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E-Spire Entertainment News

A place where we inspire to bring you the best in entertainment news.

Ten Questions with Mathew Knowles

Tuesday, January 30, 2007

Long before being put in the spotlight as manager and father of superstar Beyonce and Solange, Mathew Knowles was an astute business man. Below is an interview with one of the hardest working men in music.

Ten Questions with Mathew Knowles
By Shelia M. Goss




What direction do you plan to take with the newly revamped Spirit Rising Music?
Mathew Knowles:
Our new gospel label is all about the youth movement in America. Our focus will be on our youth with some Spirit Rising compilation for the older demo as well. We believe to reach our youth that the music has to be relevant to what they are listening to with inspirational messages.

What made you decide to take a leap of faith to manage a teenage girl group and quit your lucrative job at Xerox?
Mathew Knowles:
After the group losing on Star Search I realized as a father I had to be involved in someway helping my daughter dream come true.

Was there ever a time you regretted this decision and wanted to go
back into corporate America?
Mathew Knowles:
Never have I regretted it. Was it easy? No.

If Beyonce or Solange weren't in entertainment, do you think you
would still have entwined your love for music with your business savvy?
Mathew Knowles:
Good Question. I do know I would be in a business that I had passion for.

How do you deal with the pressure of having the "next" hit record?
Mathew Knowles:
We don't put that type pressure on ourselves. Our success has been greatly to our team of artist, producers and writers who get in a room and work together with the goal of making it the best that it can be. I've witnessed a lot of spiritual moments in those recording session regardless of genre of music.

What's one of the hardest obstacles you've had to face personally or
professionally and how did you overcome it?
Mathew Knowles:
The hardest professional obstacle is the music industry itself and the day to day challenges. Also being Beyonce and Solange's father has sometimes been an obstacle. Sometimes you don't get the deserved respect from the music industry when you are a parent. I didn't in the beginning but I absolutely get that respect today.

What advice would you give someone interested in a music career?
Mathew Knowles:
If you don't wake up and go to sleep thinking and wanting music and the music industry this is not for you. If you're not willing to put in the work it's not for you and lastly if you think success comes overnight, this certainly is not for you.

You've accomplished a lot and I applaud you. What's next for Mathew Knowles?
Mathew Knowles:
Focus on the record label.

How do you stay motivated?
Mathew Knowles:
I absolutely LOVE what I do. Everyday is a blessing. To be able to do what you have passion for, work with family and see artist reach their dreams is so fulfilling.

If you could describe yourself in just three words, what would
they be?
Mathew Knowles:
Faith, Family, Finances

For more information about Spirit Rising Music, visit the website: http://www.spiritrisingmusic.com

Interview by Shelia M Goss, an entertainment writer and author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. For more information, visit www.sheliagoss.com.

posted by Shelia, 10:15 AM | link | 1 comments |

Interview with Author Donna Hill

Donna Hill
Keeping Romance Alive
By Shelia M. Goss




Donna Hill has a writing career that spans almost twenty years. She is one of the most prolific romance writers out there today and has over 50 titles in print. Her love for books started at a young age. "I must give credit and homage to my aunt Marjorie who introduced me to the love of books at the age of five. My love of reading evolved into writing," Donna states.

Readers of romance will not be disappointed in her February release If I Were Your Woman (Harlequin/Kimani Press, $5.99). Hill is considered one of the pioneers of African-American romance writers, but she's humble. Why did she choose to write romance as opposed to contemporary fiction? Hill responds, "I think romance kind of chose me. It was not my intent to be a romance writer."

Besides writing, Hill has a background as a publicist. After doing PR work on the side for other authors, she decided to create Donna Hill Promotions. Some of her clients are: A.C. Arthur, Angie Daniels, Toni Staton Harris, Michelle Monkou, Suzetta Perkins, and Maureen Smith to name a few.

Hill gets a joy out of helping her fellow authors. "I enjoy seeing authors make it and get excited to get good reviews and be recognized for their work. Writing is hard enough, trying to promote yourself is an entirely different job. So I want to try to bridge that gap a little, by bringing to my clients the double whammy of not only being a writer and editor myself but also a publicist."

As Valentine's Day approaches, Hill gives this advice to single women waiting for their Mr. Right: "Be right with yourself first. Do the things that you need to do for you. Don't expect a man to come into your life and "fulfill" you or "make you happy." When you are happy with who you are, everything else is icing on the cake."

Trying to juggle a career, the kids, church duties and a husband, sometimes romance can be put on the backburner. Hill suggests these tips on keeping the romance alive in your marriage. "Treat him like you want to keep him! Treat him like you did to get him. Simply because you are married doesn't mean that the romance has to end. It is just taking your relationship to another level."

Donna Hill's stories capture the essence of romance. Readers will not only get a good story, but learn how to interact with others from the scenarios portrayed in her books.

To find out more about Donna Hill's books or PR firm, visit her website: http://www.donnahills.com/.



Interview by Shelia M Goss, an entertainment writer and author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. For more information, visit www.sheliagoss.com.
posted by Shelia, 8:45 AM | link | 0 comments |

Classic R & B with Vesta

Monday, January 29, 2007



R & B singer Vesta is back with "Distant Lover." Vesta takes you back down memory lane with her rendition of classics such as Marvin Gaye's "Distant Lover," Sade's "No Ordinary Love," Babyface's "Whip Appeal," etc.

"If you like classic R & B, you'll want to add Vesta's "Distant Lover" to your music collection." ~ Shelia M. Goss, author of My Invisible Husband & Entertainment Writer for e-Spire Entertainment & BellaOnline Women in Music

To preview some of the songs, visit Vesta's myspace page:
www.myspace.com/vestawilliams
posted by Shelia, 5:32 AM | link | 0 comments |

Mike Jones is Back

posted by Shelia, 5:27 AM | link | 0 comments |

Ciara "Promise" Remix featuring R Kelly



R Kelly remix of Ciara's "Promise" called "Promise" (Go And Get Your Tickets Mix) featuring R. Kelly:

Real Player
Windows Media

Ciara's Official Website: www.ciaraworld.com
posted by Shelia, 5:10 AM | link | 0 comments |

Doe Boy Fresh New Single Featuring Chamillionaire

Doe Boy Fresh featuring Chamillionaire AUDIO
Windows Media
Real Player

Three 6 Mafia
Last 2 Walk
IN STORES MAY 1

Columbia Records
http://www.three6-mafia.com
http://www.myspace.com/threesixmafia
posted by Shelia, 5:05 AM | link | 0 comments |

New Music from Lloyd

Lloyd is back, and he means business. With Jazze Pha planted firmly in his corner and a list of hot producers in his pit crew, Lloyd is ready once again to put the pedal to the metal. His new single, "You", is already tearing up the radio, and the new remix featuring both NaS and Andre 3000 is sure to do the same.

"You" Remix featuring NaS & Andre 3000 Audio
Windows Media
Real Player

"You" featuring Lil' Wayne Audio streams:
Windows Media
Real Player

Lloyd Video:
http://video.umrg.com/lloyd/you/

Official Site: http://umrg.com/artist.aspx?aid=610

Lloyd MySpace Page: http://www.myspace.com/lloyd

Lloyd's new album, Street Love, hits stores this March. The new album is a healthy blend of old school flavor, flawless vocals and stellar production by Big Reese (Mariah Carey, Tango Redd, Young Jeezy), Jasper Cameron (Nelly, Christina Aguilera, Monica ), J-Lack, and none other than Jazze Phizzle himself.
posted by Shelia, 4:55 AM | link | 0 comments |

American Idol's Elliott Yamin

ELLIOTT YAMIN SET TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM


American Idol finalist Elliott Yamin will release his debut album on March 20. The album will be released through RED Distribution. Yamin worked closely with his music publisher, Sony/ATV Music Publishing, on the writing and production of the album, and the two parties will similarly cooperate in the marketing of the project.

"This is an ideal situation that enables Elliott to have real creative and marketing input over the music that he produces," manager Jeff Rabhan said. The deal will also allow Yamin "to participate as a meaningful partner in the album's financial success," Rabhan said.

"I'm excited to get my music out to my fans, and I'm thrilled to be back in the studio working on original music," Yamin said.

"We are very happy to help Elliott achieve his vision and bring his music to his strong fan base," said Danny Strick, President, Sony/ATV Music Publishing. “This project is a natural development of our role as a modern day publisher, helping our writers to reach the broadest audience."

Elliott Yamin's first single Movin' On, will be available on all digital service providers by February 13.

Yamin recently finished his nationwide American Idol tour, performing live in front of half a million fans. He's planning a solo tour for spring/summer 2007.

He is represented by Three Ring Projects and Pulse Recording.

http://myspace.com/elliottyamin

# # #
posted by Shelia, 4:49 AM | link | 0 comments |

Eddie Murphy stars in the comedy Norbit

Monday, January 22, 2007

Cast: Eddie Murphy, Thandie Newton, Eddie Griffin, Terry Crews, Clifton Powell, Cuba Gooding, Jr.

Synopsis: Norbit (Eddie Murphy) has never had it easy.

As a baby, he was abandoned on the steps of a Chinese restaurant/orphanage and raised by Mr. Wong (Eddie Murphy). Things get worse when he's forced into marriage by the mean, junk food-chugging queen, Rasputia (Eddie Murphy). Just when Norbit's hanging by his last thread, his childhood sweetheart, Kate (Thandie Newton), moves back to town.
In the comedy "Norbit," he'll show them all that nice guys sometimes finish first.

Release Date: February 9, 2007

See the Norbit Trailer here:

Windows Media

Real Media

Quicktime

The E-card:
http://www.meetnorbit.com/ecard/

posted by Shelia, 7:51 PM | link | 0 comments |

Josh Turner new CD

posted by Shelia, 6:11 PM | link | 0 comments |

Natalie Cole releases Love Songs

Just in time for Valentine's Day, eight-time Grammy-winning superstar vocalist Natalie Cole sets the mood with her first-ever collection of love songs. Rhino Records celebrates romance with this unforgettable compilation featuring a trio of Grammy-winning hits. Love Songs will be available January 30 at all retail outlets and at www.rhino.com.

Listening Party:
http://www.rhino.com/fun/listeningparties/74857_PartyPlayer.lasso http://streamos.rhino.com/qtime/rhino/listeningparties/74857/74857_album.mov http://streamos.rhino.com/real/rhino/listeningparties/74857/74857_album.smi http://streamos.rhino.com/wmedia/rhino/listeningparties/74857/74857_album_100.wax http://streamos.rhino.com/wmedia/rhino/listeningparties/74857/74857_album_56.wax

E-Card:
http://www.rhino.com/flashcards/nataliecole

Natalie Cole: Love Songs
Track Listing


1. Unforgettable duet with Nat King Cole
2. Miss You Like Crazy
3. Angel On My Shoulder
4. When I Fall In Love duet with Nat King Cole
5. A Smile Like Yours
6. I Live For Your Love
7. Inseparable
8. Too Young
9. I Can't Say No
10. Starting Over Again
11. More Than The Stars
12. I've Got Love On My Mind
13. The Very Thought Of You
14. As Time Goes By
15. Our Love
16. Snowfall On The Sahara
17. Our Love Is Here To Stay
18. This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)
19. Livin' For Love
posted by Shelia, 6:09 PM | link | 0 comments |

Pepper Tour Dates



Tour Dates:
February 9th 2007
Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park Kapolei HI

February 11th 2007
Maui Arts & Cultural Center Kahului HI

February 14th 2007
House of Blues - San Diego
San Diego CA

February 15th 2007
House of Blues - San Diego
San Diego CA

February 16th 2007
Canyon Club Agoura Hills CA

February 17th 2007
Long Beach Arena Long Beach CA

February 18th 2007
Empire Events Center Sacramento,CA

February 21st 2007
Ogden Theatre Denver,CO

February 22nd 2007
Knickerbocker's Lincoln NE

February 23rd 2007
Fine Line Music Cafe Minneapolis, MN

February 24th 2007
The Annex Nightclub Madison, WI

February 25th 2007
House of Blues Chicago, IL

February 27th 2007
House of Blues Cleveland, OH

March 1st 2007
Opera House Toronto, ON

March 2nd 2007
Irving Plaza New York, NY

March 3rd 2007
Axis Boston, MA

March 4th 2007
Theatre of Living Arts Philadelphia, PA

March 5th 2007
Stone Pony Asbury Park, NJ

March 6th 2007
NorVa Norfolk, VA

March 7th 2007
9:30 Club Washington, DC

March 9th 2007
House of Blues - Orlando Lake Buena Vista, FL

March 10th 2007
Jannus Landing Saint Petersburg, FL

March 11th 2007
Sunrise Langerado Festival Markham Park Sunrise FL

March 12th 2007
Freebird Cafe Jacksonville Beach, FL

March 13th 2007
Beta Bar Tallahassee, FL

March 14th 2007
Roxy Theatre Atlanta, GA

March 16th 2007
Warehouse Live Houston, TX

March 17th 2007
House of Rock Corpus Christi, TX

March 18th 2007
Granada Theater Dallas, TX

March 20th 2007
Rialto Theatre Tucson, AZ

March 21st 2007
Marquee Theatre Tempe, AZ

March 22nd 2007
The Bakersfield Dome Bakersfield, CA

March 23rd 2007
The Graduate San Luis Obispo CA

March 24th 2007
Catalyst Santa Cruz, CA

March 25th 2007
The Fillmore San Francisco CA

March 27th 2007
McDonald Theatre Eugene OR

March 28th 2007
The Big Easy Boise ID

March 29th 2007
Big Easy Spokane WA

March 30th 2007
Richards on Richards Vancouver, BC

March 31st 2007
Showbox Seattle WA

April 1st 2007
Crystal Ballroom Portland OR

April 3rd 2007
Senator Theatre CHICO,CA

April 4th 2007
Mystic Theatre PETALUMA,CA

April 5th 2007
Henry Fonda Theatre Los Angeles, CA
posted by Shelia, 6:05 PM | link | 0 comments |

American Idol Katharine McPhee releases CD




Katharine McPhee debut album hit stores on January 30, 2007

Website: http://www.katharinemcphee.com
Myspace: www.myspace.com/katharinemcphee

Single "Over It"
REAL
WINDOWS
posted by Shelia, 5:35 PM | link | 0 comments |

New Music from Taylor Hicks

posted by Shelia, 5:26 PM | link | 0 comments |

New Single from Joe

Joe will be releasing a new album in March. Hear the first single here:
"If I Was Your Man".
posted by Shelia, 5:15 PM | link | 0 comments |

Petey Pablo

Petey Pablo releases new single "Fire" from his upcoming album "Proper Procedures."

CLEAN STREAM

EXPLICIT STREAMS

posted by Shelia, 5:10 PM | link | 0 comments |

Bow Wow The Price of Fame Interview

We've watched Bow Wow grow from a nice little boy to a mature young man. With 3 platinum albums before the age of 20, Bow Wow is up for the challenge with his 5th album release "The Price of Fame."

Besides rapping, Bow Wow has made an easy transition into acting with several movies such as "Like Mike," "Johnson Family Vacation," "Roll Bounce," "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift," and his list of films is steadily growing.

"Shortie Like Mine" - featuring Chris Brown is the first single from The Price of Fame and is frequently requested at radio stations across the country.

Although he's had more success than a person twice his age, he's humble and appreciates his fans.

Shelia Goss: Are you excited about your new album?
Bow Wow:
Most definitely. I've very excited. I put a lot of work into it.

Shelia: When will you be on tour again?
Bow Wow:
I'm on a promotional tour now hitting the radio stations and television. I'll be doing a couple of spot dates. The big arena tour will be later.

Shelia: What's different about The Price of Fame from your other albums?
Bow Wow:
With this album my lyrical content is a little bit different. I'm just growing up. I had a lot more input. I'm the co-executive producer, writing, producing along with Jermaine Dupri, It's a different look for me this time.

Shelia: Sounds like you're trying to take more of a hands on approach?
Bow Wow:
I have one of the best teachers. JD (Jermaine Dupri) is like my mentor and big brother. He taught me everything I know.

Shelia: With such a busy schedule, what do you do when you do find some down time?
Bow Wow:
I work hard and play hard too. Me and the boys get out and have a good time. We play Playstation 3. I'm young and like to have fun.

Shelia: I saw an article in a magazine recently showcasing your house. How is it being out on your own?
Bow Wow:
I like being on my own. I don't have to answer to anybody. I just be chilling...enjoying life.

Shelia: Do you plan on starting your own label?
Bow Wow:
I already have a label deal LB Dub with Sony. My artists Clee-O...my hype man...he's played in a lot of movies himself like in "Roll Bounce." He's already a super star. Then the 14 year old Jinsu. I'm just ready to pass the torch. He's like a younger version of me. Certain stuff that I don't talk about anymore, he can talk about.

Shelia: Speaking of movies, what's on your agenda for 2007?
Bow Wow:
I have 2 upcoming movies. I get scripts every week. I'm trying to decide on which ones I want to do. I'm trying to do at least 3 movies.

Shelia Do you plan on writing scripts?
Bow Wow:
I'll leave that to the writers (smile). I'm not ready for that.

Shelia: Besides doing 3 movies and a new CD, what other goals do you have for 2007?
Bow Wow:
I'm doing a lot of business. I'm opening up a franchise--my first McDonalds. I have a shoe store "Prestigious" in Atlanta. I want to own a piece of the Atlanta Hawks.

Bow Wow's "The Price Of Fame" is in stores now.


Interview by Shelia M Goss, an entertainment writer and author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. For more information, visit www.sheliagoss.com.
posted by Shelia, 5:03 PM | link | 0 comments |

Diana Ross is back with I Love You

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

"Diana Ross voice captures the essence of why her music is timeless." ~ Shelia M. Goss, author of My Invisible Husband & Entertainment Writer for e-Spire Entertainment & BellaOnline Women in Music

One listen to "I Love You" and it quickly reminds me of why Diana Ross is one of the original music divas. Fans will not be disappointed. With the tracks "I Love You" and "More Today Than Yesterday," Ross' sounds like a strong advocate for loving relationships. If you're not in love, you wish you were after hearing this CD. Overall the 15 track CD is mellow. "I Love You" is for the audience who can appreciate music from an artist who is a pioneer and clearly set the stage for the R & B female singers of today.

Diana Ross' "I Love You" CD is in stores now.

"Diana Ross voice captures the essence of why her music is timeless." ~ Shelia M. Goss, author of My Invisible Husband & Entertainment Writer for e-Spire Entertainment & BellaOnline Women in Music
posted by Shelia, 10:15 AM | link | 0 comments |

5 Questions with Author Shelia E Lipsey

Although "Into Each Life" is Shelia E Lipsey's first book published by Urban Christian, she's not new to the literary scene. She's published a few other works and has shared inspirational messages with a diverse audience.

What prompted you to write "Into Each Life?"
I wanted to write a story about the real issues people encounter in life, whether they are people of faith or not. Into each of our lives there are obstacles, good and bad that we face but each of us handle such situations differently.

Did you set out to write Christian fiction?
Yes and no. I always wanted to write the type of stories that any one of any age or gender could pick up and read. Being a woman of faith and believer in God, it just happened that I was labeled as a Christian fiction writer. I'm definitely not complaining because I'm thankful that God directed my path in such a manner that I am able to fulfill my literary dreams. What better way than to be connected with the one I love - Christ my savior.

Although labeled Christian fiction, the stories in this genre are as interesting as books in other genres. What else about Christian fiction would you like the readers to know?
I would like the audience/readers to know that my book is not a sermon. It is not a condemning book. It has drama, it discusses every day issues, it is definitely not written for a specific audience, which means that whether you believe as I do or not, makes no difference when you open the pages of the book. In my definition of Christian fiction, it simply means that their are underlying messages of hope, love, and forgiveness sprinkled throughout the pages.

What's next for you?
I have completed my next novel entitled, Sinsatiable. Sinsatiable is another drama filled, Christian fiction novel that will be released by Urban Christian, July 31, 2007. I am excited about it and hopefully my readers will be too after reading Into Each Life. (Website: http://www.shelialipsey.homestead.com/index.html)

What words of encouragement would you give someone thinking about pursuing a new career?
I would say, no matter how difficult the path appears, or how impossible the journey looks, still pursue your dreams. Life is far too short and so live. Don't live the kind of life where you will look back and say, 'I wish I had tried that, or 'I wish I had done this. You will never taste victory and success until you step out of the boat.



Interview by Shelia M Goss, entertainment writer and author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. Visit her website for more information: www.sheliagoss.com.
posted by Shelia, 10:12 AM | link | 0 comments |

DVD Bloodline is in stores Now

"Bloodline captivates your attention from the beginning to end." ~ Shelia M. Goss, author of My Invisible Husband & Entertainment Writer for e-Spire Entertainment & BellaOnline Women in Music



BLOODLINE is a compelling, gritty, dramatic portrayal of the struggle between law enforcement and the powerful gangsters and drug dealers of Miami's inner city...

BLOODLINE DVD in stores JANUARY 9
CODEBLACK ENTERTAINMENT
IN STORES NOW

Official site: http://www.bloodlinemovie.net/

ABOUT BLOODLINE

Nate and Marcus are half brothers born and raised in the ghetto of South Florida by their unstable, single mother. During a playground fight, Marcus comes to Nate's defense by stabbing a bully who is threatening his brother's life. After denying any wrong doing at the local police station, Nate and Marcus are sent home. But when Marcus' father finds out about his son's run in with the law, he removes Marcus from his mother's home and the drug infested ghetto environment that surrounds him. Nate and Marcus are forced to part ways, but promise to stay brothers forever. Flash forward ten years and the brothers are reunited on the streets of Miami, but on different sides of the law. Marcus has become a police officer, while Nate has become a local drug dealer. With the City of Miami cracking down on crime and drugs, the promise to stay brothers forever puts Nate and Marcus' relationship to the test.

posted by Shelia, 10:10 AM | link | 0 comments |

Ne-Yo in number one movie Stomp the Yard

Ne-Yo adds acting to his already impressive resume.



To read an interview with this talented actor/singer/songwriter, CLICK HERE.
posted by Shelia, 9:51 AM | link | 0 comments |

Screamin' 4 Vengence

C-Murder is back with a new album "Screamin' 4 Vengence.

The new album features guest appearances from Chamillionaire, Slim Thug, Pimp C, Bg, Too Short, B. Legit, Manny Fresh, Letoya, Max Minelli, C-Loc & Currency.

Hear the new single "Posted on the Block:"
Windows
Real Player

C-Murder "TV Spots" Video Streams - 30 second spot
Windows Media
Real

TV Spot - 15 Seconds
Windows Media
posted by Shelia, 9:41 AM | link | 0 comments |

Interview with Lil Flip

Lil' Flip "The Freestyle King" is back with a new label (Warner Bros. Records/Asylum Records) and a new CD.



Lil Flip featuring Lyfe Jennings "Ghetto Mindstate"
YOUTUBE:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjO9G5-kVrI

When the interview with Lil' Flip was setup, I had loads of questions ready to ask him, but when I started talking to him, I decided to ask only a few questions and let him do what he does best--freestyle.

Shelia Goss: You were part of that click that was doing chopped and screwed before it was popular. For those that don't know, give me a brief overview of how you got your start.
Lil' Flip:
I started off doing the mixtapes and freestyling. My grandmother played music for the church, so she was like you're going to be in the choir whether you like to or not. I've always been around music. She wanted me to play the piano, but I was like naw that's for girls. I ended up being an entertainer and if I would have taken piano I could have been like Beethoven. I've always been around music...I met Screw…and he let me do a few mixed tapes. I did shows on the weekends because I was still in high school...After that I dropped a solo album that sold a 150,000 units. Labels tried to sign us, but we were like let us sell another 100K first. First one went platinum and the second went double.

Shelia: What inspires you?
Lil' Flip:
On...my first label release...I could have talked about grilles. On my first song I talked about what I've been through. I come up with ideas at any point of the day. I'm an open minded type person. As of now, my fans are inspiring me. My label constantly showing that they care about investing money in me, inspires me. For awhile I wasn't doing music. There's so much BS that comes with it. You end up with enemies for no reason. I was just spending a lot of time with my family...because at the end of the day...whether you got a hit or not your family is going to always be there. When you come into the game so young, you think everybody is your friend but you don't really know...until you bump your head a couple of times.

Shelia: I'm not going to ask you about the so called beefs going on between this click and that, because that's been beat down. But I will ask you in your opinion, what are some ways to improve relations within the rap community? Do you think it's an ego thing?
Lil' Flip:
That's probably the #1 thing...#1 Try to keep your circle small...The more m-f you have around you, the more problems and more different types of attitudes you'll have to deal with. It's about being a good leader and not putting your team in danger behind your foolishness. EGO is the main thing that keeps all that going and the media--because if they get something, they will take it and run with it until they can't run with it anymore.

Shelia: Do you feel any pressure with your new album release?
Lil' Flip:
I feel pressure because I switched labels and folks are wondering what's going to happen...but ain't nothing going to happen differently except that this label really believes in me. They're pushing it and I'm not going to stop pushing it just because I'm with a major. I'm going to do my part regardless. But it makes you feel good to be with a label that's behind you.

I like being with a label that let me do what I do. I direct my own videos. I write the treatments...My videos are creative. I think out of the box. My videos will always have some kind of concept outside of just a girl shaking her a**. A lot of people under rate me and don't want to give me my credit...but fans know that there's no artist out here who can freestyle like me for 15 minutes straight without falling off. If there is, show him to me.

Shelia: Your hooks are usually catchy phrases and easy to remember.
Lil' Flip:
Before I did the music, I realized if you're going to catch somebody's ears, you have to have something that's going to make them remember it. The difference between me and some other rappers is that when you listen to my songs...even after you've heard it one time, you're going to remember a few things...it's not like you have to hear it five times...When I say something, every word I rap is clear...I like to be distinctive...I'm not afraid to try new stuff...I'm a critic when it comes to my hooks and music...I really do take time to put my music together...It takes 2 to 3 months to put it together in the order I want it.

The way I have my album, when you read the song listing, it's like a story.

Shelia: Speaking of your new album, I heard some of the songs got leaked earlier this year so you put some new songs on your upcoming CD. How does an entire CD get leaked to the public?
Lil' Flip:
It's a lot of ways for an album to get leaked…whether it be people working at the studios...someone got it and put it out there...I ordered one my d*** self.

The album comes with a DVD. The albums been done for 2 years. I never stopped recording. I recorded 8 new songs for the upcoming CD. I took out 3 songs and shot 4 NEW VIDEOS. I'll be giving away 5 clover chains. I plan on doing it Willy Wonka style where you can buy the album, get the golden ticket and you'll win a chain.

posted by Shelia, 9:33 AM | link | 0 comments |

Catch and Release Soundtrack



Official Site:
http://www.catchandreleasesoundtrack.com/

Catch And Release Audio Streams:
Razor - Foo Fighters

My Drug Buddy - The Lemonheads

Pills - Gary Jules

Tracklisting:
1. Razor Foo Fighters
2. My Drug Buddy The Lemonheads
3. A Nest For Two Blinker The Star
4. Mornings Eleven The Magic Numbers
5. Pills Gary Jules
6. Electrified And Ripe Steve Durand
7. The Winding Staircase New Radiant Storm King
8. Sky Signal Audible
9. Leaving The Ground Peter MacLaggan
10. What If You Joshua Radin
11. These 3 Sins Gomez
12. Resistance Alaska!
13. Let The Bad Times Roll Paul Westerberg
14. Turning Blue The Swallows
15. What I Done Andrew Rodriguez
16. Soul Meets Body Death Cab For Cutie
17. There Goes The Fear Doves
posted by Shelia, 9:21 AM | link | 0 comments |

Lucinda Williams new CD




AUDIO - Are You Alright?

"Lucinda Williams has made a career out of turning sorrow into beauty with spectacular results." - The New Yorker

To learn more about Lucinda Williams:
Artist Site: http://www.lucindawilliams.com
Myspace Site: http://www.myspace.com/lucindawilliams

Tour Dates:

3/6 Tucson, AZ Rialto

3/7 Albuquerque, NM Kimo

3/9 Austin, TX Stubb's

3/10 Dallas, TX Granada

3/13 Tallahassee, FL Musical Moon

3/16 Jacksonville, FL Florida Theater

3/17 Atlanta, GA Tabernacle

3/18 Asheville, NC Thomas Wolfe

3/23 New York, NY Radio City Music Hall

3/24 Boston, MA Orpheum

3/25 Northampton, MA Calvin Theater

3/27 Albany, NY Hart Theater

3/28 Harrisburg, PA Forum

3/30 Nashville, TN Ryman
posted by Shelia, 9:15 AM | link | 0 comments |

Collie Buddz

posted by Shelia, 8:46 AM | link | 0 comments |

C-Side

"Myspace Freak" Featuring Jazze Pha
http://dev.indierockmedia.com/cside/finalcside.mov

Although C-SIDE's name may be new to the mainstream, the group's popularity has long been a factor in both Atlanta's underground hip-hop community and on the new mainstream of America: the all-popular internet. Recognizing that there are millions of MySpace freaks, C-SIDE's electronic anthem, featuring hit-making producer, Jazze Pha, has caused a MySpace frenzy. C-SIDE is now on the road to success with the groundswell of attention that Myspace Freak has already garnered.

C-SIDE: Creative Superb Individuals Doing Entertainment.

C-SIDE is made up of three very talented individuals - Atlanta native Kenny Kold, the talented producer of the group (Kold previously produced hit records for the leaders of the “snap music” movement, platinum selling Southern rap group, Dem Franchize Boyz; Pimp C (UGK); and 12 Gauge); the quarterback of the group, South Carolina native Bo-Q; and the sly, ladies' man and true genius behind the concept of myspace.freak, Chicago-born Gator.

Check out the official MySpace page here:
http://www.myspace.com/csideonline
posted by Shelia, 8:22 AM | link | 0 comments |

Incognito - Bees+Things+Flowers CD



Bees+Things+Flowers by Incognito is like a spring breeze--perfect combination of music and vocals that results in a great mix of jazz and soul music.

Hear a few songs from the album here:

"Crave"
"Deep Waters"

"Everybody Loves The Sunshine"
"Everyday"
posted by Shelia, 7:47 AM | link | 0 comments |

Blak Jak Place Your Bet CD



"Ball Out ($500)" Featuring T-Pain

Windows Media

Real Player

"Bobbin My Head"

Audio

Video


"Ride and Swerve"

Audio

Visit Blak Jak's myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/blakjak
posted by Shelia, 7:39 AM | link | 0 comments |

Loreena McKennitt new CD & Tour Dates



ARTIST SITE: http://www.quinlanroad.com/
LABEL: http://vervemusicgroup.com/artist.aspx?ob=art&src=rslt&aid=7075

AUDIO STREAMS - Caravanserai
WMA:
http://boss.streamos.com/wmedia/verve/loreena_mc/wma/caravanserai.wax

Real:
http://boss.streamos.com/real/verve/loreena_mc/real/caravanserai001.smi

Track Listing:
1 Incantation
2 The Gates Of Istanbul
3 Caravanserai
4 The English Ladye And The Knight
5 Kecharitomene
6 Penelope's Song
7 Sacred Shabbat
8 Beneath A Phrygian Sky
9 Never-Ending Road (Amhrán Duit)

ARTIST SITE: http://www.quinlanroad.com

Tour Dates
Day-Month-Year
11-03-07 Stuttgart Germany Beethovensaal On sale now
12-03-07 Frankfurt Germany Jahrhunderthalle On sale now
14-03-07 Amsterdam Netherlands Heineken Music Hall On sale now
15-03-07 Paris France Grand Rex On sale now
17-03-07 Murcia Spain Auditorio de Murcia On sale now
18-03-07 Barcelona Spain BTM On sale now
20-03-07 Rome Italy Auditorium Conciliazione On sale now
22-03-07 Milan Italy Teatro degli Arcimboldi On sale now
23-03-07 Florence Italy Teatro Verdi On sale now
25-03-07 Zurich Switzerland Kongresshaus On sale now
26-03-07 Munich Germany Philharmonie im Gasteig On sale now
27-03-07 Dusseldorf Germany Philipshalle On sale now
28-03-07 Berlin Germany Tempodrom On sale now
31-03-07 Hamburg Germany CCH1 On sale now
1-04-07 Copenhagen Denmark Falkoner Theatre On sale now
3-04-07 London United Kingdom The Barbican On sale now
4-04-07 Brussels Belgium Cirque Royal On sale now
posted by Shelia, 7:33 AM | link | 0 comments |

Joseph Israel new CD and Tour dates

Joseph Israel's latest CD "Gone are the Days" will be in stores in March.

Tour Dates
1/16/2007 10:30P Sherpa & Yeti's Breckenridge, CO

1/17/2007 10:00P Club 8150 Vail, CO Stanton Moore Trio plus Joseph Israel

1/18/2007 9:00P Fox Theater Boulder, CO
Plus Jus Goodie

1/22/2007 Sundance Festival Sundance, UT

1/24/2007 Temple Bar Santa Monica, CA

1/25/2007 Bottom of the Hill San Francisco, CA

1/28/2007 WOW Hall Eugene, OR

1/29/2007 Fez Ballroom Portland, OR

1/30/2007 Chop Suey Seattle, WA
Special Guest Clinton Fearon ( original Member one of the Top reggae bands ever" The Gladiators") and Dj Element ( Zions Gate Records)

1/31/2007 - 8:00 pm The Big Easy Concert House
911 W Sprague Ave Spokane, WA

2/2/2007 - Doors Open 7:00pm Showtime 8:00pm The Big Easy Concert House Boise, ID 416 S. 9th Street
Boise, ID 83702

2/6/2007 Showtime 10:00pm Mangy Moose
Plus Jus Goodie
Teton Village, WY

2/8/2007 - 7pm The Bottleneck Lawrence, KS

2/9/2007 - 9pm The Duck Room St.Louis, MO

2/23/2007 Ski Tour Street Party Aspen, CO
posted by Shelia, 7:26 AM | link | 0 comments |

2R's Entertainment & Media adds Jimmy Cozier to roster

New York, NY - 2R's Entertainment & Media, Inc. is pleased to announce to the addition of the talented singer/songwriter/producer JIMMY COZIER, to its media and publicity roster. "It is an honor to work with the 2R's family as I am looking forward to them helping me take my career to higher heights," says Jimmy Cozier. Jimmy joins the 2R's Entertainment & Media roster alongside with Donell Jones, Alexander Allen (Celebrity Fashion Stylist), NIK (America's Next Top Model), R.W. McQuarters (NY Giants), Nicoye Banks (Actor), Maya Azucena (Recording Artist), Nickelodeon, The N and The BLEU Magazine.

Jimmy Cozier is a singer/songwriter/producer born in Brooklyn, New York. His parents are of Jamaican and Guyanese descent and have been a major part of his musical success. With his dad being a jazz saxophonist, young Cozier has always been exposed to the art of music. His first big step in the game was recording with Lil' Kim on Junior Mafia's first album, on the song "Backstabbers". He then went on to showcase his talent as a back up singer and piano player for Joe on his "All that I Am" tour. From there the ball kept rolling when Cozier was hired to write with Lil’ Mo on several projects from the Elektra Entertainment roster. That opportunity eventually landed him to co-write the smash hit "Girlfriend/Boyfriend" a duet from Janet Jackson and Blackstreet.

Since then, Jimmy Cozier has been able to lend his musical talents and work with the likes of Mya, Craig David, Sinead O'connor, Darius Rucker of "Hootie and the Blowfish", Olivia and nine time Grammy winner Alicia Keys. In 1999 Jimmy Cozier was introduced to Clive Davis via Wyclef Jean and signed a recording deal to Arista Records, under the direction of Clive Davis. In 2001 Clive left Arista Records and started J Records. Cozier rolled with Clive, and his freshman, self titled album was released in summer 2001, producing the hit singles "She Is All I Got" and "So Much To Lose." "She's All I Got" peaked number 3 on the Billboard Hot R&B charts and the album peaked number 27 on Billboard Top 200.

Jimmy's forthcoming album is scheduled for a summer '07 release. Stay tuned as the single "You Got Them Goods" featuring Jim Jones is coming to radio soon.

In the meantime, let’s take a trip down memory lane;

JIMMY COZIER: She's All I Got
http://mp.aol.com/video.index.adp?mode=2&pmmsid=1636229

JIMMY COZIER: So Much To Lose
http://us.video.aol.com/video.index.adp?pmmsid=1636202

Learn more about Jimmy Cozier at www.myspace.com/jimmycozier or at http://www.cozimusic.com/.

For more information please feel free to contact
Ra-Fael Blanco at 2R’s Entertainment & Media, Inc. at 646.326.4803 or via email at TwoRsEnt@aol.com.

# # #
posted by Shelia, 7:13 AM | link | 0 comments |

Stomp the Yard in Theaters Now

Friday, January 12, 2007

Film stars Ne-Yo, Columbus Short, Meagan Good, and Chris Brown
(January 12, 2007)- New York, NY "Stomp The Yard," a major motion picture simulating the black college experience in Atlanta, Gerogia, is now playing at a movie theatre near you, just in time for the Martin Luther King holiday.

Synopsis: A young man finds that the moves he learned on the street may help him make a better life for himself in this youth-oriented musical drama. DJ Williams (Columbus Short) is a 19-year-old growing up in Los Angeles; while DJ is at heart a good kid and a gifted street dancer, he runs with a dangerous crowd, and one night an underground dance competition turns into a brawl and DJ ends up in jail. DJ's younger brother has already died a violent death, and his mother, hoping to put him back on the straight and narrow, sends DJ off to Truth University, a historically African-American college in Atlanta. At first, DJ feels like a misfit at Truth, but when he gets a chance to show off his dancing skills, he attracts the attention of two campus fraternities. Greek life is a major presence at Truth, and each year the fraternities take part in a "stepping" competition, in which the members show off their synchronized dance moves. DJ joins the ONO house, and is eager to help them take the championship away from their campus rivals, but in time he also comes to understand the brotherhood and community service that's a key part of his fraternity's background. DJ also has more on his mind than dancing and studying when he meets April (Meagan Good), a beautiful coed. Produced under the title Steppin', Stomp the Yard also stars Ne-Yo, Brian J. White, and Jermaine Williams. (Courtesy of Mark Deming, All Movie Guide)

STOMP THE YARD IN THEATERS NOW
http://www.stomptheyard.com
posted by Shelia, 2:08 PM | link | 0 comments |

5 Questions with Author Cherlyn Michaels

Thursday, January 04, 2007

After a successful debut novel Counting Raindrops through a Stained Glass Window, Cherlyn Michaels is back with her second book First Fridays.

I caught up with Cherlyn right before First Fridays hit the bookstores.

Where did the concept for First Fridays come from?
Well, in the past years, I've attended First Fridays events myself. And while there, you see all types of relationships being built. Business and personal. And somewhere along the line, I thought, "What if..." So, in this case, I can't say it was based on my experience or someone elses. Just a thought that developed from being in that environment.

Do you think this type of networking event is beneficial?
Most definitely. But just like the characters in the event, you do have to investigate and look deeply into someone. At networking events and wherever, you will always have those out with hidden agendas and personal motives. But then you have a lot of people out there that are on the move. People who know they have a good idea and a plan and have expertise in one or several areas, but not another. Networking is building a relationship just like building a personal relationship. With both, you have to take your time and don't rush into anything. Learn about the person that you're dealing with and what you're getting into before you go further.

Tell me more about your main character Naja Rodgers.
Naja Rodgers is like a lot of us. She's stuck in a dead end job where there's no growth and dying to get out there and make it on her own. She's intelligent, strong, and a go-getter, yet at the same time, she needs that reassuring voice and that gentle push for her to get started. She's very determined and focused. While that can be good for achieving her business goals, it can reek havoc on her personal life. And she sees that and tries and succeeds at letting go. But then she has to question whether she let go too much. Like a lot of us, she struggles with balancing all aspects of her life. But she's determined to get it right without losing everything.

This is your second book so I'm sure you have some words of wisdom to share with aspiring writers. What kind of advice would you give someone who has finished the manuscript--what should be their next step?
If they haven't already, research the industry before you jump in. Buy books (or borrow from the library) on publishing. Talk to other published authors. Then set your own plan, whether it be to go the traditional route or self published. Whatever you want to do, starting with knowledge and a well-crafted plan will assure you of achieving your goals.

How can readers learn more about your books?
Readers can visit my website at www.cherlynmichaels.com. I have a synopsis, first chapter excerpt, and a reader's guide for both of my books. Plus, I have a little bit about me and my background. Readers can also email me at Cherlyn@cherlynmichaels.com.




Interview by Shelia M Goss, an entertainment writer and author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are thorns, Violets are true. For detailed bio, visit www.sheliagoss.com.
posted by Shelia, 11:49 AM | link | 1 comments |

DVD Giveaway Snakes on a Plane

Never-Before-Seen DVD Bonus Features Include Audio Commentary from Samuel L. Jackson and Director David Ellis, Deleted Scenes, a Behind-the-Scenes Documentary, a Gag Reel and the "Snakes on a Plane (Bring It)" Music Video.

New Line Cinema's Snakes on a Plane DVD
available in stores NOW or online



To enter for a chance to win a copy of Snakes on a Plane DVD, scroll down and fill out the form below (CONTEST ENDS February 2, 2007):







































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By checking this box you understand that no purchase is necessary to enter contest and void where prohibited by law.

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posted by Shelia, 10:09 AM | link | 0 comments |

Mike Jones new single Mr Jones

Hear the new single "Mr. Jones" from Mike Jones forthcoming album, The American Dream.

Album Version:
Quicktime
Windows

Clean Version:
Quicktime
Windows
posted by Shelia, 9:42 AM | link | 0 comments |

See Papoose Video Here

Papoose's Alphabetical Slaughter video:

CLICK HERE.
posted by Shelia, 9:15 AM | link | 0 comments |

Lifetime movie To Be Fat Like Me Premieres Monday January 8th

Inspired by the Real-Life Experiences of New York Teen Ali Schmidt Who Went Undercover in a Fat Suit to High School for a Network News Special on Obesity

Movie Launches Lifetime's Second Annual 'Living Healthy' Initiative to Encourage Viewers to Make Healthy Lifestyle Decisions and Promote Tolerance


LOS ANGELES, January 2, 2007 - Kaley Cuoco ("8 Simple Rules") and Caroline Rhea ("The Biggest Loser") star in the Lifetime Original Movie "To Be Fat Like Me," the story of an attractive high school junior who experiences first-hand the extreme prejudice and heartbreak overweight teens face when she attends class undercover in a fat suit and prosthetics as part of a statewide film competition. "To Be Fat Like Me" also explores the idea of intolerance for the overweight even within one's own family. The telefilm is inspired by the true story and experiences of New York teen Ali Schmidt, who went undercover for a 2003 network news special on obesity. "To Be Fat Like Me" premieres Monday, January 8, 2007 at 9pm ET/PT on Lifetime Television.

In "To Be Fat Like Me," athletic and popular high school junior Aly (Cuoco), always planned on getting into college by landing a softball scholarship. But when a sports injury leaves her sidelined, Aly decides to enter a documentary film contest in hopes of winning the prize money to pay for college.

Convinced that her overweight younger brother Adam and mother Madelyn (Rhea) use their struggles with weight as an excuse for all that is wrong in their lives, Aly arms herself with a fat suit and hidden camera to find out the truth as the subject of her film entry. With the help of her classmate Janie and neighbor Warren, a resourceful make-up artist, Aly devises a plan to attend summer classes at a rival high school where no one knows the real "Aly" and shows up on campus as a 250-pound student.

Although she expected some negative reactions, Aly is shocked by the level of cruelty she encounters. Having anticipated that her naturally buoyant personality would eventually win over her fellow students, Aly is surprised at the assumptions and judgments being made about her. Her confidence is quickly shattered when she is teased, mocked and harassed and Aly soon begins to understand how intolerant she has been of her own family's weight issues.

More than 60 million people in America are obese and the percentage of young people who are overweight has tripled since 1980. "To Be Fat Like Me" is a pivotal component of Lifetime's annual "Living Healthy" campaign, encouraging health and well-being, including body image, fitness and diet. Lifetime is joining with nonprofit organizations, such as Girls Inc. and the National Women's Health Resource Center, to promote these messages of health, as well as tolerance, and for a PSA with Kaley Cuoco to follow the film.

"To Be Fat Like Me" is produced by Ardmore Productions for Lifetime Television. Mike Jacobs, Jr. (Lifetime Television's "Their Second Chance") and Michael Givens ("Mrs. Lambert Remembers Love") serve as executive producers. Paul Rayman ("The Engagement Ring") and Michael Shepard ("Imaginary Playmate") produced and Doug Barr (Lifetime Television's "For the Love of a Child") directed. The telefilm is written by Michelle Lovretta ("Instant Star").

Website: http://www.lifetimetv.com/movies/originals/fatlikeme.php
posted by Shelia, 9:11 AM | link | 0 comments |

Beyond the Break Second Season also stars Tiffany Hines

NEW YORK, NY. January 2007 - The N prepares to premiere the second season of one of the most talked about Teen shows on TV, Beyond The Break. On Friday, January 5, at 8:30 p.m. (ET), Beyond the Break returns to The N with a one-hour premiere kicking off 10 new original episodes.

"The N kicks off 2007 with exciting new episodes and juicy storylines that our fans won't want to miss," said Sarah Tomassi Lindman, Senior Vice President and General Manager, The N. "Prepare for the unexpected because The N goes there". The-n.com will also feature exclusive online content from Beyond the Break with behind-the-scenes clips each week beginning Friday, January 5. Additionally, new online webisodes of Beyond the Break will roll out for four consecutive weeks beginning Friday, February 9.

Beyond the Break returns with David Chokachi as Justin Healey as he guides the all female surf team who battle the Hawaiian waves in the hopes of finally going pro. But for these four ladies - it's their personal lives that need guidance. Tiffany Hines as Birdie will contemplate walking down the aisle with Marcus even though that means leaving the beach and surf behind, Kai continues to spiral out of control as her drug habit takes hold and for the first time the team will break apart and compete against each other for an elite spot at the Fiji Open. But when one member is overlooked, she will walk away from WaveSync forever to join a competing surf league.

More on Tiffany Hines (Birdie Scott)

Tiffany grew up in Cincinnati with her parents and younger sister. She attended Seven Hills Upper School and then went on to major in Marketing at the University of Cincinnati. Tiffany is an avid dancer and has had lead roles in productions of Watership Down, Oliver, Annie and Crazy For You. Tiffany also studied Dance at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, Dawn Meyer School of Dance and the Cincinnati Ballet Master Classes. Her achieved skill and transition from college theatre to TV and film was a very natural step for Tiffany.

Tiffany Hines has made guest starring appearances in episodes of NBC's Heroes and in the season two finale of ABC's Grey's Anatomy. On the big screen, her feature film credits include roles in A Week and a Year, Joy and Fear, Jump Jive and Swing and Paramount Pictures' All Shook Up. Although her first love is acting, Tiffany still finds time to dance and sing when she's not surfing.
posted by Shelia, 9:04 AM | link | 0 comments |

Introducing Natasha

Introducing new recording artist Natasha. Hear the first single here.

"So Sick" Audio Stream

VOTED MOST LIKELY TO SUCCEED
During her junior year in high school, while working at a Subway sandwich shop, Natasha was introduced to Grammy Award-winning super producer Rodney Jerkins. Making up routines and dancing to videos in the mirror prepared her for an amazing audition for Jerkins. After seeing her sing and dance just once, Jerkins invited Natasha to his Darkchild studio to record what would ultimately become her first two smashes, "So Sick" and "Hey Hey Hey." A short time later she was signed to Jive Records through Jerkins' Darkchild Entertainment.

"I've never seen a new artist like Natasha," says Jerkins. "She's already doing things that it took a decade for more established artists to learn."

"This is a dream come true for me," beams Natasha. After years of dancing in the family room of her parents' Galloway, NJ home she finally puts her moves to work in her debut video for "Hey Hey Hey." Currently a senior in high school Natasha is excited to rep for the Class of 2007 as she begins her career as a recording artist!
posted by Shelia, 8:59 AM | link | 0 comments |

Movie - Codename: The Cleaner in Theaters Friday


CODENAME: THE CLEANER
NEW LINE CINEMA
IN THEATERS JANUARY 5TH

See Trailer

WATCH "SPECIAL MOPS" CLIP

"BE THE CLEANER" CONTEST

SYNOPSIS

Director: Les Mayfield
Starring: Cedric the Entertainer, Lucy Liu, and Nicollette Sheridan

Cedric the Entertainer, Lucy Liu and Nicollette Sheridan star in the fast-paced action comedy, Code Name: The Cleaner. Cedric plays Jake, a seemingly regular guy who has no idea who he is after being hit over the head by mysterious assailants. When he finds himself unexpectedly entangled in a high-level government conspiracy, Jake and his pursuers begin to believe that he is an undercover agent who subconsciously holds a key piece of information that could expose an arms deal involving the CIA and FBI. Lucy Liu (Charlie's Angels) and Nicollette Sheridan ("Desperate Housewives") co-star as the women Jake may or may not be involved with. Code Name: The Cleaner is directed by Les Mayfield (Blue Streak) and will be released nationwide on January 5th, 2007
posted by Shelia, 8:54 AM | link | 0 comments |

Justin Timberlake Tour Dates



Justin Timberlake broke records with FutureSex/LoveSounds. Now he's taking the show on the road.

TOUR DATES:

1/8 San Diego, CA iPayOne Center
1/9 Anaheim, CA Honda Center
1/12 Sacramento, CA ARCO Arena
1/14 Phoenix, AZ Glendale Arena
1/16 Los Angeles, CA Staples Center
1/17 Fresno, CA Savemart Center
1/27 St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center
1/30 Toronto, ON Air Canada Centre
1/31 Montreal, QC Bell Centre
2/2 Washington, D.C. Verizon Center
2/3 Cleveland, OH Quicken Loans Arena
2/6 Boston, MA TD Banknorth Garden
2/7 New York City, NY Madison Square Garden
2/18 Buffalo, NY HSBC Arena
2/22 Tampa, FL St. Pete Times Forum
2/24 Miami, FL American Airlines Arena
2/25 Fort Lauderdale, FL BankAtlantic Center
2/27 Atlanta, GA Philips Arena
3/1 New Orleans, LA New Orleans Arena
3/3 Bossier City, LA CenturyTel Center
3/4 Houston, TX Toyota Center
3/5 Dallas, TX American Airlines Center
3/8 Omaha, NE Qwest Center
3/9 Ames, IA Hilton Coliseum
3/16 Nashville, TN Gaylord Entertainment Center
3/18 Charlottesville, VA John Paul Jones Arena
3/19 Pittsburgh, PA Mellon Arena
3/21 Uniondale, NY Nassau Coliseum
3/24 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun
3/27 Philadelphia, PA Wachovia Center
3/29 East Rutherford, NJ Continental Airlines Arena

Like I Love You (Live Version)
posted by Shelia, 8:47 AM | link | 1 comments |

Singer Kuky - Hear New Single



Hear single here:
Kuky - "Ya No"

Who is Kuky?
She feels Sonoran and acts Sonoran, because this northern Mexican state is her mother's birthplace, which is precisely why she decided that she'd better write and sing in Spanish, even though she's a bilingual native of Granada Hills, in the San Fernando Valley. She has now come out with her debut cd, named after the singer herself, Kuky.

All twelve songs on this album have been written and sung by Kuky, a young, attractive, easy-going woman with a soaring voice that draws you in, and is occasionally accompanied by her producers, the Akwid brothers Sergio and Francisco Gómez, on two songs of their first non-Akwid album.

This CD from Machete Music/Universal Music Group actually contains two additional versions of these songs that manage to pack R&B, international pop melodies, a sprinkling of hip-hop and even some mariachi fusions into a very personalized and alternative sound, bringing the grand total up to an immensely moving 14 cuts.

The first single, "Ya No" ("No more"), is both an eloquent and creative example of Kuky's talent, who defiantly sings in a language that is clear, current and everyday about shutting the door on a relationship, "major lárgate ya... ya no quiero seguir viviendo así, esto no es para mí" ("You'd better just go... I don't want to keep living this way anymore. This isn't for me.").

Besides bringing out her message, this musical arrangement by Akwid gives "Ya No" a context that every woman has experienced, one in which she says "No more" to the man who has promised to change and tries to, but never actually does.

Kuky, a Pisces born Lucero Rodriguez on February 23, is currently based in Northridge, California. She describes herself as "a dreamer with a big heart, for whom the most important thing is to try to find happiness in whatever she’s doing." The greatest music teacher she has ever had in her life was her mother, who used to sing with Mariachis in rodeo shows and festivals: "She would bring me along to her shows, and that environment had a big influence on me."

Her adopted name, "Kuky" was given to her in high school by her classmates who noticed her cheerful attitude that was "kind of clownish and sometimes sardonic."

Strangely enough, back in her schooldays, the only thing that she sang was the national anthem and a couple of Christmas songs every now and then. But once she graduated, she made her way into music "little by little" by working in choirs at recording studios.

This is the area that she has been developing over the past five years, which is how she met the Gómez brothers who make up Akwid. The first thing they did was invite her to do some shows with them and ended up encouraging her to take the decisive leap to go solo, which is what she had "always" wanted to do.

Until then, she had never thought about singing or writing in Spanish. But once they gave her the music for a song for her to try out, Kuky threw herself into the task of writing the lyrics in the language of her ancestors. She admits with a smile that she kind of "half wanted and half didn't want to do it." The end result was so outstanding that she ended up composing all of the songs that were recorded for this album, her first career achievement.

As a result of their enthusiasm for and admiration of her, Akwid became Kuky's star guest performers, and can be heard in two of her songs: "Bailar y Gozar" (Dance and Enjoy) and "Let Me See" in English.

But the Gómez brothers aren't the only ones who have succumbed to her musical charms; as soon as the single "Ya No" was barely test released, several radio stations in various American markets picked it up, which is unusual for a new artist.

These radio stations know quite well that "Kuky", the album and Kuky, the voice, are one in the same: the new artist on the block who's got all the essential ingredients to be a star who was born to shine.

ALBUM IN STORES JANUARY 23, 2007

www.myspace.com/kukymusic
www.machetemusic.com
posted by Shelia, 8:30 AM | link | 0 comments |

Movie - Freedom Writers in theaters Friday

Paramount Pictures "Freedom Writers" will be in theaters on Friday, January 5, 2007.

About Freedom Writers
Erin Gruwells passion to become a teacher is soon challenged by a group of Black, Latino, and Asian gangbangers who hate her even more than each other. When Erin (Hillary Swank) begins to listen to them in a way no adult has ever done, she begins to understand that for these kids, getting through the day alive is enough; they are not delinquents but teenagers fighting a war of the streets that began long before they were born. Erin gives them something they never had from a teacher before respect.

ERIN GRUWELL, the Freedom Writers, and her nonprofit organization, The Freedom Writers Foundation, have received many awards, including the prestigious Spirit of Anne Frank Award, and have appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Primetime, Good Morning America, and The View, to name a few. All 150 Freedom Writers went on to graduate from high school. Erin Gruwell is also a charismatic motivational speaker who spreads her dynamic message to students, teachers, and business people around the world. She lives in southern California.

You Tube Link:
http://www.youtube.com/beheard

Common with will.i.am "A Dream" streaming audio

"Freedom Writers" movie trailer:
Windows Media
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