Becoming Barack: Evolution of a Leader Music Soundtrack - In Stores April 2010

15 Songs and a Cornucopia of Quotes - Sound Bites from Historical Perspective

Soundtrack Features Performances By Tata Vega, Olivia McClurkin,

 Kim Weston, Angie Whitney, Dionyza, Michael B. Sutton and more

 

One of this year’s most illuminating historical documentaries, “Becoming Barack: Evolution of a Leader” – which tells the story of President Barack Obama’s early days from law student and law professor to his tireless work as a community organizer and his remarkable tenure in the Illinois senate – just got better. The must-see documentary has now been supplemented by a riveting soundtrack of poignant music and powerful sound bites. More than just a collection of songs from a movie, this is an audio vérité souvenir that brings the documentary to life before your ears with brief yet biting quotes and clips from the film as well as Obama’s own audio book “Audacity of Hope” that not only set up each song, they act as reminders of the humble and humbling virtues of a great man.

 

When it comes to the music - overseen by Motown veteran Michael B. Sutton, doing his record company alma mater mighty proud in its 50^th anniversary – the 15 soul-stirring songs proudly and boldly reflect the melting pot that is America. As described by esteemed music journalist A. Scott Galloway in the liner notes, “The musical score for “Becoming Barack” is a simultaneously contemporary yet bedrock collection of songs that reflect the shining spirit of America - the gospel-rooted sounds of faith (“I Had a Dream” which draws the awesome parallel between Obama and his clearest role model Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.), the gritty urban reality of rap (“Hittin’ Dem Streets”), the ringing sonic salvo of classic soul via three timeless selections from the pen of the peerless Curtis Mayfield (the civil rights era anthems “We’re a Winner,” “This is My Country” and “Choice of Colors”), and the Inauguration Day balm of healing (“Coming Together”). From a dance floor rallying cry for action (“Let’s Talk About It”) and a brotherly call for unity (“Can’t We Get Along”) to a country-rock song of conscience (“Awake”) and an all-star assemblage of vocalists on the “We

 

Are The World”-like anthem “I’m Here For You” (featuring Michael Sutton, Tata Vega, Olivia McClurkin, Kim Weston, Patti Howard, Ruby Sunday, Marilyn King and Brenda Sutton-Turner) - this music is positively provocative!”

 

Presented by Sutton’s own Little Dizzy Records - the music division of Waterstar Corporation which distributes the documentary DVD - the soundtrack features outstanding up-and-coming artists from the roster, including Dionyza, Angie Whitney, Timothy Bloom, Jack Freeman, Larry Pinci, Kebra, Michael Norfleet and T-REP The Young Prayzr.

 

Whether listened to as an entertaining musical supplement for the soul or utilized as a scholastic supplement for young people, the soundtrack for “Becoming Barack: Evolution of a Leader” is an inspired work of art that stands tall as a companion to the film as well as on its own shining merit.

 

BECOMING BARACK SOUNDTRACK in stores April 2010.

 Inque PR

        

E1 Television, in partnership with Faith Evans and Ten2One Entertainment, has developed a new reality series, "It's All About Faith," chronicling Evans' return to the music scene after a 5-year hiatus. Viewers will get a glimpse into her grind behind the music as Evans juggles a lively home life and resurgent career with her husband/manager Todd Russaw and their four children. Each episode will take you into the very real life of this superwoman as she shares her personal experiences in and out of the spotlight.

Simultaneously, Evans has been hard at work recording new material for her highly anticipated 6th studio album on her imprint, Prolific Music Group, to be distributed by E1 Music. With a career spanning over a decade in the music industry, Faith has released 3 Platinum-certified albums ("Faith," "Keep The Faith" and "Faithfully,"), the Gold-certified "The First Lady," and the holiday classic, "A Faithful Christmas." Evans is a 5-time Grammy nominee and winner for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "I'll Be Missing You," an homage to her late husband and hip-hop legend Notorious B.I.G. Once again, Evans is set to take the music world by storm.

"Working with Faith on her new highly anticipated album and this compelling reality series is a perfect example of how E1 Entertainment is implementing its strategy of utilizing its three business pillars -- Television, Film and Music," stated John Morayniss, CEO of E1 Television. "We're excited to be able to offer artists working in multiple creative fields and disciplines the opportunity to partner with E1 in all of our complementary businesses. Ultimately, this allows us to help them reach the largest possible audience around the world."

Faith Evan adds, "2010 is shaping up to be an amazing year for me! To be in a place where I have grown from an entertainer to an entrepreneur is truly a blessing. I am excited to share this incredible experience with my fans and the world."

E1 Television is building worldwide recognition as one of the industry's foremost creators, producers and international distributors of quality entertainment in all genres. The studio has the ability to attract an impressive roster of in-demand creative partners, top networks and specialty broadcasters. Most recently, E1 announced a joint deal with Summit Entertainment to develop and produce a television series based on the feature film "Push" which represents Summit's first foray into television, as well as a partnership with Stephen King to produce and distribute the television series "Haven," based on the author's novella, "The Colorado Kid," which will air on SYFY Channel in the US. In addition, E1 recently completed a deal with Universal Networks International to provide content in support of their revitalized channel portfolio launch. E1 continues to make significant inroads with major broadcasters in the U.S. and around the world with high-profile series such as "Hung" for HBO, "The Bridge" for CBS and CTV and "Copper" for ABC and Canwest.

Darrell D. Miller of the Los Angeles office Fox Rothschild LLP negotiated the television and music deals on behalf Evans and her production company.

About E1 Entertainment

E1 Entertainment (AIM: ETO) is a leading independent entertainment content owner that acquires film, television and music rights and exploits these rights in all media in more than 190 countries. The company currently operates in Canada, the U.S., the UK, Holland and Belgium through its four primary businesses units: E1 Television, E1 Films, E1 Music and E1 Distribution. These businesses collectively represent E1's extensive expertise in film distribution, television and music production/distribution, Kids content, Licensing and Distribution. E1's content library includes more than 3,700 feature films, 2,700 hours of original television programming and 15,000 music tracks.

        

Sade Releases Highly Anticipated New Body of Work SOLDIER OF LOVE

NEW YORK, Feb. 8 /PRNewswire/ --  Heralded as one of this year's most highly anticipated albums, Sade is back after nearly a decade with SOLDIER OF LOVE (Epic Records), in stores Tuesday, February 9th. The wait is finally over as SOLDIER OF LOVE, the first official album release from Sade since 2000's multi-platinum Lovers Rock, takes its rightful place among the collection of iconic Sade albums. The new album was recorded in England and features the stunning and powerful hit single of the same title"Soldier of Love" which has already garnered much critical acclaim fromboth the press as well as her loyal fans.

Entertainment Weekly featured SOLDIER OF LOVE in their "Must List," Rolling Stone wrote, "it's unimpeachably excellent," and The Boston Globe calls it, "a rich and rewarding album." But the accolades don't stop there. Associated Press raved, "like a long-ago lover not quite forgotten, Sade has returned to steal our hearts with more beautiful, uncategorizable music," Billboard was quoted as saying, "it's been 10 years since Sade released an album, but be forewarned – the giant has awoken," while People Magazine reminds us that "Sade remains the voice of comfort to the wounded heart."

The accomplishments of SOLDIER OF LOVE so far are astounding. The single, "Soldier of Love" - which Sade co-produced with Mike Pela, and was written by Sade along with longtime collaborators Andrew Hale, Stuart Matthew man and Paul Spencer Denman Sophie Muller directed is currently the # 1 most played video on both VH1 Soul, and BET Centric and this past week became the # 4 most played video on VH1 proper. continues to make radio history.  In less than four weeks "Soldier of Love" propelled into the top five at both Urban Hot AC and Smooth Jazz radio charts, making it one of the fastest moving records of the year.The track reached the top of the Urban AC chart three weeks ago and remains the # 1 song at both Urban AC and Smooth Jazz today. Sade is now the first group since the Isley Brothers in 2001 to earn a #1 spot as a lead act on the R&B Chart. The intriguing and seductive video,which

Tomorrow, Sade will kick things off with a performance on BET's 106 & Park,followed by a phenomenal TV campaign which includes appearances on The Today Show, Letterman, The View, Jimmy Kimmel and Ellen Degeneres.

Upon pre-order release at iTunes, the album immediately entered the Top 5 on the overall album chart. SOLDIER OF LOVE is currently the # 1 album pre-order at Amazon as well.

Known for their one of a kind timeless sound, Sade has enjoyed phenomenal success both internationally and stateside throughout the span of their twenty-five year career. Since the release of their debut album, Diamond Life in 1984 the band has seen all five of their studio albums land in the Top 10 on Billboard's Top 200 Album Chart selling a total of more than 50 million albums worldwide to date. They've been nominated for American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards and have won three Grammy Awards – first in 1986 for Best New Artist, then in 1994 for Best R&B Performance By A Duo Or Group for "No Ordinary Love", and again in 2002 for Best Pop Vocal Album with Lovers Rock.

WWW.SADE.COM

Epic Records

        

KIRK FRANKLIN, VICKIE WINANS, FRED HAMMOND, SHIRLEY CAESAR, AMONG THE SUPERSTAR ARTISTS THAT HAVE FANS SHOUTIN’ DOWN THE AISLES ON TIME LIFE’S HOT CD



14-Track Album Showcases Down Home, Old-School Gospel Hits By Today’s Top Gospel Artists And Hits Stores Everywhere January 26, 2010

FAIRFAX, VA; Time Life’s latest gospel release proves that traditional black gospel music is making a big comeback. The new single-disc retail version of the hugely successful double-disc, Shoutin’ Down the Aisles, has debuted at #8 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart.

The Shoutin’ Down the Aisles retail release is rocking the church rafters. Opening with Vickie Winans’ 1997 smash “As Long As I Got King Jesus,” the collection takes on the aura of a Pentecostal church service with such up-tempo favorites as Fred Hammond’s “Jesus Be a Fence Around Me”, the Chicago Mass Choir’s “Holy Ghost Power” with Lemmie Battles’ earth-quaking hoops and hollers, Jimmy Hick’s “Born Blessed”, Shirley Caesar & Tonex’s “I Know the Truth”, Keith Wonderboy Johnson’s quartet staple “Let and Let God” and Bryan Wilson & the Bapolstogic band’s burner “If You’re Talking About Jesus.”

There are equally moving mid-tempo tracks such as Marvin Sapp’s bluesy “You Brought Me”, Candi Staton & Dottie People’s country boogaloo “Shut Up and Start Praying”, The Rance Allen Group’s 1991 Top 40 R&B crossover hit “Miracle Worker”, Alvin Darling & Celebration’s infectious call-and-response gem “All Night” about Jacob’s midnight tussle with an angel and Kirk Franklin’s bass-walker, “He Can Handle It.” The album is rounded out by two bonus cuts not featured on the previous Shoutin’ set. The Blind Boys of Alabama’s rootsy “Down in the Hole” and Deniece Williams’ praise jam “Glory to Glory to Glory” complete this must have album for any fan of traditional gospel music. For more information on the double disc version of Shoutin’ Down the Aisles, please visit the Time Life website, www.timelife.com.

        

Craig David Makes His Sensational Return With…

‘One More Lie(Standing In The Shadows)’

Released 15^thMarch 2010

 

One of the UK’s most successful R&B singer songwriter’s is back with a new single and new record deal. Craig David will release ‘One More Lie (Standing In The Shadows)’on March 15^th through his new label – Universal Music.

The single, his first since 2008, takes a sample from the classic Four Tops hit (first released in 1966) and gives it a modern flavour. The end result is a hugely infectious upbeat floor-filler with hard knock drums and anew level of vocal from Craig.

‘One More Lie(Standing In The Shadows)’ will be the first single from what will be Craig’s fifth studio album Signed Sealed Delivered released a week later on the March 22^nd. The album is a collection of memorable hits written by some of Motown’s finest and reworked in Craig’s inimitable style. 

‘One More Lie (Standing In The Shadows)’ has also been remixed by a whole host of critically acclaimed international DJs. Funky House DJ Donaeo’s mix has already been featured by Radio 1Xtra, whilst the track has also been remixed by top American DJ Redtop. Producers Haji &Emmanuel, who have re-mixed the likes of the Sugababes and Rihanna, mix has also taken the club scene by storm.

Craig is no stranger to success, selling over 13 million albums, enjoying 13 Top 10 hits and achieving multi-platinum status in more than 20countries.  Craig has also recorded with the likes of Kano, Sting, Tinchy Stryder and features on Jay Sean’s new album.

2010 marks ten years in the music industry for Craig. He continues to sell out arenas all over the globe, including 4 nights at Wembley Arena. His list of accolades is seriously impressive: A winner of 2 MTV Europe Music Awards, 3 Ivor Novello Awards and 4 MOBO Awards.

        

QUANNUM SONGSTRESS JOYO VELARDE IS SET TO RELEASE HER FULL-LENGTH DEBUT

LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING ON FEBRUARY 16, 2010

 

On Tour with Lyrics Born in February!

 

 

Enjoy a free download from Love and Understanding: “Certain Special Way”

Download Here

 

Joyo Velarde's debut full-length album Love and Understanding is set to be released on February 16, 2010 (Quannum Projects). Joyo was born in Manila but later relocated to the Bay Area, where she is known as the female voice behind the seminal independent label Quannum. Love and Understanding – preceded by her 5-song self-titled EP (released digitally in May2009) – consists of twelve tracks that were specially assembled by Joyo, Lyrics Born and fellow producers Jake One, Emmy Award winner Asa Taccone, RJD2, Tommy Guerrero, Headnodic (Crown City Rockers), and the Lifesavas' Jumbo the Garbageman. 

 

Think Vanessa Williams meets Amel Larrieux (Groove Theory).  Joyo blends soul and hip hop stylishly with her stunning vocal range at the forefront.Pulling from Minnie Riperton, Chaka Khan and Tina Marie as well as contemporary R&B singers like Alicia Keys, Solange, Angie Stone and Raheem DeVaughn, Joyo has truly mastered her craft.  On "You Got Me (In the Mood)” Joyo reminds you of a female version of Marvin Gaye, while on "Lower Deck" she is truly reminiscent of Denise Williams on her hit song "Silly.” Joyo's classical study with an opera company in Rome resonates throughout the album, particularly the track "On And On.”  

 

The"First Lady of Quannum," Joyo sang background vocals and has appeared on over 20 albums, including those of Blackalicious and also,now-husband, Tom "Lyrics Born" Shimura (both co-founders of Quannum), in addition to constant touring and television appearances with Lyrics Born. She also performed and co-wrote 10 songs on Lyrics Born's classic Later That Day,including the hit single "Callin' Out" that was featured on commercials for Diet Coke and Motorola.  In addition to music, Joyo is also a fashion innovator. She’s received several endorsements, has performed at events for Puma, Evisu, Adidas, to name a few, and has been named one of the Bay Area's trendsetters and style-makers to watch by 7x7 Magazine.

 

Love and Understanding has already been recognized as a work of art and “Feels Right” was selected by award-winning writer/actor/director Danny Hoch (Founder of the Hip-Hop Theater Festival) to use in his latest play, Taking Over.  Joyo is certainly a much needed breath of fresh air to any new listener. Love and Understanding will be in stores February 16, 2010.

http://www.myspace.com/joyovelarde

        

Is Black Music Dying?




Dr. Syleecia Thompson’s Rhythm Without Blues: The Dichotomy of a Music Genre takes the reader inside the world of a 70-year-old music genre with candid and never before heard information about the music industry. Thompson’s book includes interviews with artists, producers, lawyers, managers and industry insiders.

Most of us only hear about the success stories of those who’ve been fortunate to have made it. But what did these artists have to go through in order to reach fame and fortune? This tell-all book exposes the dark side of the R&B music industry; the greed, manipulation and deceit. It reveals how talent is tarnished by trickery and music consumers are continuously fooled by the industry. Everything comes to light in her book as it also offers hope and supplies sensible solutions to picking up the pieces and saving the soul of R&B.

As the daughter of soul legend, Syl Johnson, and sister of R&B great, Syleena Johnson, Dr. Syleecia Thompson has seen it all. This insider’s narration reveals the dark side of the industry. Thompson’s book contains excerpts from unedited interviews (several anonymous) from such greats as R. Kelly and Syleena Johnson, industry giants Micky “MeMpHitz” Wright of Jive Records, Brownstone’s Nichole Gilbert, Michael “Blue” Williams and countless others.

Thompson’s book is not only an eye-opener, but it serves as a teaching tool for aspiring R&B artists, novice label executives, and music lovers. For those already in the business, this book is an invaluable resource.

If you’ve ever felt the blues, sang the blues, or simply love rhythm and blues, you’ll want to pick up a copy of Thompson’s book and give one to friends who love and appreciate a style of music that was the precursor to rock and roll and soul. You’ll fall in love with R&B all over again, and rediscover what its roots and message are really about.

Rhythm Without Blues is a stunning tribute to the heart and soul of a music genre steeped in tradition, rich history, Southern sound, gospel, and urban influences. To order go to www.amazon.com, www.rhythmwithoutblues.com or www.barnesandnoble.com.

About the Author:
Dr. Syleecia Thompson is a professor and academic scholar in Leadership, Organizational Change, Business and Music Business Management. She is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and the New York Chapter of the Recording Academy. She serves as a music expert and consultant to small independent labels and artists and has been an industry insider for years. She is also president of Aneelys Records. Thompson is currently writing her second book and lives in New York. Thompson is currently available for speaking engagements, book signings and public appearances across the country.

        

Postal Service Offers 'Love Letters from Ella'

Special Edition CD Features Classic Ella Fitzgerald Love Songs

WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Serenade that special someone in your life this Valentine's Day with classic love songs featuring acclaimed music artist Ella Fitzgerald.

On sale for a limited time at select Post Offices nationwide, "Love Letters from Ella" is a collection of the jazz singer's most cherished love songs, recorded with some of her favorite collaborators -- including Count Basie and his orchestra, Joe Pass and Andre Previn.

This special edition, first released in 2007, also boasts a full reproduction of Fitzgerald's commemorative postage stamp.

The 10-track CD, mixed in high-definition audio, includes Fitzgerald singing "Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone" with the Count Basie Orchestra, a duet of Joe Pass and Fitzgerald on "The One I Love" and her performance of "Our Love is Here to Stay" with pianist, conductor and composer Andre Previn.

"Love Letters From Ella" also features the celebrated singer accompanied by the London Symphony Orchestra on a rendition of "Cry Me a River." The London Symphony Orchestra recorded the accompaniment, arranged by 24-time Grammy Award nominee Jorge Calandrelli, at Abbey Road studios in London.

The CD is available for $10.99 at a select group of 3,200 Post Offices across the nation and online at usps.com/shop.

For added convenience, "Love Letters from Ella" can be paired with a Valentine's Day card and shipped in a Priority Mail Flat Rate Box or envelope to create the perfect gift for that special someone. The Priority Mail shipment will arrive in style in two to three delivery days, and shipping starts at just $4.90.

Complete Track Listing:

1. "Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone"
2. "Cry Me a River"
3. "You Turned the Tables on Me"
4. "I've Got the World on a String"
5. "Witchcraft"
6. "My Old Flame"
7. "The One I Love"
8. "Take Love Easy"
9. "Our Love is Here to Stay"
10. "Some Other Spring"

A self-supporting government enterprise, the U.S. Postal Service is the only delivery service that reaches every address in the nation, 150 million residences, businesses and Post Office Boxes. The Postal Service receives no tax dollars. With 36,000 retail locations and the most frequently visited website in the federal government, the Postal Service relies on the sale of postage, products and services to pay for operating expenses. Named the Most Trusted Government Agency five consecutive years and the third Most Trusted Business in the nation by the Ponemon Institute, the Postal Service has annual revenue of more than $68 billion and delivers nearly half the world's mail. If it were a private sector company, the U.S. Postal Service would rank 28th in the 2009 Fortune 500.

U.S. Postal Service

        

Ne-Yo Releases New Song To Promote Healthy Relationships

Song will be available for download exclusively on macys.com/ne-yo with a donation to the RESPECT! Campaign

NEW YORK, Feb. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Multi-platinum recording artist Ne-Yo, who is currently the face of popular Macy's menswear brand Alfani, has penned a new song promoting positive, healthy relationships to benefit the RESPECT! Campaign.  In between recording songs for his next album to be released in August, the R&B crooner wrote Heroes - a strong ballad with a poignant message about everyday heroes that shape lives in goodness and in turn help build a world that is free of relationship violence. Heroes will be available for download on February 2nd (through March 31,^, 2010) exclusively on www.macys.com/ne-yo. For each download, Alfani will donate $1 to the RESPECT! Campaign, up to $50,000.  

Ne-Yo, who last night premiered the song on Late Night with David Letterman, was approached by Alfani to write and record a song in tribute to healthy relationships to raise awareness for the RESPECT! Campaign.  He was eager to be a part of bringing national attention to this important issue.

"Respect is the foundation of positive relationships. There's often too much violence around us – and we need to focus on and celebrate those behaviors that inspire healthy interactions. I hope this song brings visibility to the issue and encourages all of us to be heroes to others."  -Ne-Yo

The RESPECT! Campaign is a multi-year initiative supported by Macy's, the national founding partner. The social action campaign is designed to promote respect in relationships and increase awareness about the positive role everyone can play to help end and prevent relationship violence and abuse. It starts with something everyone can do: Give respect to others. To learn more, visit www.GiveRespect.org.

Alfani

        

Producer Quincy Jones, Singer/Songwriter Lionel Richie, Wyclef Jean and Superstar Artists Mark 25th Anniversary of 'We Are The World' to Benefit Haitian Earthquake Relief Efforts

Academy Award Winning Writer-Director To Film The Historic Recording Session

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Producer Quincy Jones and singer/songwriter Lionel Richie, the producer and co-writer of the iconic 1985 philanthropic anthem We Are The World, have confirmed that they have teamed with producer/musician Wyclef Jean and Grammy-winning producer RedOne and producer/musical director Ricky Minor in association with Randy Phillips, President & CEO, AEG Live to record a contemporary version of the song to benefit the Haitian earthquake relief efforts on Monday, February 1, 2010. The world premiere of We Are The World - 25 For Haiti will air during NBC's coverage of the Opening Ceremony of the Vancouver Winter Olympics on Friday, February 12.  Following the world premiere on NBC, it will air on other networks throughout the world.  This project was made possible through a contribution from Visa.

Twenty five years after the original recording at Henson Recording Studios (formerly A&M Recording Studios) in Hollywood, Jones, Richie, Jean, RedOne, Minor and Phillips will bring together a diverse group of contemporary superstar artists in the very same recording studio to record the world renowned song originally written by Richie and Michael Jackson.

In addition to recording the landmark song, Academy Award-winning writer-director Paul Haggis (Crash, Million Dollar Baby) whose own personal efforts as well as those of Artists for Peace and Justice have already saved countless lives in Haiti, will film the session to create an accompanying video.  Both the contemporary version of We Are The World and the accompanying video will be available for purchase through a consortium of on-line and retail partners with all proceeds going directly to the earthquake relief efforts in the country of Haiti through the We Are The World Foundation, a newly created not-for-profit organization made up of board members Quincy Jones, Lionel Richie, Wyclef Jean, Paul Haggis, Randy Phillips and Ambassador Louis Moreno of the Inter-American Development Bank.  

Commented Jones, "25 years ago, the entertainment industry showed the power of community to help our fellow man when we recorded 'We Are The World' to bring relief to those suffering from famine in Ethiopia.  And while the need to assistant AfricaHaiti is suffering immeasurably from the destruction due to the recent earthquake and is in immediate need of relief that will last long after the television cameras have left.  As artists, we have joined together on this 25th anniversary and in the spirit of 'We Are The World' to help meet that need." continues, today the country of

"What an unbelievable group of people who have come together to give their voices, for a cause to start the healing of a people who have experienced a devastation of such magnitude," said Richie.  "We believe 'We Are The World - 25 for Haiti' can be the start of the healing process."

"On January 12th, the people of Haiti were faced with a tragedy unlike anything the country has ever experienced," said Wyclef Jean, songwriter and cofounder of the We Are The World Foundation. "Today, I am proud to be joined by so many members of the artistic community that want to support the region and have donated their time and talents to providing an effective way for the global community to get involved with helping the Haitian population."

"I'm thrilled Quincy, Lionel and Randy invited me to be a part of something so wonderful in which we are standing side by side with Haitian artists and community to help them rebuild their broken nation," commented Paul Haggis.

Upon its original release, We Are the World quickly became the fastest selling single in history and in the years that have followed, USA for Africa has raised and distributed more than $63 million in revenue from the sales of more than 7 million units of the album, single and cassettes, plus nearly 2 million digital sales and related merchandise. Just over half the total was spent on emergency relief (food, medicine, and refugee services) and the balance was used to support more than 500 different relief, rehabilitation and development projects in 18 different countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

"When first approached about re-recording 'We Are The World', it didn't seem like a great idea since the original version was so iconic," said Randy Phillips, President & CEO, AEG Live.  "Then Haiti happened and that changed everything.  Quincy and Lionel decided that 'We Are the World' was created just for emergencies like this.  This recording will have a life of its own and keep Haiti in the public eye at the same time raising much needed funds to continue the healing, reconstruction and rebirth of this country," Phillips added.

"In the 25 years that have passed since 'We Are The World' was first released, technology has provided the means to make it a movement," said Peter Tortorici, CEO, GroupM Entertainment WW who will oversee all distribution and broadcast opportunities while also serving as an executive producer on the project.  "We are honored to provide our support to make 'We Are the World - 25 For Haiti' a powerful global platform that show what the power of community can accomplish."

This project was made possible through a contribution from Visa. The 25th Anniversary recording will help further the spirit of activism around the 25th Anniversary of We Are the World that was at the heart of the original song and movement.

Sunshine Sachs

        

April Nevels has released the first single from her solo debut album "Krazy Praize" on New Jersey-based record label 7-Places.
Turnersville, NJ, --(PR.com)-- April Nevels of the sensational contemporary gospel group, the Nevels Sisters, has released the first single from her solo debut album “Krazy Praize.” The high energy, radio-friendly song is the title track from her forthcoming CD and is already going for adds. The “Krazy Praize” full project is set for release Spring 2010 on 7-Places record label.

Produced by Robert Sayles, world-class musician, songwriter and drummer for platinum-selling soul singer Lyfe Jennings, “Krazy Praize” is an unconventional, out-of-the-box call to praise and Nevels delivers it with rousing conviction. “In the last five years I’ve gone through some really tough, dark times that I never thought I would ever experience,” says April who persevered through divorce, depression and suicidal moments to get to “Krazy Praize.”

A natural humanitarian, Nevels is one of many artists included in Kirk Franklin’s gospel all-star recording of “Are You Listening” an inspiring song to aid relief efforts for Haiti in the wake of the tragic earthquake.

A Youngstown, Ohio native, Nevels is the youngest of five siblings—three sisters and one brother—and has been singing since she was five but being the baby of the family was the last to join her sisters in the group. She would eventually become a main leader in the group singing lead vocals on “Clap Your Hands” the 2009 Top 30 Billboard single from the album “Beautiful”.

“Krazy Praize” single is available on iTunes and Amazon.

About 7-Places
7-Places Global Gospel Communications Company is the premiere Christian gateway providing online and offline access to music, networking, programming and more. Based in Turnersville, New Jersey, 7-Places is a ministry committed to serving the masses in the spirit of excellence through its independent record label, 7-Places TV channel, a Global Publishing Division, Multi-purpose hotel/event centers, and a Christian apparel brand.

        

Speak was nominated for Best Album Art Photography, with credit to outstanding photographer Carsten Fleck, and ObliqSound artists Ablaye Cissoko & Volker Goetze received a nod for Best Song, World Traditional, for Manssani Cisse off the album Sira.  Though not winners in the main competition, they're still eligible for the Vox Populi "voice of the people" contest, and you can still vote by following the nomination links above!

        

Beyonce Breaks Record for Most Grammy(R) Wins by a Female Artist in a Single Year

NEW YORK, Feb. 1/PRNewswire/ -- Iconic superstar Beyonce, took home six Grammy® Awards,including "Song of the Year" (for "Single Ladies"), breaking the record for most Grammy® Awards won by a female artist in a single year, while bringing her career Grammy® total up to 16 (13 as a solo artist and 3with Destiny's Child.) Beyonce, who tied the record with ten nominations for a female artist in a single year with The Fugees' star,Lauryn Hill, took home honors in the following categories:

Song of the Year ("Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)")

Best Female Pop Vocal Performance ("Halo")

Best Female R&B Vocal Performance ("Single Ladies")

Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance ("At Last")

Best R&B Song ("Single Ladies")

Best Contemporary R&B Album (I AM... SASHA FIERCE)

Five of Beyonce's wins are for her multi-platinum album, I AM...SASHA FIERCE, and one win honors the performer's work on the Cadillac Records soundtrack for her rendition of the Etta James hit, "At Last."

With eight Grammy® Awards, legendary pop icon, Michael Jackson and world renowned guitarist and visionary, Carlos Santana, share the record for most Grammy® Awards won by a male artist in one night.

On February 2, Beyonce is launching her first ever fragrance, Beyonce Heat. The Renaissance woman will celebrate the debut of her fragrance at Macy's Herald Square in New York City by meeting the first 500 customers to purchase the exclusive Beyonce Heat 3-piece fragrance set.

Beyonce recently extended her 2009 "I AM..." World Tour to South America for a series of live concerts beginning Thursday, February 4, 2010 at Parque Planeta in Florianopolis, Brazil.  The two-week run will end in the Caribbean on the island of Trinidad on Thursday, February 18, 2010 (see itinerary following).

www.columbiarecords.com

www.beyonceonline.com

www.musicworldent.com

www.houseofdereon.com

www.dereon.com

www.beyonceparfums.com

Music World Music/Columbia Records

        

Five Peace Band - Live
Chick Corea & John McLaughlin Five Peace Band
[Concord Records]


Dancin' 4 Chicken
Terence Blanchard, soloist
Track from: Watts (Jeff "Tain" Watts)
[Dark Key Music]


West Side Story Medley
Bill Cunliffe, arranger (Resonance Big Band)
Track from: Resonance Big Band Plays Tribute To Oscar Peterson
[Resonance Records]

        

TELARC AND HEADS UP WIN TWO GRAMMY^® AWARDS

 

Field 10 – Jazz

Category 44 -- Best Contemporary Jazz Album

75

Artists: Joe Zawinul & The Zawinul Syndicate

[Heads Up International]

 

Field 26 – Surround Sound

Category 94 – Best Surround Sound Album

Transmigration
Michael Bishop, surround mix engineer; Michael Bishop, surround mastering engineer; Elaine Martone, surround producer (Robert Spano, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra & Choruses)
[Telarc International]

 

Cleveland, OH – Telarc International and Heads Up International, divisions of Concord Music Group, have been honored with two GRAMMY^® Awards by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) at the 52^nd Annual GRAMMY^® Awards on Sunday, January 31, 2010, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

 

Since 1980, Telarc International, a division of Concord Music Group, has won 58 GRAMMY^® Awards for performance, production and engineering. Other important awards include the French Grand Prix du Disque and Diapason d’Or; Japan’s Record of the Year; Germany’s Audiophile CD of the Year; and Gramophone Magazine’s 2004 Label of the Year. Although it began as a classical-only label, Telarc now boasts a catalog of more than 1000 recordings, ranging from classical and classical-crossover to jazz, contemporary jazz, Americana, pop and blues.

 

For nearly 20 years, Heads Up International, a division of Concord Music Group, has been successfully carving its niche in the world of contemporary instrumental music. Heads Up artists and releases have consistently landed on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz, Traditional Jazz and World Music charts, and have garnered numerous industry awards, including Billboard’s Contemporary Latin Jazz Album of the Year, the AFIM’s Independent Contemporary Jazz Album of the Year, seven GRAMMY^® Awards and numerous GRAMMY^® nominations. Heads Up was also the winner of JazzWeek’s Radio Programmers Album of the Year Award for two consecutive years, and Gibson Guitar’s Best Female Jazz Guitarist. In addition to the awards and accolades, Heads Up artists have regularly captured the #1 slot in national radio airplay.

        

MEGA STARS COMMON, DONALD LAWERENCE, LALAH HATHAWAY AND MARVIN SAPP JOIN FORCES WITH POLITICANS, CLERGY AND OTHER AWARD WINNING RECORDING ARTISTS FOR “CHICAGO’S HOPE FOR HAITI”

The Benefit Concert and Telethon Reaches Across Musical Genres to Raise Funds for Three Prominent Non-Profits Currently on the Ground in Haiti


CHICAGO, IL – January 28, 2010 – Chicago’s influential and vibrant Hip Hop, poetry, gospel, jazz and R&B music communities will be joined by Mayor Richard M. Daley, Governor Pat Quinn and Illinois State Senator Rev. James T. Meeks to raise money for the survivors of the earthquake. The event takes place on February 8th at 7pm at The House of Hope. Charles Jenkins (Pastor of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church) is spearheading this effort and has enlisted Grammy-winning recording artist/producer Donald Lawrence to organize the music for the “Chicago’s Hope for Haiti” benefit concert.

“I woke up early Tuesday morning and said to myself, I've heard what the NFL, the NBA and what the government is doing for Haiti but I haven’t heard anything about what the church community is doing.” Jenkins says of the idea to organize the benefit. “I saw the need to have every part of the Chicago community come together for this tragedy.”

The concert, also a telethon, will be aired live on WJYS from the 10,000 seat House of Hope, 752 E. 114th Street in Chicago. The confirmed talent includes actor/rapper Common on behalf of the Common Ground Foundation, Grammy winner Donald Lawrence & Co., the legendary Shirley Caesar, Platinum Recording Artist Marvin Sapp, Urban AC Artist Lalah Hathaway, Comedian George Wilborn, Karen Clark Sheard, poet J. Ivy, Tarrey Torae, Jazz Saxophonist Steve Cole, gold-selling gospel artist John P. Kee, and BET TV personality Dr. Bobby Jones.

The proceeds of the concert will go directly to Yele Haiti (www.yele.org), Samaritan’s Purse (www.samaritanspurse.org) and Hospitals for Humanity (www.hospitalsforhumanity.org). All organizations are currently on the ground in Haiti, providing immediate relief (ranging from food and water to medical care) to the survivors of this horrific earthquake.

        

MARVIN WINANS JR.
WINS GMC AWARD FOR BEST VIDEO OF 2009
FOR “YOU NEVER LET ME DOWN” VIDEO

Singer Heading Back to Studio to Record Sophomore CD With Rodney Jerkins, Marvin Winans Sr. and Israel Houghton & Aaron Lindsay

Marvin Winans Jr. has won a GMC Music Video Award as Best Soul Video of 2009 for the concept clip of his radio hit “You Never Let Me Down” from his latest CD “Image of a Man.” Thousands of fans voted in a people’s choice sort of procedure where the fans decided the winner. Other nominees included an array of artists ranging from Mary Mary and Kirk Franklin to Skillet and tobyMac. Visit http://www.gospelmusicchannel.com/gmcva to see all the winners.



Rodney Jerkins (Brandy, Jennifer Lopez, Backstreet Boys) produced the Caribbean-styled radio single “You Never Let Me Down.” Perfect for summer drives down the expressway with the rooftop down, Winans and Jerkins have crafted a feel good anthem. "It’s the joy you feel when you know that you have someone with you that will never fail you, never let you fall, never let you down,” says Winans.

Jerkins has never let Winans down either. The two are planning to go back in the studio and collaborate on songs for Winans’ forthcoming sophomore CD. The new project will also feature a special duet with Winans’ father, Marvin Winans Sr. Winans is also slated to have the gold-selling team of Israel Houghton and Aaron Lindsay produce some tracks on the forthcoming set as well.

Visit www.marvinjr.com, www.thisisMWj.com or www.myspace.com/dec28th
for more information.

        

Osaru's Melodic Menagerie Of Muse

Home with the Keys is Osaru's latest release and a follow-up to Home; his successful debut CD released in 2008. Home with the Keys is a musical evolution for Osaru and the result of requests for instrumental versions of the tracks offof Home. In his latest project, Home with the Keys, Osaru creates a smooth jazz journey through the course of ten-tracks, unlocking a melodic menagerie of muse.

Home with the Keys exhibits Osaru's songwriting ability and finesse on the keyboard. 'The album summarizes my comfortable relationship with the keys. I feel 'at home' on the instrument,' says Osaru. The keyboard allows him to tap into the unbounded creative potential of each song. Like a master painter, Osaru's keyboard is his easel while the sheet music is his canvas. He 'paints' with a unique aural ambience. Within each track a new soundscape emerges, with an unsullied innovative style.

Home with the Keys contains all-original tracks that were all written, arranged and mixed by Osaru into a plethora of various styles that display influences from Kenny G and George Benson to Earl Klugh and Steve Cole.The album opens with 'Made up my Mind, ' with its unique urban-based background vocals and hauntingly seductive sax. With a Baby Face styled backbeat, 'Home' mesmerizes with subliminal and sublime riffs. Hints of R and B overlay jazzy melodic hooks in 'Downtown' and 'Last Night.''Let's Begin' cleverly flaunts Osaru's talent in arrangement and composition with a vibrant mix or urban funk and jazz.

'I wanted to keep the listener guessing. There's a story behind each song that I had to ensure was maximally expressed, ' states Osaru. Indeed,with its blend of slow jams and mid-tempo cuts there is a song that fits every human emotion. Osaru's jazz journey is a twisting and surprising one with unpredictable creative intersections on each avenue of style and leads directly to Home with the Keys.

Now available on iTunes, amazon.com and CDbaby.com

        

Good Day or Evening to you T.U.M.S. and we do apologize for the slight delay. Hopefully it was worth the wait to see who are the 5 lucky winners of this weeks drawing to win a copy of the new Corinne Bailey Rae CD "The Sea". And once again, on behalf of Special Media Ops & ourselves, Thank You for participating!

The 5 Winners are:

~ Chauncey K. of Columbia, S.C.
~ Danisha H of Inglewood, Ca.
~ Marvell, J. of Anchorage, AK
~ Donte S. of Atlanta, Ga
~ Yolanda R. of Los Angeles, Ca.

Cheers Folks & Congratulations! Your CD will be arriving to you shortly & Thanks for being a part of The Urban Music Scenes' CD Giveaway! For all that had dropped in entry forms, don't worry! There's another one coming right around the corner, so you will get another chance! Stay with us~

        

American Paper Optics, who is also the optical supplier for 3D DVD releases such as "Coraline 3D," "Journey to the Center of the Earth 3D" and most recently, "The Final Destination in 3D," continues to push well beyond the"one billion 3D glasses distributed" mark. These billion plus specs have been distributed worldwide for multi-media promotions and events involving movies, magazines,television, web sites, theme park attractions, video games, and much more.APO mega-clients include Disney, National Geographic, Coca Cola, Pepsi,Warner Brothers, Crayola, Time Inc., TV Guide, VH-1, and Dreamworks.

American Paper Optics, LLC, the world leader in manufacturing paper 3D glasses, has no plans to slowdown in 2010. With their massive manufacturing capabilities and specialized patented optics, APO was able to deliver the 14 million 3D anaglyph glasses to more than 1,700 Target stores in less than 3 weeks. CEO and founder,John Jerit, was even surprised at the quick turnaround by his production team. "I thought I'd seen it all with the 130 million 3D glasses we did forthe Super Bowl in 90 days last year, but finishing 14 million glasses in 21days is a manufacturing record for us."

American Paper Optics has produced over 14 million pairs of 3D glasses for the Grammys, which are currently being distributed nationwide at Target stores. Viewers can get their free 3D Grammy glasses at nationwide Target stores through Jan. 31. The 52nd Annual Grammy Awards will air live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, Sunday, January 31, 2010 on CBS, 8pmET/PT.

For more information about John Jerit and American Paper Optics, please visit www.3Dglassesonline.com.



American Paper Optics, LLC