Philippe Saisse Is On Top Of World With First Ever Grammy Nod For Best Jazz Album

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Songwriter/arranger/producer, keyboard wiz, and, E1 Entertainment recording artist, Philippe Saisse, scored a personal triumph and first when NARAS voters opted to honor and acknowledge his progressive and daring solo album, “AT WORLD’S EDGE,” with a 2009 Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Jazz Album. Saisse has enjoyed a distinguished career over the past 30 years, but finally attaining the milestone achievement on his ninth solo effort has even more special significance, because he dedicated the album in loving memory to his late father Maurice Saisse.

“Hearing the news that “At World’s Edge” was nominated elated me beyond words,” revealed a delighted Saisse. “I felt particularly grateful for the validation of the incomparable contributions all the musicians, singers and engineers made to the record. I just wish my father would have lived long enough to share this special honor with me.”

“At World’s Edge,” represents one of Saisse’s most ambitious and adventurous solo projects to date. While Saisse produced the lion’s share of the project in Los Angeles, he enlisted an All-Star cast of musicians/engineers/singers from New York, London, Paris, and Japan, who sent him tracks from around the world. Musicians featured on the CD include Simon Phillips and Skooter Warner on drums, bass players Pino Palladino, David Finck, and Ron Jenkins, guitarist’s Jeff Golub, Marc Antoine, and Annas Allaf, horn players, Kirk Whalum (tenor saxophone), Jason Golley (trumpet and flugelhorn), Jeff Beal, (trumpet and flugelhorn), Rick Braun (trumpet), and Michael Davis (trombone and bass trombone), Lenny Castro on percussion, and singers Angelique Kidjo, Jasmine Roy and David Rice. Saisse used noted Japanese engineer Goh Hotoda, who has collaborated with him on his most recent projects to engineer the CD.

While “At World’s Edge,” did not attain the comparable level of commercial and radio success of several of Saisse’s previous solo endeavors, it reunited Saisse with long-time friends Simon Phillips and Pino Palladino, who have since joined forces to launch a new rock/jazz fusion trio ensemble, PSP (Phillips, Saisse, Palladino). PSP’s debut CD, PSP LIVE (recorded in Tokyo Japan, Feb/2009) was just released in Europe by C.A.R.E Music Group, Munich, Germany (10/14), which was followed by a highly successful European tour of 20 cities, (Oct 30 – Nov 27). PSP LIVE is also being released in Japan by And Forest Music, (2/10/10), followed by a 9-city PSP club tour that will start 2/18/10.

“I could not be happier with this record, and just getting it made exceeded my wildest imagination,” added Saisse. “Hopefully, this accolade earns it another life.”

SongVest To Auction Royalties For 80’s R&B And Dance Classics “I Wanna Be Rich,” “Operator,” And “Love Overboard”

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Unique “Music Memorabilia With A Paycheck” Auction December 12-19 At SongVest.com To Feature “I Wanna Be Rich,” “Operator,” “Love Overboard,” “Casanova,” “Freak-A-Zoid,” “Electricity,” “Meeting In The Ladies Room,” and “Wet My Whistle.”

Madison, WI – SongVest, the company that reinvented the music memorabilia business by offering the ultimate fan collectable -- the songs themselves -- has announced their next major online auction will take place December 12-19 at songvest.com and will include Billboard R&B and Dance hits written by techno-funk legend Reggie Calloway for Midnight Star, The Calloway Brothers, LeVert, Klymaxx, and Gladys Knight and the Pips.

SongVest has partnered with Mr. Calloway to offer bidders 5-50% of his Writer’s Share for each of the following songs:

Calloway:
· I Wanna Be Rich: #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #5 on the Billboard R&B chart

Midnight Star:

· Operator: #1 on the Billboard R&B chart for five weeks and #18 on the Billboard Hot 100

· Freak-A-Zoid: #2 on the Billboard R&B chart for four weeks, #44 on the Billboard Club Play Singles chart, and #66 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart

· Wet My Whistle: #8 on the Billboard R&B chart and #15 on the Billboard Club Play Singles chart

· Electricity: album track on the multi-platinum selling “No Parking on the Dance Floor” album

LeVert:

· Casanova: Soul Train Award winner; nominated for the R&B Song of the Year and Best R&B Performance Grammy and Favorite R&B/Soul Single American Music Award

Gladys Knight and the Pips:

· Love Overboard: Grammy award for R&B Vocal Performance, #1 on the Billboard R&B chart, #4 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart, and #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Klymaxx:

· Meeting In The Ladies Room: #4 on the Billboard R&B chart, #22 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart, and #59 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart

In addition to sharing in the royalty stream the songs generate, high bidders will also receive one-of-a-kind platinum album awards featuring handwritten and signed lyrics.

The auction will begin at 3PM EST on Saturday, December 12 and end at 3PM EST on Saturday, December 19. Fans can register now at http://www.songvest.com to learn more about the revenue history for each song and get a glimpse behind the scenes at how and why the songs were written.

Since 2007, SongVest has offered music fans, collectors, and investors the unique opportunity to share the royalties with the writers of their favorite music. Past auctions have included the rights to songs recorded by Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Carrie Underwood, Ringo Starr, Ozzy Osbourne, and The Monkees.

About SongVest

SongVest, Inc. is the world’s first and only song rights auction house. The company provides ‘music memorabilia with a paycheck’ to fans, collectors, and investors by acting as a broker between songwriters (or their heirs) and rights buyers. When a songwriter is compensated for the performance, sale, or use of their song, so to will high bidders at SongVest auctions. The company’s unique business model has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Rolling Stone, CNBC, USA Today, Forbes, and countless online music, fan, collector, and investment outlets all over the world.

The Wilson Sisters of Heart: From Rock to Lullabies

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Ann and Nancy Wilson have had an amazing musical career.

As leaders of the rock group Heart, they've had numerous hit songs including "Crazy on You," "Magic Man," "These Dreams" and "Never." They acquired a new generation of fans when "Barracuda" was featured in the Guitar Hero 3 video game.

Click here to read the rest of the article and interview.

Arthur Adams Releases Stomp The Floor On Delta Groove Music

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Hollywood, CA-November 17, 2009-When B.B. King told Arthur Adams “I love the spirit in your guitar playing,” you knew that the bluesman was on his way.

With the release of Stomp on the Floor today on the respected blues based label Delta Groove Music, Arthur Adams has positioned himself perfectly to satisfy his current fan base and gain legions of new listeners.

Adams says “I’ve done Stomp The Floor exactly the way I feel it. It’s all me; not all traditional blues, not all R & B, not all jazz, but a little of all of it.”

Although blues is the foundation of the new release the eclectic approach to the recording will allow it to crossover and bring a much broader based audience than one particular genre is capable of.

Arthur Adams was born on Christmas, 1940 in Medon, Tennessee. He made his debut in church at the age of six and he has been performing and recording for decades. His first album It’s Private Tonight was released in 1972 and Stomp The Floor is his seventh solo release after enjoying the success of the critically acclaimed Soul of the Blues in 2004. It is anticipated the new offering will continue to garner the same approval and reverence.

“His vocalizing has a sweet, soulful quality ala Robert Cray or at times Bobby Bland. And his electric six string takes definite cues from his idol B.B. King.”- All Music Guide

Tracks such as “Stomp The Floor”, “Don’t Let The Door Hit You” and “You Can’t Win For Losing” are destined to become concert favorites and classics of the genre with the passing of time.

Arthur Adams is larger than life and so is his music. Stomp on the Floor is a testament to his love for the blues, hard work and the true grit and tenacity to make each song come alive inside the music.

Visit the Arthur Adams website for media, pictures, and updates on performances.

Website: http://www.arthuradamsband.com

E-Card: Arthur Adams

Free Download: Stomp the Floor

Lita Ford Breaks Her Silence About The Runaways Movie

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Scout Taylor Compton Brings Her Heart & Soul to Lake Tahoe

Queen of Metal Lita Ford is finally speaking out about the infamous bio-pic on her former band, the Runaways, which stars Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett, Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie, and Scout Taylor Compton as Lita.

"Most people would want to be in a movie, but I sure didn't want anything to do with this one," admits Lita about the film, which has the working title of The Runaways. "They're using my name and that makes me nervous as some of the people involved have tried to destroy my career since 1980."

However, Lita's attitude changed a bit after Scout Taylor Compton, the 20-year-old actress who portrays her in the film, made a special trip out to Lake Tahoe, Nevada on Saturday to see her perform with Queensryche.

"After meeting Scout this weekend, I feel so much better," continues Lita. "She has a heart and soul, unlike some of the people behind the movie. She also hawks a mean loogey and really is a lot like me. We both cried the first time we spoke. Scout rocks."

And, Scout thinks Lita rocks too. "Lita Ford is an icon of rock and has always been a personal hero of mine," says the actress, who is also a singer and drummer. "I can't wait for her to see the film. I put my heart and soul into portraying her and to find out she is such an amazing person was truly a blessing for me. It's something I'll never forget!"

Scout has earned herself the title of "scream queen" with key roles in such horror films as Rob Zombie's Halloween remake, April Fool's Day, Murder World, and Wicked Little Things. She has also appeared in such films as Obsessed with Beyonce, the A.F.I. film A.W.O.L., Jennifer Garner's 13 Going on 30, and the teen comedy Sleepover, and such TV shows as Charmed, Without a Trace, and Cold Case.

The Runaways is directed by Floria Sigismondi, who is best known for directing music videos by such artists as David Bowie, Marilyn Manson, and Sheryl Crow, and hits theaters nationwide in 2010.

PDTU ANNOUNCES DANCEMUSIC SENSATION ERIKA JAYNE WILL PERFORM LIVE AT 12TH ANNUAL AIDS FUNDRAISER

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PDTU PROUDLY ADDS ERIKA JAYNE TO GROWING ROSTER OF CELEBRITIES AND PERFORMERS THAT HAVE COME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT THIS WONDERFUL CAUSE


Erika Jayne, whose music career was inspired in part by influences from other talented family members, including her mother and grandmother, made her arrival on the club music scene in 2007 with the electro-hued track "Roller Coaster", which went to number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.

"For us, it means a great deal to have someone of THIS caliber to perform at our AIDS fundraiser," said Executive Director Ray Perez. Erika will be performing all three of her number one singles off her new album Pretty Mess, including the new hit “Give You Everything,” on Sunday, November 8th 2009 at the 12th Annual AIDS Fundraiser “Miss Riis Park Universe,” which for the first time in its history will be hosted live from New York City at the Times Square Arts Center.

Pretty Mess was released worldwide on August 11, 2009. Several of her songs, including "Roller Coaster," "Stars,” and “Give You Everything” have climbed all the way to the top of the Billboard dance charts.

LITA FORD GETS RAVE REVIEWS FOR QUEENSRYCHE DATES

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From standing ovations to rave reviews, the Lita Ford/Queensryche onstage collaboration is indeed the metal tour to catch this fall.

Since the tour's start on Oct. 15, Lita has been performing three songs on the tour, including her hit song, "Close My Eyes Forever," which she duets with Geoff; as well as two new songs, "Crave," the duet with her husband Jim Gillette, and "Patriotic S.O.B." with the Queensryche band backing her up.

"The shows with Queensryche have been awesome," says Lita, "And the best part about all of it is the fans are going wild and the usually hard-to-please music critics are raving about it. It feels great to be back! Queensryche have been so good to us and so have their fans. When we got standing ovations for 'Crave' and 'Close My Eyes' the other night it blew our minds."

It blew Examiner.com's minds too. The publication raved about the Philadelphia show on Oct. 22 at the Theatre of the Living Arts writing, "Seeing Lita for a short time makes it feel like a dream. During the Philadelphia show, she took the stage like a crazed tigress and pranced around while members of Queensryche played 'Patriotic SOB' and 'Crave' from her new CD, Wicked Wonderland."

And, the accolades didn't stop there. The Examiner continues, "Her husband, Jim Gillette was an imposing figure on stage, sporting a Mohawk and leather vest. He was out of control, running from one end of the stage to the next, while belting out background lyrics to augment Lita's show. Mesmerized is how most of the crowd was."

Meanwhile, Wicked Wonderland is continuing to sell well and make its way up the metal radio charts in the U.S. The album, her first in 14 years, has jumped from No. 35 to No. 9 on the CMJ charts this week and from No. 27 to No. 22 on FMQB.

Here are the remaining dates on the tour:

Nov. 4, Missoula, MT, Wilma Theater

Nov. 5, Spokane, WA, Knitting Factory

Nov. 6, Boise, ID, Knitting Factory

Nov. 7, Stateline, NV, Harrah's Lake Tahoe

Nov. 10, Houma, LA, City Club

Nov. 11, Nashville, TN the Cannery

Nov. 12, Atlanta, GA Masquerade

Nov. 13, Jacksonville, FL, Plush

Nov. 14, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Revolution

Carolina Country Rockers Win People’s Choice Honor On

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Charlotte, NC - Carolina country rockers SwampDaWamp (pronounced swamp duh wamp) have won the “People’s Choice” honor as the artist fans would most like to see perform on the famed Lynyrd Skynyrd Simple Man Cruise. The band will set sail on the Carnival Inspiration January 21 - 25, 2010 from Tampa, Florida to Cozumel, Mexico along with headliners Lynyrd Skynyrd, .38 Special, Molly Hatchet, The Outlaws, Drivin’ & Cryin’ and thirteen other top musical acts.

Based out of Charlotte, North Carolina, the members of SwampDaWamp are busy pinching themselves after receiving the news. Fans were asked to nominate the artist they would most like to see perform on the cruise. The Top 5 nominees were selected, which found SwampDaWamp in very impressive company among such acts as the legendary Little Feat (most notable hit, “Dixie Chicken”) and rising country rocker and son of Waylon Jennings, Shooter Jennings. “Fans who are booked on the Simple Man Cruise 2010 nominated their favorite acts to join the cruise roster, and the top five nominees were chosen to go out to booked guests for a vote. SwampDaWamp won, and Sixthman is excited to have them aboard”, says a representative of Sixthman, producers of the cruise. “We’re thrilled and so grateful to Sixthman for this incredible opportunity as well as the amazing fans who voted for us” says Gig Michaels, lead singer of SwampDaWamp. “Knowing that the fans made this happen makes this such a special moment for us, we’re going to make them proud”, he added.

SwampDaWamp is an up & coming national country rock band currently on tour promoting their third CD release “Rock This Country” (Big Penny Entertainment). Already receiving rave reviews the CD features twelve exciting tracks that paint a vivid picture of today’s blue-collar America and includes the single “Lady” written by two of Nashville’s hottest songwriters Bridgette Tatum (co-writer of the #1 hit “She’s Country” by Jason Aldean) and Kirsti Manna (co-writer of the top ten hit “Loud” by Big & Rich). “Rock This Country” is available through most major digital retail outlets and in physical form through CD Baby and the band’s website. SwampDaWamp is Gig Michaels (lead vocals & acoustic guitar), David Lee (drums), Michael Hough (guitar & vocals), Mike “Scooby” Huffman (Hammond B3, keyboards & vocals), Cody Bennett (bass & vocals) and Keith Inman (lead guitar & vocals).

The Fourth Annual Simple Man Cruise featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd and friends is presented by Sixthman on the Carnival Inspiration. The cruise sails from Tampa, Florida to Cozumel, Mexico Thursday, January 21 through Monday, January 25, 2010. Artists scheduled to appear, Lynyrd Skynyrd, .38 Special, Molly Hatchet, The Outlaws, Blackberry Smoke, Bloodkin, Bonepony, Dead Confederate, Drivin’ & Cryin;, Hill Country Revue, Jonathan Tyler & The Northern Lights, Heather Luttrell, Scott Munns, SwampDaWamp, Oakhurst, Tom Hambridge and The Rattlesnakes, Francisco Vidal and The X Brothers. Cruise prices start at $749 per person and can be booked by calling 877-SIXTHMAN or visit www.simplemancruise.com.

Sixthman, also producers of other entertainment experience cruises such as Rock Boat, Kid Rock’s Chilin’ The Most Cruise & VH1’s Best Cruise Ever is an affinity travel company that creates unique experiences by bringing together like-minded people in exclusive, interactive and intimate environments.

For more information on SwampDaWamp visit their website at www.swampdawamp.com. For more information on Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Simple Man Cruise log onto www.simplemancruise.com or call 877-SIXTHMAN. For more information on Sixthman log onto www.sixthman.net.

New Review of Dangling Success' City Life Album

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The Dangling Success is an all-instrumental smooth jazz band that maintains a steady groove throughout their recent release City Life. Rather than focusing on the negative aspects of living in the city the band’s view is one that is positive and alluring as shown on the cover. The picture invites you to a late night jazz club where you can unwind and find yourself in a place that you will want to remain.City Life is an exceptional recording in every way. The band, which consists of Mark Niekrewicz (all saxes), Gioron Wilkins, Sr. (guitar), Mike McDonough (bass), Paul Rossman (drums, percussion) and Daniel Odescalchi (keyboards) are a fine compliment to each other on all the tracks. They maintain an ideal degree of consistency through and through on this CD, enough to please any jazz listener.

“Catch The Groove” is a fine example of what this band produces on a regular basis; it serves as their poster child for the sound created on City Life. With a bevy of original material to present they veer off into cover land taking The Rolling Stones tune “Beast of Burden” and make it their own. In fact as it turns out, it is one of the best tracks on the album. While they do not offer anything new or innovative they are a solid band that can command your attention and easily rival any of their contemporaries in the genre.

With 13 strong tracks to offer up The Dangling Success does not seem to be dangling anywhere at all, they have a firm foothold on their sound, presentation, and recording process and are in position to find great success with many smooth jazz radio stations around the globe.

This CD is highly recommended listening for jazz fans and those that are looking for a nice musical getaway that will provide relaxation and many hours of enjoyment.

http://www.muzikreviews.com/reviews.php?ID=763

Arthur Adams returns with Stomp the Floor

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Delta Groove's Arthur Adams shows off his signature blend of soul, sweet rhythm and blues with Stomp the Floor.

Arthur Adams has been a popular mainstay of the blues scene in Los Angeles for many years. As the featured house bandleader at B.B. King's blues club in Universal City, Arthur exposed patrons night after night to his soulful blend of silky rhythm & blues combined with his searing guitar and buttery smooth vocal delivery. The Tennessee native got his start early in life at six years old singing in the church choir and later acquired his first guitar as he entered into his teens. His initial inspiration came from guitarist Howard Carroll of the American gospel group The Dixie Hummingbirds, but Arthur also displays an obvious affection and stylistic debt to the six string attack of longtime friend B.B. King.

Arthur traveled throughout the south early on in his career before eventually heading out west and settling in Los Angeles in the mid-sixties. His first album, "It's Private Tonight" released in 1972, firmly established the silky smooth vocal presence and guitar style that still comprises Arthur's signature sound of today. Over the years, Arthur's talent and versatility in the studio proved invaluable as his skills were consistently utilized for numerous recording projects for film and television, along with extensive session work that includes albums by Jimmy Smith, Nina Simone, Quincy Jones, Lowell Fulson, The Crusaders and Bonnie Raitt. In 1991, Arthur played rhythm guitar and contributed two songs, "Mean And Evil" and "Something Up My Sleeve," to B.B. King's album "There Is Always One More Time" on MCA Records. King later returned the favor appearing on Arthur's comeback release "Back On Track" in 1999.

When Randy Chortkoff established Delta Groove Music in 2004 with the label's very first effort "That Represent Man" by The Mannish Boys, Arthur was invited to appear on stage with the band at several of their live performances and was later featured as a special guest on Mitch Kashmar's debut release "Nickels & Dimes." So when Arthur approached Delta Groove about his latest project, naturally he was welcomed in with open arms. "Stomp The Floor" features Arthur Adams' signature brand of soulfully sweet rhythm & blues filled with melodic hooks, classy arrangements and impeccable songwriting, affirming once again Arthur's status and rightful place amongst the genre's most celebrated and beloved artists.

TRACK LISTING:

01. Stomp The Floor (3:35)

02. You Can't Win For Losing (3:47)

03. Don't Let The Door Hit You (4:17)

04. I Know What You Mean (4:00)

05. So Sweet (4:14)

06. You Got That Right (3:48)

07. Callin' Heaven (3:40)

08. Nature Of The Beast (3:16)

09. Thrive On Your Vibe (4:00)

10. You Are Invited (4:07)

11. Around The Sun (4:03)

12. Blue Roots (4:01)

Check out Delta Groove's Arthur Adams e-card here: http://www.deltagrooveproductions.com/music/releases/stompthefloor/ecard/

Lita Ford Gets Wicked With Queensryche This Fall

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The Queen of Heavy Metal, Lita, has teamed up with Queensryche for a fall tour that can only be described as a metal fan's ultimate musical fantasy. Instead of just hitting the road with Geoff Tate and the gang, Queensryche will also be joining Lita onstage for her entire set.

Lita will perform three songs on the tour, including her hit song, "Close My Eyes Forever," which she will duet with Geoff; as well as two new songs, "Crave," the duet with her husband Jim Gillette which debuted at #2 on metal radio and is another huge hit for Lita and "Patriotic S.O.B." with the Queensryche band backing her up.

"I'm so excited about how we're doing this tour," says Lita. "It's a really cool way to do a show. I'm looking forward to getting out there and seeing my fans again as well as meeting Queensryche's fans. It should be a real fun time for all."

There is no escaping the Wicked Wonderland that is Lita's first new album in 14 years when it drops on Oct. 6. Not only will the hardest-working woman in metal be mixing it up with Queensryche throughout October and November, but also advertisements for the new CD will be on nearly 17,000 movie theater screens nationwide during those two months. The adverts will include snippets of Wicked's wonderful ballad "Sacred" for an estimated audience of 17 million to hear.

Lita mania doesn't stop there. In January and February, it hits the friendly skies, as Delta Airlines will feature a 15-minute, three-song music and interview segment in its in-flight entertainment program. She will also be featured in Delta's acclaimed in-flight magazine, Sky. This will reach nearly 20 million passengers on 90,000 flights nationwide during the two-month campaign.

Meanwhile, don't miss Lita as Queen Rima in the video game Brutal Legend out Oct. 13 and in her first family comic book, The Gillettes: Family Business, out in November.

Queensryche with Lita Ford tour dates:

Oct. 15, Louisville, Ky., Coyotes
Oct. 16, Montgomery, Ala., Montgomery Perf. Arts Centre
Oct. 17, Pensacola, Fla., Saenger Theatre
Oct. 18, Asheville, N.C., the Orange Peel
Oct. 20, Charlotte, N.C., the Fillmore
Oct. 21, Raleigh, N.C., Lincoln Theater
Oct. 22, Philadelphia, Theatre of the Living Arts
Oct. 23, Norfolk, Va., the Norva
Oct. 24, Englewood, N.J., Bergen Performing Arts Center
Oct. 25, Westbury, N.Y., Capitol One Bank Theater
Oct. 27, Covington, Ky., Madison Theater
Oct. 28, Columbus, Ohio, Newport Music Hall
Oct. 29, Indianapolis, the Vogue
Oct. 30, Fort Wayne, Ind., Pierres
Oct. 31, St. Louis, the Pageant
Nov. 1, Joliet, Ill., Rialto Square Theatre
Nov. 2, Fargo, N.D., the Venue
Nov. 4, Missoula, Mont., Wilma Theater
Nov. 5, Spokane, Wash., Knitting Factory
Nov. 6, Boise, Idaho, Knitting Factory
Nov. 7, Stateline, Nev., Harrah's Lake Tahoe
Nov. 10, Houma, La., City Club
Nov. 11, Nashville, the Cannery
Nov. 12, Atlanta, Masquerade
Nov. 13, Jacksonville, Fla., Plush
Nov. 14, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., Revolution Live

Terence Blanchard's New CD Choices Now Available On Concord Jazz

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“Life is all about expansion and evolution. We make choices every day, none of which are right or wrong. They are simply choices that allow us to explore the variety of what’s before us.” -- Terence Blanchard

New Orleans, Louisiana. Choices, the new CD from three-time Grammy award winning trumpet player and composer Terence Blanchard, is set to be released August 18th on Concord Jazz. Recorded in March in Blanchard’s hometown of New Orleans at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, Choices addresses the choices we all make in life – both as a society and on a personal level. Blanchard will premiere Choices at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art in New Orleans on July 31st.

Accompanying Blanchard on the album are longstanding band members Fabian Almazan on piano, Derrick Hodge on bass and Kendrick Scott on drums, along with newcomer Walter Smith lll on saxophone, all of whom wrote significant track contributions to the CD as well (a complete track listing is attached to this release.) Guest artists include writer, speaker, educator and activist Dr. Cornel West, critically-acclaimed guitarist and Blanchard protégé Lionel Louke, and singer, musician and composer Bilal. West performs spoken word pieces on the album with Bilal providing vocals on several of the tracks.

Said Blanchard, “When the spoken word idea came to mind, Dr. Cornel West was the first person I thought of. I’ve always been a fan of his philosophy -- the stances he’s taken and the causes that he has championed throughout his career -- and I thought what better person could I find to put a lot of these ideas into words that can work in this particular musical situation. Bilal on the other hand is a great vocalist and while recognized more as an R&B soul singer, he is a huge fan of Jazz and is very knowledgeable when it comes to the history of music. Bilal is an extremely accomplished, creative and talented musician and it just seemed natural that he should be involved with the Choices project.”

Added Dr. West, “Choices…what kind of human being you’re going to be. How are you going to opt for a life of decency and compassion and service and love. What goes into that kind of choice. That’s the human challenge. To be part of this album is an unadulterated joy because no doubt about it, music for me is continuous of life -- to be able to live the kind of life that I live on the certain kind of Socratic calling of raising unsettling questions. To be able to be in conversation and on an album with Terence Blanchard, that’s serious business…I mean, that’s…that’s a beautiful thing.”

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s Patrick F. Taylor Library was chosen for the recording due to its outstanding acoustics as well as its historical importance to the city of New Orleans. The Library, completed in 1889 and a survivor of both hurricanes and decades of neglect, is the only existing building in the South designed by New Orleans native H.H. Richardson. “There couldn’t have been a more perfect place to record this project,” says Blanchard, “The Library itself is a survivor as is this city. While my last album (the Grammy-winning A Tale Of God’s Will (A Requiem For Katrina) stemmed from Katrina’s pain and destruction, Choices will be a celebration of all that has survived and more.”

Blanchard has established himself as one of the most influential jazz musicians and film score masters of his generation, a member of a jazz legacy that has shaped the contours of modern jazz today. With more than 29 albums to his credit, as a musician Blanchard is a multi-Grammy Award winner and nominee, winning earlier this year for his instrumental solo for “Be-Bop” on Live At The 2007 Monterey Jazz Festival. In addition to receiving the award, Blanchard performed live on the telecast along with other New Orleans artists including Lil’ Wayne, Allen Toussaint and the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, who were all joined on-stage by singer Robin Thicke. In 2008, Blanchard also won a Grammy for his CD, A Tale of God's Will (A Requiem for Katrina), a beautifully haunting and impassioned song cycle about Hurricane Katrina and the ravages incurred upon the City of New Orleans and its residents.

As a film composer, Blanchard has more than 50 scores to his credit and received a Golden Globe nomination for Spike Lee's 25th Hour. In 2008 he completed the score for Lee's Miracle at St. Anna, as well as the soundtrack for Darnell Martin’s Cadillac Records. Other film music written by Blanchard includes Kasi Lemmons' Eve's Bayou and Talk to Me, Oprah Winfrey's Their Eyes Were Watching God, Tim Story's Barbershop and Ron Shelton's Dark Blue. He is currently working on the score for George Lucas’ Red Tails and has already completed musical contributions on Disney’s The Princess and the Frog set for release this Christmas.

As Artistic Director of the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, which he was instrumental in relocating from Los Angeles to New Orleans, Blanchard works with students in the areas of artistic development, arranging, composition and concert programming. He also participates in master classes around the world as well as local community outreach activities in his beloved hometown of New Orleans.

The release of Choices will be accompanied by a worldwide tour featuring Terence and his band.

Visit www.terenceblanchard.com for more information.

All Hail The Queen! - Lita Ford & Jack Black Star In Video Game, "Brutal Legend"

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Already known as the Queen of Heavy Metal, Lita is adding another royal crown to her repertoire as she voices the role of the queen in the forthcoming action-adventure video game, Brütal Legend, out Oct. 13 via Double Fine Productions and Electronic Arts.

Lita joins an impressive list of contributors, such as actors Jack Black (School of Rock, Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny) and Tim Curry (The Rocky Horror Picture Show), and fellow metal legends Ozzy Osbourne, Rob Halford, and Lemmy Kilmister, who all lend their voices to the game. Lita plays the role of Queen Rima, while Jack Black plays the main male role of Eddie Riggs, a roadie who is transported to a heavy metal fantasy world in which he needs to save the human race from supernatural powers by using such weapons as a Flying V guitar with magical powers.

"We go out to kick some ass," Lita recently told RollingStone.com about her character. "I get axed, electrocuted, and thrown off a second story building… and I manage to survive the whole thing!"

The game, which will be available on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, also features 100 heavy metal songs, including Lita's "Betrayal" from her forthcoming new album, Wicked Wonderland, and her husband Jim Gillette's band Nitro, which contributes the track "Machine Gunn Eddie." Other artists contributing songs to the game include Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Motorhead, Motley Crue, Kiss, Ozzy Osbourne, Marilyn Manson, Ministry, Rob Zombie, Megadeth, King Diamond, Scorpions, Slayer, Anthrax, Sanctuary, Jack Black's Tenacious D, and more.

Brütal Legend, which was created by designer and Double Fine founder Tim Schafer, can be pre-ordered at www.brutallegend.com now. If you pre-order the game, you will be able to download a demo of it on the Xbox 360 Marketplace and PlayStation Network Store on Sept. 17.

Meanwhile, Wicked Wonderland is slated for release on Oct. 6 and can be pre-ordered at www.litaxx.tv.

SwampDaWamp Release Latest CD, "Rock This Country"

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Country fried rockers SwampDaWamp (pronounced swamp duh wamp) from Charlotte, NC unfold their much anticipated 3rd independent release this week (2nd full length) “Rock This Country,” available now in most major digital retail outlets and in physical form at www.SwampDaWamp.com. The album title translates perfectly the content and direction of this 12 track disc which, like the band, crosses the border between rock and country genres and clearly defines what has become the norm for this artist and its label Big Penny Entertainment. “Rock This Country,” was produced by Ken Coomer and Charlie Brocco.

“Rock This Country,” is a true American blue collar album throughout and the brilliant efforts of a band that defies being branded by New York or Nashville. Together, the songs and playing skills deliver a statement from a band that truly gets what their audience wants and for a new generation of listeners to find and cling to.

“This record is an absolute evolution of the band,” says band leader Gig Michaels. I think we have captured the energy on this recording thanks to producer Ken Coomer and engineer Charlie Brocco. Working with those guys has been an incredible experience and the result is going to be the best sounding and best vibe the band has ever recorded. I am extremely proud of this record.”

Ken Coomer adds, “SwampDaWamp is big sexy! Guys wanna be them, girls wanna do them. Real Southern Rock like it should be….BIG!”

SwampDaWamp has been slugging it out all over the map for the past 5 years headlining at honkytonks, fairs, biker rallies and performing with greats like David Allen Coe, 38 Special, Confederate Railroad, Marshall Tucker and will continue to do so in the next several months in support of “Rock This Country.”

Previous recordings for the band include their debut self titled “SwampDaWamp,” released in 2006 and “Swampdawamp 2.0” EP In 2008.

SwampDaWamp features Gig Michaels/lead vox & acoustic guitar, David Lee on the drums, Keith Inman and Michael Hough on guitars, Mike Huffman on keys and Cody Bennett on bass.

For more information, music, news and tour dates for SwampDaWamp visit: WWW.SWAMPDAWAMP.COM

Kristine W Has Her 14th #1 Billboard Dance Hit With Her Latest Release, "Be Alright"

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Kristine W hits #1 again on the September 5, 2009 edition of the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart with her latest single, “Be Alright.” This is Kristine’s 14th #1 single and ties her with Mariah Carey for the 3rd most Club No. 1s among women. “Be Alright” has also jumped to #14 on the FMQB Adult Contemporary chart.

The song’s message is one of hope triumphing over difficulty; a theme Kristine says is especially poignant today. “With the financial crisis hitting every country, political instability reaching all time highs, and health care in limbo, I wanted to write and sing a song that both expressed how people are feeling and encouraged optimism,” says the singer, a leukemia survivor celebrating eight years in remission. “The fact that ‘Be Alright’ is crossing different genres of music proves the message is universal. We are all feeling pressure in today’s world but we all need to believe that we will get through this. In the end, we will all be alright.”

Mike McVay, President of McVay Media, a company that consults more than 150 radio stations around the world, echoes Kristine’s sentiments on the song’s success. “Its reassuring lyrics and positive energy speak to listeners. We expect the song to continue its ascent on the AC charts.”

“Be Alright” is the fifth release from Kristine’s recently released full-length project, The Power of Music.

The Power of Music has already proven its power on the dance scene with its first four single releases - “Walk Away”, “The Boss”, “Never”, and “Love is the Look” – all landing at the #1 spot on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play List.

Kristine W (kristinew.com) is a fourth generation entertainer hailing from Pasco, Washington. After winning titles as Miss Tri-Cities, Miss Washington and placing first in the talent competition at the Miss America pageant, Kristine went on to pursue her educational and musical dreams in Las Vegas, where she found success headlining her own show at the Las Vegas Hilton, winning several 'Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year' awards and being officially sanctioned as the entertainer who performed more live shows at the Las Vegas Hilton than any other performer in its history - including Elvis. The award led to June 28th being officially sanctioned Kristine W day in the state of Nevada.

Her previous full length album, Fly Again, released in 2004 from Tommy Boy Records, yielded four #1 dance records and established Kristine as a world record holder for Most Consecutive #1 Billboard Club Hits, topping records previously held by Janet Jackson and Madonna.

The Queen Is Back! -- Hard Rock Legend Lita Ford Wins Metal Radio Over With "Crave"

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Metal radio welcomed Lita Ford back to the airwaves with open arms as her latest hard rock anthem, "Crave," became this week's second most added song at metal radio in America.

"It feels great to be back doing what I love," says Lita. "The response to the new material on the road has been amazing and now to have radio embrace it just proves that hard rock can never die."

"Crave" is a new bump-and-grind bluesy rocker from the artist's forthcoming new CD, Wicked Wonderland, which is due Oct. 6. The track was written and produced by Lita, her husband and collaborator Jim Gillette, and Greg Hampton. The sexually-charged, hard rocking new album is Lita's first release since 1995.

"Crave" is just one of the new songs that Lita is playing on the road for her first tour in nearly 15 years with band-mates Bumblefoot on guitar, Michael T Ross on keys, PJ Farley on bass, Dennis Leeflang on drums, and of course husband Jim Gillette (Nitro) on guitar. Other songs on the set list include her two classic hits, "Kiss Me Deadly" and "Close My Eyes, Forever."

Upcoming dates include:
Sept. 5, Cleveland, Ohio, Taste of Cleveland, Time Warner Cable Amphitheater @ Tower City Nov. 21, Ridgefield, Connecticut, Ridgefield Playhouse

More tour dates and news on other forthcoming projects will be announced shortly.

For more information on Lita or Wicked Wonderland, go to www.litaxx.tv or www.myspace.com/litaford.

Erika Jayne's "Give You Everything" Tops Billboard's Dance Club Chart--Placement Marks Third Time At #1 For The Pop-Dance Sensation

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“Flirt-y girl Erika Jayne follows up her number one club hits "Stars" and "Rollercoaster," with this funky discopop confection.”
– Ron Slomowitz, Dancemusic.about.com about “Give You Everything”

ERIKA JAYNE—singer, songwriter and dance pop sensation—has just scored a truly notable achievement in the music world. The Atlanta-born, Los Angeles transplant has landed her third #1 hit on Billboard’s Dance Club Play chart with the alluring “Give You Everything” on the eve of the August 11 release of her debut album Pretty Mess via E1 Music. This success comes on the heels the #1 dance smashes “Roller Coaster” and “Stars” by the glamorous artist who reels you in with her alluring vocals and catchy melodies and electro beats, not to mention an infectious taste of decadence.

Her Billboard chart success is extraordinary with her experiencing success prior to album release that is not often seen by emerging artists. Check out the video for “Give You Everything” directed by Grammy-nominated video director Marty Thomas and choreographed by Mikey Minden (The Pussycat Dolls) at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hfrsd3ICBA/ and the ‘making of’ EPK that captures her vibrant persona here: http://rcpt.yousendit.com/712979108/e5da7925659a59edd1c9af30e02bc329

“I’ve had such a wonderful time with this song,” states JAYNE. “From conceiving it with co-writer and producer Peter Rafelson, to creating its video with Marty Thomas highlighting a really great dance sequence from Mikey Minden, plus having the honor of performing it at Gay Pride celebrations in both LA and San Francisco, I’m just tickled to see it go #1!”

Pretty Mess is produced and co-written with some of today’s most in-demand and talented producers--heavyweights Peter Rafelson (Madonna, Britney Spears, Stevie Nicks), Eric Kupper (Shakira, Destiny’s Child, Kylie Minogue), Esthero (under the name Pinklake), Jahi Lake (Chris Brown) and Ike Dirty (Lil’ Scrappy, Ying Yang Twins)--and showcases her talent as both a singer and a songwriter with tracks spanning from rhythmic pop and dance to chill electronic ballads. The album includes a nod to Prince, one of Jayne’s biggest influences, with a cover of his protégé Apollonia’s hit “Sex Shooter” as well as a guest appearance from legendary percussionist Sheila E on the track “Time to Realize,” in addition to the stellar aforementioned #1 club tracks. Dance pop aficionados are keen to the dance floor mixes from Moto Blanco, Mike Rizzo, DJ Escape & Johnny Vicious and Dave Audé.

Meanwhile, fans can catch ERIKA’s striking live performance which has dazzled audiences at both the Los Angeles and San Francisco Gay Pride celebrations in these glittering locales surrounding the release of Pretty Mess:

8/6 Los Angeles Avalon
8/11 Atlantic City, NJ House of Blues
9/5 Las Vegas, NV Crave

www.erikajayne.com
www.myspace.com/erikajaynemusic

Roy Rogers "Split Decision" Album Review on Blogcritics

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The music business loves to categorize. Roy Rogers plays slide guitar and worked for a number of years with John Lee Hooker. So his recordings are generally filed in the blues section. But while blues grooves help provide a strong rhythmic core for the project, there’s much more here than formulaic twelve-bar workouts.

Rogers ranged far and wide to recruit help for his first outing with The Rhythm Kings, his working band, in seven years. On hand are flamenco guitarist Ottmar Liebert and Philip Aaberg, whose keyboard work has graced outings by artists as diverse as Elvin Bishop and Peter Gabriel. From much closer to home comes son Sam Rogers, who contributes vocal bass, berimbau, and percussion.

Rogers, who produced four of the late blues giant’s last recording projects, set out to craft an eclectic collection here, and while there’s a wide variety in structure and tempo, there’s a cohesive quality thanks to consistently strong songwriting. Rogers wrote or co-wrote everything, ably moving from the almost ethereal delicacy of “Your Sweet Embrace” to the bone-crunching fury of “Bitter Rain” (though the latter is lyrically unimpressive – Rogers fares best when he sticks to simpler subjects).

Opener “Calm Before The Storm” is anything but calm - with Rogers’ nasty slide raging beneath its thick jungle beat, the song drips with brooding menace. “Patron Saint Of Pain” is a fairly straightforward blues workout, but to the song’s advantage Rogers isn’t called upon for more than a cursory vocal; he’s not the strongest singer, but has learned to use his somewhat thin voice wisely and for the most part quite well. There’s straightforward rock ‘n’ roll with “Little Queen Bee” and “River Of Tears,” and slippery, burbling funk on “Rite Of Passage,” featuring great sax work by guest George Brooks (Etta James).

Rogers is a master slide guitarist, but he exhibits exemplary moderation throughout, putting the song before pyrotechnics and letting the composition dictate the texture of his own contributions. His subtly shimmering work on the heartfelt soul ballad, “I Would Undo Anything,” is an object lesson in tasteful restraint, but he’s delightfully dirty on “Walkin’ The Levee,” a crunchy instrumental that closes the disc.

An intelligent and well-crafted collection, there’s much to like on Split Decision. His vocals remain serviceable but Rogers is a superior instrumentalist who knows his way around a studio. Slide guitar fans should definitely give this one a listen. - John Taylor, Blogcritics.org

Central South Distribution, Inc. Makes Historical Merger With Lataillade Entertainment And Ruff Town Entertainment Group

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July 14, 2009 (New York, NY)Central South Distribution, Inc., which has been the number one independent faith based record distributor in the world for the past decade, has formed a partnership with Lataillade Entertainment, headed by independent contemporary gospel label/publishing/marketing guru Vicki Mack-Lataillade, and her husband, Claude Lataillade, and Ruff Town Entertainment Group, an entity founded by Grammy nominated and noted songwriter/producer/recording artist Rene Moore. The multi-million dollar stock purchase marks the first time in history that three African Americans’ will have a principal stake and partnership in a major contemporary music distribution company. Randy Davidson, founder and CEO of Central South, Inc., made the unprecedented and milestone announcement today, which is effective immediately.

Vicki Mack-Lataillade, Claude Lataillade, and Rene Moore, will serve on Central South’s Board of Directors along with Davidson, Chuck Adams, co-founder and President of Central South, and Greg Davidson, the company’s Vice-President of Finance. Central South is a privately held and family owned business that has been based in Nashville, Tennessee, since its’ inception in 1970. On top of being the #1 independent faith based distributor, they rank #2 behind Sony/BMG/Provident/Integrity as the leading distributor of faith based music in the US. Over the past decade Central South built a chain of 90 retail stores that grossed $100 million in volume, and has successfully crossed over its’ nearly 80% urban contemporary gospel and faith based music into major retail chains like Wal-Mart, Target, and Best Buy. The Lataillade’s are credited with birthing the most successful independent gospel label ever, Gospo Centric Records, which along with several other companies has generated over $100 million dollars. Vijay Chandran, President of the Cauvery Group, Inc., arranged the financing for the acquisition.

The groundbreaking alliance is not only a first in breaking racial barriers, but it also marks the first time an African American woman, Mack-Lataillade, and a recording artist, Moore, two of the industry’s leading artist development and content providers, will have a primary role with a leading distributor. The synergy of the principals is designed to convert Central South into a vertically integrated entity that can immediately monetize every aspect of consumer consumption for both secular and non-secular music.

“The paradigm for the way contemporary music is sold on the retail level is in a constant state of flux and is extremely challenging at the moment,” noted Davidson. “The merger with Lataillade Entertainment and Ruff Town Entertainment Group is a natural progression for Central South, and we’re confident that the vast experience and expertise of our unparalleled management team will help us to further secure and expand our dominant market share.”

“This is really a dream come true opportunity,” remarked Vicki Mack-Lataillade. “We weren’t able to truly control or influence our distribution model with our previous record labels. Our relationship with Central South gives us a chance to be more than just aggregators of content. We’ll be able to fully exploit and utilize our creativity and marketing savvy, and offer artists a full range of services, from coaching and helping them realize and fulfill their musical vision, to formulating effective business/marketing strategies for their product. Artists will have the opportunity to make not only music products available, but music related products as well.”

“We share a common vision with Central South of maintaining our independent spirit, staying streamlined, and seeking viable partnerships with other companies that will help us grow a multi-media distribution platform for a wide range of faith based and secular products including, CD’s, DVD’s, to potentially developing/distributing original television and film programs, infused Claude Lataillade. “We also intend to take an aggressive posture in expanding and developing our digital strategy, and our roles as creators/providers and distributors of digital content.”

For more information on Central South Distribution, please visit their official website: http://www.centralsouthdistribution.com

“Our vision for Central South is to appeal and attract songwriters/producers, artists, labels, that will appreciate collaborating with a seasoned team of veterans that integrate keen artistic sensibility with proven business acumen,” stated Rene Moore. “We’re in the very unique position of creating a label/distribution template that’s a first on every level, and I’m excited and thrilled to be part of a partnership and company that ultimately can become a haven and nurturing place for talented artists from all music genres.”

Vicki Mack Lataillade has arguably been one of the most influential and seminal figures in contemporary gospel music for the past 30 years. Along with her husband Claude, they built the most successful independent gospel label in history with Gospo Centric Records, the imprint they formed in 1993, and B-Rite Music, which was form in 1994. In a 13-year span Gospo Centric broke every imaginable gospel music sales record, amassing over 100 million in record sales, grossing $56 million, and in a three year stretch, 1998 – 2000, the label owned 30% of the market share of all gospel sales and was either the #1 or #2 gospel label in the industry. They built a diverse and commercially viable artist roster taking a chance with gospel/hip hop/rapper Kirk Franklin, Kurt Carr and the Kurt Carr Singers, Tramaine Hawkins, Byron Cage, David Hollister, Kelly Price, Reggae legend Papa San, and Trin-I-tee 5:7, to name just a few. Franklin alone sold over 10 million records, a half dozen releases which were double-platinum, and Trin-I-tee 5:7 was the first all female gospel group to sell over 500,000. In 2004, they sold the label to Zomba/BMG.

Over the past several years, Vicki, CEO, and Claude, CFO, refocused their energies to build and manage a wide spectrum of entertainment properties under the banner of Lataillade Entertainment, which include Mack Entertainment, a record label, Lilly Mack Publishing, (gospel music’s #1 music publishing company) a couple of the television series/properties, “The Lilly Mack Sing-A-Long,” and “ Soulaughable,” a comedy/variety show on The Word Network, and Muscapes, an entity that serves as a digital arm for all its’ products.

Rene Moore has enjoyed a distinguished career as a prolific songwriter/producer/artist, and business entrepreneur. In his early years he played and performed with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Zubin Mehta, but is most noted for his starring role in Rene & Angela, considered one of the most influential duets in the history of R&B and hip hop music. In the late eighties, the duo scored a series of classic hits, including, “You Don’t Have To Cry,” “Your Smile,” “Save Your Love,” which was a #1 hit, and featured a guest rapper throughout the record, which marked the first time the technique was employed on a major release, and has since, become a staple and vital part of many of contemporary pop music’s biggest hits. Moore also enjoyed a decade of writing and producing with the late Michael Jackson, and received a Grammy nomination for “Song Of The Year,” for “Jam” which he penned for the King of Pop. His thriving career as songwriter/producer also includes penning songs for Janet Jackson, Jay Z, Notorious B.I.G., The Isley Brothers, Foxy Brown, David Hasselhoff, the Pointer Sisters, and many more. Moore launched the Ruff Town Entertainment Group in 1997 with radio mogul Kevin Wagner and rapper JT Money. The company includes a burgeoning record label and a fertile and highly successful publishing company.

Central South’s primary offices will remain in Nashville, and President Chuck Adams is extremely optimistic about the company’s future, “We’ve always tried to manage our business with insight, and foresight. Combining our track record with the incredible creative and marketing genius of Vicki, Claude, and Rene gives us chance to rewrite yet another chapter in our company’s success story, and unequivocally, we’re going to be a force to be reckoned with.”

Candye Kane - Superhero Blues Vocalist Wins The Battle

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Candye Kane Superhero is the name of the original song and the title of her recently released CD for Delta Groove records.

Superhero is Candye’s tenth CD and most significant to date. After fighting off deadly pancreatic cancer over the last year, it is an understatement to say that this recording is a miracle. The title of the CD applies literally and the blues never sounded more relevant for Candye and her fans.

With a career spanning two decades Ms. Kane has earned her keep in life and as a standout blues vocalist, earning the most esteemed acknowledgement from her peers by being nominated for a 2008 National Blues Foundation Award for Best Blues Contemporary Female. Awards and accolades pale in comparison after surviving cancer and then to turn around and record another album is a tribute to the resiliency of Kane and her ever growing legacy.

Superhero hit the streets on June 17th and the feedback has been positive. Amazon.com said “With renewed energy and a new lease on life Candye now makes her triumphant return with Superhero, her most personal and rewarding effort to date.

Superhero was produced by Kane and 26 year old guitar virtuoso Laura Chavez who also plays in her live band. The CD features guest performances by Kid Ramos, Dave Gonzales and Mitch Kashmar along with Kanes' rhythm section featuring eldest son, Evan Caleb on drums and bass veteran, Paul Loranger.

Candye is a warrior of life and the music industry and Superhero is the culmination of those experiences. The blues cooks along and so does Candye, sounding as emotive and passionate as ever.

Visit the new Candye Kane website for detailed biographical information, media and more.

Miles High Productions Is Pleased To Announce Our Latest Client, The Jane Carrey Band

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Miles High Productions is pleased to announce The Jane Carrey Band as our latest client to promote her debut studio release out this fall! See www.janecarreyband.com for additional information!

Dance Music Sensation Erika Jayne to Release Highly Anticipated Debut Album, "Pretty Mess," on August 11

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If disco balls, ecstasy, pearls, Studio 54, sex, crystal chandeliers, Purple Rain and crème brûlée could be whipped in a blender and made into a delicious pop-dance musical confection, you would have PRETTY MESS, the debut from dance-pop’s latest sensation ERIKA JAYNE. Due out August 11 through E1 Music (formerly KOCH Records), fantasy and escape reign on the 14-song collection of dance, rhythmic pop and dreamy electronica produced and co-written with some of today’s most in-demand and talented producers.

“Purple Rain, the feel of Studio 54, Kylie Minogue and the old Hollywood designers Edith Head and Adrian Adolph Greenberg…they were all about having a good time and that is what my record is about,” notes the Atlanta-bred, Los Angeles-based songstress regarding the variety of fabulous influences for her first album. “I want people to have fun, dance and escape into fantasy. I want the listener to take a sexy little trip away from their lives. It’s a very sensual, erotic, luxurious-feeling album.”

With assistance from production heavyweights Peter Rafelson (Madonna, Britney Spears, Stevie Nicks) and Eric Kupper (Shakira, Destiny’s Child, Kylie Minogue), Pretty Mess showcases Jayne’s talent as both a singer and a songwriter with tracks spanning from rhythmic pop and dance to chill electronic ballads. The album includes a nod to Prince, one of Jayne’s biggest influences, with a cover of his protégé Apollonia’s hit “Sex Shooter” as well as a guest appearance from legendary percussionist Sheila E on the track “Time to Realize.” Pretty Mess also includes stellar guest production from the likes of Esthero (under the name Pinklake), Jahi Lake (Chris Brown) and Ike Dirty (Lil’ Scrappy, Ying Yang Twins).

Jayne is experiencing success prior to album release that is not often seen by debut artists. The current single “Give You Everything,” created with Rafelson, has put her high on the Billboard Dance charts for the third consecutive time, following the album’s first two singles “Rollercoaster” and “Stars.” The track recently scored her “Breakout Artist of the Week” status on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play Breakouts chart, pushing her past hit artists Lady Gaga and the Pussycat Dolls to secure the top spot. The song was also a Billboard “Hotshot Debut” for the week.

With mixes from dance club elite including Moto Blanco, Mike Rizzo, DJ Escape & Johnny Vicious and Dave Audé, the single continues to jump up the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart and marks Jayne’s third time dominating the chart. Previous singles “Roller Coaster” and “Stars” were both #1 Dance Club Play tracks, with “Stars” also hitting #1 on the Billboard Dance Radio Airplay Chart.

The video for “Give You Everything” paired Jayne with Grammy-nominated video director Marty Thomas for a clip that shows off Jayne’s triple-threat talent as an actress as well as a singer and dancer. Choreography for the clip came from noted choreographer Mikey Minden (The Pussycat Dolls). The video can be viewed here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hfrsd3ICBA

Tracks from Pretty Mess have also made their way to the big screen. “Roller Coaster” appeared in Deal featuring Burt Reynolds, while “Stars” has a cameo in The Pools Boys, an upcoming comedy from the director of American Pie 2 with Efren Ramirez (Napoleon Dynamite) and Matthew Lillard (Scream). “I Lose Myself” and “Just a Phase” were also included in the 2008 romantic comedy The Neighbor, starting Matthew Modine and Michelle Laroque.

In anticipation of the album release, Jayne is treating fans to special appearances at the West Coast’s two largest Pride celebrations. With back up dancers in tow, she recently captivated the audience at the Los Angeles Pride celebration and got the crowd moving with a performance of her hit singles on the festival’s main stage. Jayne will return to the stage on Sunday, June 28 with a performance at this year’s San Francisco Pride festival alongside such artists as Solange and BoA.

The complete track listing for ERIKA JAYNE’s Pretty Mess is:

Stars
Just A Phaze
Everybody Wants Some
Give You Everything
Pretty Mess
Beautiful
Roller Coaster
Time To Realize
Run Along
Sex Shooter
Without You
Love You Forever
I Lose Myself
One More Time

For more information on Erika Jayne check out:
www.erikajayne.com
www.myspace.com/erikajaynemusic

Heart Readies New Album, Children's Book

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A new album and a children's book based on an old album are on Heart's docket for the balance of the year.

Guitarist Nancy Wilson tells Billboard.com that she and sister Ann have been in and out of the studio during the past few months with producer Ben Mink working on Heart's first set of new material since 2004's "Jupiter's Darling." "We've done a lot of writing and we've been in the studio a couple times so far between some of the touring stuff we're doing," Wilson says. "We've got about eight songs that we really like, and we've recorded three basic (tracks) that work so far. I know it will be out this coming year, but I can't give you any more specific time frame than that."

Wilson adds that recording has been done so far in Los Angeles and in various hotel rooms during the group's tours. She also expects to log some studio time in Seattle. Song titles so far include "Hey You" and "Closer," and Wilson says the recording process has been organic. "We're recording with just a real woodshed, small acoustic element, people playing together at the same time and (in) the same room -- like what they used to call a hootenanny," explains Wilson, who hopes to debut some of the new songs live this summer. "There's no ProTools feel to it at all. We're just sitting around playing guitars together and going for a performance that is on the spot."

Heart is also planning for a fourth quarter release of a storybook inspired by its 1978 album "Dog & Butterfly," which will come with a CD that includes new versions of the title song and "Dreamboat Annie" Heart will record with Mink. "We always wanted to do a children's book of some form or another," Wilson says. "Ann pretty much did the writing, and I kind of was her editor. She made the initial drawings of the dog and I did the butterfly. She drew the characters, mostly, and I painted them. And then we had an artist come in and kind of fill in some of the other designs 'cause we're kind of busy right now. It looks really good. It's really simple."

Heart has tour dates booked into September, including nine dates opening for Journey. -- Gary Graff, Billboard

Into the Presence's Video, "Lovers," Showcased After Their Self-Titled Debut Album Release

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Into the Presence (ITP) has recorded a timeless, dynamic rock record that both hints at rock’s past and fits comfortably among today’s best guitar bands. Made up of drummer Tim Alexander and frontman/guitarist Luis Maldonado, ITP's self-titled debut album, recorded in true analog (tape machines and vintage outboard gear), has created a sweeping musical journey that is stripped down in its instrumentation but grand in its sonic landscape.

Despite their vast musical expertise, Alexander and Maldonado fought to keep the music focused. “This was not going to be a progressive note fest,” explained Tim. “We analyzed every note and got rid of anything that didn’t improve the song. This was about the basics: the songs and making you feel something.” Both Alexander and Maldonado took part in various projects before collaborating on the album. Tim gained a following performing with Primus, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer. And Luis, a well known studio/session player, was a child music prodigy who studied classical guitar in college at the age of 12. The self-titled album has been received well by critics and peers, and has been gaining quite the buzz.

Recently, ITP released a video of an acoustic version of their song, "Lovers." Keep checking their video widget for more new videos coming soon!