Thursday, December 16, 2010

HEART ON MUSSELMAN'S APPLE SAUCE PRESENTS BRIAN BOITANO SKATING SPECTACTULAR

MUSSELMAN’S APPLE SAUCE PRESENTS
BRIAN BOITANO
SKATING SPECTACULAR
AIRS ON NBC
DECEMBER 26, 2010 AT
4:00 PM ET/ 1:00PM PT
STARRING MUSICAL GUESTS HEART
FEATURING MICHAEL WEISS, STEVEN COUSINS, RYAN
BRADLEY, YUKA SATO, ELENA LEONOVA & ANDREI
KHAVALKO, SINEAD & JOHN KERR, and American Open
Champion and Specialty Act IRINA GRIGORIAN &
MIKHAIL PANIN


Olympic gold-medalist Brian Boitano and musical guest Heart star in Musselman’s Apple Sauce presents BRIAN BOITANO SKATING SPECTACULAR, a new theatrical figure skating event to be broadcast on NBC Sunday, December 26, 2010 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM ET / 1:00 – 3:00 PM PT. Special guest stars include three time National Champion and two time World Bronze Medalist Michael Weiss, as well as eight time British National Champion Steven Cousins, US Silver Medalist Ryan Bradley, World Champion Yuka Sato, two time World Professional Pairs Champions Elena Leonova & Andrei Khvalko, seven time British National Champions Sinead & John Kerr, and American Open Champion and specialty act Irina Grigorian & Mikhail Panin. The one-night-only gold medal spectacular will be taped on the Tyson Events Center in Sioux City, Iowa. Tickets for the one-night event are: $45, $35, and $22. Tickets may be purchased at the Tyson Events Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, online at www.ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at 800-745-3000. For more information regarding the Tyson Events Center / Gateway Arena, please visit www.tysoncenter.com. Tickets for Musselman’s Apple Sauce presents BRIAN BOITANO SKATING SPECTACULAR starring Heart are currently on sale. Metabolife has also committed to be a Presenting Sponsor of this live show and NBC telecast. Musselman’s Apple Sauce presents BRIAN BOITANO SKATING SPECTACULAR will feature a live musical performance by the band Heart. HEART sold more than 30 million records, had 21 Top 40 hits, sold out arenas worldwide, and had a profound influence on rock music. In 2010, HEART released their first new album in six years, Red Velvet Car. “Heart is a band that transcends time and their music is classic” said Brian Boitano. “Through the years Heart hascontinually re-invented themselves and we are excited to show audiences how closely their music and skating are
intertwined.”


Musselman’s Apple Sauce presents BRIAN BOITANO SKATING SPECTACULAR is directed and choreographed by Renee Roca, three-time U.S Champion. This is Renee’s 6th year directing and choreographing Boitano’s show. Executive Producer is Disson Skating. White Canvas Productions is the producer (Scott Williams, Producer and Brian Boitano, Artistic Director.) Comcast-Spectacor entered into a partnership with Disson Skating in January of 2006, to take figure skating to a whole new level and has quickly become the leading producers of televised ice skating shows in the United States and Canada. The lighting and set design is by David Finley Associates with costume design by Beaver Bauer. Olympic champion Brian Boitano changed the face of figure skating single-handedly raising the level of professionalism in the sport. Boitano captured his first National title in 1985 and went on to win two World titles and the 1988 Olympic Gold Medal. Brian is known for his powerful command of the ice and of course the Olympic Gold battle of the Brians. Boitano’s competitive record is unmatched. It includes 4 national titles, 2 world titles and more professional titles than any other skater in the history of the sport. Among those titles are 6 World Professional Championships. Brian is a member of the USOC Hall of Fame. In addition, Boitano starred in his own tour "Boitano/Witt Skating" and won a Primetime Emmy for his starring role in Carmen on Ice (HBO). In 1994, he formed White Canvas Productions, the company where he serves as President and Artistic Director. Brian recently debuted a television series on the Food Network in his weekly cooking show, "What Would Brian Boitano Make?" which showcases his culinary skills and witty off ice personality. The December 26th broadcast on NBC marks the 21st skating special that White Canvas has produced.


HEART first showed the world that women can rock when Ann Wilson and her younger sister Nancy Wilson stormed the charts in the ‘70s with hits like “Crazy on You,” “Magic Man,” “Barracuda,” “Straight On,” “Even It Up,” and so many more. Not only did the Wilson sisters lead the band, they wrote the songs, and played the instruments too, making the first women in rock to do so. HEART continued topping the charts through the ‘80s and into the ‘90s with huge hits like “These Dreams,” “Alone,” “What About Love,” “If Looks Could Kill,” “Never,” and a string of other hits that showcased the sisters’ enormous talents as both musicians and singers. Along the way, HEART sold more than 30 million records, had 21 Top 40 hits, sold out arenas worldwide, and had a profound influence on rock music.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Erika Jayne returns to the clubs with 'One Hot Pleasure'


LIVE SHOWS CONFIRMED FOR

CHICAGO, NEW YORK, LOS ANGELES, SAN FRANCISCO AND MORE


Starting this weekend in Chicago, pop glam’s reigning songstress ERIKA JAYNE will set off on a run of club dates in support of her new track “One Hot Pleasure,” the follow-up to her four consecutive #1 Billboard smashes. Accompanied by a bevy of professional dancers with scorching new dance moves and adorned in show-stopping ensembles, ERIKA JAYNE shakes up the status quo with her new show that is planned for her special appearances in New York, Tampa, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Miami.

Currently at #9 on Billboard’s Hot Dance Club Play chart, “One Hot Pleasure” was released last month as the debut track on ERIKA’s Pretty Mess Records label. It was written and produced by Dave Aude and co-written with Nick Clow and Luciana, who currently has the chart-topping hit “I Like That.” The video for “One Hot Pleasure”—co-directed by famed photographer Mike Ruiz and MTV Video Music Award Nominee Mikey Minden—embodies fantasy, glamour and undeniable sex appeal which is also captured in her new stage show.

Recently touted by music blog Music Is My King Size Bed (11/9/10), “Not only does Jayne look hotter and fiercer than ever in this steamy video but the song is a sexy club-stomper even without the visual aid. Now grab your disco balls and get ready to dance!”

Confirmed ERIKA JAYNE appearances include:

DATE CITY VENUE

Sat 12/11 Naperville (Chicago), IL Zero Gravity (B96 Jingle Bash afterparty)

Thu 12/16 New York, NY Campus Thursdays @ Splash

Fri 12/17 New York, NY F WORD @ Splash

Sat 12/18 Tampa, FL Gbar

Sun 12/19 Orlando, FL Parliament House

Thu 12/30 San Francisco, CA The Crib

Fri 12/31 West Hollywood, CA Cherry Pop and Mr Black Present Factory

Thu 2/4 Kansas City, MO Harrah’s Voodoo Lounge

Tue 3/8-Fri 3/11 Miami, FL Winter Music Conference (TBD)

About Erika Jayne

Known for her alluring vocals, catchy melodies and electro beats, not to mention an infectious taste of decadence, pop vocalist, songwriter and performer Erika Jayne is a force to be reckoned with. The Atlanta-born, Los Angeles transplant hit #1 on Billboard’s dance charts with her first hit single “Rollercoaster.” It was soon followed by three more number one singles including “Stars,” “Give You Everything” and most recently “Pretty Mess.” Erika Jayne is a bona fide queen of the charts. According to Billboard, only thirteen acts have taken their first four hits to number one since the chart launched in 1976. Erika joins the ranks of dance giants, including Rihanna and The Pussycat Dolls, who have accomplished similar feats. She has been distinguished by industry powerhouse Billboard magazine and industry insiders for this “uncommon feat.”

Click here to view Erika Jayne on Yahoo! Music.

www.PrettyMessRecords.com

www.facebook.com/erikajaynemusic

www.twitter.com/erikajayne

Thursday, December 2, 2010

SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT LAUNCHES POPMARKET.COM


SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT LAUNCHES POPMARKET.COM,

THE ULTIMATE ONLINE SHOPPING CLUB FOR MUSIC FANS


Members Offered Hottest Deals On World's Coolest Music


* * * * *


Sony Music Entertainment announces the launch of PopMarket.com, the ultimate online destination shopping club for music fans offering its members limited-time private sales on the world's coolest music.

A member's-only online initiative designed for music fans, bargain hunters and serious collectors alike, PopMarket.com offers a 24-hour limited time Daily Deal (changing each day at 12noon Eastern) and five channels (changing weekly) containing a mix of premium music and merchandise available for a limited time at exclusive member's-only prices. PopMarket membership is free.

"Sony Music Entertainment is proud to be the first music company to open its vaults to music lovers and provide them with an elegant direct-to-consumer online shopping experience," said Adam Block, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Legacy Recordings, Sony Music Entertainment's catalog division. "Secure, seamless and convenient, PopMarket is open 24-7, offering fans exceptional values on great music."

Now live, PopMarket.com provides a rare window of opportunity to purchase rare and collectible albums, boxed sets, memorabilia and more at deeply-discounted member's-only prices. PopMarket's inventory is limited and products are sold on a first come basis.

PopMarket has already offered deluxe boxed sets by Santana, Alabama, Ken Burns Jazz, Simon & Garfunkel and The Clash with future Daily Deals to include albums and collections by Dave Brubeck, Neil Diamond, Billie Holiday, Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Janis Joplin, Aerosmith and many more.

Product channel categories have included Country Legends (classic recordings from American country artists, 30th Anniversary (deluxe box sets of recordings that have stood the test of time), framed Gold Records from music's biggest artists, Singer Songwriters, and limited edition artist-specific Collector Crates sets including a classic album, t-shirt and branded CD crate.

Upcoming weekly channel categories will include deals from the British Invasion, Romantic Hits, Diva Sets, Folk/Rock Legends, Punk & Glam Rock, American Jazz & Soul, Complete Artist Collections, Pop Sensations and dedicated campaigns focusing on music from the '60s, '70s and '80s.

A members-only site, PopMarket.com gives music fans unprecedented access to a limited time finite inventory of the coolest music on the planet.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

BONA FIDE QUEEN OF THE CHARTS ERIKA JAYNE LAUNCHES PRETTY MESS RECORDS


ONE HOT PLEASURE” SINGLE

SET FOR LABEL DEBUT RELEASE

NOVEMBER 16


Vocal temptress, seductive songstress and bona fide chart queen ERIKA JAYNE is aiming to heat up this winter season with the launch of her own label, Pretty Mess Records. Currently working on new music for her second album (title TBA), the glamorous JAYNE will give a taste of what’s to come Tuesday, November 16 with the release of her new single “One Hot Pleasure.”

Written by Dave Audé, Luciana Caporaso (of the radio hit “I Like That” by Richard Vission & The Static Revenger starring Luciana) and Nick Clow, “One Hot Pleasure” sizzles just as the title of the song indicates. As the debut offering from her Pretty Mess Records, the song will be packaged with a striking video by JAYNE’s creative director and MTV Video music nominee Mikey Minden and visual collaborator, famed photographer Mike Ruiz, with remixes by Dave Audé, Ralphi Rosario, Dirty Loud, Sultan & Ned and Los Angeles newcomer Mr. White. In Touch Weekly captured a moment with ERIKA on the set of the video which can be viewed at http://www.intouchweekly.com/2010/09/out_about_96.php and you can catch a glimpse of the making of her video at www.PrettyMessRecords.com.

“Launching my own label allows me to make music that I enjoy and deliver my product,” states ERIKA. “Having full control over the music, the message and concept enables me to make the records I want to make and perform the songs I want to perform. There’s great freedom in that, and it makes for a lot of fun. I can’t wait for my fans to check out ‘One Hot Pleasure,’ it’s a fun sexy danceable track.”

Distinguished by industry powerhouse Billboard magazine for an “uncommon feat” (issue date 6/26/10), the Atlanta-born, Los Angeles transplant sent her first four consecutive singles--“Rollercoaster,” “Stars,” “Give You Everything” and “Pretty Mess”-- to #1 on the Hot Dance Club Songs chart. These chart-busting hits were featured on her 2009 debut album Pretty Mess. According to Billboard, only 13 acts have taken at least their first four hits to #1 since the chart launched in 1976 as a national weekly survey of the most-played tunes as reported by club DJs. ERIKA joins the ranks of dance giants, including Rihanna and The Pussycat Dolls, who have accomplished similar feats.


www.PrettyMessRecords.com
www.facebook.com/erikajaynemusic

Sunday, November 7, 2010

BLUES ROCK RECORDING ARTIST KIRSTEN THIEN RELEASES THIRD CD "DELICIOUS" COURTESY OF SCREEN DOOR RECORDS

Kirsten Thien and Screen Door announce the release of her third album, Delicious. This album has eleven songs with three of them being covers in which she either wrote or co-wrote. Originally from Maine and now residing in New York City, Kirsten Thien comes to us in an up-tempo fashion with her latest work showing us just why she won the Abe Olman Award for Excellence in Songwriting in 2009.

Kirsten Thien has been on the rise since 2001 and infuses her love for Aretha Franklin, traditional New Orleans jazz and the classic women blues singers of the 20's into all her album releases. Erik Boyd not only produced and played bass on the album but arranged the band for each song so that it would blend the talents of the band that tours with the NYC session cats from her last 2006 recording. They also added veteran blues heavyweights, Arthur Neilson (guitar), Billy Gibson (harmonica) and Hubert Sumlin (guitar) with Grammy nominated mixing engineer Dan Myers.

Performing Songwriter raved that "Thien's got a great set of pipes moving from Bonnie Raitt mellow to Aretha Franklin wailing high notes." Jamie Perkins of Portsmouth Herald says "Thien is a natural at songwriting. Weaving her way through the lyrical intricacies of relationships both positive and negative, she seasons her songs with dashes of instrumental differentiation." While The New Britain Herald says "The city's 'New Britain is Alive' lunch-time concert series ....got a toe-stomping start Wednesday with recording artist Kirsten Thien and her band." Don't miss this tasty, soothing and ripened band that blends with Kirsten's voice like "Warm apple pie your grandmother made for you" exclaimed Muzikreviews.

Kirsten Thien will be touring in and our around your neighborhood in the near future but for now here are some tour dates below.
Nov. 11 7:30 pm Williamsburg, VA J.M. Randall's
Nov. 12 8:00 pm Manteo, NC (OBX Marathon Weekend) Poor Richard's
Nov. 13 10:30 pm Kill Devil Hills, NC (OBX Marathon Weekend) Outer Banks Brewing Station
Nov. 19 7:30 pm Stroudburg, PA Sarah Street Grill

Friday, November 5, 2010

ASHMIN SKYY TO RELEASE “WRAPPED IN LOVE” ON NOVEMBER 9

New single to debut in time for the Holiday season


(Orlando, FL) Ashmin Skyy, 14-year-old singer/songwriter and teen pop sensation will release her very first Christmas single, “Wrapped in Love,” to the world on November 9, 2010. With this new holiday song, Skyy hopes to warm the hearts of fans and families across the country during this very special time of year.

“‘Wrapped in Love’ is all about experiences and memories with family and friends during the holiday season,” says Skyy. “I’m really big on family and spending as much time with them as I can is important to me, especially this time of year. That’s why this song is so special to me, because it really reflects who I am. I’m very excited to release ‘Wrapped in Love’ and I know people will enjoy it!”

Ashmin Skyy will be appearing on the nationally-syndicated morning news show, The Daily Buzz on Wednesday, November 17th (check your local listings for air time), to perform “Wrapped in Love.” She will also be interviewed by the Daily Buzz crew about everything she has been doing leading up to the release of the single, and may even perform some additional songs. Additionally, the video for “Wrapped in Love” will also debut the same day on YouTube.

Ashmin Skyy is a dynamic young woman primed for excellence in today’s music scene. At only 14 years of age, Ashmin is determined to continue learning, living, growing and experiencing life to the fullest. Fans can visit Ashmin Skyy online and get more information about her on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter , Tumblr , and on her newly-launched website, AshminSkyy.com . ”Wrapped in Love” will be available for purchase on iTunes on November 9, 2010. Also, look for Skyy’s debut single and video, “Certified Teenager,” to be released January 11, 2011 (1.11.11).


About H2 Label Group

H2 Label Group has had double platinum hits, like Divine’s “Lately,” which was honored with a nomination at the 2003 Grammy Awards for R&B Song of the Year. H2 has also produced music for Grammy winners Pink and India Arie, and was previously managed by Johnny Wright (Justin Timberlake, The Jonas Brothers, and Ciara). Will Baker, H2 label head, and his partner, super producer Pete Woodruff, are currently in the studio scoring a new film, as well as recording music for the highly anticipated debut from 14 yr old singer/songwriter Ashmin Skyy. Together, they are the production talent behind Skyy’s new Christmas single, “Wrapped in Love.” For more information, visit h2labelgroup.com.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK HEATS UP FALL WITH ENCORE ROLE IN ALVIN AILEY’S DANCE THEATER’S 5OTH ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE

SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK, HOT OFF SINGLE, “ARE WE A NATION”
HEATS UP FALL WITH ENCORE ROLE IN ALVIN AILEY’S DANCE
THEATER’S 5OTH ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE TO CLASSIC “REVELATIONS”

GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING A CAPPELLA ENSEMBLE ALSO HAVE
NEW CD RELEASES ONLINE, “GO IN GRACE” AND CONTRIBUTE TO
“HEALTHY FOOD FOR THOUGHT: GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT!” CHILDREN’S FAMILY COMPILATION CD TO PROMOTE HEALTHY FOOD IN SCHOOLS

New York, NY October 8, 2010 – Grammy Award-winning a cappella vocal ensemble
Sweet Honey In The Rock, whose thought-provoking summer single/video “Are We Nation,” stirred up the national debate on the controversial SB-1070 Immigration Law that was enacted in Arizona, will heat up the fall with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater when it celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Ailey’s timeless, classic and spiritual dance piece, “Revelations.” The series of commemorative performance events are scheduled at the New York City Center from December 1, 2010 – January 2, 2011.

Legendary Alvin Ailey Artistic Director Judith Jamison will have the conductor’s baton dancing while directing Sweet Honey In The Rock, a full choir, and a ballet cast of 50 dancers, who will be performing “Revelations” for the first time ever. Sweet Honey In The Rock will bring their soulful harmonies and intricate rhythms to “Revelations,” at the December 1st Opening Night Gala and New Year’s Eve performances.

“Revelations” marks the second collaboration between Sweet Honey In The Rock and
the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. In 2008, Sweet Honey In The Rock were featured guest performers in an original piece entitled, “Go In Grace,” which was a highlight of Alvin Ailey’s 50th Anniversary national dance tour. Sweet Honey In The Rock composed and performed the music for the mini-musical, which was directed and choreographed with dancers by Ailey protégé Hope Boykin. Sweet Honey In The Rock appeared in the anniversary production’s run at the New York City Center in December 2008, and in selected cities through early 2009. The “Go In Grace,” soundtrack was released independently by the group’s own record label, She-Rocks 5, Inc., and is now available on CDbaby.com.

In addition, Sweet Honey In The Rock contributed their song, “I Like It That Way,” to the recently released compilation CD, “Healthy Food For Thought: Good Enough To Eat.” Sweet Honey member Nitanju Bolade Casel individually penned a spoken word poem, “If I Really Am What I Eat,” which is also featured the CD. The double CD compilation fuses 60 music and spoken word tracks, and special guest appearances by Julian Lennon, Russell Simmons, Moby, Bill Harley, Michael O’Keefe, and Tom Chapin, among many others. In keeping with the nation’s initiatives regarding nutrition and childhood obesity awareness, all profits from the project are being donated to the New York Coalition for Healthy School Food. The CD can be purchased on CDbaby.com and iTunes.

Sweet Honey In The Rock’s single, “Are We A Nation,” is also available on CDbaby.com and iTunes, and the video can be seen on www.youtube.com.

The group has also joined forces for the second consecutive year with the 9th Annual Daniel Pearl World Music Days initiative. During the month of October, thousands of artist’s around the world will use the power of music to reaffirm their commitment to tolerance and “Harmony for Humanity.” For more information, please go to www.danielpearlmusicdays.org.

If you would like more information about Sweet Honey In The Rock, you can follow their ongoing activities by going to:

www.sweethoneyintherock.org
www.facebook.com/sweethoneyintherock
www.twitter.com/shoney73
www.youtube.com/sweethoneyinrock
www.myspace.com/sweethoneyintherock1973

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

What Nina taught Kellylee Evans

We tend to think of tribute albums as being the work of fans, of musicians whose own identities wouldn’t have been fully formed without the influence of a classic artist. But while that’s true to some degree of Kellylee Evans’s new album, Nina, the young jazz singer’s relationship to the music and legend of Nina Simone is complicated, to say the least.

“I really didn’t like Nina Simone when I was growing up,” she says, over the phone from her home in Ottawa. “My mom listened to her all the time, but I wanted to listen to Michael Jackson and Blondie and stuff like that. I didn’t want to hear any of the stuff my mom had. But I was the one who put on the records, so she’d ask me to go down and put on Nina records.

Click here to continue reading 'What Nina taught Kellylee Evans'

Blues Bytes: Bob Corritore Review

Harmonica Blues (Delta Groove Music) marks Bob Corritore’s 40th anniversary as a harmonica player. Corritore’s life was changed when, as a 12 year old, he heard Muddy Waters on the radio. Within a year, he was playing harmonica and stocking up on blues records. He got his start backing John Henry Davis on Maxwell Street, and hung out with harp players like Big Walter Horton, Carey Bell, Little Mack Simmons, Louis Myers, and Junior Wells, learning from each and every one of them. In the late ’70s/early ’80s, he produced recordings for artists like Little Willie Anderson and Big Leon Brooks before heading south to Phoenix.

In Phoenix, Corritore made his mark as a performer (with Big Pete Peterson, Chico Chism, Janiva Magness, Chief Schabuttie Gilliame, among others), a radio show host (“These Lowdown Blues” on KJZZ since 1984), and a club owner (the Rhythm Room, since 1991). Over time, Corritore and his band would back many great blues artists on shows and recording sessions. He’s released many of these performances on some outstanding collections since 1999 for various labels. Harmonica Blues captures 15 fantastic performances recorded over the past couple of decades, teaming Corritore with an all-star cast of blues legends.

CLICK HERE to read more on Blues Bytes

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Erika Jayne in Orlando Style

Pretty Mess:

She's equal parts Hollywood glamour and S&M chic.


What does the intersection between fashion and music look like? It looks like stylista, pop princess, dance diva and No. 1 Billboard chart-topper Erika Jayne.


CLICK HERE to read the Orlando Style Article

BLOGCRITICS Music Review: Life in Between - Handful of Luvin

Have you ever heard about the blind men and the elephant? Six blind men are near an elephant when a wise man asked them to describe what it looked like by what they felt. One felt a leg and described the elephant as a pillar. One felt the tail and described the elephant like a rope. On and on. Each described the elephant based on their own personal experience - and all of them were right.


What do six blind people have to do with Handful of Luvin's album Life in Between? Sometimes I feel that describing music is the same way... And this album is tough to describe. Each track has a slightly different "feel" that feeds into the eclectic mix of this rock quartet. But if you take each track on its own, you only hear part of the truth.




Read more: http://blogcritics.org/music/article/music-review-life-in-between-handful/#ixzz10J59NbOr

Friday, September 17, 2010

COSMO Presents Miles High Productions Chip Schutzman: Digital Marketing Strategies for Musicians

The Coalition of Songwriter & Music Organizations (COSMO), www.cosmocoalition.org, will host a special afternoon workshop with social media’s intuitive trailblazer, Chip Schutzman, Pres., Miles High Productions, www.mileshighproductions.com, Sat. Oct. 16, 2010, from 1pm – 4pm at the Guitar Merchant, 7503 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd, Canoga Park, CA, 91303. Chip will be presenting “Digital Marketing Strategies for Musicians”, an intensive, hands-on, workshop for serious-minded artists interested in planning a successful internet profit center and learning more about social media.

and made payable to info@cosmocoalition.org. (Registration the day of the workshop is $20 at the door.) If you wish to pre-register by mail with a personal check or money order made out to COSMO, or to request press interview access, vip industry passes or all other inquiries, please contact Toni Koch, COSMO HQ 818-831-1704 or email info@cosmocoalition.org.




Chip Schutzman is President and founder of Miles High Productions, an online music marketing and promotion company founded in 2002. Chip is responsible for all business development and operations and is responsible for communications with over 25,000 web sites and media outlets internationally.

Chip formed MHP in July of 2003 after observing a gradual lack of efforts made to effectively promote artists online. Sometimes limited resources to market artists in a traditional sense and the results are minimal based on today’s trends in downsizing of companies and lack of resources. MHP’s list of services to music labels, artist management and artists and to other companies are a compliment or supplement to co-existing traditional marketing plan strategies.


In the last few years, Miles High Productions has worked with over 150 artists and dozens of established record labels including EMI America, Capitol Records, Blue Note Records, Universal Music Group, Warner Brothers Entertainment, Bayside Distribution, Fontana and several other high profiled record labels and distribution companies.



Miles High Productions is recognized and known in the recording industry community for developing emerging artists and represent artists online from popular music formats such as jazz, electronica, dance, rock, blues, country, singer-songwriter, pop and other music genres.



Prior to starting Miles High Productions, Chip was the Director of Music Programming for House of Blues Entertainment and is credited with the initial content development for HOB Digital (hob.com). As the evolution of the internet took place, Chip was instrumental in turning hob.com into the leading live music provider on the web by developing, positioning and maintaining key relationships with artists, managers and record labels to secure digital rights for webcasts, interviews, and marketing of special projects. He is also accredited with the development of 20 internet radio stations within the HOB Radio Network, and was responsible for maintaining content distribution deals with AOL, MTV Interactive, DMX Music and MSN Music.



In 1998, Chip implemented music downloads of exclusive live music and initiated the 99 cent purchase model several years prior to the formation of the iTunes Music Store. Chip has consulted and completed online marketing campaigns for several platinum selling artists including Barbra Streisand, Jewel, Gary Allan, Peter Frampton, The Bee Gees, Coldplay, Olivia Newton-John, Ozzy Osbourne and Heart and worked on a multiple CD compilation in honor of the 50th Grammy Awards in 2008. Chip currently resides in Los Angeles and is also a guest lecture speaker at several universities across the USA including Boston University, Berklee College of Music, Temple University, UCLA and NYU.




The Guitar Merchant, www.guitarmerchant.com, supports our COSMO events and asks those attending to be respectful of neighbors when parking cars. You can visit the Guitar Merchant 7 days a week with a friendly staff, wonderful teachers and quality live entertainment often.



“HOW DO I REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT?


To pre-register online, please go to www.paypal.com and email your $15 per person fee to info@cosmocoalition.org. Day of the workshop the fee will be $20 cash, check or credit card. If you wish to pre-register by sending us a check or money order in lieu of Paypal please call Toni at 818-831-1704 for COSMO’s HQ mailing address or to discuss special registrations for individuals, large groups or music students.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Junior's Cave: Music Now Artist/Band Spotlight Weekly Series

Junior’s Cave music Page, Music Now, is pleased to present one of our featured bands/artists for the week. Meet Handful of Luvin', one of the coolest sounding bands we have had the pleasure to listen to so far in our publication career. With a perfectly blended style of several genres, Handful of Luvin' is going to become an all time favorite with music fans and our readers of this magazine. Make sure to check them out on their official website (listed at the end of this interview) and buy their new CD; it’s worth it. Here the official interview for your reading pleasure.



CLICK HERE to read the interview

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Heart's Red Velvet Car reviewed by Blogcritics


Nothing beats live music. Hands down, the live experience trumps any audio or video recording I've ever seen of an artist performing. That said, the next best thing is a concert recording, preferably video so you can see the actual performance instead of simply listening to it.

CLICK HERE to read more on Blogcritics.org

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Handful of Luvin' - Life In Between review by The Ripple Effect

Seattle. According to Bobby Sherman “the bluest skies you’ve ever see are in Seattle.” It is the city from which sprang late-1980’s grunge bands such as Pearl Jam and Nirvana. Okay, they were great bands, but, what has Seattle done for us lately? Can’t really say grunge has survived or evolved since the late 1990’s. So what is the new Seattle sound

Handful Of Luvin.
Founded in 2002 and in Seattle since 2005, Handful Of Luvin has crafted a unique sound. Part folk, part Celtic, part classical, all alternative rock - the band mixes the guitar and vocals of singer David John Wellnitz; the violin, viola and keyboards of Andrew Joslyn; the bass, banjo and background vocals of Patrick Files; and the drums and percussion of Michael Knight.


Who do they sound like? Their publicity package places their sound with groups like the Dave Matthews Band, Phish and Wilco. It also categorizes the music as “Roots Rocks [sic], Folk, Celtic, Jam, Americana.” You can hear some elements of these bands and genres on this, their third album, “Life In Between,” but, Handful Of Luvin’s sound is unique to Handful Of Luvin. It has the lilt of Celtic music, but it is American. It is cerebral. It is different.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the review on The Ripple Effect.

Heart To Release Red Velvet Car on August 31 on Sony Legacy


Heart Will Be In New York Release Week To Appear on The Today Show, Fox & Friends, ShopNBC and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon

WTF” and “Hey You” Seeing Success at Radio

Los Angeles, California, August 24, 2010 With anticipation mounting for Heart’s August 31 release of their first new studio album in six years, Red Velvet Car, Heart is seeing success on the road and at radio with their singles “WTF” and “Hey You” seeing increased airplay on AC, AAA and Classic Rock stations across the country. Ann and Nancy Wilson will be in New York City in support of their new release and will be appearing on several national television shows including: “Fox & Friends” (9/1,) “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” (9/2,) “The Today Show” (8/31,) and “ShopNBC” (8/29.) Appearances on “The Joy Behar Show” will air on August 25 and on NPR’s “Weekend Edition” on September 4.

“The barracudas are back and at the top of their game.” (Rolling Stone, September 2, 2010)

“Aggressive, Delicate and Enduring” (New York Times, August 4, 2010)

"Red Velvet Car, to be released by Sony Music’s Legacy Recordings, boasts an evolved sound that doesn't pander to the iPod generation. The women of Heart have strong stories to tell through the music.” (The Virginian-Pilot, August 13, 2010)

Like all Heart albums, Red Velvet Car rocks hard but also has a deep acoustic side. Nancy Wilson has long been known to play her acoustic guitar with rock ferocity. This time an abundance of resonant acoustic instruments (guitars, mandolin, dobro, banjo, fiddle, viola, cello, and autoharp), played by Nancy Wilson and the album’s producer, Ben Mink, are showcased in Heart’s unique style. Nine of the album's songs were written for, and appear for the first time on Red Velvet Car. The album's closer, "Sand," is a newly recorded version of a song originally written and recorded by the Lovemongers, Ann and Nancy's 1990's acoustic side project. The release of Red Velvet Car heralds Legacy's forthcoming reissues of the classic Heart catalog in new physical and digital editions.

Ann Wilson and her younger sister, Nancy Wilson, first showed the world that women can rock when their band Heart stormed the charts in the '70s with hits like "Crazy on You," "Magic Man," "Barracuda," ‘Straight On," "Even It Up," "Kick It Out" and so many more. Not only did the Wilson sisters lead the band, they wrote the songs, and played the instruments too, making them the first women in rock to do so. Heart continued topping the charts through the ‘80s and into the ‘90s with huge hits like "These Dreams," "Alone," "What About Love," "If Looks Could Kill," "Never," and a string of other hits that showcased the sisters’ enormous talents as both musicians and singers. Along the way, Heart sold more than 30 million records, had 21 top 40 hits, sold out arenas worldwide, and had a profound influence on rock music.



Tour Dates

August 26 Denver, CO Paramount Theater

August 27 Grand Junction, CO Rock Jam Festival

August 29 Grand Island, NE Nebraska State Fair


September 3 Clarkston, MI DTE Energy Center

September 4 St. Charles, MO Family Arena

September 5 Quapaw, OK Downstream Casino

September 18 Los Angeles, CA Gibson Amphitheater

September 19 Lemoore, CA Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino

September 21 Eugene, OR Cuthbert Amphitheater

September 23 Santa Rosa, CA Wells Fargo Center for the Arts

September 24 Ridgefield, WA Sleep Country Amphitheater

September 25 Puyallup, WA Western Washington Fair

Richie Loop Performs at Jamaica’s 48th Independence Day Grand Gala

Kingston, Jamaica :- Today marks 48 years since the Island of Jamaica gained her independence and there is no better way to celebrate this great occasion than to see great performances, especially one that comes with a cup.

Among the many performances at today's Independence Day Grand Gala at the National Stadium in Kingston, popular star Richie Loop is expected to be one sure to have the crowd dancing and skipping in celebration.

When asked why Richie Loop was chosen as one of the artistes to headline the grand event, representative of Rose and Company, Alvin Campbell stated that Richie Loop has come to be one of the biggest names in dancehall music this year. "His music epitomizes what the Jamaican culture is all about, he is a family entertainer and the Grand Gala is a family event". Campbell has no doubt that Richie's performance will be a memorable one as he believes Richie's name alone can excite the National Stadium audience. "Even if Richie goes and stage and doesn't say a word, the crowd would still be excited and elated to see him so I have no doubt he will mash it up," Campbell said.

Richie Loop first exploded on the dancehall scene this year with his smash club hit My Cup which took the streets by storm and had everyone swinging with a cup. His silky smooth lyrics and clean cut look captivates his audience everywhere he goes. His follow-up hits Party Time, Party like it your Birthday featuring Busy Signal and D Major are currently riding the airwaves and persons can look out for the video for the My Cup remix Cup Cup which will be released within the next week.

As for Richie Loop, he is very excited about the performance as this is a monumental occasion for him. "I am very elated to have been considered to be a part of tomorrow festivities. This date means so much to our nation and at this young age and stage in my career for me to be getting an opportunity to share in it, words can't express. I think this maybe one of my most memorable events to come - knowing the power and value of this event to me as a Jamaican and the entire population", Richie Loop state.

Patrons in the National Stadium can expect a vibrant performance with great choreography from Richie Loop. "I am planning to ensure that all in attendance, as well as the viewers at home, will have as much fun as I will in celebrating our nation’s independence." The Independence Day Grand Gala begins at 5pm tomorrow at the National Stadium and it is expected to be one Jamaicans will never forget.

Handful of Luvin’ Release Eclectic Recording Life In Between

Hollywood, CA-July 27, 2010-Handful of Luvin’ refers to their music as “fiddle driven roots rock” however with their latest offering Life in Between they prove to be all of that and more.

Handful of Luvin’ began in Bellingham, WA, in 2002, when college students Andrew Joslyn and David John connected while studying. Moving to Seattle in 2005, David John (vocals and guitar) and Andrew Joslyn (violin/viola) completed the lineup with bass guitarist Patrick Files, and drummer Michael Knight.


"A potpourri of all great bands we've loved before, each member brings his own unique sound and experience to the stage, formulating an utterly beautiful frenzy.” - Seattle Weekly

The group members are as diverse as their music, playing in different bands in the Seattle area to keep their instruments and experiences sharp. With Life in Between destined for success, their ever growing following in Washington is about to go worldwide with an album that cannot be clearly defined. Although critics and listeners may not be able to tag the indie roots rockers, their music will capture the imagination of listeners yearning for something different than the mainstream cookie cutter sounds that are so popular amongst youth these days.

To say their music is diverse is putting it mildly as Life In Between gives listeners something different to swallow on every one of the thirteen tracks. Even though the music is not quite definable it will hold you under its spell consistently throughout the entire album.

Life In Between has already earned the band critical praise from both fans and press alike, including a spot on King 5 Evening Magazine and their recent “Top 5 Best Local Bands in Western Washington” list and engaging reviews in places like Seattle Weekly, Tacoma’s Weekly Volcano, and several others.

The expectation for this band to catch on is obvious at the outset of the new release and surely there will be more critical acclaim to arrive soon from neighboring states and countries once the word gets out about the variety and amazing musicianship that Handful of Luvin’ can offer listeners.

Tune in and turn on to Handful of Luvin’ on their new release and visit their website to stay updated on all of the recent news as the word spreads about Life In Between.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Heart - Red Velvet Car review by Backstage Axxess

Heart will be releasing their 13th studio effort ‘Red Velvet Car’ on Sony Legacy Records on August 31, 2010 in North America (August 30 in Europe.) Included on the European release are two extra tracks called “Bootful of Beer” and “Closer to the Sun.” The band still consists of rock icons Ann and Nancy Wilson, Ben Smith (drums), Craig Bartock (guitar), Debbie Shair (Keyboards) and studio bassist Rik Markmann, who contributed his talents to this album.


CLICK HERE to read more at Backstage Axxess

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

ERIKA JAYNE ACHIEVES KEY BILLBOARD CHART DISTINCTION


ERIKA JAYNE

ACHIEVES KEY BILLBOARD CHART DISTINCTION

WITH LATEST #1 SINGLE

PRETTY MESS”

THE DANCE/POP SENSATION CONTINUES

HER TOUR ACROSS AMERICA


As Pop vocalist and songwriter ERIKA JAYNE continues to tour the country behind her debut album PRETTY MESS on E1 Records, she has been cited by Billboard magazine for “the uncommon feat of sending her first four entries to the top of chart” (issue date 6/26/10). Known for her alluring vocals, catchy melodies and electro beats, not to mention an infectious taste of decadence, the ultra-glamorous ERIKA achieved this four #1’s-in-a-row distinction when the “Pretty Mess” single hit #1 on the Hot Dance Club Songs chart, coming on the heels of her three previous #1 singles on this chart. According to Billboard, only 13 acts have taken at least their first four hits to #1 since the chart launched in 1976 as a national weekly survey of the most-played tunes as reported by club DJs. ERIKA joins the ranks of dance giants, including Rihanna and The Pussycat Dolls, who have accomplished similar feats.

The Atlanta-born, Los Angeles transplant began her Billboard streak with her first #1 single “Rollercoaster” in 2007 and followed with a chart-topper each successive year with “Stars” and “Give You Everything.” ERIKA’s four #1 Billboard hits are featured on PRETTY MESS.

The success of the “Pretty Mess” single was propelled by a stellar remix package featuring reworkings by some of today’s most in-demand producers: Dave Aude, Tracy Young, DJ Escape & Johnny Vicious, Larry Tee, Bill Hamel, Klubjumpers, Peter Rafelson and Marshall Stack; as well as a sexy and provocative video cut to the Dave Aude remix and co-directed by VMA-nominated choreographer, artistic director Mikey Minden (Pussy Cat Dolls, Girlicious, Paradiso Girls) and famed photographer Mike Ruiz. Check out the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qN3Ry2bMg0.

Meanwhile, ERIKA continues to dazzle club audiences with her live show which includes a performance of a new, unreleased song “One Hot Pleasure,” for which she has just shot a video. Stay tuned for more news about this and catch her this summer at:

DATE CITY VENUE

Sat 7/17 San Diego, CA San Diego Pride Event at 4th & B

Sun 7/18 South Beach, FL Miami Fashion Week Swim Closing @ The Setai

Sun 7/18 South Beach, FL B Bar After Party (Appearance)

Mon 7/19 South Beach, FL Kill Your Idol

Tue 7/20 Miami, FL Lexus Event (Appearance)

Thu 7/22 South Beach, FL Twist

Fri 7/23 South Beach, FL Living Room

Sat 7/24 Miami, FL Discotekka

Sat 8/14 Fire Island Pines, NY Accension Tea Dance

Sun 8/15 Guerneville, CA Sundance at The Russian River

Sun 8/22 San Jose, CA San Jose Pride Main Stage


www.erikajayne.com

www.myspace.com/erikajaynemusic

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Slightly Stoopid Headlining US Tour Dates w/ Cypress Hill and Steel Pulse

With their grassroots approach, the members of Slightly Stoopid have built a worldwide following of die-hard fans. - Live Daily

It might be tempting to lump Ocean Beach’s Slightly Stoopid in with a myriad of, for lack of a better description, stoner bands, but you’d be completely missing a key point: this is a group of incredibly creative and capable musicians. With 6 members, they are able to relay an incredibly rich sound, complete with horns, keys, and some truly amazing acoustic work - Ultimate Guitar

What this band creates musically has much more depth and versatility than what the minimalistic term of “stoner music” implies. - Examiner.com

San Diego-based dub/rock/psychedelic-jam phenoms SLIGHTLY STOOPID have just announced a massive headlining U.S. tour accompanied by legendary hip-hop group Cypress Hill and reggae artist Collie Buddz. The tour, named Cauzin Vapors... Legalize It, and riding behind the political undertones of "legalizing it," will kick off in mid-July and see both bands traveling from California to New York, along the entire eastern coastline, and across the country, with stops at this year's acclaimed Lollapalooza festival in Chicago and the Mile High Music Festival in Colorado. Prior to their July dates, SLIGHTLY STOOPID will start their Summer festivities by traversing the entire West Coast with the mighty Steel Pulse and friends and label-mates The Expendables, in addition to more Summer festival performances to be announced. Tickets for Stoopid's Legalize It tour are available now.

Slightly Stoopid has recently logged some serious road miles as part of their annual Summer Ampitheater Tours. Past creative touring partners and lineups include Snoop Dogg, The Marley's, G Love & Special Sauce, Ozomatli, Sly & Robbie and Pepper. They have also shared the stage with Dave Matthews Band, Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, The Roots, Toots and the Maytals, Bad Religion, among others over the course of their career. In addition to their incessant criss-crossing of the U.S., which also includes previous appearances at other prestigious festivals such as Coachella, Austin City Limits, and New Orleans Jazz Fest, the group has played sold-out shows in Australia, Japan, Guam, Amsterdam, Portugal and Denmark, the U.K., Germany, Holland, and the Dominican Republic. “Without [the fans], we’d just be playing at the bar,” admits Kyle. “They make it worth our while – when we go out and people are having that good of a time, the energy goes back and forth. Just a good time – we rely on each other’s energy.” And all you have to do is look at the list of artists that Slightly Stoopid has played with, to get a feel for how much of a large and diverse audience they appeal to.

The Slightly Stoopid story can be traced to Ocean Beach, California, when childhood chums Miles and Kyle formed the group in 1995, mixing reggae and punk sounds into one smooth stylistic cocktail. Soon after, late/great Sublime frontman Brad Nowell caught wind of the group, and signed them to his Skunk Records label – while the band members were still in high school. A pair of releases soon followed for Skunk - 1996's punk-tinged SLIGHTLY STOOPID (featuring a guest appearance by Nowell on the song “Prophet” – later covered by Sublime and released on their box set, EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN) and 1998's surf-inspired cult classic THE LONGEST BARREL RIDE. Most recently, the band has continued their mainstream successes, seeing their last two albums, 2007's CHRONCHITIS, (which featured guest appearances by Guru of Gang Starr, Angelo Moore of Fishbone, Money Mark of the Beastie Boys and G. Love) and 2008's SLIGHTLY NOT STONED ENOUGH TO EAT BREAKFAST YET STOOPID, charting in the Billboard Top 100, with both albums appearing on the band's own Stoopid Records.

To date, the band has sold over 750,000 records on their own label, has performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live, and has had their songs appear on hit television series' Scrubs, The O.C., Cribs, and more. Slightly Stoopid has also consistently been selling out venues and ampitheaters across the country for the past 3+ years and consistently appear on Pollstar's top grossing tours.


Cauzin’ Vapors... Legalize It 2010 Tour Dates


w/ Steel Pulse & The Expendables
6/18 Jacksonville, OR - Britt Pavilion
6/19 Seattle, WA - Marymoor Amphitheater
6/20 Spokane, WA – Riverside Park Amphitheater
6/22 Missoula, MT - Ryan Creek Meadows
6/23 Boise, ID – Idaho Center Amphitheater


w/ The Expendables
6/24 Salt Lake City, UT - The Depot
6/25 Las Vegas, NV - Hard Rock Pool
6/26 Phoenix, AZ - Celebrity Theatre


w/ Cypress Hill
7/16 Irvine, CA - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
7/17 San Diego, CA - Cricket Pavilion


w/ Cypress Hill & Collie Buddz
7/22 Boston, MA - Bank Of America Pavilion
7/23 Boston, MA - Bank Of America Pavilion
7/24 Danbury, CT - Ives Concert Park
7/25 Asbury Park, NJ - TBA
7/28 Raleigh, NC - Raleigh Amphitheatre
7/30 Portsmouth, VA - nTelos Pavilion
7/31 Philadelphia, PA - Penn's Landing
8/01 Buffalo, NY - Rocks The Harbor
8/04 Detroit, MI - State Theater
8/06 Columbus, OH - LC Outdoor Pavilion
8/07 Chicago, IL - Lollapalooza
8/08 Minneapolis, MN - Cabooze Outdoors (no Cypress Hill)
8/12 Kansas City, MO - Crossroads
8/13 Omaha, NE - Anchor Inn
8/14 Commerce City, CO - Mile High Music Festival
8/18 Myrtle Beach, SC - House Of Blues
8/19 Atlanta, GA - The Tabernacle
8/20 Orlando, FL - Hard Rock Live
8/21 West Boca Raton, FL - Sunset Cove Amphitheatre



For more information, visit: www.slightlystoopid.com | www.myspace.com/stoopid

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

A RESPONSE TO ARIZONA’S IMMIGRATION LAW SB-1070 THROUGH SONG


GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING AND INTERNATIONALLY
RENOWNED A CAPPELLA ENSEMBLE
SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK
TO RELEASE, “ARE WE A NATION?”
A RESPONSE TO ARIZONA’S IMMIGRATION LAW SB-1070
THROUGH SONG


“…I have always believed art is the conscience of the human soul and that artists have the responsibility not only to show life as it is but to show life as it should be. … Sweet Honey In The Rock has withstood the onslaught. She has been unprovoked by the 30 pieces of silver. Her songs lead us to the well of truth that nourishes the will and courage to stand strong.
She is the keeper of the flame.”
…Harry Belafonte, artist and activist


(June 11, 2010 – New York, NY) On April 23, 2010, Arizona Governor Jan Brewer signed what The New York Times described as “the nation’s toughest bill on illegal immigration…reigniting the divisive battle over immigration reform nationally.” In response to SB-1070 being enacted, the acclaimed women’s a cappella ensemble Sweet Honey In The Rock, decided to take action and lift her collective voice through song against the bill. The song, ARE WE A NATION?, will be released by Sweet Honey’s independent record label SHE-ROCKS 5 on Tuesday, June 22 via CD Baby (www.cdbaby.com), the nation’s largest online distributor of independent music and should be available on all major online music sites such as iTunes and Amazon.com by June 29. The song’s music video, directed and produced by James Lester, will be released online June 22. A portion of the funds from the sales of ARE WE A NATION? will go to the Center for Community Change. Sweet Honey and the Center will offer a free download of the song on their respective web sites for one week June 14-21 (www.sweethoney.com) and www.communitychange.org ). Additionally, the single will be available through streaming only at www.facebook.com/sweethoneyintherock during this time.


“Sweet Honey In The Rock has, since 1973, created musical ways to express outrage and compassion, to nurture and empower our audiences, and to document the times, and to preserve and extend African American vocal traditions,” Sweet Honey member Ysaye Barnwell said. “We grew out of the Civil Rights Movement, stood and sang in opposition to the apartheid movement in South Africa and we continue to struggle in solidarity with oppressed people throughout the world where greed, hatred and fear abound. We can not condone Arizona’s law SB-1070.”


“The Center for Community Change is thrilled to partner with Sweet Honey in the Rock in the fight to fix our broken immigration system and challenge the misguided Arizona law,” Deepak Bhargava, executive director of the Center for Community Change said. “We are so appreciative of the role that Sweet Honey in the Rock play as artists and the messages they promote as activists. The song ARE WE A NATION? will catapult the immigration issue into pop culture and challenge Americans to become active in the fight for social justice and immigrant rights, in Arizona and across the country.”


Founded in 1968 to honor the life and values of Robert F. Kennedy, the Center for Community Change is one of the longest-standing champions for low-income people and communities of color. The mission of the Center is to build the power and capacity of low-income people, especially low-income people of color, to change their communities and public policies for the better. The Center trains grassroots organizers and organizations to build support within and outside their communities, understand complex public policy issues, and help local residents become active participants in democracy.


Sweet Honey members Aisha Kahlil, Louise Robinson, Nitanju Bolade Casel, Carol Maillard and Ysaye Barnwell wrote ARE WE A NATION? with Barry J. Eastmond. The song features a Spoken Word verse written by Yonas, Nitanju Bolade Casel and Carol Maillard. Yonas, the 2009 Billboard Songwriting Award winner for Best Hip-Hop/Rap Song, performs the verse.


Grammy Award winner Barry J. Eastmond, one of the most prolific songwriter/producers in R&B and Pop music, produced ARE WE A NATION? Eastmond has shaped over sixty gold, platinum, and multi-platinum albums for some of the most important contemporary recording artists with cumulative sales of over 80 million copies.


“It was a real honor and thrill for me to collaborate with, and produce the amazingly gifted Sweet Honey In The Rock on such a relevant and timely song ARE WE A NATION?,” Eastmond said. "It makes a truly powerful statement about immigration and also challenges us as Americans to make the right choices.”


“We hope that ARE WE A NATION? will stimulate interest in and conversation about the Arizona law SB-1070,” Barnwell said. “We also hope that the song will foster an understanding of the law’s broader implications. We believe we are a nation that can create laws that bind this nation together rather than tear this nation apart.”


Join the Center for Community Change in the fight against hatred and discrimination and text NATION to 69866. To learn more about the Center go to www.communitychange.org. For more information about ARE WE A NATION? and Sweet Honey In The Rock visit www.sweethoney.com and www.facebook.com/SweetHoneyInTheRock.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

“Comedians of Chelsea Lately” at The Venue at Horseshoe Casino

The all-new Horseshoe Casino, located just 20 minutes from downtown Chicago, is excited to welcome the “Comedians of Chelsea Lately” at The Venue at Horseshoe Casino on Friday, June 25.

You have seen them on the hit television show on E!, Chelsea Lately and now it is time to see them live and in person. The Comedians of Chelsea Lately tour is headed to The Venue. John Caparulo, Natasha Leggero & Brad Wollack will be here along with special guest Chuy! Don’t miss your chance to see these hilarious comedians and did we forget to mention that Chuy is going to be here

Horseshoe, in conjunction with AEG Live, one of the largest concert promotion, special event and touring companies in the world, has created a top-tier entertainment programming lineup for The Venue, delivering the premier entertainment experience with unparalleled artist interaction, technical sophistication, and excitement.


WHEN:
THE COMEDIANS OF CHELSEA LATELY

Show Date: Friday, June 25, 2010 @ 7:30 PM
Ticket Prices: Floor - $45

Orchestra - $35
Mezzanine - $25


WHERE: THE VENUE AT HORSESHOE CASINO

777 Casino Center Dr.
, Hammond, IN, 46320

Tickets available through the Horseshoe Box Office: 219-473-6060 and at www.Ticketmaster.com


Box Office hours are Sunday, Monday, Tuesday – CLOSED (unless there is an event in The Venue), Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday – 12pm – 6pm


WEB SITE:
www.thevenue-chicago.com

Check out The Venue at Horseshoe Casino on the following social networks:


www.facebook.com/chicagohorseshoe

www.twitter.com/ChiHorseshoe, @ChiHorseshoe
www.youtube.com/chicagohorseshoe

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Elvin Bishop Lets Loose On 'Red Dog Speaks,' Out June 15 On Delta Groove Music

Guest Appearances By Buckwheat Zydeco And Tommy Castro


Guitar master Elvin Bishop's new album 'Red Dog Speaks,' celebrating his slide work, is out June 15 on Delta Groove Music. 'Red Dog Speaks' follows 2008's 'The Blues Rolls On,' which earned him a GRAMMY nomination and four 2009 Blues Music Award nominations. 'Red Dog Speaks' features five new Bishop originals plus songs by Jimmy Cliff, Otis Spann, Leroy Carr, and others.


The title track tells the story of his '59 Gibson Stereo ES 345 guitar, nicknamed "Red Dog." The album proves full of hooks and humor as well, such as on Bishop's "Fat And Sassy." Buckwheat Zydeco lends his accordion to "Blues Cruise" which also features excellent guitar work by Tommy Castro and Ronnie Baker Brooks; the track was recorded live on the high seas. The traditional gospel tune "His Eye Is On The Sparrow" gets the Bishop slide treatment. He plays solo on "Clean Livin'," a reflection on his younger lifestyle and a highlight of the album.


Bishop is a slide guitar great with 45-years of blues under his belt. Rolling Stone has praised his "careening slide and razor-edged bursts, all delivered with unflagging enthusiasm and wit." He is a founding member of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band and recorded three groundbreaking albums with the group. After launching a solo career, Bishop's 1976 single "Fooled Around and Fell In Love," still in heavy rotation on classic rock radio, reached number three on Billboard's Pop Singles chart, pushing the album 'Struttin' My Stuff' to number 18 on the Pop Albums chart. He has performed on recordings by John Lee Hooker, Bo Diddley, and The Allman Brothers Band, among many others. On stage, he's wielded his guitar to accompany the likes of John Lee Hooker, Jimi Hendrix, Big Joe Williams, Little Walter, Junior Wells, Albert Collins, Derek Trucks, Warren Haynes and many others. Blues Revue has called Bishop "head and shoulders - and slide guitar - above the rest."

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Blog Critics Review: The Mannish Boys - Shake For Me

Randy Chortkoff loves the blues. So much so that he decided to start his own label to record and produce blues music. The Delta Groove Music Label became a reality during 2004. He then formed his own blues band and named them The Mannish Boys. The group is unique in that there is a rotating cast of musicians which changes from album to album.That Represent Man was their and the label's debut album, which was issued during 2004.


Read more: blogcritics.org

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

STEVE PALMER BAND RELEASES FIRST ALBUM, APPARITION, ON 4/20



Tour de Force Disc Melds the Best of Classic & Modern Rock with Storyteller Songwriting
Palmer & His Top-Flight Band Celebrate Debut at April 27 Release Party in Nashville

(Nashville) Aficionados of intelligent, big-hearted and hook-filled American music are sure to be delighted by Apparition, which introduces a band that continues the proud tradition of such heartland rock trailblazers as Creedence Clearwater Revival, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and others into the new millennium with a sound that’s invitingly familiar while at the same time tantalizingly fresh. The album will be released on April 20 on Palmer’s own Arythmia Records, distributed by Caroline/EMI. Fresh from a well-received 11-date tour opening for Bob Schneider, SPB will mark the event with a party and performance at aVenue in Nashville on Tuesday, April 27 (details below).

The Steve Palmer Band is the latest addition to Nashville’s burgeoning rock scene, and on Apparition they offer real deal rock that’s both timeless and transcends genre. Drawing from rock music’s golden age of the 1970s to renew and expand that sound and spirit with contemporary élan, the album features 12 powerful and emotive songs rich with the ghosts and specters of love that’s been lost or gone wrong, dreams of passion, and the poetic visions of a sharp storyteller and emotional chronicler. Singer, songwriter and rhythm guitarist Palmer is backed by a crew of seasoned players with a collective century of studio and concert experience: background vocalist Vicki Hampton, lead guitarist Bryan Ewald, drummer Tony Morro, Hammond B-3 organist/pianist Larry Hall and bassist Anthony Setola.

The disc was recorded live off the floor with minimal overdubs at Nashville’s Blackbird Studios, the ground zero recording facility for the city’s rock community thanks to fellow habitués like Kings of Leon and Jack White. It was co-produced by SPB and producer, songwriter and drummer David Huff (a former member of the group Giant) and mixed by recording veteran Jim Ebert (Butch Walker, Jason Falkner, Cowboy Mouth, SR 71).

The Denver-born Palmer has nurtured his dream of recording and performing a new yet lasting rock sound since he first started playing guitar and writing songs while growing up in Connecticut, making his singing and playing debut in sixth grade. By junior year of high school he had made his initial solo quarter-inch reel-to-reel recording of his songs, followed soon by studio sessions at age 17 in Plymouth, England. His studies at Northwestern and Georgetown and subsequent professional career were “to keep one foot in society and the other one on the peripheral, dreaming and writing,” Palmer explains. He perfected his creative vision recording in top studios in the Chicago area, Indiana, Connecticut (with first-call New York City session players) and in and around the Washington, D.C. capital region.

I draw from the music I know and love,” notes Palmer. “I grew up with bands like Kansas and such legends as Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel, and also all the solo artists who were first and foremost songwriters: Joni Mitchell, Dan Fogelberg, Bob Dylan, James Taylor and Cat Stevens. And my biggest rhythmic influences were artists like Yes, Led Zeppelin and Joan Armatrading, and all the great jazz artists like Count Basie, Stanley Turrentine, Oscar Peterson, Joe Sample and Weather Report.” Other touchstones include everyone from The Beatles to Crosby, Stills & Nash to Chicago to country icons like Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings, to name a few among many. With SPB, he matches such inspirations with the punch of modern-day heavyweights like Pearl Jam and 3 Doors Down as well as the fluid improvisational virtuosity of the Dave Matthews Band.

In 2002, Palmer dedicated himself to pursuing music 24/7, and on moving to Nashville last year found the players to unite behind a common purpose and a place to make the recordings he envisioned. With SPB now in it together for the long haul, the band has leased headquarters space in Nashville’s Marathon Village, where they’ve set up a rehearsal studio that will double as a tracking facility. Taking today’s indie DIY spirit to heart, Palmer has started his own record company with a full production house alongside subcontractors, and put together a promotion, marketing and distribution team.

The release of Apparition will be followed by intensive cross-country touring throughout 2010. “Getting this CD out to the public is my lifelong dream,” Palmer says. “I am very happy with it and thrilled to try to get our sound out there and finally play in front of people.”

Apparition release party:
Tuesday, April 27, 5:30 to 8:00 PM
aVenue, 120 Third Avenue South, Nashville
Sandwiches, beer and wine served
SPB performs at 6:30 PM

For more information on Steve Palmer Band go to: www.stevepalmerband.com

THREE TIME #1 BILLBOARD DANCE/POP SENSATION ERIKA JAYNE TO RELEASE NEW CLUB REMIXES OF “PRETTY MESS”


FEATURING REWORKINGS BY Dave Aude, Tracy Young, DJ Escape & Johnny Vicious, Larry TEE, Bill Hamel, Klubjumpers, Peter Rafelson and Marshall Stack


Following up on her three #1 Billboard hit singles--“Stars,” “Roller Coaster” and “Give You Everything”--singer, songwriter and dance pop sensation ERIKA JAYNE is setting her sights back to the charts in anticipation of a new single “Pretty Mess.” Set for release on April 20, the song will be issued as a remix package featuring reworkings by some of today’s most in-demand producers: Dave Aude, Tracy Young, DJ Escape & Johnny Vicious, Larry Tee, Bill Hamel, Klubjumpers, Peter Rafelson and Marshall Stack.

“Pretty Mess” is the title track to her debut album out now on E1 Records and was written by Jayne and Peter Rafelson. The video for the track, cut to the Dave Aude remix, is co-directed by VMA-nominated choreographer and artistic director Mikey Minden (Pussy Cat Dolls, Girlicious, Paradiso Girls) along with famed photographer Mike Ruiz and will be available at all digital outlets. Shot on location at Los Angeles’ Custom Hotel, it gives a sexy and provocative look into the Erika Jayne “pretty mess” persona.

The Atlanta-born, Los Angeles transplant’s last batch of remixes was released in late 2009 with reworked editions of her hit single “Give You Everything" by Paul Harris, Mark Brown and Michael Woods. They shot to #2 on the Music Week Upfront Club Chart as well as #6 on the Music Week Commercial Pop Club Chart (marking the first time she ever landed on the U.K. charts) and hit #5 on Billboard’s 2009 year end Hot Dance Club Play Songs chart.

The track listing for Erika Jayne’s “Pretty Mess” club remix maxi EP is as follows:

    Dave Aude Club 6:20
    DJ Escape & Johnny Vicious Main Mix 9:23
    Tracy Young Club 10:02
    Bill Hamel Remix 5:17
    KlubJumpers Extended Remix 6:12
    Larry Tee & Per QX Mix 6:10
    Marshall Stack Remix 4:32
    Rafelson Electro Club 6:24
    Dave Aude Video Edit 3:32


To view the video that will debut April 15 at Club Tiger Heat at
Avalon Hollywood log on to:

ATLANTA BASED HIP-HOP ARTIST BUCK$ RELEASES NEW SINGLE “IT’S BEEN A LONG TIME”

Krian Music Group announces the release of the single “It’s Been A Long Time” from up and coming artist, Buck$. The single is a collaboration with another noted Atlanta-based artist, Bobby V, and also contains the hard-hitting B-Side entitled “Neckwork.” BUCK$ is presently recording and producing other songs for his upcoming debut album, which is slated for a summer release.

Addressing the issue of how the song came about, Buck$ stated, “It was initially about one woman in particular, but I expanded it to become a love letter to the streets. I originally recorded it in my Atlanta home studio, and after I had the beats, the lyrics just came to me. I actually wrote the lyrics to the song in about seven minutes.” Buck$ recently built what he calls a $100,000 studio for $5,000 by piecing together a vocal booth and soundproofing it with suitable materials that were given to him by friends, colleagues, and even materials that he found on the streets.

Definitely hands on when it comes to his music, Buck$ handles most of the production and beats, as well as writing his lyrics. He does, however, occasionally collaborate with other artists to add that “something special” to the mix. While known as a rapper, though, it is difficult to categorize him as such because he incorporates sounds and rhythms from other genres into his music to produce a sound that is quite unique. Buck$ acknowledges that he is a student of the golden age of hip hop and R&B, and believes that “when you’re on the stage, you should have something of importance to say to the world. I use my real life experiences, even tragedies that have befallen me, as motivation for my music.”

Regarding his upcoming CD, Buck$ stated, “Preparation for the album is in its final stages, but as far as the process goes, I’m still working on new tracks. I never know when the next collaboration will come about. To me, the record isn’t finalized until the due date.”

Critiquing “It’s Been A Long Time,” Jon Peritz of MusicDish said, “It has a very genuine sound to it and is one that fans from many genres can appreciate. Distinctive R&B and hip hop melodies work together with funky rhythms to produce a very energetic, captivating feel good song that makes you want to dance. Bobby V's smooth voice is the perfect complement to Buck$'s rhymes and the two vocalists play off the energetic instrumental track with skill and precision, accompanied by flutes, chants, and percussion. The magnetic hook and backing track bring it all together perfectly.”

Buck$ has worked with and produced artists such as Dem Franchise Boyz, the Trap Squad, D4L, Fabo, Lil Yola, Meathead, and Parlay.

It’s Been A Long Time can be purchased at http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/its-been-a-long-time-ep/id359269521

http://www.myspace.com/buckBMA

Thursday, April 15, 2010

New CD Release from Yoga Sensation Wah!

Yoga music legend Wah! announced the release of her latest album, Maa, due out April 20th, 2010 on the Wah! Music label. This highly anticipated album follows up the successful Love Holding Love (Nutone Records, 2009). Maa is being distributed by BFM Digital, a leading digital music aggregator and distributor of independent music.


Before “yoga” was a household word, Wah! was creating hip, gritty and trendy music that set the scene for what was to become a new genre for music. Soon after, Wah
!, became a sensation in the yoga world with her spiritual, Eastern-tinged sound. She has since developed a large and dedicated following both in and outside the yoga community after more than ten years of touring, recording, and releasing records.


The mystical relaxation music CD,
Savasana, has sold over 50,000 units worldwide and continues to draw attention in the yoga community and beyond. Wah!’s music is often compared to that of Sade, Zero7 and India Arie, but her latest release has a much more youthful sound, incorporating dance beats and electronica.


With
Maa, Wah! combines New Age, world music, and ambient electronica to create a sensuous blend of music that’s ideal for yoga, healing, and radio play. The album features instrumentalists from the pop and hip-hop worlds - Mike Haziza on beatbox, Katisse Buckingham on flute (www.katisse.com), Matthew Martin Kelly on keyboards, Christian Teele on drumkit and percussion, Kirk Margo on guitar, Paul Hollman on keyboards & sampling, and Wah! on harmonium, bass and vocals. Yoga centers have become hubs for social networking and their yoga teachers have quickly filled the role of DJs for this audience. Wah! is a trendsetter in this arena; if you’ve taken a yoga class in the last five years, you’ve no doubt heard her music.


The release of
Maa synchronizes with the release of Nutone Music’s Yoga Revolution, a compilation in which Wah! is a featured vocalist alongside Sting, Sarah McLaughlin, Sheryl Crow, and more. The album will be available in Wal-Mart, Whole Foods, and Barnes & Noble.


"WAH
! injects something a little trippier to create a mellow groove that's luscious and highly addictive." NY Spirit Magazine

Wah! has become a sensation in the yoga world with her spiritual, Eastern-tinged sound.” www.buy.com

Mantra-scene veteran Wah! seems to be halfway between samadhi (union) and ecstasy. Her theme is the oneness of Divine love and eros. Wah! lays down her love dharma in sultry downtempo grooves, throbbing club beats, and spoken-word rap passages. When the groove’s in full gear, she has us right where she wants us: blissed out and deep in the throes of a love that can’t be labeled.” Yoga Journal Magazine/San Fransisco, CA

Maa will be available everywhere music is sold April 20th, 2010.


Track list:

1. Invocation

2. Shakti

3. Parashakti

4. Shanti

5. Love Holding Love

6. Jagatambe

7. Ganga Ma (Everlasting Love)

8. Stay in the Love

9. Bhakti Da

10. Lalitamba

11. Pahimam

12. Shanti (Radio Mix)

13. Om Sri Matre


Says Wah
! in an interview with Daniel Rechtschaffen:
"My goal is simple: I want to clear my own personal energy and feel lighter when I'm done. I weave the audience into my experience and bring them up with me - have you ever seen the back of the hall during the concerts? - just bouncing, everybody up and down, the whole back of the room pulsating with energy... sometimes it's a rush of bliss, and sometimes it's meditative. I'm not looking for it to be anything in particular. I know what it feels like. I know the energy. I know where I am supposed to go. I just bring people on that path with me and enjoy the music."

Wah! will be performing in support of the release of the album. Just a few of these shows include:


Telluride Yoga Festival in Colorado (July 9-11)
The Omega Ecstatic Chant Festival in New York (September 3-6)
Bhaktifest in Joshua Tree, CA (September 10-12)