to www.myspace.com/soulhoodfamily or before you purchase the album on Cd Baby, there are some snippits on the page you can hear @ www.cdbaby.com/soulhoodfamily.

Contact soulhood@soulhoodentertainment.com for further info or visit us at www.soulhoodentertainment.com.

(lead character and voice in "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas")

Young Maylay, born on the West Coast raised in Los Angeles amidst the turbulence of riots and gang violence has been cultivating his lyrical skills since a teenage G. Young Maylay is emerging into the Hip Hop scene with the whole West Coast behind him pushing. The message is certified authentic experiences of inner city life which led to Young Maylay being featured on popular compilations and underground mixtapes such as Killa Tay's "Thug Thizzle" (2000), and Rodney O & Joe Cooley's "Summer Heat" (2002).

The showcase of Young Maylay's talents has gained him the respect and acknowledgement within LA's Hip Hop establishment. Maylay will release his mix tape this summer and is currently featured on King T's Latest album "Ruthless Chronicals" (out now) & DJ Warrior's "Coast Control" (out now). Maylay is well on his way to leaving an indelible mark on Hip Hop.
BUCKLE YOUR SEAT BELTS!!

Currently Young Maylay has expanded his presence beyond the realm of
music with the lead role of Carl "CJ" Johnson in Rockstar Games "Grand Theft
Auto: San Andreas".

Young Maylay also features on Deeyah's forthcoming single 'What Will It
Be?'

For more on Young Maylay visit:
http://youngmaylay.net/
http://www.myspace.com/youngmaylay

Numark and Apple Team Up to Bring DJ Mixing to the Masses

Cumberland, RI (August 16, 2005) Numark Industries, a global leader in Disc Jockey (DJ) technology, proudly announces the first-ever iDJ Mixer for iPod portable music players. The iDJ enables users to seamlessly integrate two iPods into a portable and user-friendly DJ system. With its sleek and cutting-edge design, Numarks iDJ is the perfect iPod companion that will transform any music lover into the life of the party.

Numarks ground-breaking iDJ is specifically designed to provide a simple and inviting plug and play approach to becoming a DJ. In addition to being an easy to use DJ Mixer, the iDJ also works as a basic playback device and dual charging/docking station.

Technical specifications include large navigation controls, lighted console, 3-band equalizer, and phono, line and USB inputs for maximum external connectivity. This full-featured mixer with dual iPod docking stations incorporates a microphone input and a headphone output to complete the mixing experience also a perfect tool for creating Podcasts on the fly.

Consumer electronics retailers can now order this new technology, and it will be available to the public in October of 2005. According to Numarks CEO, Jack ODonnell, We couldnt be more excited to bring the art of DJing to the consumer market. Since almost everyone carries an iPod in their pocket, the new iDJ makes it easy to use their iPod as professional DJ gear.

Mr. ODonnell continued, For college students and other iPod enthusiasts, this compact mixing system is a natural extension of the iPod platform that makes enjoying music with others that much easier.

###

About Numark Industries
Numark Industries is the global leader of professional DJ and audio equipment, and is recognized for providing progressive breakthrough technology. Since 1971, Numark has designed and delivered innovative products and numerous music industry firsts. For more information, visit www.numark.com.

iPod is a registered trademark of Apple Computer.

For a hi-res image of the iDJ Mixing Console for iPod go to:
http://numark.vwh.net/numark/numark2/images/mixers/scratch/iDJ.zip

Username: numarkftp
Password: fusion

Brian Metcalf
Account Executive
Max Borges Marketing Solutions, Inc
www.MaxBorges.com
3510 Biscayne Blvd. Suite 208
Miami, Florida 33137
T: 305-576-1171 Ext 5
F: 305-402-6373

Grammy Award Winning Musician, Producer, and Composer becomes the Newest Member of the Rbk Family

CANTON, Mass., Aug. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- World renowned Hip-Hop violinist Miri Ben-Ari and Reebok make noise today with the announcement of a multi-faceted partnership that includes a first-of-its-kind collaboration between the brand and Universal Motown Universal Records to produce a music video for "We Gonna Win," the first new single on Ben-Ari's debut album. Marking Reebok's first foray into overseeing the creation of a music video, the partnership will highlight Israeli superstar, Ben-Ari as the newest face of the brand's global "I Am What I Am" advertising campaign, featuring print, online and retail components.

An iconic name in the Hip-Hop community, Ben Ari will launch her highly anticipated new video in September 2005 on major music networks, including Fuse, MTV and BET and online at http://www.rbk.com/. Directed by Paul Schneider, the unique video will feature Ben-Ari and rap artist Styles P. wearing customized Rbk branded apparel, footwear and accessories.

"Partnering with Reebok is a natural fit for me because they truly value artists who are not afraid to be different and stand out from the crowd," said Ben-Ari. "I am excited to work with Reebok on my new music video and thrilled to be part of their 'I Am What I Am' campaign."

As the latest celebrity endorsee to be featured in Reebok's "I Am What I Am" global advertising campaign, Ben-Ari will join contemporary heroes of today's global youth including Allen Iverson, Jay-Z, Yao Ming, Nelly, Curt Schilling, 50 Cent, Nicole Vaidisova, Donovan McNabb, Christina Ricci, Stevie Williams, and many more. Created by New York advertising agency mcgarrybowen, the campaign links the entire brand's marketing and advertising efforts under the "I Am What I Am" umbrella, and is supported by the company's largest advertising spend in nearly a decade.

"Reebok is excited to partner with Miri because she is such a creative force in the evolution of Hip-Hop," said Dennis Baldwin, Reebok's chief marketing officer. "As a true pioneer in the music world, Miri perfectly embodies our brand's 'I Am What I Am' platform of authenticity and individuality."

Ben-Ari grew up in a small town near Tel-Aviv, Israel, and began her classical music education at a very young age. Coming from humble roots, Ben- Ari's violin lessons became too expensive for her family. Fortunately, legendary violinist Isaac Stern recommended Ben-Ari for a scholarship from the America-Israel Cultural Foundation that gave the young prodigy her most treasured possession -- her first violin.

After establishing herself as an accomplished and respected jazz musician, Ben-Ari's interest evolved to R&B and Hip-Hop. Her love for the music led her to develop an original style of playing that blends Hip-Hop, urban and classical music. Ben-Ari has written, performed and produced for Kanye West, Alicia Keys, Jay-Z, Patti LaBelle, Mya, Britney Spears, Thalia, Joe, Wyclef Jean, 3LW, Dallas Austin, Rahzal, Allure, The X-ecutioners, Twista, Brandy, Janet Jackson and Jennifer Lopez among others.

Lately, Ben-Ari has been hard at work in the studio creating her debut Hip Hop/R&B album, a groundbreaking fusion of her crisp, soulful strings with hard-edged hip-hop production, slotted as a major release by Universal Records for the fall 2005. Kanye West has lent production and rhyming work to several tracks on her album, which also features collaborations with an all-star cast of artists, including Akon, John Legend, Twista, Scarface, Fabolous, Lil' Mo, Mya, Baby, Lil' Wayne, Pharoahe Monch and Anthony Hamilton.

Reebok International Ltd. (NYSE:RBK) , headquartered in Canton, MA, is a leading worldwide designer, marketer and distributor of sports, fitness and casual footwear, apparel and equipment under the Reebok, Rockport, CCM, Jofa, Koho and Greg Norman brands. Sales for 2004 totaled approximately $3.8 billion. Reebok can be accessed at http://www.reebok.com/.

Contact:
Reebok Public Relations -
Diane Pelkey (781) 401-7790
Jenny Shanley (781) 401-4548

Laforce+Stevens -
Aja Bradley (212) 242-9353

Source: Reebok International Ltd.

CONTACT: Diane Pelkey, +1-781-401-7790, or Jenny Shanley,
+1-781-401-4548, both of Reebok Public Relations; or Aja Bradley of
Laforce+Stevens, +1-212-242-9353

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

WILL DEBUT AFRICAN-MADE APPAREL LINES, MIA and BUTTA AT MAGIC SHOW IN VEGAS

AUGUST 2005
Dr. Bill Releford, CEO of Butta, Inc. intends to ignite the fashion industry when he debuts his urban apparel lines, MIA - Made In Africa and Butta (Bringing U The Treasures of Africa) from August 28th- 30th at the MAGIC Convention at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas. Both lines carry the significant distinction of being clothing lines made in Africa by Africans.

The Butta Collection will include high quality t-shirts, baby-ts, wife-beaters, fleece hoodies, boxers and boxer briefs. Grown, sexy and in control is the overall theme. Butta is already generating interest from around the world.
Releford has been tireless in his mission to expand peoples image and world view about conducting business with Africa. An essential part of this mission is to manufacture and import high-quality mens and womens undergarments from across Sub-Sahara Africa and to promote them aggressively within the United States and international urban clothing markets.

Releford is determined to heighten a sense of belonging, pride and roots renewal for Africa, specifically among the hip hop generation with the line. Reducing Africa's dependence on aid requires entrepreneurial leadership, cites Releford. With the launch and promotion of the Made In Africa and Butta lines we hope to begin to shape our youths beliefs about Africa. Once we do this, the possibilities for future business transactions become endless, he expounds.

Dr. Releford is already manufacturing for several major U.S. retailers in Sub Sahara Africa. His usage of the African Growth and Opportunities Act is a case study of how American businessmen and women can benefit from this historic U.S. trade legislation.

With his company, Butta Inc., Releford is already doing the unheard of: providing private label manufacturing for companies such as Robinsons Outdoor, Whitewater, Wal Mart, Dilla Golf, The Uniform Maker and others. In addition, Butta Inc. has developed a Sub Sahara Africa manufacturing alliance that includes plants in Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Niger, Mali, South Africa and even Madagascar!

To preview the MIA-Made In Africa and Butta apparel lines, go to www.MadeInAfrica.us To learn more about opportunities in various African countries, visit www.Global-Africa-Us.com

Note to Media: Dr. Releford is available for interview. Send requests to makeda@jazzmynepr.com or makeda1313@aol.com
If you will be in Las Vegas for MAGIC, and would like to attend the MIA/ Butta private receptions please email us as well!

CONTACT: MAKEDA SMITH
TEL: (661) 718-8843

On-Campus Event Exclusively for College Students Launches September 8 at Tennessee State University with Stops Planned at 14 Historically Black Colleges and Universities

WASHINGTON, Aug. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- HBCUs get ready, because college campuses will never be the same again! This fall, BET is hitting the road for the Black College Tour, and with three successful years under its belt, "Senior Fever" is definitely in the air! Alongside some of its key marketing partners, BET will provide a day of entertainment, games, contests, and product samples/information, for current students at 14 historically Black colleges and universities. Starting at Tennessee State University in Nashville on September 8, the events will be on campus and targeted towards college students presently enrolled in the host institutions. Festivities will be hosted by BET's on-air talent and feature exciting live performances from Universal/Motown recording artists.

Procter and Gamble is once again the Tour's presenting sponsor. Pontiac, Pepsi, Southwest Airlines, the U.S. Air Force, Verizon Wireless, and Universal/Motown, are all associate sponsors, many for a third or fourth year. McDonald's(R) joins the Tour this year and will provide students with an "i'm lovin' it(TM)" experience.

"While we continue to bring campuses all of the exciting elements that have become student favorites, we are constantly working with sponsors each year to develop new and innovative outlets to reach students and provide a day of positive interaction," said Michelle Garner, BET's Advertising Sales Vice President of Special Projects and Event Marketing.

"Southwest Airlines is proud to be a part of such an exciting HBCU event as it continues to grow in popularity every year," said Rob Brown director of multicultural marketing for the Dallas-based airline. "Our sponsorship simply underscores the communities we can reach by partnering with the BET Black College Tour."

After a highly successful freshman year on the Tour, Rap City Top Ten will once again tape from the schools each Friday with the show's new host, J- Nicks. As in previous years, the Black College Tour will also include basketball tournaments, freestyle rap, and singing contests, video game competitions, music performances, product sampling and a career center. The endeavor is part of BET's continual effort to support historically Black colleges and universities.

The overwhelming success of the BET Black College Tour can be attributed to the support and generosity of the Tour sponsors who provide relevant, engaging and informative entertainment and professional networking opportunities for minority students. Previous Black College Tours have included free roundtrip airline tickets courtesy of Southwest Airlines; new product samples from Procter & Gamble; a Verizon Wireless 3-point basketball shoot-out contest; a Pepsi Flow freestyle rap competition; as well as free concerts from Universal/Motown hit artists including Akon (SRC), Granddaddy Souf (SRC), and new up & coming artists.

The following are the dates and schools BET is scheduled to visit during the 2005 BET Black College Tour:

2005 BET Black College Tour Schedule

September 8 Tennessee State University Nashville, TN
September 16 Jackson State University Jackson, MS
September 23 Clark Atlanta University Atlanta, GA
September 30 Bethune-Cookman College Daytona, FL
October 7 Grambling University Grambling, LA
October 13 Tuskegee University Tuskegee, AL
October 14 Alabama State University Montgomery, AL
October 19 Florida A&M University Tallahassee, FL
October 26 Virginia Union University Richmond, VA
October 28 North Carolina A&T State University Greensboro, NC
November 3 Prairie View A&M University Prairie View, TX
November 4 Texas Southern University Houston, TX
November 9 Johnson C. Smith University Charlotte, NC
November 11 South Carolina State University Orangeburg, SC

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.

Source: BET (Black Entertainment Television)

CONTACT: Anne Williams of BET, +1-202-608-2063, or
anne.williams@bet.net

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

NOTE TO EDITORS: Interview and nominees photo opportunities with BET executives, on-air talent, and guest performers are available at each tour date. BET Black College Tour photography is also available by contacting BET Corporate Communications at (202) 608-2063. For more details, please contact Anne Williams at 202-608-2063 or anne.williams@bet.net

Hip-Hop Superstar Kanye West to Autograph his Latest and Much Anticipated CD 'Late Registration' at Exclusive In-Store Appearance on Tuesday, August 30

NEW YORK and SACRAMENTO, Calif., Aug. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Tower Records, America's leading independent music and movie retailer, today announced that it will welcome Hip-Hop Superstar, Grammy(R) winning producer and recording artist Kanye West to its NYC Lincoln Center store on Tuesday, August 30th, at 5:00 p.m. for an exclusive in-store appearance and autograph session, occurring on the same day that Kanye releases his much anticipated sophomore CD Late Registration.

WHO: Grammy winning producer and artist Kanye West

WHAT: Exclusive in-store signing for sophomore CD Late Registration
(released in stores nationwide on the same day)

WHEN: Tuesday, August 30th at 5 p.m. ET

WHERE: Tower Records Lincoln Center - 1961 Broadway, NYC - Event details
hotline: 212-799-2500

MORE: A chance to meet Grammy winning, multi-platinum recording artist and producer (Jay-Z, Alicia Keys) Kanye West, who will autograph copies of his much anticipated 2nd CD, Late Registration, featuring the groundbreaking new singles, "Diamonds from Sierra Leone" and "Gold Digger" featuring Jamie Foxx.

Late Registration features a line-up of guest artists that includes: Brandy, Jamie Foxx, Jay-Z, Adam Levine of Maroon Five, Paul Wall, and Kanye's longtime friend and collaborator John Legend.

It's a huge week for Kanye! In tandem with the release of his second CD and this exclusive in-store event at Tower Records Lincoln Center, Kanye managed to make it on the front cover of the August 29th issue of TIME Magazine.

HOW: Fans are able to secure their place in line to meet Kanye West by purchasing his new CD, Late Registration, on the nationwide release date Tuesday, August 30th beginning at 9 a.m. at Tower Records Lincoln Center. Due to artist scheduling, a place in line does not guarantee meeting the artist. Fans must show proof of purchase from Tower Records Lincoln Center to guarantee place in line.

Official websites: kanyewest.com, rocafella.com, tower.com

About Tower Records

Since 1960, Tower Records has been recognized and respected throughout the world for its unique brand of retailing. Founded in Sacramento, California, with the singular vision to have a music store with unparalleled selection and fair prices, Tower forges ahead with the development of exciting shopping environments, espousing diverse product ranges, artist performances, and technological advances in merchandising. Tower maintains its commitment to providing the deepest selection of entertainment merchandise in stores that celebrate the unique interests and needs of the local community.

Tower owns and operates 89 stores in the U.S. with a further 144 stores run by licensees in nine different countries. The company opened one of the first Internet music stores on America Online in June 1995 and followed a year later with the launch of Tower.com.

NOTE: Tower, Tower Records, Tower Records Videos Books, and associated logos are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of MTS, Incorporated in the United States and other countries.

Source: Tower Records

CONTACT: Lisa Amore, +1-206-322-4658, or lisa@amorepr.com, for
Tower Records

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

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

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

U'Expres'Sion LLC, a book and music publishing, promotion and distribution company announces the newest and hottest Gospel Rap Artists breaking down walls with innovative beats, music, and breakthrough words of deliverance. MVP, Spanish Kid, and UnF8abo, like their names, their new CD releases cannot be duplicated or matched. It is a Fo'Sho' triple, power-pack release of "true" ministry to the churched and the unchurched. We are looking for these releases to be in stores nationwide by the end of 2005. Until then you can find them on-line in several gospel stores (i.e. HolyHipHop.com, UExpresSion, Divine Flava Records). Knock on those retailers doors and let them know "you need to stock" MVP, Spanish Kid, and UnF8abo here.

Fountain Springs, Colorado (PRWEB) August 22, 2005 -- UExpresSion LLC announces the new CD power trio MVP, "Triple Impact" Spanish Kid, "Tha Dog is Out" and UnF8abo, "Stream Of Reflections". These gospel rap artsists are reaching beyond the norm for Gospel and Holy Hip Hop. They are part of an innovative record label, Divine Flava Records, where gospel rap is designed and produced to break down industry walls.

All these artists have unique approaches to the issues facing youth, young adults, adults, parents, children, and the church. MVP, Spanish Kid, and UnF8abo all have their own progressive and unique style of music, beats and messages.

Although their backgrounds read like, "How did you make it?" their messages sound like warrior calls for change in the lives of those that need to know, "They are royal, chosen, and pre-destined for greatness".

When you listen to MVP, Triple Impact, you hear the KRUNK message of true soldier that knows the beat of the street, the heart of the community and the needs of his audience. You hear the heart of artist and minister that is passionate about success and deliverance.

On the other hand, Spanish Kid, "Tha Dog is Out" is as RADICAL as his CD title. The title eludes to the times but the beats and the words speak of a timeless message of known power and warrior victory in Christ Jesus.

Then we have, "Speak the Word, UnF8abo", who reaches back into the original, "back in the day" scene, and brings you a new wave of breakthrough power that you just have to stand still to listen to.

All of this style can only be called, "NU'Vol". What's that? The new sound of gospel rap where beats are not borrowed, copied or duplicated. It is the place, time, and purpose of gospel artists who are turning up the volume in the rap industry and breaking down the walls of rap tradition. It is moving, it is reaching and it is an excellent work.

You will see these artists traveling the country to demonstrate the breakthrough power of their music, beats and words of deliverance. We are looking forward to seeing MVP, Spanish Kid and UnF8abo at the next Gospel Music and Holy Hip Hop Awards in 2006.

U'Expres'Sion is a book and music publishing company always looking for way to engage radical artists in the book and music publishing industry. We are a company that sets standards of excellence, strategies that increase marketability, and service that is designed for success.

Join us in celebrating the CD releases of MVP, "Triple Impact," Spanish Kid, "Tha Dog is Out", and UnF8abo, "Stream Of Reflections" and remember when you hear "Nu'Vol", it means MVP, Spanish Kid and UnF8abo are on the scene.

# # #

CONTACT INFORMATION
Valerie Smith
U'EXPRES'SION LLC
http://www.uexpression.com/
1.888.776.7956

For the producer searching for new and unique drum sounds, Syntaur Productions has released three sizzling new drum sets for the Akai MPC-series samplers. Syntaurs "Drum Mania" (available on Zip Disk or CD-ROM) is packed full of current HipHop and RnB drum sounds that will kick those tracks up a notch. Drum Mania is a compilation of three different floppy-disk sets: Manic Drumz, Phreaky Drumz, and Phreaky Perkussion.

(PRWEB) August 24, 2005 -- For the producer searching for new and unique drum sounds, Syntaur Productions has released three sizzling new drum sets for the Akai MPC-series samplers. Syntaurs "Drum Mania" (available on Zip Disk or CD-ROM) is packed full of current HipHop and RnB drum sounds that will kick those tracks up a notch. Drum Mania is a compilation of three different floppy-disk sets: Manic Drumz, Phreaky Drumz, and Phreaky Perkussion.

"Manic Drums" contains HipHop/RnB drum sounds ranging from kicks and snares created on analog synths to individual hits snipped from wicked drum loops. Each of the three floppy disks loads an MPC with 6 kicks, 5 snares, and 5 hi-hat and percussion sounds per Bank, with all four Banks fully programmed.

"Phreaky Drumz" were created using less conventional methods. Some hot HipHop and dance club drums were sampled and then combined with other crazy noises, such as the sound of a live mic smacking against the wall, or with human vocal sounds. Finally, these layered sounds were tweaked out and hyped up to create unique new drum kits. As in Manic Drumz, each disk in this set contains a kit with four fully-programmed Banks of sounds (6 kicks, 5 snares, and 5 hi-hat and percussion sounds) per Bank. Phreaky Drumz also contains five additional programs (Phreak Noizes 1-5) that will add all sorts of unique elements to HipHop tracks.

"Phreaky Perkussion" is jam-packed full of perkussion sounds of a new flava! Created using the same layering methods as the "Phreaky Drumz" set, "Phreaky Perkussion" contains dozens of unique samples designed to give tracks some extra spice.

The "Manic Drums", "Phreaky Drums", and "Phreaky Perkussion" floppy-disk sets are available for $29.95 each, or bundled together on the Drum Mania CD-ROM or Zip Disk for $79.95 (compatible with the Akai MPC2000, 2000xl, 3000, and 4000). Drum Mania is also offered in WAV format (CD-ROM) for $59.95.

Hear audio demos and order online at www.syntaur.com/mpc_sounds.html, or call Syntaur Productions at 800-334-1288. Orders are shipped the same day they are placed (or by the next business day, for evening or weekend orders).

# # #

CONTACT INFORMATION
Sam Mims
SYNTAUR PRODUCTIONS
http://www.Syntaur.com/
1-800-334-1288

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- PBS features year-round programming both created by and about Hispanic Americans. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, PBS offers a variety of new and encore presentations that celebrate the diversity of the Latino community and explore its history and culture. The topics range from a teacher who uses Shakespeare to teach Latin-American immigrant children to the new adventures of twins Maya and Miguel to Mexican artist Frida Kahlo to an exploration of New York's hip-hop culture. Reflecting the diversity of ethnicities, experiences and regions with a breadth and depth that can't be found anywhere else, these compelling programs examine the rich history, cultural contributions and distinguished heritage of Hispanic Americans.

September 2005

P.O.V. "The Hobart Shakespeareans" (New)
Tuesday, September 6, 2005, 10:00-11:00 p.m. ET (check local listings)

Teacher Rafe Esquith has a point of view -- a very strong one -- about educating children of immigrants. Teaching in Los Angeles at one of the nation's largest inner-city grade schools, Hobart Elementary, Esquith leads his class of mostly Latin-American and Korean fifth graders through an uncompromising curriculum of English, mathematics, geography and literature. He inspires them with cross-country trips to learn history firsthand. And at the end of the semester, every student performs in a full-length Shakespeare play: in this case Hamlet, with advice from actors Ian McKellen and Michael York. Despite language barriers and poverty, these "Hobart Shakespeareans" move on to attend outstanding colleges, motivated by a teacher honored with a National Medal of Arts.

VISIONES: LATINO ART AND CULTURE (Encore)
Sundays, 9/4-25/05, 10:30-11:00 p.m. ET;
rpt. Wednesdays, 9/7-21/05, 10:30-11:00 p.m. ET
(check local listings)

Latino artists across the United States take center stage in this series. Viewers experience the world of Latino artistic expression as the series journeys throughout the country, capturing rich stories about theater, music, dance, spoken word and the visual arts. From New York City's hip hop culture to mural painters in Los Angeles and Chicago to theater in Texas, the series offers a unique cross section of Latino artists working today.

Episode Three -- The third episode features Luis Valdez and the legendary Teatro Campesino, a segment on San Antonio, the Texas Day of the Dead Celebration, the image of the Virgen de Guadalupe as a Latina icon, experimental border filmmaker Willie Varela and a profile of Chicago's soapbox artist Carlos Cortez.

Episode Four -- This episode begins with New York's Latino hip-hop dance and culture, then travels to Miami and its unique Afro-Cuban sound, and ends in Los Angeles with modern dance pioneer Rudy Perez. The first segment documents the movement, history and culture of hip-hop and looks at the new wave of Latinos who took hip-hop and created a culture that revolutionized the genre. New York hip-hop dancing couple Rokafella and Kwikstep are featured. The second segment highlights the Miami Sound, music that is a blend of traditional Cuban music, explosive jazz and American pop. The featured artist is Willie Chirino. Rudy Perez, whose story is uncovered in the third segment, is a pioneer of the post-modern dance movement. Though legally blind, he continues to create and inspire as teacher. Perez also choreographs for his Los Angeles-based modern dance Company. The episode also highlights El Paso- based experimental filmmaker Willie Varela, whose independent personal films explore themes of urban and border life.

Episode Five -- The fifth episode highlights the Taco Shop Poets of Southern California, early tent theater of the Southwest called Carpas and performance art in San Francisco. Featured performance artists include Guillermo Gomez-Pena, performance troupe ASCO, and the performance art pioneers Royal Chicano Airforce. The San Diego-based Taco Shop Poets, Chicano poets who blend the spoken word with lively beats, strive to take their social and political poetry to where people are likely to congregate -- the taco shops.

Episode Six -- The final episode features the history of salsa music and dance in Philadelphia, the first Mexican-American prima ballerina Evelyn Cisneros, Tejana music pioneer Lydia Mendoza and the father of Chicano music and National Medal of Arts recipient Lalo Guerrero. The salsa segment includes commentary on renowned performers Celia Cruz and Tito Puente. Lydia Mendoza was part of the early emerging recording industry in the United States. At a time when Spanish language music was exclusively imported from Mexico and Latin America, she began recording the original music in Texas. She along with Lalo Guerrero made a mark in American music. Guerrero is best known for his musical parodies.

BEYOND THE BORDER (Encore)
Monday, September 12, 2005 (check local listings)

This program traces the transition made by four sons in the Ayala family as they leave behind their parents and sisters in Michoacan, Mexico, and struggle to overcome cultural, class and language barriers in Kentucky.

COME AND TAKE IT DAY (Encore)
Monday, September 12, 2005 (check local listings)

The century-old legend of the lost treasure of Tejano folk hero Gregorio Cortez changes the lives of four present-day Texans, each working in a tourist trap restaurant on the San Antonio Riverwalk, in Jim Mendiola's one-hour feature. The program stars Jesse Borrego (Follow Me Home, Lone Star), Jacob Vargas (Traffic, Mi Familia, Selena), Maria Candelaria and Rick Delgado in a witty, stylish Tejano noir that explores the class structure of San Antonio's multi-layered Latino community while telling a fascinating story of obsession, betrayal and death.

INDEPENDENT LENS

"Foto-Novelas 2: 'Junkyard Saints' and 'Broken Sky'" (Encore)
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 (check local listings)

In a continuation of the series that explores the Latino experience through the prism of dreams, memories and reality, "Foto-Novelas 2" consists of two half-hour dramas: "Broken Sky," a fictionalized account based on the real-life 1948 plane crash that killed 28 Mexicans in Fresno, California, and "Junkyard Saints," a spiritual thriller set in a South Texas automotive graveyard.

"Los Angeles Now" (Encore)
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 (check local listings)
Presented in HD: Friday, September 23, 2005, 9 p.m. ET (where available)

Once an empty, bucolic space, Los Angeles is now a disorienting megalopolis. Once the whitest city in America, Los Angeles is now the most multicultural city in the world. What is the future of this rapidly changing area? "Los Angeles Now" looks beyond "Baywatch" and Blade Runner to create a fresh, candid portrait of America's second-largest city.

"Chavez Ravine: A Los Angeles Story" (Encore)
Tuesday, September 13, 2005 (check local listings)

Narrated by Cheech Marin and scored by Ry Cooder, this film shows how a community was betrayed by greed, political hypocrisy and good intentions gone astray. Don Normark's haunting photographs evoke a lost Mexican-American village, in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, razed in the 1950s to build Dodger Stadium.

THE LIFE AND TIMES OF FRIDA KAHLO (Encore)
Wednesday, September 14, 2005 (check local listings)

Never before has the extraordinary life of the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo been framed in relation to the full spectrum of the historical and cultural inf