Hip Hop Press - Hip Hop Press Releases

The former MOBO winner & ex Boogie Bunch member, Brian (DJ Swing) Daley was one of the most popular, humorous and familiar personalities on the UK's black music club and party scene. Originally a member of the 'Live to Break' breakdance crew. His popularity grew throughout the 90's doing parties for artists such as Bobby Brown, Mary J Blige, Lennox Lewis, Jodeci etc. He worked 4 years at BMG/RCA Records heading their R&B/Rap Promotions Dept (TLC, Notorious BIG,Wu Tang Clan etc.) before being head hunted by legendary hip-hop label Tommy Boy Records (De la Soul etc). He also hosted a radio show on Londons Choice FM, doing a 1 hour mastermix show every Saturday afternoon. In 1998 he collected the 'Best Club DJ' award at the MOBO awards (other nominees being Fat Boy Slim, The Dreem Teem and Trevor Nelson).

Brian was playing clubs all over the world, when a minor backache turned out to be a rare blood cancer, Multiple Myeloma in January 2003. He then received 3 stem cell transplants utilising his own cells, but on each occasion fell out of remission. From then on he continued to receive further chemotherapy treatment but was told that he urgently needed a bone marrow transplant from an unrelated donor. DJ Swing relapsed in April 2004 forcing an abrupt halt to his cherished music career in exchange for many months of intense chemotherapy and blood/platelet transfusions. The only thing that was going to save him was a bone marrow transplant from an unrelated donor. But being of African Caribbean decsent the chances of finding a matching donor was at least one in 100,000. If Swing were white the odds if he was lucky could be closer to one in five.

Many people came forward to help by registering as potential donors. The greatest example being the clinic that took place on Friday 14 October 2005. A registration clinic took place at the Rococo nightclub in Londons Leicester Square and attracted a turnout beyond all expectations. Over 400 potential donors, generated from the mass networking by the united urban music industry, patiently waited for hours to join the register, with many queuing across the length of the Square. Prominent UK black artists such as Simon Webbe, Lethal B, Pied Piper, MC Creed joined together with profile radio presenters such as DJ Spoony & Ras Kwame (Radio 1), Heartless Crews Mighty Mo (1Xtra), Steve Sutherland (Galaxy), Kat & Masterstepz (Choice) to Shortee Blitz (Kiss) to highlight the urgency of this appeal to save the life of their friend Swing.

Then finally and thankfully on Thursday 10th November, Brian received a 90% bone marrow transplant from an un-related donor. The procedure went very well, with Brian & family feeling extremely happy and understandably overwhelmed. Brian himself sent a massive THANK YOU to each and every one for everything that was done on his behalf. He was completely amazed & touched by the response from all of you - and said that he would love everyone to continue with their support for others who need to find a bone marrow match.

His words The work does not stop here we have to continue spreading the message to get more people onto the bone marrow register. Lives CAN be saved!

However, the following 4-6 weeks were crucial because his body needed to accept the donated bone marrow cells and he needed to build up his strength. He was doing relatively ok until very recently when minor health setbacks turned quickly into very severe complications and Brian (DJ Swing) Daley peacefully passed away last night (Wed 22nd March) with his family and friends by his bedside. We were at the hospital for most of the day and were able to say 'goodbye' to a remarkable and very courageous father, brother, uncle and friend. On behalf of the ACLT we pass on our thoughts, prayers and condolences to his parents, sisters, family and close friends especially The Boogie Bunch.

Some of you may have known him personally Beverley and I got to know him very well over the last 2 years and feel very privileged to have known him. Brian always made it very clear to us that when he was back on his feet he would work with us in recruiting potential donors for other patients. He showed such great respect to others and deliberately stayed out of the limelight because he was a very humble person who worried more about others than about himself. But now he is now at peace alongside his close friend Lynden David Hall. One thing that is certain is that both of these two creative giants of the music scene would want you to please register sooner rather than later if you have not done so already because little Yvette Gate, Danny Whyte, Sarah Thompson and Donna Benjamin, etc urgently need the Gift of Life. Time is running out.

If you are aged 18-43 and live in the UK we can consider you as a potential Bone Marrow donor (even if you have Sickle Cell Trait) but you must be willing to register as a possible bone marrow match for all patients (with a similar ethnicity/racial background) around the world awaiting possible matches. Please note that you cannot just walk into your Doctor's practice or any hospital to give a blood sample to register as a donor.

In order for you to save time you can Click Here and Click Here to download the necessary reading and registration documents "Commit to a Life Saving Procedure Now" and "Completing this form could save a life" medical questionnaire from the Anthony Nolan Trust's website.
These are both PDF files. So if you need the appropriate software then all you need to do is click and download the free Adobe Reader to download to view them.

For live links please see: http://www.aclt.org/content/default.asp?i=320&c=news

Please print and complete every question in the medical questionnaire including all parts of the Consent section at the back of the form. Then bring the completed form to the Registration clinic so that it can be checked to ensure that you are eligible to register.

All we ask of you, especially if you are Black or Mixed Race and aged between 18-43 in relatively good health and not obese or under 8 stone, is to give up 15-30 minutes of your day at the registration clinic venue where you can hand in or complete the application form, be counselled about the donation procedures and if you are ever found to be a matched donor what your preparation would be. This is followed by a Q & A's session and finally giving 4 mls of blood (a tablespoon). The blood sample is taken to determine your bone marrow tissue type (your blood group is of no relevance) and these details with your name and location will be added on to a database of potential donors for patients awaiting matches around the world. On completion we will arm you with various bits of information and our contact details, just in case you need to speak with us in the future about anything.

THEREFORE AS A TRIBUTE TO THE LATE AND GREAT DJ SWING, THE ACLT ARE ORGANISING A SPECIAL ONE DAY DONOR REGISTRATION CLINIC AT THE CHOICE FM STUDIOS, 30 LEICESTER SQUARE, LONDON, WC2H 7LA ON SUNDAY 26TH MARCH BETWEEN, 11AM TO 6PM.

We urgently need our community to step forward in their hundreds and do the right thing NOW. Because if you are reading this message or heard about DJ Swing or any other appeal via the News Media or Internet, and are eligible and can physically get to the location to come forward and help but do not then we have to ask this question?

What is it going to take before you come forward to register and try to help one of our own?

Cancer touches us all directly or indirectly. At some point in the future someone you know will probably need a Bone Marrow donor. Would it not be great if on every occasion there were tens of thousands of us already registered to choose from to find the matching donor?

By attending an ACLT registration clinic you could potentially save the life of Donna Benjamin, Danny Whyte, 12 year old Yvette Gate, Sarah Thompson and many others who require bone marrow transplants around the world. It could be the most important thing you ever do in your life.

As one of our supporters said, I believe that the passing of DJ Swing is truly a sad loss for the whole of the community, not just the black community.
DJ Swing needs your help to help others NOW - NO MORE EXCUSES

(From : http://www.aclt.org/content/default.asp?i=320&c=news)

AFUNK MAGAZINE
www.afunk.co.uk
www.myspace.com/afunkmag

A recognized leader in the world of dub, Canadian poet Michael St. George (http://www.michaelstgeorge.com) uses the internet and low cost new media tools to work across the waves with critically-acclaimed Asian UK producer DJ Asif (Fusing Naked Beats).

Toronto, ON (PRWEB) March 24, 2006 -- Without funding and limited resources, two artists have managed to circumvent the limitations of the digital divide and the Atlantic Ocean. How often would you find a Jamaican writer and a British underground DJ working together in the studio when one lives in Canada and the other lives in a suburb of London in the UK?

Michael St. George is a Dub poet, singer, and songwriter from Jamaica who is currently based in Toronto, Canada. St. George met DJ wunderkind Asif in 2004 at the Griots Black Cultural Fest in Wales/UK. Since then, they have worked together in DJ Asifs London studio and across the waves using electronic media and the Internet to complete a truly imaginative and uplifting world music recording. The two artists were able to combine their skills to produce Hey! Hey! (De-Compartmentalize-I), an inspired collaborative piece.

DJ Asif is often heard on the BBC's Digital Asia and is popular at venues across the UK and Europe. Urbanised from the Asian Underground scene, with his project Fusing Naked Beats, Asif blends Arabic rhythms and Eastern vibes with his background in hip-hop and deep beats transporting his sound all over Europe from deck to deck. He has produced several albums featuring original soundtracks for film and work with prominent vocalists such as Najma Akhtar and others.

St. George inspires audiences with perceptive lyrics and melodic sound fusing Reggae, Jazz, and Pop influences. He is a dynamic artist who has shared the stage and studio with such icons as Oku Onuora, The Last Poets, Culture, Burning Spear, Lillian Allen, Luciano, Thomas Mapfumo, Mutabaruka, Mzwakhe Mbuli, Dennis Bovell and the International Dub Band, Toots and the Maytals, and Boukman Eksperyans.

No stranger to forging cooperative creations, St. Georges most recent album "Dubbin De Vibes" highlights exciting partnerships with prominent musicians such as Orville "Wyz" Malcolm, Iauwata Selassie, Paul Kastic, Dalton Brownie, among others.

You can check out samples of St. George's tracks at http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/mstgeorge. You can also see his video Caged In and a promo video showing short clips of performancesas part of the griotsarts podcast through iTunes at http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=129580761&s=143444

For more information about Michael St. George, visit http://www.michaelstgeorge.com. For additional details about DJ Asif, visit http://www.fusingnakedbeats.co.uk

###

Marva Lord
http://www.griotsarts.com/
01144-8704460047

March 24th, 2006
NY, NY---- Born in Harlem and raised in New York City's toughest neighborhood (The Bronx), Smiley The Ghetto Child's history runs deep. Some of Smiley's early milestones included ghost-writing for both Black Sheep and Chi Ali. Smiley later went on to hook up with his cousin Melachi The Nutcracker and helped orchestrate Group Home's classic Hiphop album Livin Proof, which was entirely produced by the legendary DJ Premier of Gang Starr. Smiley was featured on "The Realness", which many viewed as a standout track from the LP. A music video was scheduled to be shot for The Realness,? which Smiley was supposed to play a major part in, but during that period Smiley caught a case and was locked up due to "extra curricular activities.? This unfortunate intermission stopped what could have been a promising career for Smiley during the golden age of Hip Hop. With that past in his rear-view mirror, Smiley The Ghetto Child will make up for lost time on 5-2-06 with the release of his debut LP The Antidote!

A shade under a decade later, Smiley triumphantly returned when he hooked back up with his Gang Starr affiliates, by appearing on (Werdz From The Ghetto Child?) Gang Starrs 2003 opus The Ownerz. Re-embraced by his Gang Starr cohorts and the public, in 2005 Smiley released his DJ Premier produced single The Wake Up Call,? which also featured production from Showbiz and Sebb (G-Unit & Infamous Mobb). The vinyl only single went on to become Fat Beats best seller in 2005. Later that year Smiley hit the road for two major tours; including the first 60 Dates on the "Weapons of MIC Destruction Tour" with Ghostface, Pharoahe Monch, M.O.P. and Cormega. Smiley closed out 2005 by touring with Linkin Park and M.O.P.

With a fast growing fan base starving for a raw street record, Smiley The Ghetto Child offers up his debut, The Antidote, a spring cure all that is sure to be hailed on the block as a return to the realness. Though the legendary WC of Westside Connection swings thru on L.A.N.Y., Smiley goes against the grain and kept guest appearances to a minimum on his debut, preferring to let his own talents shine thru. Smiley does reunite with DJ Premier on The Antidote, as Premier produces the The Wake Up Call and adds vocals too Everything. The Antidote also features production from Showbiz, Green Lantern and Sebb.

Some say Hiphop is sick, but on 5-2-06 Smiley The Ghetto Child proves he has The Antidote!

Tracklisting and credits for Smiley The Ghetto Childs The Antidote

01.) Intro (produced by Chaze)
02.) Limousine Dream (produced by Chaze)
03.) Bronx Baby (produced by Showbiz)
04.) No Love (produced by Nitro)
05.) L.A.N.Y. f/WC from Westside Connection (produced by Sebb)
06.) Pig Latin (produced by DJ Green Lantern)
07.) Close to 30 Gs (produced by E-Blazie)
08.) Everything f/DJ Premier (produced by Ted Birkey)
09.) 800 Trigger Fixers (skit)
10.) Bodychalk (produced by Gallegos)
11.) Monster (produced by Fanon XP)
12.) Logic (produced by Sebb)
13.) All On You (produced by Nitro)
14.) The Wake Up Call (produced by DJ Premier)
15.) Styles (produced by The Grouch)
16.) Give us a Moment (produced by Sebb)
17.) Rest in Peace (produced by Chaze)
18.) Outro (produced by Chaze)

# # #

To obtain a press copy of Smiley The Ghetto Childs The Antidote for review or interview purposes, please contact:
Matt Conaway@ Movement Marketing
Business #: 410-360-5957
Cell#: 410-903-7568
E-Mail: Matthewbrn@aol.com
AOL IM: Matthewbrn

ARLINGTON, Va., March 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Hip-hop rappers Master P and Lil' Romeo and R&B vocalist Michael Warren will perform at a "Welcome Home" celebration for soldiers at Rose Barracks in Vilseck, Germany, March 29. Sponsored by the USO and the Installation Management Agency -- Europe's Morale Welfare and Recreation office, the event is for members of the 18th Corps Support Battalion and the 94th Engineer Combat Battalion returning from Iraq and will feature an awards presentation, games, carnival rides and a magic show.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20031119/USO )

Most recently seen as a celebrity dancer on ABC's popular "Dancing with the Stars," Master P is a legend in the music industry. Born Percy Miller, Master P was raised in New Orleans and built a hip-hop empire with his independent label No Limit. In addition to selling more than 75 million records, Master P is also an athlete who has played basketball with the Sacramento Kings and the semi-professional Las Vegas Rattlers.

The son of Master P, Lil' Romeo released his self-titled debut album in 2001. Almost immediately, his first single "My Baby" soared to the top of the Billboard charts. His most recent project, "Romeo!," collected music from his television series and was released last year.

Blending R&B, rock, pop and punk, Michael Warren has attracted legions of fans. His skills have allowed him to open up for several musical legends, including Gladys Knight, B.B. King, Robert Cray and Howie Day. Warren also has appeared with new artists 3LW, Bow-Wow and Genuwine.

This tour continues the USO/AFE tradition of bringing entertainment to troops stationed far from home. Several celebrities have made trips for the USO this year, including Gary Sinise, La Mafia, Montgomery Gentry, STAIND and MISS TEEN USA(R) 2005.

About the USO

For 65 years, the USO (United Service Organizations) has been providing morale, welfare and recreational services to U.S. military personnel and their families. The USO is a nonprofit, charitable organization, relying on the generosity of the American people to support its programs and services. The USO is supported by World Partners AT&T Corporation, BAE SYSTEMS, Clear Channel Communications, The Coca-Cola Company, Military Channel, S & K Sales Co. and TriWest Healthcare Alliance. Other corporate donors, including the United Way and Combined Federal Campaign (CFC-0600), have joined thousands of individual donors to support the USO. For more information on the USO, please visit our Web site at http://www.uso.org/.

CONTACT: Erica Stone of USO, +1-703-908-6471, estone@uso.org.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20031119/USO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: USO

CONTACT: Erica Stone of USO, +1-703-908-6471, estone@uso.org

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

ANDOVER, Mass., March 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Groove Mobile, the leading mobile music commerce platform, today announced the closure of an $8.5 million round of financing led by new investor Egan-Managed Capital. The Egan-Managed Capital team has over 50 years of hands on experience with early stage companies. These investments will provide capital to fuel the continued growth of Groove Mobile.

The investment reinforces Groove Mobile's global leadership in mobile music service marketplace, which includes the launch of the Sprint Music Store, the first mobile music service in the United States, as well as powering mobile music services for wireless carriers in Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Asia. The company will use the funding to accelerate the growth of its innovative mobile music platform while it continues to expand in global markets.

"We are delighted to receive the endorsement of Egan-Managed Capital. Their participation validates our leading role in the wireless music service sector and the prospects for our continued success and future growth," stated Bathsheba Malsheen, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Groove Mobile. "It is a pleasure to engage the support and guidance of Egan's highly experienced team."

"Groove Mobile is poised to continue its leading role in the mobile music sector with a strong management team, a dominant market footprint, and innovative technology," said Travis Connors, Partner of Egan-Managed Capital. "We are excited to contribute to this growth and look forward to helping the company realize its full potential."

Groove Mobile is backed by leading venture capital firms. In addition to Egan Capital, continuing investors are Charles River Ventures, Kodiak Venture Partners, and Star Ventures, which have combined investments of over $20 million in Groove Mobile.

ABOUT GROOVE MOBILE

Groove Mobile is the world's leading mobile music service. Groove Mobile's Complete Music Gateway includes Full Track Mobile Downloads, Peer-to-Peer Sharing and Personalized Music Recommendations, in addition to providing Personalized and Programmed Streaming Radio, Music Subscriptions, and more. Groove Mobile powers the #1 rated mobile music service in the UK, Orange's Music Player and the first mobile music services in the US, Sprint Music Store. Groove Mobile launched the world's first secure peer-to-peer distribution in the mobile space, with its pioneering TELL-A-FRIEND feature. Groove Mobile's direct download service is available in the US, Canada, Europe and Asia-Pacific and provides access to music from EMI, Warner Music International, V2, Beggars Group, Digital Rights Management and The Orchard libraries. www.groovemobile.com

ABOUT EGAN-MANAGED CAPITAL

Egan-Managed Capital is a New England focused venture capital firm that provides funding for early stage high-technology start-ups. Egan-Managed Capital delivers field-tested strategies, first-hand technology expertise and hands-on management involvement. Some of the industry's most successful start-ups have already been funded by the firm, including Network Engines, Epicon, Highground Software, and NetScout. Founded in 1997, the firm currently manages funds with $233 million in committed capital. www.egancapital.com

Source: Groove Mobile

CONTACT: Bennet Ratcliff of Ratcliff Strategies, +1-310-261-0408,
bennet@ratcliffstrategies.com, for Groove Mobile

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

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

Music is My Business and BREAK magazine, two premiere progressive entertainment conglomerates in Atlanta, GA have partnered for a trend-setting industry tastemaker event entitled BREAK'N Music is My Business, Thursday April 13th 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the legendary Artist Factory in Atlanta, GA.

(PRWEB) March 24, 2006 -- Music is my Business is the next generation of independent music companies, led by CEO Aaron P. Arnold (formerly part of Sean Diddy Combs executive team) and is housed at the Artist Factory, a multi-million dollar music facility in Atlanta, GA. The Artist Factory Group, founded by music industry legend Hiriam Hicks, and Music Is My Business Inc have formed a joint venture to create the "Mo-Town" of the south, says MIMB CEO Aaron Arnold. My goal with this company is not only to produce ground-breaking initiatives, to inspire and motivate through music but also to change the way business is done via music.

In a few months shy of a year in print, BREAK magazine has managed to create a formidable presence in the Southern music scene and has become a voice for independent artists who choose to take their careers into their own hands. BREAKs goal is to provide the knowledge, tools and resources for new and established artists along with industry professionals to be seen and heard and to help the hip hop culture continue elevating to new heights, says BREAK publisher, Mic Trammell.

For Music is My Business to partner with BREAK magazine is a perfect example of new forces moving in the industry. This event is special because it represents two young men with vision coming together as Business Executives of their perspective companies to represent ATL and the next generation, says Arnold. Hosting the event at the Artist Factory creates the perfect mesh of fresh ingenuity coupled with experienced credibility as Hiriam Hicks represents a legendary time in the entertainment industry especially as it relates to Atlanta. The Artist Factory is here to develop the next generation of artists, managers and executives in this ever-changing business environment. Music is My Business Inc. will play a vital role in shaping the industry, says Hiriam Hicks former president of Island Black Music and founder of the multi-million dollar Artist Factory.

BREAK'N Music is My Business in an A-list invite only tastemaker social mixer which will feature various established organizations along with five of the hottest up and coming acts in the industry. The event will be hosted by Hot 107.9s Beyonce Alowishus.

###

Christal Jordan-mims
ENCHANTEDPR
http://www.enchantedpr.com/
678-499-0297

Wheelock College Hosts Conference Featuring Hip Hop Film by Award-winning Filmmaker Byron Hurt

BOSTON, March 23 /PRNewswire/ -- From national dreams to media fantasies, there is a persistent imagining of what black men must be. On April 28, Media and Visual Culture: Reading the Black Male Body, a conference presented by Wheelock College, will bring together cutting-edge scholars to debate the historical and contemporary visual images of black men. Several of the topics the panels at the conference will cover include:

* The impact of hip-hop culture on black and white masculinity today;

* The black struggle to create authentic media images of the black
experience in America;

* How media images shape society's perceptions of race, gender and class,
and;

* The potential of media to create an open and democratic space for
progressive social change.

The keynote speaker, Professor Herman Gray, is one of the pioneers of African-American media studies in U.S. colleges and author of numerous articles and books on race and the media. His latest book is "Cultural Moves: African Americans and the Politics of Representation." Gray is chair of the Department of Sociology at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

"Beyond Beats and Rhymes: A Hip-Hop Head Weighs in on Manhood in Hip Hop Culture," a film produced by award-winning documentary filmmaker Byron Hurt will be shown at the conference. The film has received recognition at the Sundance Film Festival, wide national attention and is to be aired on PBS later this year. Following the screening, Hurt will lead a discussion and take questions from the audience.

Additional panelists include such respected media scholars as Dr. Joyce Hope Scott, Dr. Keith Harris, Dr. Imani Perry, and Dr. Mark Anthony Neal.

Wheelock College's American Studies Department has created this conference to expose students to the richly diverse nature of American society through the in-depth study of pop culture, politics, art, history and literature.

"Our goal is to bring a diversity of voices to the dialogue that is going on between the academy and communities of color about the centrality and multi-faceted nature of race in American society," says Dr. Gail Dines, Chair of American Studies at Wheelock College. Well-known within the field for her award-winning book, "Gender, Race, and Class in Media," Dines is considered one of the leading experts on the effects of media on women and men's gender identity.

Media and Visual Culture: Reading the Black Male Body takes place on Friday, April 28, 2006 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Beyond Beats and Rhymes will be screened at 3:45 p.m. followed by a question and answer session with

Hurt. General admission is $35 for members of the public. The conference costs $15 for college students and faculty.

Founded in 1888 and located in Boston, MA, Wheelock College is a private institution with the public mission of improving lives of children and their families. The College fulfills this mission by providing a strong education in the arts and sciences and in its professional fields -- education, child and family studies, and social work -- for which its undergraduate and graduate programs are nationally and internationally recognized. Throughout its academic programs and student experience, the College reflects the multicultural dimensions of the communities and countries in which it operates and fosters diverse learning experiences -- all of which contributes to the success, leadership, and impact that its graduates enjoy in a wide variety of careers.

For more information on the conference, visit www.wheelock.edu/mvc-conf/

Source: Wheelock College

CONTACT: Rochelle Rosen, Public Relations Director of Wheelock College,
+1-617-879-2250, rrosen@wheelock.edu

Web site: http://www.wheelock.edu/

I design rhymes that inspire these young minds
this is dedicated to all those who love the art (life n hip hop)

Straight out of London, DOM-G aka Dominant G is not a new name in the hip hop world. His lyrical skills have been applauded by some of the biggest names in the industry including Choice FM DJ 279, DJ Excalibur, Radio One DJ Tim Westwood and publications including Touch, Trace and DJ Magazine.

Dominating mics is something that many MCs never master but DOM-G honed his craft at open-mic sessions in the well-known London spot Borderline. Music has always been a part of his life from his early days; I grew up listening to a lot of jazz and soul; people like The Crusaders, Bob James and Frank Zappa. Rakim is my main influence as hes one of the greatest MCs to come out there.

From his small beginnings he hooked up with Joe, formerly known as Braintax, who signed him along with the well known producer Drew to Lowlife Records and released an EP entitled The whole circumference, featuring rapper David J. Having received wide acclaim they went on to release "Slip Stream" featuring the Mercury Award nominee TY on Rumour Records/ Stonegroove.

Having firmly made a name for himself on the underground DOM-G is about to unleash his long awaited debut solo album AIR on June 5th 2006 on Grinnin Records. His time since his Psychic Phenomena days has meant that his sound has mellowed and matured to create an album that crosses boundaries from hip hop and soul through to poetry and jazz. In his own words his music is inspirational, relaxed and heartfelt. I wanted to create a positive and real album, he continued. I wanted to take peoples minds away from the negativity so many artists portray and make things possible. The world is changing and everyone wants better things for themselves.

The album tracks da heat and you dont know received widespread praise from the mainstream music press and the album is set to follow the same trend. Tracks like thats why i wrote, which features the soul-kissed vocals of Phoebe, represent a different form of hip hop to the mainstream pop as it delves deeper than the pimp and ho attitude so widely portrayed. It focuses on the strength of love, DOM-G explains. It goes deep into love through letters and explores a subtle type of love which is mature and more than just sex.

The deliciously smooth reflections features the lyrical skills of Californians Zion-I. It takes a look back and opens a window to the past and each rappers verse reflects one another despite distance and cultural barriers. Nomadic Poet is another contributor to this full-bodied album, and production comes thanks to Amp Live, LG, Apollo, Peeping Tom and Drew, best known for his work with TY and as a former Psychic Phenomena member. I didnt think I was going to produce an album, but Im pleased with it. Ive had an interesting journey making it. Musically it goes back to my roots and defies the boundaries of hip hop. It definitely includes something for everyone.

Doms got a good voice and a great flowhis lyrics are tightly honed and delivered with emphatic confidence. ~ Undercover Magazine
Dom all the while striking the right balance between passion and punchlines ~ Touch Magazine
"Ill be checking for the solo LP ~ UKHH
The soon to come debut LP should be something special ~ DJ Magazine

DOM-G is currently available for interviews. For more information contact Angharad Williams at Afunk PR on 07946 035 789 or angharad@afunk.co.uk.

Vivendi Universal Games Recognizes 20 Finalists for the
Scarface: The World Is Yours Video Game Music Talent Search

Vivendi Universal Games (VU Games) has chosen the 20 finalists for the
Scarface: The World Is Yours Video Game Soundtrack Talent Search, a
successful promotion currently running on MySpace.com, the internets
leading social networking and lifestyle portal. The contest will
reward the
best unsigned music talent in North America with the opportunity to
launch
their career through the inclusion of their song in the highly
anticipated
Scarface video game, scheduled to launch this fall. In addition, the
winner
will get the opportunity to perform in front of high profile music and
video
game industry leaders at a major concert event in Hollywood. MySpace
users
have until March 28th to log on to www.myspace.com/scarfacegame
to listen to the top 20 songs
and
vote for their favorite artist.

During the first round of the contest, more than 46,000 MySpace users
nominated over 7,000 artists, in less than a week. The top 200
nominated
artists were then narrowed down to 20 finalists by a panel of music and
video game industry judges. By voting for their favorite unsigned
MySpace
Music artist, the MySpace community will choose a winner to be featured
in
Scarface: The World Is Yours, alongside some of todays hottest music
artists. In addition, the winner and two runners-up will be flown to
Los
Angeles, to open for a major label headline act at a concert event
during
this years video game tradeshow, the Electronic Entertainment Expo
(E3).

The 20 finalists and their tracks are:
1. 30ot6 - A.K.A.
2. 59s Finest - One Minute
3. Celldweller - Switchback
4. CONEJO - REVNGE SERVED COLD
5. Crazy Anglos - Freakin Me Out
6. DISOWN - The Dust of Sin
7. D-Squad - Things Changed
8. FEDD HILL - Money Love Guns Life
9. Kazy - Choke
10. No Bare Feet - F*ck You Too
11. Phenetics - Burn
12. PK - Young Scarface
13. R-Mean - My World
14. S.N.Y.P - In God We Trust
15. Shaolin Temple of BooM - Inside
16. SLO-O - Soul on Ice
17. The Kellys - Blink
18. V Sinizter - Riot Anthem
19. WolfPac - Put Your Dukes Up
20. Wyno aka Skilmatik - Trust No One

Music acts, fans and MySpace users should visit the official
MySpace.com
contest page to vote at www.myspace.com/scarfacegame
.

For more information about Scarface: The World Is Yours, please visit
the
games official Web site at www.scarfacegame.com
.

# posted by Clyde @ 4:33 AM

One of Five Finalists Will be the First Band to Launch Its Career on V CAST Music

BEDMINSTER, N.J., March 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless and MySpace today announced just five finalists from more than 4,000 entries in the "Calling All Bands" contest. The Arrival, Unset, Berto Ramon, Aroarah and Parlour Boys are now one step closer to becoming the first unsigned band to launch its career on V CAST Music from Verizon Wireless, the nation's most comprehensive mobile music service. The initial bands were winnowed down to 15 semifinalists; votes from MySpace.com community members selected the five finalists. The lucky winning band will have the opportunity to have its song, music video, ring tone and ring back tone released on Verizon Wireless -- the nation's leading wireless provider with 51.3 million customers.

Finalists in the "Calling All Bands" contest include:

* The Arrival -- Hailing from Madison, AL, The Arrival speaks volumes of
truth through the unwonted exercise of blending. Dynamic energy is
interwoven with poppy harmony to deliver unyielding tracks, heavy with
sound and heavy with emotion: http://www.myspace.com/thearrival

* Unset -- Unset is from San Diego, CA and their goal is to create songs
that are snapshots of moments in time. Unset describes their music as
dramatic, edgy, dark and beautiful: http://www.myspace.com/unset

* Berto Ramon -- Berto Ramon aims to make an impact on their community
through the culture that surrounds them, hip hop. The ten piece live
band from Chicago, IL, consists of everything from Latin jazz
percussion to soulful guitar licks and melodic violin strings laying
the foundation for powerful conscious lyrics spit in order to challenge
the listener and give a voice to those who are often muted:
http://www.myspace.com/bertoramon

* Aroarah -- Aroarah is a four piece band based out of the heart of
Orangevale, California. These girls have been together for four years
and have played numerous places all up and down the west coast. After
starting the band while they were in high school, the girls progressed
with age and by the time of graduation, all four made the move to Los
Angeles. Now living back home in Sacramento, the girls are busy
writing new tunes, living in music and traveling more so than ever:
http://www.myspace.com/aroarah

* Parlour Boys -- Formed in 2005, Parlour Boys hail from Lexington, KY.
In a short time, they have garnered significant media attention and a
large following of dedicated fans:
http://www.myspace.com/parlourboysmusic

The music content team at Verizon Wireless, which secures music for the new V CAST Music service, ring tones and ring back tones and the MySpace music editors will evaluate submissions from the five finalists and determine the winner of the "Calling All Bands" contest. The winner will be announced on March 29.

Winner's Package

Verizon Wireless will release the "Calling All Bands" winner's song on V CAST Music -- marking the first time an unsigned band will release its first single on a wireless phone. The winner will also collaborate with a MySpace independent filmmaker and Verizon Wireless to produce a music video that will be released on V CAST, plus a ring tone and ring back tone of the winning song that will be available for purchase by Verizon Wireless customers. MySpace helped Verizon Wireless introduce up and coming bands to the mobile world, further extending the music experience on customers' communication devices they use most every day -- their wireless phones.

V CAST Music

V CAST Music from Verizon Wireless lets customers play music on their wireless phones from well-known and independent artists -- the same device they have come to rely upon for entertainment, information and mobile communication. The V CAST Music store lets customers browse, preview, download and play high-quality digital music from their phones or in the Verizon Wireless V CAST Music online store. V CAST Music songs cost $0.99 if purchased from the PC or $1.99 if purchased and downloaded over the air onto a V CAST Music phone.

With more than 500,000 songs in its catalogue, V CAST Music runs on Verizon Wireless' broadband network, the most robust, award-winning wireless broadband network in the nation, available from coast to coast. Customers need a V CAST-enabled phone and a subscription to a V CAST VPak, which is $15.00 monthly access, added to their Verizon Wireless calling plan to access V CAST Music and music videos on their phones. Customers interested in managing their music from their PCs in the V CAST Music Online Store can do so without a V CAST VPak.

V CAST Music is available through Verizon Wireless' 2,000 Communications Stores and Circuit City locations and online at http://www.verizonwireless.com/. For more information, visit http://www.verizonwireless.com/music.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation's most reliable wireless network, serving 51.3 million voice and data customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com/. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

Source: Verizon Wireless

CONTACT: Jeffrey Nelson of Verizon Wireless, +1-908-306-4824,
Jeffrey.Nelson@VerizonWireless.com

Web site: http://www.verizonwireless.com/
http://www.verizonwireless.com/music
http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia
http://www.myspace.com/thearrival
http://www.myspace.com/unset
http://www.myspace.com/bertoramon
http://www.myspace.com/aroarah
http://www.myspace.com/parlourboysmusic

"Wordsworth's latest is so good it's almost hard to describe - an indie hip-hop classic."
--Music Connection

"Oddisee may be the best producer in Hip-Hop that you probably don't know yet."
--AllHipHop.com

Since its initial commercial release in 2004, and following its unprecedented critical success, unsurpassable achievements on urban radio, and phenomenal reception by fans, press, DJs and taste-makers alike, Wordsworth's Mirror Music is back and better than ever! Due to popular demand, Halftooth Records is reissuing the classic debut album from Wordsworth with a fresh and exciting twist. Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition is the definitive version of the certified-classic Hip-Hop album from the Brooklyn-bred microphone fiend Wordsworth. Now packaged as a limited edition 2-disc set, Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition includes the entire 20-track original Mirror Music album from Wordsworth with guest appearance from Masta Ace, Punchline, Oddisee and Kenn Starr and production by Ayatollah, Da Beatminerz, Oddisee and more, PLUS a special bonus CD entitled Oddisee Presents The Mirror Music Remixes, featuring 10 exclusive Mirror Music remixes by producer extraordinaire Oddisee.

Mirror Music demonstrated a growth in Wordsworth's patented swagger; the wordsmith does more than just brag on the new album - he gives personal insight and spits narratives that reflect everyday life without glorifying street living. Mirror Music appeals to anyone who appreciates a true sure flow. "Nothing good to say keep silent/Cause the things that I wouldn't want to say you keep rhyming/Keep firing, I seek like a missile heat guided/And I'm so hot I'm a be on top cause heat rises," Wordsworth rhymes on first single "Gotta Pay," urging MCs that "Y'all don't need to dumb it down, y'all dudes is dumb already."

Since producing and performing the hit track "Musik Lounge" for DJ Jazzy Jeff's The Magnificent LP in 2002, Wordsworth's Halftooth Records label-mate, Amir "Oddisee" Mohamed has quickly become a rising star in Hip-Hop and an artist to keep your eye on as both a producer and emcee extraordinaire. Since turning his focus towards Hip-Hop in 1999, Oddisee has worked with the likes of Gary Shider of Parliament and Funkadelic, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Talib Kweli, J-Live, Wordsworth, Little Brother, Freddie Foxxx, Asheru, The UN, The Visionaries and many other respected recording artists around the world. In addition, Oddisee received a tremendous amount of attention and critical acclaim for his stand-out performances and production work on albums such as DJ Jazzy Jeff's The Magnificent, Halftooth Records' You Don't Know the Half, J-Live's The Hear After, Kev Brown's I Do What I Do, and The Foreign Exchange's Connected.

On Oddisee Presents The Mirror Music Remixes Oddisee recrafted certain songs with his own unique and mesmerizing style, emerging from the lab with his own distinctive version of Mirror Music with an entirely new vibe and a refreshing musical and emotional landscape far different from the original. Oddisee carefully constructed entirely new beats to enhance and complement Wordsworth's lyrics, even adding his own lyrics to certain songs, ultimately creating genuine new musical compositions. Wordsworth's unparalleled rhyming abilities and word-play matched with Oddisee's sensational production style is a triumphant combination that will be listened to and appreciated for many years to come. With a combined total of 30 tracks, Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition is a truly special collection of music that is sure to please both those fans who already have the original album version and those who do not.

Oddisee is available for interviews regarding Mirror Music: The Deluxe Edition, as well as his recent and upcoming releases on Halftooth Records, including The Remixture- Vol. 1 & Oddisee's Instrumental Mixtape - Vol. 1 and Vol. 2.
For more info: www.HALFTOOTH.com

----------------------------------------------------
Lucy Beer
Elemental Consulting
AOL IM: loulou76yo
www.elemental-consulting.com/blogger.html
[online marketing :: music :: lifestyle :: entertainment]

Sony Computer Entertainment America Gives Audiences Opportunity to Play the Latest PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R) Portable) Games, Free Music Downloads and a Chance to Win PlayStation(R) Prizes

WHO: Industry leader Sony Computer Entertainment America is proud to
team up with DJ AM and Pete Tong to bring PlayStation DualPlay
back to Miami during Winter Music Conference (WMC) 2006. Sony
Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation(R)
family of products and develops, publishes, markets and
distributes software for the PS one(TM) game console, the
PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system and the PSP(TM)
(PlayStation(R) Portable) system for the North American market.

WHAT: PlayStation DualPlay presents DJ AM and Pete Tong for one night
at Snatch and Suite nightclubs in Miami Beach, FL. Mixing
hip-hop with rock and 80's classics, DJ AM will tear up the
dance floor at Snatch nightclub, while Pete Tong plays behind
the decks at Suite. This year marks the fourth consecutive
appearance by PlayStation DualPlay during Winter Music
Conference and will highlight the latest games for the hugely
popular PSP system. In addition, audiences will be given gift
cards to download 5 free tracks* of music at beatport.com,
courtesy of PlayStation DualPlay and Beatport.
*Tracks pre-selected by Beatport.

WHERE: Snatch and Suite
1437 Washington Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139

WHEN: Saturday, March 25, 2006
10:00 p.m. - 5:00 a.m.

TICKETS: Visit www.us.playstation.com for event information. Tickets
will be sold at the door for $50 the night of the show.
Visitors to www.us.playstation.com will also be able to register
for a chance to win a PlayStation DualPlay Prize Pack, including
a PSP system autographed by DJ AM and Pete Tong. The
sweepstakes runs from March 14th through March 24th. No
purchase necessary to enter. Promotion ends March 24th, 2006.
Open to U.S. residents 13 and over, excluding Florida and New
York. Void where prohibited. See full rules for details at
www.us.playstation.com.

For more information, please contact:
Woodrow Mosqueda
Sony Computer Entertainment America
650.655.5240
woodrow_mosqueda@playstation.sony.com

PRNewswire -- March 23

Source: Sony Computer Entertainment America

ALBANY, N.Y., March 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Trans World Entertainment Corporation (NASDAQ:TWMC) , a leading retailer of entertainment products, announced today that the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York has approved the Company's bid to acquire substantially all of the assets of Musicland Holding Corp. Musicland, an entertainment specialty retailer which operates retail stores and websites under the names Sam Goody (SamGoody.com), Suncoast Motion Picture Company (Suncoast.com), On Cue and MediaPlay.com, filed a voluntary petition to restructure under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code in January 2006. The transaction is scheduled to close on March 27, 2006 and represents total consideration of $104.2 million in cash and $18.1 million in assumed liabilities.

"We are pleased that the Bankruptcy Court has approved our purchase of Musicland's assets and look forward to quickly and efficiently integrating the acquired stores into the Trans World chain," said Robert J. Higgins, Chairman And Chief Executive Officer of Trans World Entertainment. "This acquisition will increase our national footprint providing important operational and marketing synergies and we believe the acquisition will be accretive to our 2006 results. We also expect to leverage Musicland's investments in its Replay customer loyalty program that has become a model in customer relationship management for its millions of Replay members across the country."

Musicland owns and operates 400 specialty music retail stores located throughout the United States. Trans World expects to retain 335 of Musicland's best performing stores and liquidate the remaining 65 stores through a joint venture with Hilco Merchant Resources, LLC.

Trans World Entertainment is a leading specialty retailer of music, video and video game products. The Company operates approximately 800 retail stores in 46 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and e-commerce sites, http://www.fye.com/, http://www.coconuts.com/, http://www.wherehouse.com/ and http://www.secondspin.com/. In addition to its mall locations, operated primarily under the FYE brand, the Company also operates freestanding locations under the names Coconuts Music and Movies, Strawberries Music, Wherehouse, CD World, Spec's, Second Spin and Planet Music.

Certain statements in this release set forth management's intentions, plans, beliefs, expectations or predictions of the future based on current facts and analyses. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated in such statements. Additional information on factors that may affect the business and financial results of the Company can be found in filings of the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Source: Trans World Entertainment Corporation

CONTACT: John J. Sullivan, EVP, Chief Financial Officer of Trans World
Entertainment, +1-518-452-1242; or Rich Tauberman, +1-201-507-9500,
rtauberman@mww.com, for MWW Group

Web site: http://www.twec.com/
http://www.fye.com/
http://www.coconuts.com/
http://www.wherehouse.com/
http://www.secondspin.com/

THE DOWN LOW EXPOSED Probes Secret World of Men Having Sex With Men While Masquerading as Heterosexuals in a Dangerous Gamble with Lives of Female Partners

Author Terry McMillan Makes Final Stand Over Gay Ex-Husband's Revelation

WASHINGTON, March 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Cowards ... sexual deviants ... liars ... murderers. And those are just the one-word bullets fired across the spectrum of opinions and emotions in THE DOWN LOW EXPOSED, a shocking documentary presented by BET News on Tuesday, March 28 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. This one-hour special traverses the backstreets, nightclubs, websites and even the sanctity of marriage where some Black men are leading 'double-lives' as heterosexuals with unsuspecting women; and then flipping the script in a dangerous duality of homosexual pursuits. The end result is confusion, anger, betrayal, tears, family destruction and, in some cases, the ultimate price of HIV and AIDS infections of the innocent and unknowing.

Atlanta-based author J. L. King first ignited the debate in 2004 with his controversial tell-all book entitled On the Down Low: A Journey into the Lives of "Straight" Black Men Who Sleep with Men. Since then, a firestorm has raged around the issue. Emotions were further fueled when the husband of best- selling author Terry McMillan broke his own silence by admitting to a secret gay lifestyle. These days, battle lines exist from the prisons to the pulpit.

"That's part of their problem -- they're cowards," said an emotionally- charged McMillan in what she proclaims is her final public interview on how her marriage to Jonathan Plummer unraveled. "I think that he (Plummer) should be charged with attempted murder for risking my life without my knowledge or consent ... I think that what you (BET) are doing should be applauded because I think more than anything there are women out there that are victims. And I think that we need to hold men accountable for their actions."

BET News will examine this divisive subject from a variety of important angles including sex among men in prison and its impact on the spread of HIV/AIDS; the "don't ask, don't tell" policy prevailing in the Black church; the sobering impact of HIV and AIDS on women infected by men who hid their homosexuality; and the crucial importance of being tested for HIV/AIDS. An encore showing of THE DOWN LOW EXPOSED is also scheduled for Friday, March 31 at 10 p.m. ET/PT.

"The 'Down Low' is one of those subjects that fascinate people. There are e-mails circulating that accuse people; folks buy books and see lectures on the subject," said BET President of Entertainment Reginald Hudlin. "But with all that talk, people aren't learning what's really going on. With this special, we want to hear every point of view -- men who lead double-lives, their lovers, women who have been involved with them, church people, ex-cons, AIDS activists and regular folks on the street."

"There's a resoundingly loud and clear message here -- what you don't know may very well kill you," said Shirley Neal, President of Park Hill Entertainment and executive producer on the project for BET. "We've wrapped around this documentary an anthem of no more secrets, no more lies. This is not an issue to whisper about anymore. The emotions of those who feel victimized, as well as those who see this as a chosen lifestyle are completely unfiltered."

In addition to McMillan, J. L. King revisits his inflammatory book; discusses his own life in the aftermath; and takes part in an exclusive interview with his former wife Brenda Stone-Browder, who has remarried and started a new life. Noted Hollywood actor/producer/director Bill Duke also reveals the intense motivation behind his upcoming feature film Invisible, which further unmasks the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the 'down low' issue and the accompanying cross-cultural taboos that have shielded it from view.

"If you think this is a Black issue, you are very mistaken," said Duke. "AIDS is not a Black issue. AIDS is an issue that's going to impact everybody, everybody's sisters and daughters, everybody's families. And why we're not dealing with this in an emergency way is beyond me. I don't understand it, I really don't."

Others lending voice and context to the issue include Dr. Gail Wyatt, clinical psychologist, sex therapist and professor at UCLA; Phill Wilson, Executive Director of the Black AIDS Institute; and Pastor Oliver Clay Allen, openly gay minister of the Vision Church of Atlanta.

BET NEWS SPECIAL - THE DOWN LOW EXPOSED

PREMIERE: Tuesday, March 28 @ 10 p.m. ET/PT (One Hour)
(Encore Telecast - Friday, March 31 @ 10 p.m.
ET/PT)

CONTENT RATING: TV-MA (Mature Audience) - This program includes
material that may not be suitable for children
under age 17. It contains one or more of the
following: graphic violence (V), explicit
sexual content (S), or profane language (L).

BET EXECUTIVES IN CHARGE: Reginald Hudlin, President of Entertainment
Nina Henderson Moore, Executive Vice President
- News & Public Affairs
Byron Phillips, Executive Vice President of
Entertainment

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Shirley Neal, Park Hill Entertainment
J.L. King
Selwyn Hinds, BET

CO-EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Courtney Carreras
Curvel Baptiste

CONSULTING PRODUCER: Nelson George

ABOUT BET NETWORKS

BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom, Inc. (NYSE: VIA; VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel 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 the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of businesses extensions: BET.com, the Number 1 Internet portal for African Americans; BET Digital Networks - BET J, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; and BET Mobile, a service venture into the lucrative world of ring tones, games and video content for wireless devices.

ABOUT PARK HILL ENTERTAINMENT

From non-fiction programming to live events, Park Hill Entertainment's impressive credentials include non-fiction programming for The Travel Channel, Spike TV, CBS, NBC Enterprises, TV One, and other cable, network, and syndication outlets. Park Hill was established in 1992 as a video production and promotions firm specializing in broadcast production, live event production and video promotions. At the helm of Park Hill is President/Owner, Shirley Neal, a veteran producer and former production and marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in the fields of television production and promotions.

Source: BET (Black Entertainment Television)

CONTACT: Michael Lewellen of BET, +1-202-608-2003,
michael.lewellen@bet.net

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

845 Entertainment, a leader in the independent hip-hop industry, is pairing up with Body Heat Entertainment for several high-profile releases this year in conjunction with Navarre.

/24-7PressRelease/ - NEW YORK, NY, March 23, 2006 - 845 Entertainment, a leader in the independent hip-hop industry, is pairing up with Body Heat Entertainment for several high-profile releases this year in conjunction with Navarre. The collaboration is a very good arrangement for all companies and BHE is very happy to be working hand in hand with 845.

Upcoming releases under the Body Head-845-Navarre umbrella include 3D's new release Boys Will Be Boys, Trick Daddy's The Real Entourage DVD and Release the Beast by Bone Crusher. These will be in addition to BHE releases from Choppa (formerly of No Limit), Rush, Boneface, VI.com and Swellz. 845 Entertainment boasts a roster that includes rap luminary Bizzy Bone as well as Pastor Troy, Lil J, and a DVD release from Trina.

Launched in 2005 by Jarred Weisfeld and Greg Miller, 845 Entertainment is devoted to bringing it's customer top quality albums and mix tapes from well known artists. 845 specializes in the production and distribution of albums and television shows as well as DVDs. 845 co-Ceo Jarred Weisfeld states "Greg and I are excited to be working with Roy, Chauntey and the entire staff of Body Head. Roy's vision, together with our imagination, will bring the world powerful content that will make us a premiere entertainment company".

Body Head Entertainment, Inc (BHE) is an Independent record label owned by Roy Jones, Jr. BHE was founded in September 1998 and is based in Roy's hometown of Pensacola, Florida. Roy states, "Our goal is to make Body Head Entertainment among the elite, independent record labels."

Navarre Corporation (NASDAQ: NAVR) is a leading publisher and distributor of home entertainment PC software, video games and accessories, DVD Video and music. The company's customers include a wide spectrum of national and regional retailers. Their focus of their distribution is providing retailers and publishers with high-quality services for broad, efficient distribution, including vendor-managed inventory, Electronic Data Interchange services, fulfillment services, cross docking and assumed receipt as well as a variety of retailer-oriented marketing services.

As all companies continue to shine brightly in the music industry, this alliance will prove to be a breeding ground for continued innovation in the way music reaches the masses.

Release Dates are

3d "Boys Will Be Boys" hits stores June 6th.
Trick Daddy " The Real Entourage" hits stores June 26th.
Bone Crusher "Release the Beast" hits stores July 16th
Choppa will be releasing an as yet untitled LP on July 16th

# # #

Press Release Contact Information:
Erin Burke
Erin Burke PR
freelance publicist
1783 Bedford Ave
Brooklyn, NY
USA 11225
Voice: 917 689 4975
E-Mail: erinburkepr@aol.com

Rap star Roscoe is preparing to release his latest effort "I Luv Cali" on Streetlight Music/SMC Recordings

Roscoe says "I Luv Cali" on new release

/24-7PressRelease/ - NEW YORK, NY, March 23, 2006 - Rap star Roscoe is preparing to release his latest effort "I Luv Cali" on Streetlight Music/SMC Recordings. The album is set to drop in mid-May and features the stellar production efforts of Fingazz, who is known for his work with Lil Rob and Kurupt, in addition to scoring the 2003 film Hollywood Homicide.

Roscoe began his prestigious career at the age of fifteen when his brother Kurupt, a former Dogg Pound MC and Death Row associate put him to the test for tha Dogg Pound's debut record. He then guested on his brother's Tha Streetz Iz a Mutha and released his first mix tape, 2001's When the Pain Inflict. The effort drew favorable reviews and the rapper released the Young Roscoe Philaphornia.

After signing with Streetlight Music/SMC recordings a month and a half ago, Roscoe went straight back into the studio to record "I Luv Cali", which shares a name with the rapper's very first hit song. It is a fitting return for the artist, but the album also marks a departure from the negativity that has plagued hip-hop for the past several years. As Roscoe says, "We makin' money, and all you're gonna see is positivity."

Check out "I Luv Cali" and find out why this Philly native's heart belongs to the West Coast.

For more information or to schedule interviews, please contact:

Erin Burke
erinburkepr@aol.com
917-689-4975

Beatbuggy Streamlined, Modernized, and Brought Technology to this Target Market.

BeatBuggy, Inc. has issued an irresistible invitation to all independent artists, AandR reps, and record labels

/24-7PressRelease/ - WASHINGTON, DC, March 23, 2006 - Starting March 21, 2006, anyone who registers with beatbuggy will receive a free membership, 50mb to uploaded songs, a personal web page, preview music before downloading, and receive reviews on uploaded songs.

"I encourage all independent artists/music seekers to check out BeatBuggy.com and discover some of the world's top independent music producers and beatmakers," said "Duane Washington" CEO of BeatBuggy.

Currently, BeatBuggy's website features a "Top 25" lists for artists and producers that are automatically generated from a song review system and filled with high-caliber independent music. Beats and instrumentals are grouped by genre (e.g. Rap, Blues, Electronic), location (e.g. Maryland, Poland, Texas), and production (e.g. female vocal, up-tempo, instrumental). BeatBuggy reduces the cost and time by offering artists/music seekers access to thousands of original quality beats and instrumentals from music producers and beatmakers located throughout the world.

The fact of the matter is that in the music industry an artists' ultimate success or failure depends on the quality of their demo or album. Making the right connections can be extremely important and sometimes very costly. If an independent artists wants to hire a local music producer they can spend anywhere from $100 - $1,000 per production. If they want to hire a top producer the cost can skyrocket from $10,000 - $200,000 per production. Hiring a producer, renting a studio and mixing tracks, can take a lot of time and money. Many artists simply don't have the resources and/or connections they need.

BeatBuggy's also exposes artists/music seekers to different musical styles. Nearly all producers have a particular style and when artist/music seekers work with only one or two producers, they run the risk of limiting their pool of music. BeatBuggy allows artist/music seekers to work with thousands of producers, giving them unlimited exposure to a variety of musical styles. By using the beats or instrumentals purchased on BeatBuggy, independent artist can create a low-cost, high quality, legitimate album or demo to give to record companies or they can sell the CD themselves.

"This really is a golden opportunity for artists/music seekers and producers. We've taken the concept of finding beats and instrumentals and streamlined it, modernized it, and brought technology to it," states Mr. Washington. We've created a global production community at BeatBuggy, and we welcome any new members." Launched in October 2005, Beatbuggy has exploded into this new music-led digital environment by quickly becoming the destination point for linking up independent artists/music seekers and producers. To date over 1000 music producers have joined our community and uploaded 2000 songs. Beatbuggy takes pride in pioneering the next revolution in the online music industry.

If you're a producer, start uploading! If you're seeking beats or instrumentals, start downloading! And if you're a manager or AandR person, you will never need to move away from your monitor again. If the Internet is the future of the music industry, then the future is at www.beatbuggy.com.

# # #

Press Release Contact Information:
njeri santana
Sbicommunications
PR Director
49 S Street, N.W.
Washington, DC
USA 20001
Voice: (202) 330-9357
E-Mail: info@sbicommunications.com

Major press conference comprised of leading music, entertainment and media executives and personalities to announce the launch and addition of a new music and entertainment genre and category called "Urban Inspirational". The new genre is poised to have significant social and economic impact.

Nashville, TN (PRWEB) March 23, 2006 -- A national press conference will be held in Nashville on April 4, 2006 to announce a new music and entertainment genre titled Urban Inspirational and its supporting initiative The Urban Inspiration Trade Association. Urban Inspirational is a significant measure that will greatly impact the way music and entertainment is consumed affecting radio airplay and format, consumer spending and product placement in the general marketplace.

Urban Inspirational is the new cutting edge branding and positioning of the musical genre designed to appeal to a broad mainstream audience while providing content containing positive and clean messaging. Urban Inspirational provides an accurate categorization for a strong and significant portion of todays music and entertainment, creating new global sales and marketing opportunities for the large cross-section of music and entertainment that currently does not receive the appropriate wide reaching exposure. The new Urban Inspirational genre presents a counter culture and relevant alternative to the violence, racism and sexism currently found in some of todays music aimed at the Generation XY Cusp demographic. In addition, Urban Inspirational brings together multi-cultural creativity and expression resulting in a broad audience appeal.

The Urban Inspiration Trade Association (URBINTRA) will also be announced as the supporting trade initiative of Urban Inspiration and the Urban Inspirational music genre. This non-profit governing body comprised of leading media, record and entertainment executives will oversee and implement this new market segment and execute strategies to ensure and maintain its growth. The overall objective of URBINTRA is to affect positive social and economic change in the United States and globally by discovering, endorsing, and promoting music, entertainment and media content that contains positive messages for today's youth and culture.

WHO
Cheryl Salt Wray, Grammy Award Winning Recording Artist; MC Hammer, Grammy Award Winning Recording Artist; Donald Lawrence, Grammy Award Winning Recording Artist and Producer; Tyrone Davis, Entertainment Executive, Music Producer and founder URBINTRA; Laura Schwartz, Former Special Assistant and Advisor to President Clinton; John Styll, President Gospel Music Association; Jackie Patillo, General Manager Integrity Gospel among other leading and distinguished entertainment industry executives and personalities.

WHEN
April 4, 2006 from 1:30PM-2:30PM CST
Press check in: 1:00PM Standard Room Lighting (Additional Lighting not Included)

WHERE
Renaissance Nashville Hotel Third Floor, Belmont Room 3
611 Commerce Street
Nashville, TN 37203
615-255-8400

To RSVP and For Additional Information Contact:
Pierre Redding, URBINTRA President and Director of Communications
(203) 469-0835 ext. 1
http://www.urbintra.com


# # #

Pierre Redding
URBAN INSPIRATION TRADE ASSOCIATION (URBINTRA)
203-469-0835

Urbanology magazine is proud to announce its position as the official partner to presenting company Sound Supremacy Entertainment, in the fourth installment of the Battle of the Beat Makers.

Back by popular demand, the event is a beat making competition arranged so that talented producers from across Canada and U.S. can battle for the titles of Party Beat Maker, Grimey Beat Maker, Smooth Beat Maker and the newly introduced Samples Beat Maker in front of a panel of celebrity judges consisting of Choclair (The Circle), DJ Mathematics (Wu-Tang Clan), and DJ Grouch (CHRY 105.5 FM). Contestants will get a total of 45 seconds to impress both the judges and the crowd. The winners of the Battle of the Beat Makers competition will be featured inside Urbanology magazine and prizes such as studio time and beat making software.

Urbanology is proud to be associated with this event because its the only venue for producers to showcase their talent in Canada, says Adrian McKenzie, co-founder and creative director for Urbanology magazine. McKenzie is also leading up Urbanologys involvement in Battle of the Beat Makers.

Copies of the Battle of the Beat Makers: the Documentary DVD and Urbanology magazine will be available on site.

This all goes down this Saturday, March 25, inside El Mocambo Night Club at 462 Spadina Ave. (Spadina and College) in Toronto. The battle begins at 9 p.m. and rages till 2 a.m. Admission will be $15.

For all media looking to cover the event who would like to speak with Adrian McKenzie, please contact:

Craigg Slowly
Public Relations Director
Urbanology Magazine
(416) 283-4000
craigg@urbanology101.com

Read about the winners of Battle of the Beat Makers III in this issue of Urbanology Magazine, on sale at your local bookstore and newsstand across Canada and the U.S.

March 22nd, 2006
Washington, DC Over the last few weeks of March, Storm The Unpredictable has garnered a swarm of prestigious local awards; including winning first place in the Hiphop/Urban/Dance/Go-Go category of the Songwriters Association of Washingtons Songwriting (The Songwriters Association of Washington SAW is a non-profit organization founded in 1979 to benefit aspiring and professional songwriters) competition for Contradictions and the grand prize winner in the Hiphop category of the John Lennon Songwriting Competition Session II (http://www.jlsc.com/winners/2005b/winners.php\) for Contradictions. The judges of the John Lennon Songwriting Competition consisted of D-12, Al Jarreau, Lyfe Jennings, Teairra Mari, John Legend and Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas, as well as other music industry professionals and veterans. Storm also was a runner-up in John Lennon competition for another song Darker The Berry (which can be found on Storms debut Amalgamation). Storm is now competing against the Session I winner in an online voting battle which began March 15th at 11AMand will end on April 26th for the John Lennon Award. You can vote at http://www.jlsc.com/vote. It will be listed under Hip Hop:Dwayne Henry:Gaithersburg, MD:Contradictions. The 12 Lennon Award Winners will be announced on May 1st and then go on to compete for the Maxell Song of the Year and $20,000.

Similarly, in February 2006, Storm received the rap/hip-hop artist of the year award from the Washington Area Music Association. WAMA is a non-profit tax exempt organization of music industry professionals committed to raising the profile of the region's diverse music community. WAMA's main goal is to promote Washington area music in general and to achieve national recognition of the region as an important center for live and recorded music. Just as the nation's capital is comprised of a rich cross section of cultures, WAMA's membership embraces all musical styles from classical, bluegrass, go-go, R&B and Reggae, to Rock, Jazz and Folk.

Seizing the momentum from his recent accolades, Storm The Unpredictable will release a video for his latest release, Get Your Weight Up (Remix) & In Case You Forgot f/Priest da nomad on March 22, 2006; you can view the video by clicking here: http://www.rhythmplaza.com/storm-priest.wmv . In Case You Forgot? is the lead-single from Storms forthcoming sophomore release, A2: What Should Have Been, which will be released in the Spring of 2006 on Ty-She Ent./SPP Waxworks/Domination Recordings and the joint venture will ensure Storms sophomore LP has a national and international presence in regular retail outlets, chains, mom-and-pop stores as well as online stores. A2: What Should Have Been will feature production and guest appearances from Decompose (DC), Brainstorm Sounds, DJ Symphoni, Danja Mowf, C. Walker a.k.a. Kokayi, The Unknown and Priest da nomad.

For any press inquires please contact:
Matt Conaway@ Movement Marketing
Business #: 410-360-5957
Cell#: 410-903-7568
E-Mail: Matthewbrn@aol.com
Alt E-Mail: mattyc@tmo.blackberry.net
AOL IM: Matthewbrn

Manhattan, NY - Hood Certified DVD series and Bacardi USA are proud to announced their sponsorship of super producer Dame Grease as a sponsor to Dame Grease's $20,000 hip hop production track giveaway.

If a book on hip hop was to be written today then Dame Grease's name would certainly be mentioned in the top 10 list of raps most successful producers. Having Produced major hits for the likes of Nas, LL Cool J, Fat Joe, Juelz Santana, Mase, the Notorious BIG and of course DMX not to mention the countless movies that he has musically scored.

Dame Grease reached out to myspace.com, one of the fastest growing social networking website in order to make his track easily accessible to the thousands of unsigned rappers that frequent the site. Bacardi USA, the liquor company and Hood Certified DVD (www.hoodcertified.com ) are also part of the equation that made this $20,000 production track giveaway contest possible. When asked why they've decided to support Supper Producer Dame Grease in this rare giveaway, Roc Cayard, the Executive Producer of the Hood Certified DVD and Mixtape series says that " Dame Grease is one of the most talented and most successful rap producers out there and with his track record Dame gets no less then $20,000 per track, so for Dame to give up a $20,000 track to some kid that would probably not be able to afford or have access to such grade A material is just remarkable. The Hood Certified DVD series is proud to support Dame Grease's love for hip hip and his appreciation for the struggle of the unsigned artist". The winner of this contest will be invited to come record a full demo album exclusively produced by the platinum producer Dame Grease himself.

Contact - Nadine Robertson
Web Site www.hoodcertified.com
Email Hoodcertifieddvd@yahoo.com
Phone (212)300-7011

The 12th CD, My Ghetto Report Card (Sick Wid It Records/BME Recordings/Warner Bros. Records), by platinum-selling E-40 debuts at #1 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Charts (#3 on Billboard 200 Chart), a first for the Ambassador Of The Bay.

Released March 14, 2006, My Ghetto Report Card, teams E-40 with BME Recordings head Lil Jon, who executive produced the CD (also features production by Lil Jon, Rick Rock, E-40s son Droop-e of the Pharmasuticles, mainstay Bosko, and Studio Tone with guest features by Mike Jones, T. Pain, Keak Da Sneak, Turf Talk, Juelz Santana, B-Legit, The Federation, 8Ball, and UGK).

The video for the first single from My Ghetto Report Card, Tell Me When To Go, which features Keak Da Sneak, was recently shot by Lil Jon and Director, Bernard Gourley (Lyfe Jennings, Three 6 Mafia, Beanie Siegle). The video introduces the world to the Hyphy movement in the Bay: its a movement. It's a culture. It's the way we talk. It's superflambosta. It's really just stunting to the up-most degree. It's showboating and showcasing. It's wardrobe. It's however you feeling. It's energy. It's a dance, several different phases of it, you dig? It's cars. It's showing off. It's whatever. It's Hyphy says E-40.

My Ghetto Report Card highlights the Bay Area natives trademark style: E-40 acts as ringmaster with slick wordplay, street smarts and sly humor. He has long been at the head of his class; now he's graduating to the next level, raves Steve Jones in USA Today, while San Francisco Weeklys Tamara Palmer says, My Ghetto Report Card will go down in history as the album that helped Bay Area hip hop reclaim its place on the national stage.

Great early support from MTV and MTV2, puts the Tell Me When 2 Go into the Elite 8 Rotation on MTV2 (Highest Rotation). Also supporting the early buzz was an aggressive new media campaign, including Myspaces first ever Hip Hop video feature on Myspace Music page, front page feature for a Flyaway contest, and a front page feature for the Album Listening Party hosted by Lil Jon. On iTunes, 40 Bellafonte was at the helm of "Bay Area Hyphy Movement" feature, where 40 picked artists to be featured with for week of release. In the coming months 40 Water will be on the cover of Rime, Murder Dog, and XLR8R. He is currently on the cover of Synthesis and has graced the covers of the San Francisco Bay Guardian and the San Francisco Weekly. He also has lead features in Dub, Vibe, The Source, and XXL.

Want more? A special called Hype on Hyphy is being produced by Warner Bros. and will be available as a DVD, along with the video and making of the video. And to educate the masses on his diverse lingo, E-40 has a book of slang called E-40s Dictionary Book of Slang, Vol. 1 that will hit stores around the time of the album release on Warner Books (will also be available in audio form).

www.e-40.com

MALIBU, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 22, 2006--JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (Nasdaq:JAKK) has signed a worldwide licensing agreement to develop and market pet products based on the iconic rap artist and music mogul, Snoop Dogg. The agreement covers products marketed under JAKKS Pacific's(TM) JPI(TM) pet division.

The new pet products deal will cover toys, beds, leashes, apparel, treats and more for dogs. JAKKS expects to begin shipping the Snoop Dogg-branded pet line in 2006 to retail locations nationwide.

"Snoop Dogg's love goes beyond people -- it is for living creatures throughout the universe," stated Snoop Dogg. "How can I be Snoop Dogg and not show my love for pets?"

Jennifer Richmond, senior vice president of licensing and media, JAKKS Pacific, Inc., commented, "We think Snoop Dogg will be a perfect complement to our new pet line, and our team is really excited to develop and market what we expect will be an urban and edgy line. Initially, we'll look to sell the Snoop Dogg line into mass retailers and pet superstores. However, we hope to reach even wider distribution to music, novelty and other specialty outlets with a strong, irreverent line."

SNOOP DOGG released the highly anticipated solo record "Snoop Dogg R&G: Rhythm & Gangsta The Masterpiece" in November 2004. The first single off the album, "Drop It Like It's Hot," created tremendous buzz on the radio and in the streets, remaining in top 5 on the Billboard charts and at #1 on Urban radio for several weeks. "Drop It Like It's Hot," helped position the album to be a huge chart-topping success. Another recent venture for Snoop is the creation of the Snoop Youth Football league, a project that is close to his heart. The SYFL is a youth football league aimed at kids who otherwise could not afford to play in other organized youth leagues. In addition to being an icon in hip hop, Snoop is accomplished as an actor and MTV show host.

The agreement was brokered by Snoop Dogg's agents at the William Morris Agency.

About JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
JAKKS Pacific, Inc. is a multi-brand company that designs and markets a broad range of toys and consumer products. The product categories include: Action Figures, Art Activity Kits, Stationery, Writing Instruments, Performance Kites, Water Toys, Sports Activity Toys, Vehicles, Infant/Pre-School, Plush, Construction Toys, Electronics, Dolls, Dress-Up, Role Play, and Pet Toys and Accessories. The products are sold under various brand names including JAKKS Pacific(R), Play Along(R), Flying Colors(R), Creative Designs International(TM), Road Champs(R), Child Guidance(R), Pentech(R), Trendmasters(R), Toymax(R), Funnoodle(R), Go Fly a Kite(R), Color Workshop(R), JPI(TM) and Plug It In & Play TV Games(TM). JAKKS and THQ Inc. participate in a joint venture that has worldwide rights to publish and market World Wrestling Entertainment video games. For further information, visit www.jakkspacific.com.

This press release contains statements that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about JAKKS' business based, in part, on assumptions made by its management. These statements are not guarantees of JAKKS' future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements due to numerous factors, including, but not limited to, those described above and the following: changes in demand for JAKKS' products, product mix, the timing of customer orders and deliveries, the impact of competitive products and pricing and difficulties encountered in the integration of acquired businesses. The forward-looking statements contained herein speak only as of the date on which they are made, and JAKKS does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release.

Contacts
JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
Genna Rosenberg, 310-455-6235
gennar@jakks.net
or
Integrated Corporate Relations
John Mills, 310-395-2215
jmills@icrinc.com

Actor/Recording Artist To Host And Perform At Spike TV's AutoRox

The Only Nationally Televised Auto Awards Show To Be Telecast

April 18 at 10:00pm ET/PT

Star Studded Event To Be Taped At the Fremont Experience in Las Vegas

NEW YORK, March 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Acclaimed actor and musician, Ice Cube, will host and perform at Spike TV's second annual AutoRox, the only nationally televised awards show honoring and celebrating America's passion for the automobile. For the first time ever, Ice Cube will perform live his new singles "Chrome and Paint" and "Why We Thugs" off of his forthcoming solo LP, "Laugh Now, Cry Later" which will be released on June 6, 2006.

The 90-minute show, to be taped on April 7 at the Fremont Experience in downtown Las Vegas, will air TUESDAY, APRIL 18 (10:00-11:30pm ET/PT) on Spike TV. The star-studded homage to cars will feature categories including Best Luxury Car, Hottest Exotic, Convertible, Sports Car, SUV's, and others.

The 2006 show has moved from Los Angeles to the exciting streets of downtown Las Vegas. A panel of over 30 high-ranking auto industry executives, designers, media and celebrities will vote on the deserving nominees, to be announced shortly. One industry icon, chosen for their major contributions to the automotive world, will be recognized. The 2005 recipient was legendary racer and car builder Carroll Shelby.

Dave Broome ("Tsunami Aid: A Concert of Hope," "The Radio Music Awards") and Casey Patterson, Senior Vice President of Event Production and Talent, Development, Spike TV, are Executive Producers for AutoRox. Allen Newman serves as Executive in Charge of Production and Ryan Polito is Director.

"AutoRox will celebrate guys' lifelong love affair with chrome, wheels and gears," said Patterson. "Our host Ice Cube is truly passionate about cars and where better than Vegas to make this an all out celebration with big musical performances and the hottest cars of the year."

Spike TV is home to many of cable's top-rated auto-related programming as part of its "Power Block" hosted by Courtney Hanson, including Horsepower TV, Trucks!, Muscle Car, and Extreme 4X4.

ABOUT ICE CUBE:

Ice Cube makes his highly anticipated return to the mic with the debut of his seventh solo LP, titled "Laugh Now, Cry Later." The new album will be released by Ice Cube's independently owned label, Lench Mob Records, and will hit shelves on June 6th. Boasting production from top level producers like Scott Storch, Swizz Beatz and Lil' Jon, and featuring guests Snoop Dogg and WC, Ice Cube will showcase his creative and lyrical genius throughout 18 solid tracks.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Ice Cube came into public notice as a singer and songwriter in the landmark hip-hop group N.W.A. After a number of hit songs and albums, Ice Cube left the band to pursue a solo career. Alone, he created commercially and critically acclaimed albums, selling over 15 million copies. His fourth album, "The Predator," sold five million copies alone and entered the Billboard Charts at #1.

Ice Cube began acting in 1990, starting with his award winning performance in Boyz n the Hood. This led to roles in such films as Trespass (1994), Higher Learning (1995), Dangerous Ground (1997) Anaconda (1997) and Three Kings (1999) to name a few. His on screen credits include developing and producing Friday (1995), Next Friday (1999), Friday After Next (2005), Barbershop (2002) and last year's big box office hit, Are We There Yet? (2005) through his own production company, Cube Vision.

ABOUT SPIKE TV:

Spike TV, the first network for men, is available in 88 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. MTV Networks, a division of Viacom International Inc.

Source: Spike TV

CONTACT: David Schwarz, Spike TV, +1-212-767-8639; or Bobby Amirshahi,
Spike TV, LA, +1-310-407-4727

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

Bonecrusher seeks the spotlight with the re-launch of his record label and his new hit "Get up on it" with super-producer Lil Jon.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) March 22, 2006 -- Wayne Hardnett P.K.A. Bone Crusher, maker of the street phenomenon Never Scared and manager Aneesah Bray set to re-launch record label with private investors.

The label, aptly named Vainglorious Entertainment, was started in 1998 solely owned by the two but has re-launched with investors and new artists but with Hardnett and Bray as principal holders.
Vainglorious Entertainment also has a sister company called Enjoi Enterprises which is a film development company.

The label's first signings are Atlanta Hype hip hop group Tezy and Yung 20, Philly phenomenon The Great Sean Falyon and 6 tall model turned rapper Priscila Divine.

Bone Crusher says Aneesah and I took our time choosing artists that best fit our company. We have BIG ideas you know and when the label first started, I was the only artist. I recorded Never Scared then Break em off entered the deal, then SoSo Def, then Arista. My label got pushed to the side because of all the hype of the song.
Since then I have had time to sit with the greats like Kevin Lyles, Russell Simmons and LA Reid and truly understand this business.

"Aneesah says, When an artist starts his or her own label as soon as their song hits the street, the artist ends up in competition with his or her artists. You end up having a bunch of artist that sound like that one artist. All of our artists sound different than Bone Crusher. Our goal is to offer a variety of sounds like the big labels do. We dont want to stop at rap.

Although a distribution deal may be seen in the future, we are currently using private investors to re-launch the label. We are an indie label at heart. We can get as creative as we like and there is no pressure. If we sign talented artists and get lucky, then thats great.

Bone Crusher is currently an artist under BMG and he likes it there, so talks may arise but for now there is no need to spend $500,000 for a look-alike video. Black people and the hip hop culture can appreciate uniqueness, even though people would like to say that we dont. No one wants to see the same thing in every video. We [Vainglorious] flourish on creativity and an artists own style.

The label's staff is primarily Bone Crusher (Money Man) as A&R (artists and repertoire) and Aneesah Bray (Boss Lady) as Executive Chair.
For the investors, the label opens up a new avenue of revenue with minimum investment.

"With radio being what it is, it's not necessarily about going to radio with a record," Bone Crusher says. "It's about developing artists from the ground up, and this gives us that opportunity. We can keep things initially under the radar without the pressures and expectations of a major."

The label's first releases, Sean Falyons Tic Toc featuring platinum artist Lloyd and Tezy & Yung 20s Goodbye featuring Cutty come out May 1.

Bone Crusher new hit single Get up on it with super-producer Lil Jon can be heard on your local hip hop radio station. He is also slated for the next Celebrity Fit Club series on VH1.

Aneesah is currently working on the 2nd annual Atlanta Hip Hop Film Festival April 28th -30th and is executive producer on a new cooking show featuring "Bone Crusher" called "Crashing the Kitchen with Bone Crusher".

###

Aneesah Bray - Hardnett
ENJOI ENTERPRISES
404-437-4411

Also Performing at the Festival New Edition, Bobby Brown, Jaheim and Chris Brown

Plus 'Now or Never! The ESSENCE Call to Action to Secure our Children' Initiative Empowerment Seminars Featuring Magic Johnson, Jamie Foxx and Shemar Moore

A Bigger Party and a Deeper Purpose!

July 1, 2 and 3 in Houston, Texas

NEW YORK, March 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Essence Festivals, LLC., announced today that music mogul and pop culture icon Diddy will host Diddy and Friends at the Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival. New Edition and Bobby Brown (featuring a rare reunion performance), Jaheim and Chris Brown will also perform at the Festival along with previously announced artists Yolanda Adams, Mary J. Blige, Toni Braxton, Cedric "The Entertainer," Keyshia Cole, Earth Wind & Fire, Steve Harvey, LL Cool J, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Mo'Nique and Charlie Wilson. This year's awe-inspiring celebration, set for July 1, 2, and 3 in Houston, Texas, will be a "bigger party with a deeper purpose."

The theme for the Empowerment Seminars will be "Now or Never! The ESSENCE Call To Action To Secure Our Children," and will feature Magic Johnson, Jamie Foxx and Shemar Moore.

The night-by-night main stage schedule of performances is as follows:

SATURDAY, JULY 1
Mary J. Blige
Earth, Wind & Fire
Mo'Nique
LL Cool J
Yolanda Adams

SUNDAY, JULY 2
Diddy and Friends
New Edition
Bobby Brown
Steve Harvey
Jaheim
Chris Brown

MONDAY, JULY 3
Maze featuring Frankie Beverly
Toni Braxton
Cedric the Entertainer
Charlie Wilson
Keyshia Cole

Lounge artists will be announced in upcoming weeks.

"Now or Never! The ESSENCE Call to Action to Secure Our Children" initiative is designed to help rescue vulnerable youth and restore the lives of Hurricane Katrina survivors, while addressing critical issues facing Black America. From poverty and unemployment to the culture of violence, unequal educational systems and the ongoing affects of the devastation of Hurricane Katrina -- all represent a cry for help that can no longer be ignored. Magic Johnson, Jamie Foxx and Shemar Moore are joining forces with ESSENCE to challenge Festivalgoers to come, listen, learn and choose their method of support from reliable national organizations, including the NAACP and the National Urban League. Seminar attendees will also hear from other celebrities, activists, scholars, politicians, business and spiritual leaders who will work with the "Now or Never!" initiative, and make a commitment to take a united stand.

The Essence Marketplace will showcase artists from throughout the country who offer an array of quality arts and crafts that reflect Black culture. The marketplace will also include sponsor activities, celebrity meet-and-greets, Festival souvenirs and a book fair with author book signings.

The Festival, set for July 1, 2 and 3, will take place in its new interim home, state-of-the-art Reliant Park in Houston, Texas -- a city with a dynamic melting pot of cultures and a venue for world-class shopping, restaurants and nightlife.

The Coca-Cola Presents the Essence Music Festival, known as "the party with a purpose," is the nation's largest annual African-American event and the largest gathering of musical talent in the world. The Festival has become a destination of choice for families and friends as they schedule their reunions. This multigenerational Festival offers free inspirational and interactive Empowerment Seminars during the day and exciting performances at night, where Festivalgoers can dance and sing along with the biggest names in entertainment -- R&B, classic soul, hip-hop, neo-soul and jazz.

Tickets are on sale at ticketmaster.com, (800) 488-5252 or (713) 629-3700 in Houston. Tickets are $45, $56, $67, $72, $83, and $110. All tickets are subject to additional service charges. For hotel accommodations, call (888) 508-5731. For more information, see the May 2006 issue of ESSENCE or log on to essence.com.

The Coca-Cola Company is the Festival's presenting sponsor for the ninth consecutive year. The Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival's major sponsors are Budweiser, Kraft Foods, Chevrolet, McDonald's and Verizon Communications. In addition, Level Vodka, Southwest, U.S. Army and Wells Fargo will serve as official sponsors for the Festival. Additional sponsors will be announced at a later date.

The Coca-Cola Presents the 2006 Essence Music Festival is produced by Essence Festivals, LLC., in association with Festival Productions of New Orleans. Essence Festivals, LLC., is a division of Essence Communications Inc. (ECI). ECI is also the publisher of ESSENCE magazine. ESSENCE, after 35 years, continues to be the preeminent lifestyle magazine for African-American women.

Source: Essence Festivals, LLC.

CONTACT: Rhonda Evans, +1-212-522-0870, revans@essence.com, or Sheila
Harris, +1-212-522-1089, sharris@essence.com, both of ESSENCE

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

Moboreality series stars hip hop sensation The G.R.i.T. Boys.

New York, NY (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) March 22, 2006 -- Mobile Streams Inc., the global mobile media specialist, announced today that they have commissioned The Nickels Group to produce the reality mobile programme, NEXXT: The Hip Hop Mobile Series. NEXXT will offer mobile users an exclusive entre into the hip hop world of Houston rappers The G.R.i.T. Boys. The NEXXT series is expected to premier in summer 2006 and will be available via carriers and direct to consumer placement.

NEXXT is the first reality mobile series of its kind. It will feature 52 2-3 minute episodes following the lives of The G.R.i.T. Boys, Ghetto Reality in Texas, and their struggle to become big time hip hop stars. MTV favorite Paul Wall is producing, developing and promoting The G.R.i.T. Boys, individually known as Poppy, Scooby, Unique and Yung Red under the label Mobetta Grooves & Co.

The G.R.i.T. Boys are a reality rap group, said Paul Wall, they talk about real life situations, no exaggerations. They are something that the Houston rap scene really needs right now.

NEXXT will follow The G.R.i.T. Boys over six months and explore all aspects of their hip hop lifestyle, with the gritty Houston streets serving as a dramatic urban backdrop. The show will also feature surprise guest appearances from emerging hip hop artists as well as some of its biggest stars. In addition to watching the series, mobile users will also be able to download exclusive NEXXT ringtones and wallpaper content.

By creating the NEXXT series, Mobile Streams will provide a valuable platform for indie artists to gain exposure to potentially hundreds of millions of mobile phone users around the world, said Daryl Dogman Young, co-founder of The Nickels Group, As a result of these direct relationships with mobile users, the indies will be able to command larger royalties from digital music sales in future deals with major labels.

The future of mobile content is made-for-mobile content, said Simon Buckingham, CEO of Mobile Steams, Were thrilled to collaborate with The Nickels Group on NEXXT the first ever reality mobile series and look forward to watching the story unfold.

About Mobile Streams
Mobile Streams is a leading provider of music, comedy, sport and entertainment content to handsets and other wireless devices, whose mobile expertise and distribution platform, Vuesia, is used globally by some of the world's largest media groups and mobile phone networks including Vodafone, and 3 in the UK, America Movil, Movistar & TIM in Latin America, Fido & Rogers in Canada and Dobson in the US.

Vuesia is Mobile Streams full service enterprise mobile media management solution. Vuesia facilitates content ingestion, management, delivery, billing and reporting.

The Company creates, licenses and delivers quality content to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and consumers in the form of ringtones, graphics, video clips and other products. It has developed relationships with both content owners and MNOs which enable it to act as an intermediary, providing an end-to-end service encompassing a broad range of elements from content licensing to content production, account management and channel management.

Mobile Streams has subsidiaries in the US, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Chile and Colombia and has approximately 80 employees.

For more information please go to www.mobilestreams.com

About The Nickels Group
The Nickels Group is a consortium of film, music and event producers who produce and acquire traditional and mobile/online content. Founded by Daryl Young and Jonas Hudson, The Nickels Group has created alliances with celebrities, filmmakers, musicians and athletes to provide unique and entertaining content for all global mediums from digital distribution to major theatrical film releases.

The Nickels Group mobile distribution reaches nearly 850 million users worldwide.

Current Nickels Group projects include the feature documentary film "Reggaeton Nation: Volume 1 - Cuba" and the first Reggaeton based feature narrative "Spin" (currently in Post-Production). Plus, the hottest Reggaeton compilation entitled "Reggaeton Nation compilation CD - Stars of 2006 Vol.1". www.thenickelsgroup.com

Contacts:

Mobile Streams:
John Forrester
+1 323 702-3684

The Nickels Group:
Jonas Hudson
+1 310 200-4570