RCA MUSIC GROUP EARNS 21 GRAMMY NOMINATIONS

RCA recording artists Foo Fighters and their album Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace earned a total of five nominations -- including Album of the Year and Best Rock Album -- at the 50th annual Grammy Awards announcements today in Los Angeles. The Foo Fighters track "The Pretender" is nominated for Record of the Year, Best Hard Rock Performance, and Best Rock Song. To date, Foo Fighters have earned four Grammy Awards including two for Best Rock Album for There Is Nothing Left To Lose (2000) and One By One (2003).

19 Recordings/RCA Records group Daughtry and earned four Grammy Award nominations. Daughtry's self-titled No. 1 album (certified 3X platinum) is nominated for Best Rock Album, with the track "Home" nominated for Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group with Vocals and the track "It's Not Over" nominated for Best Rock Performance By A Duo Or Group with Vocal and Best Rock Song.

Carrie Underwood's hit single "Before He Cheats," a track from the 6X platinum album Some Hearts, is nominated for Best Female Country Vocal Performance and for two songwriter awards, Song of the Year and Best Country Song. Carrie, who is already a 4x Grammy winner, is also nominated for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for the track "Oh Love," performed with Brad Paisley on his album 5th Gear.

J Records artist Fantasia earned nominations for Best Contemporary R&B Album for her best-selling album Fantasia and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for the track "When I See U," also nominated for Best R&B Song
(a songwriters award).

J Records artist Alicia Keys, a nine-time Grammy Award winner, earned two nominations for her song "No One" (which she co-wrote for her album As I Am) as Best Female R&B Vocal Performance and as Best R&B Song (a
songwriters award).

"Candyman," a song by RCA recording artist Christina Aguilera from her album Back to Basics, is nominated for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Christina also picked up a co-nomination with the legendary Tony Bennett in
the category of Best Pop Collaboration With Vocal for their duet on "Steppin' Out With My Baby" from the album Tony Bennett: An American Classic.

East Side Story, the J Records debut album by Emily King, is nominated in the category of Best Contemporary R&B Album. "Guaranteed," composed and performed by Eddie Vedder for the J Records soundtrack Into The Wild, is
nominated for Best Song Written For Motion Picture, Tele­vision Or Other Visual Media.

RCA Records recording artist Mark Ronson is nominated for Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical for his work on his own release Version among many other nominated recordings including the album Back to Black by Amy
Winehouse and the track "Littlest Things" by Lily Allen.

Special congratulations to these RCA Music Group artists who received Grammy Award nominations for the following recordings:
- Aretha Franklin -- Best Gospel Performance for "Never Gonna Break My Faith" with Mary J. Blige, from the original soundtrack album Bobby.

- Kelly Clarkson -- Best Country Collaboration With Vocals for "Because of You" (co-written by Kelly Clarkson) with Reba McEntire, from her album Reba Duets.

- Christina Aguilera -- Best Pop Collaboration With Vocal for "Steppin' Out With My Baby" with Tony Bennett, from his album Tony Bennett: An American Classic.

- Carrie Underwood -- Best Country Collaboration With Vocals for "Oh Love" with Brad Paisley, from his album 5th Gear.

Further congratulations go to:
- Arista recording artist Jennifer Hudson, whose incredible performance contributed to the nomination of "Love You I Do" (composed by Siedah Garrett & Henry Krieger) as Best Song Written For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media, and to the nomination of the Dreamgirls soundtrack for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media.

- Howard Benson, nominated for Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical for his work on Daughtry among other recordings.

The 50th annual Grammy Awards will be broadcast live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles on the CBS network beginning at 8:00 pm (ET) on Sunday, February 10, 2008.

RICHIE HAVENS TOUR DATES

Richie Havens will perform the following concerts:
December 1 @ Tupelo Music Hall, Londonderry NH
December 2 @ Stone Mountain Arts Center, Brownfield ME
December 7 @ Narrows Center, Fall River MA
December 8 @ Proctor's Theatre, Schenectady NY
December 13 @ Boulder Theater, Boulder CO
December 14 @ Sheridan Opera House, Telluride CO
December 15 @ Fort Lewis College, Durango CO
December 31 @ Watercolor Café, Larchmont NY
January 5 @ El Campanil Theatre, Antioch CA
January 11 @ HighLine Ballroom, New York NY
January 13 @ Rams Head, Annapolis MD
January 18 @ Boulton Center, Bay Shore NY
January 19 @t Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield CT
January 26 @ Al Ringling Theatre, Baraboo WI
February 8 @ McGlohon Theatre, Charlotte NC
February 9 @ Melting Pot, Athens GA
March 27 @ Massillion Museum, Massillion OH
March 28 @ Stuart's Opera House, Nelsonville OH
March 29 @ Holland Theatre, Bellefontaine OH
March 30 @ Kent Stage, Kent OH
April 12 @ Wilson School, Natick MA
April 18 @ Turnage Theatre, Washington DC
April 22 @ Hugh's Room, Toronto ON
April 23 @ Hugh's Room, Toronto ON
April 25 @ Sydenham Street United, Kingston ON
April 26 @ Oscar Peterson Concert Hall, Montreal QC
May 2 @ Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York NY

UPCOMING MUSIC RELEASES

New Releases for 2008 include: Paul Hardcastle (Hardcastle 5); Jessy J (Tequila Moon); Gerard Veasley (Your Move); Lee Ritenour/Dave Grusin (Collaboration); Jaared (Addiction); Alexander O’Neal (Love Songs); plus other releases from Marion Meadows, and Michael Lington.

SLY & THE FAMILY STONE AT BB KINGS

Following decades of inactivity and a summer of spot dates throughout Europe, Sly Stone and his famous band The Family Stone took the stage in New York last week for the first time in 32 years. Recent reviews have blasted Sly's recent performances at BB Kings in New York, due to the fact that it seemed as if Sly actually performed at the gig. Apparently, Sly's band did not include original members of the Family Stone and Sly himself only sang a few notes of each song, and in one performance, walked off the stage complaining that he was 'too old." In any event, a crowd of about 1000 showed up at B.B. King's Blues Club and Grill last Tuesday for the rare appearance of 64-year-old Stone, who performed dressed in a white sweatsuit with silver trim, sunglasses and Mohawk hairstyle. According to Reuters, Stone "filled the club with his rich, mellifluous voice as the band spent an hour cycling through their greatest hits, including 'Everyday People,' 'Family Affair' and 'Stand.'" Due to popular demand, B.B. King's has added two more Sly and the Family Stone shows for Dec. 7 at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. The bad news: both sets are already sold

SANTANA 2008 TOUR DATES

Santana will perform the following concerts:
February 15 @ Dubai Festival City, Dubai United Arab Emirates
February 18 @ Indoor Stadium, Singapore
February 21 @ Burswood Dome, Perth Australia
February 26 @ Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Australia
February 28 @ Acer Arena, Sydney Australia
March 2 @ Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Boondall Australia
March 4 @ Vector Arena, Auckland New Zealand
March 7 @ Asiaworld Arena, Hong Kong
June 20 @ NEC Arena, Birmingham UK
June 21 @ Manchester Evening News Arena, Manchester UK
June 22 @ O2 Arena, London UK
June 24 @ Palais Omnisports, Paris France
June 26 @ Football Stadium, Bratislava Slovakia
June 28 @ City Square, Budapest Hungary
June 30 @ Arena, Verona Italy
July 1 @ Salzburg Arena, Salzburg Austria
July 2 @ Castle of Salem, Salem Germany
July 4 @ Volkerschlacht Denkmal, Leipzig Germany
July 5 @ Schlosshof, Bad Mergentheim Germany
July 6 @ Rennplatz, Iffezheim Germany
July 8 @ Sporting Club, Monte Carlo Monaco
July 9 @ Sporting Club, Monte Carlo Monaco
July 14 @ Philipshalle, Dusseldorf Germany
July 16 @ Christinehof Castle, Malmo Sweden

NEW RELEASES FROM BONEY JAMES, CHAZ JANKEL, N-GROOVE, QUANTIC SOUL ORCHESTRA & MORE...

NEW RELEASES
Albright – Sunny One Day
Angie Stone – The Art Of Love And War (Stax/Concord)
April Hill – Love 360
Ayo – Joyful (Interscope)
Bernie Kenerson – Just You And Me (Bernup Records)
Bill Bergman & The Metro Trio – Universe Soul (L’il G’rilla Records)
Boney James – Christmas Presents (Concord)
Blue Mitchell – Bantu Village (Blue Note)
Chaz Jankel – My Occupation – The Music of Chaz Jankel (Tirk/UK)
Cheri Maree – Pure Voice
Christine Spero Group – My Spanish Dream (Collective Works Media)
Curtis Mayfield – Sweet Exorcist (Curtom)
Dave Koz – Memories For A Winter’s Night
Dells – The Dells Sing Dionne Warwick (Cadet/Dusty Groove)
Donny Hathaway & Quincy Jones – Come Back Charleston Blue (Atco/UK)
Ed Johnson & Novo Tempo – The Other Road (Cumulus Records)
Ennio Morricone – La Trappola Scatta A Beirut/Il Successo (GDM/Italy)
Ennio Morricone – L’Alibi (Dagnored/Italy)
Ennio Morricone – Corleone (Dagnores/Italy)
Eric Alexander – My Favorite Things (Venus/Japan)
Eric Marienthal – Just Around The Corner (Peak Records)
Everette Harp – My Inspiration (Shanachie)
Gordon James – In Joy (Caress Music)
Hi Fly Orchestra – Violet Remixes EP (Ajambu/Germany)
Isley Brothers – I’ll Be Home For Christmas
James Brown – Colour Collection 2 (Spectrum/UK)
James Taylor – One Man Band (Hear Music)
Javier Pitera – Un Verano Sin Fin (Lounge Music)
Jay Leach – Christmas Guitar (Independent)
Jim Brickman - Homecoming
Jimmy Sommers – Sunset Collective (Gemini)
John Coltrane – Inch Worm (Get Back/Italy)
Jon Lucien – I Am Now/Mind’s Eye/Rashida (BMG/Germany)
Jonathan Butler – Live In South Africa (Rendezvous)
Joyce & Tutty Moreno – Samba Jazz & Outras Bossa (Far Out/UK)
KJ Denhert – Lucky 7 (Motema Music)
Keith Andrew – Contemplation (KeithAndrew.com)
Lee Hazlewood – Very Special World of Lee Hazlewood (MGM/Water)
Lee Hazlewood – Lee Hazlewoodisom – It’s Cause & Cure (MGM/Water)
Leroy Hutson – Paradise (Elektra/UK)
Lou Rawls – The Essential Lou Rawls (Philadelphia Int’l/Legacy)
Lulu – Atco Sessions 1969 to 1972 (Atco/WEA/UK)
Marty Sheller - Why Deny (PVR Records)
Mikelyn Roderick – Copasetic Is
Modern Sound Quartet – Otinku (Odeon/EM/Japan)
N-Groove – It’s Who We Are (Nembleu Entertainment)
Nat King Cole – The Spanish Remixes
Neal Davis – Christmas (Creative Energy)
Neal Davis – Rendezvous (Creative Energy)
Nicole Willis & The Soul Investigators – Keep Reachin’ Up – Remixed (Timmons)
Nostalgia 77 Octet – Weapon of Jazz Destruction (Tru Thoughts/UK)
Patrick Bradley – Come Rain Or Shine (Patrick Bradley)
Patti LaBelle – Miss Patti’s Christmas
Peabo Bryson – Missing You (Peak Records)
Peter Brotzmann & Harry Miller – Brotzmann & Miller (Corbett vs. Dempsey)
Peter White, Rick Braun & Mindi Abair – Peter White Christmas
Phillip Martin – Pride & Joy (Three Keys Music)
Piero Piccioni – L’Imprevisto (Dagnored/Italy)
Piero Piccioni – Se Incontri Sartana Prega Per La Tua Morte (Veritano/Japan)
Pino Donaggio – Corruzione Al Palazzo Di Giustizia (Fin De Siecle/Sweden)
Quantic Soul Orchestra – Tropidelico (Ten Thoughts/UK)
Rachel Brown – Love, Life & Relationships
Rob Maletick – Back Home (C.A.R. Records)
Seven - Home
Shaffer – Cool (Independent)
Stanley Clarke – The Toys Of Men (Heads Up)
Stanley Clarke – Original Album Classics 5-CD Set (Stanley Clarke/Journey To Love/School Days/Modern Man/Clarke Duke Project) (Columbia/UK)
Teddy Pendergrass – The Essential Teddy (Philadelphia Int’l/Legacy)
Ty Causey - Expressions
Van Morrison – Still On Top – The Greatest Hits (Exile/Polydor/UME)
Various Artists – Blue Note Street (Blue Note/Japan)
Various Artists – Complete Motown Singles Vol. 8 – 1968 (Motown)
Various Artists – Cinecocktail 3 – Funky Energy From the Best Scores of the Violent Italian Cop Thrillers (Beat/Italy)
Various Artists – Italo Old – Old School Cuts From the Italian House Music Scene (Irma/Italy)
Wk.End Band – How ‘Bout Us (Quicksilver)
Whispers – Live From Las Vegas
William Downing – After Tonight (Peak Records)

ERIC MARIENTHAL - JUST AROUND THE CORNER

Saxophonist Eric Marienthal has just released Just Around The Corner via Peak Records. This new release pairs teams him with Brian Culbertson, who produced and co-wrote material for Marienthal's 11th solo disk. The first single, "Blue Water," is a Marienthal-Culbertson composition. Other songwriting contributions on the album are from Jeff Lorber, Paul Brown, Stephen Lu. Musicians include drummer Dave Weckl, guitarists Ray Parker Jr., and veteran guitarist Michael O'Neill, among others.

STEVIE WONDER TOUR DATES

Stevie Wonder continues to perform for sold out crowds on this latest tour and his upcoming tour dates are as follows:
November 29 @t RBC Center, Raleigh NC
December 1 @t Sommet Center, Nashville TN
December 2 @ Fed Ex Forum, Memphis TN
December 4 @ Toyota Center, Houston TX
December 5 @ Nokia Theatre, Grand Prairie TX
December 6 @ Nokia Theatre, Grand Prairie TX
December 9 @ Jobing Arena, Glendale AZ

ANGELA BOFILL BENEFIT SET FOR DEC. 8

Narada Michael Walden is presenting The Spirit of Giving Concert In Tribute to Singer & Songwriter Angela Bofill at Grace Cathedral, Dec. 8. Carlos Santana, Bonnie Raitt, Bonnie Hayes and other area musicians perform in support of the jazz-pop- R&B songstress.

Music industry extraordinaire and Marin County resident Narada Michael Walden has rallied his colleagues and friends, including Carlos Santana, to perform at The Spirit of Giving concert, in tribute to singer, songwriter and Bammy-award winner Angela Bofill.

When: Sat., Dec. 8, 8:30 p.m.
Where: Grace Cathedral Episcopal Church, 1100 California St., Nob Hill, San Francisco

Ticket Purchase: http://www.ticketweb.com/ or 866-468-3399 (toll-free). Tickets go on sale on Nov. 1.
For more information: http://www.gracecathedral.org/ or 415-749-6300

DETAILS: On Sat., Dec. 8, award-winning and platinum-selling music producer, musician and songwriter Narada Michael Walden will present The Spirit of Giving, a concert featuring a number of his friends and colleagues, including Carlos Santana, as members of the music community will perform in tribute to singer and songwriter Angela Bofill.

Other musicians performing at The Spirit of Giving include:

· - R&B and dance hit singer Jeanie Tracy ( http://www.jeanietracy.com/), who once was one of Sylvester's back-up singers along with Martha Wash.

· - Canadian singer Naomi Striemer (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naomi_Striemer), whose 2006 CD Images was produced by Walden. Carlos Santana plays on the CD's single, "Cars;" and

· - Percussionist Karma Moffett (http://karmamoffett.com/), whose music features Tibetan Singing Bowls, Tibetan Longhorns, Hand Bells, Tingsha Cymbals, Conch Shells, Drums, and Bone Horn Trumpets

Marin County-based Walden has produced countless number-one hits with legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Al Jarreau, and Whitney Houston. He is credited with launching the careers of Houston and Mariah Carey, and the list of his collaborators reads like a Who's Who of popular music - Sting, Al Green, Ray Charles, Diana Ross, Steve Winwood, Clarence Clemons and Weather Report. He also produced soundtracks for popular films including: The Bodyguard, Free Willy, and 9 ½ Weeks.

Carlos Santana is a music legend almost without peer. He has 18 gold, platinum and multi-platinum records spanning his nearly 40-year career. He has recorded with his band since 1968, and in collaboration with, among other music luminaries, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Rob Thomas of the band matchbox 20, Eric Clapton and Lauryn Hill.

About Angela Bofill (http://www.angelabofill.com/)
Bofill scored several dance hits in the 1970s and 80s, such as Angel of the Night, in 1978 and 1983's Too Tough, but has recently suffered significant health setbacks. Walden and Bofill have worked together for more than 25 years - Arista Records' then-chief Clive Davis teamed Bofill with Walden in 1981 to produce her first commercial jazz-pop-R&B crossover recording, Something About You. Walden produced her next two recordings, 1983's Teaser and Too Tough.

WARNER MUSIC GROUP TO MARKET FRANK SINATRA'S LEGACY

Warner Music Group Corp. (NYSE: WMG) and the family of Frank Sinatra announced today that they have established a worldwide partnership to integrate content, rights management and the preservation of the legendary entertainer's inspirational personality and prodigious body of work under a single entity. The partnership will operate under the name Frank Sinatra Enterprises (FSE) and will manage all aspects of Sinatra's artistic contribution to music, film and stage. FSE will also administer all licenses for the use of Sinatra's name and likeness.

FSE will own Sinatra's recordings from the Reprise era as well as a treasure trove of films, television specials and unreleased footage, photos and audio recordings, which collectively represent one of the foremost bodies of artistic work of the modern era. FSE will also own and manage Sinatra's name and likeness rights and will represent the artist's rights to the Columbia and Capitol catalogues. The Frank Sinatra Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization will continue under the family's aegis.

FSE intends to pursue innovative new product and venture opportunities with respect to the legendary entertainer's name and likeness, as well as for the audio and visual content, which it will administer. "Because it was most important to our family to preserve and honor his legacy, we were extremely selective in choosing a partner with whom to manage our father's life work. It was a process that took several years," stated the Sinatra family, represented by Nancy, Tina and Frank Sinatra, Jr. "Our father founded Reprise Records almost 50 years ago; we have worked with Warner Music Group for many years, and we are thrilled to continue the journey with them and the new company into the future."

"Frank Sinatra created one of the most enduring and influential bodies of work the world has ever experienced and we consider it a great privilege that his family has decided to significantly expand and enhance our relationship," said Edgar Bronfman, Jr., Chairman and CEO of Warner Music Group. "Over the past several years WMG has transformed itself from a traditional music company to an organization that can manage virtually every facet of an artist's brand or career. So it is a particular honor that through this joint venture we'll be able to manage, with the Sinatra family, the legacy of not only one of our greatest artists, but as founder of Reprise Records, one of the creative cornerstones of our company."

"Frank Sinatra is an icon known the world over. We are extremely honored to continue working with the Sinatra family to preserve and expand his rich legacy," says Scott Pascucci, president of Warner Music Group's Rhino Entertainment. Representatives from the Sinatra family and Warner Music Group will jointly manage FSE, with day-to-day operations being handled by Rhino executives Jimmy Edwards and Gregg Goldman along with Sinatra archivist/producer Charles Pignone, who will report to co-chairs Scott Pascucci and Robert A. Finkelstein. Additionally, Tina Sinatra and Edgar Bronfman, Jr. will sit on the Board of Directors.

One of the most important pop culture figures of the 20th century, Frank Sinatra's career spanned many disciplines. As a recording artist, actor, cabaret and concert star, radio, film and television personality, and occasional producer, director and conductor, Frank Sinatra's achievements earned him three Oscars, two Golden Globes, 10 personal Grammys (and a total of 21 including those for his albums), an Emmy, a Cecile B. DeMille Award, and a Peabody. One of the most prestigious awards Sinatra received was the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award by the Motion Picture Society of America. This award, presented only a few times in the Academy's history, is given to an "individual in the motion picture industry whose humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the industry." Sinatra's charitable legacy is legendary. His pioneering fight against prejudice is one of the important facets that shaped his life from childhood on the streets of Hoboken, New Jersey. His short film, "The House I Live In" received a special Oscar in 1945.

Throughout his 60-year career, "Ol' Blue Eyes" demonstrated a remarkable ability to thrive in changing times, moving deftly from the swing era to the rock-and-roll era. He performed on more than 1,400 recordings, was awarded 31 gold, nine platinum, three double platinum and one triple platinum album by the Recording Industry Association of America. He also appeared in 58 films, and produced eight motion pictures. Frank Sinatra was awarded Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Grammys, The Screen Actors Guild, The Kennedy Center and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), as well as the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal, and remains a legend and inspiration to thousands for his contributions to culture and the arts.

Frank Sinatra began the golden age in which American popular music became a universal language and this extraordinary creative genius is its most articulate spokesman worldwide. Sinatra's contribution to our life and times extends far beyond his music, to embrace an exuberance, a zest for life, a sense of style and a glorious self-confidence that define, for all time, what it meant to be young at heart and have the world on a string. His spirit and vision continue to be defined by the wisdom and insight from the legacy of work he left behind.
FSE was represented by the law firm of Proskauer Rose LLP and The Salter Group. WMG was represented by the law firm of Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher.

About Warner Music Group
Warner Music Group became the only stand-alone music company to be publicly traded in the United States in May 2005. With its broad roster of new stars and legendary artists, Warner Music Group is home to a collection of the best-known record labels in the music industry including Asylum, Atlantic, Bad Boy, Cordless, East West, Elektra, Lava, Nonesuch, Reprise, Rhino, Roadrunner, Rykodisc, Sire, Warner Bros. and Word. Warner Music International, a leading company in national and international repertoire, operates through numerous international affiliates and licensees in more than 50 countries. Warner Music Group also includes Warner/Chappell Music, one of the world's leading music publishers, with a catalog of more than one million copyrights worldwide.

MICHAEL MCDONALD TOUR DATES

Michael McDonald is busy as he continues to perform dates around the country this fall. The popular vocalist is currently working on the follow-up to his top selling classics collections, 2004's Motown and 2005's Motown Two. McDonald currently appears on the new album by Chaka Khan, titled Funk This! on a duet of his composition "You Belong To Me." The tune is among the most-played new singles at smooth jazz radio. His most recent CD release was actually the 2005 holiday set Through The Many Winters, which was available exclusively through Hallmark stores.

Upcoming dates for Michael McDonald include:

November 29 - Clearwater, FL - Ruth Eckerd Hall
December 1 - Louisville, KY - Louisville Palace Theatre
December 2 - Nashville, TN - Ryman Auditorium
December 3 - Cleveland, OH - Palace Theatre
December 6 - Chicago, IL - Chicago Theatre
December 7 - Mount Pleasant, MI - Soaring Eagle Casino
December 9 - Columbus, OH - Schottenstein Center
December 11 - Detroit, MI - Detroit Orchestra Hall
December 13 - Milwaukee, WI - Riverside Theatre
December 14 - Altoona, IA - Prairie Meadows Casino
December 16 - Prior Lake, MN - Mystic Lake Casino
December 18 - Kansas City, MO - Ameristar Hotel & Casino
December 20 - Denver, CO - Paramount Theatre

JEFF GOLUB COVERS THE FOUR TOPS

Smooth Jazz guitarist Jeff Golub recently hit the number one spot on the smooth jazz airplay charts with his version of "Ain't No Woman (Like The One I've Got)" featuring saxophonist Richard Elliot. The tune is from Golub's CD new CD, Grand Central. The song, "Ain't No Woman" was originally a hit for Motown group The Four Tops in 1972.

“AUGUST RUSH” SOUNDTRACK FEATURES CHRIS BOTTI, PAULA COLE, JOHN LEGEND & OTHERS

Columbia Records has just released "August Rush - Music From The Motion Picture," the soundtrack album from the widely-anticipated Warner Bros. Pictures film. "August Rush – Music From The Motion Picture" is available online and in stores now.

"August Rush - Music From The Motion Picture" is a showcase of sounds from the music-driven drama starring Freddie Highmore, Keri Russell, and Jonathan Rhys Meyers with Terrence Howard and Robin Williams. The soundtrack album includes original tracks by John Legend ("Someday"), John Ondrasik ("King of the Earth") and female guitar virtuoso Kaki King ("Bari Improv," "Ritual Dance"); covers by Chris Botti & Paula Cole (Billie Holiday's "God Bless The Child"), Leon Thomas III (Ritchie Valens' "LaBamba"), and Jonathan Rhys Meyers (pieces based on works by Johann Sebastian Bach and Sir Edward Elgar as well as Van Morrison's "Moondance," also covered by Chris Botti on the album); and selections from the film's
musical score composed by Mark Mancina.

"August Rush," in theaters November 21, tells the story of a charismatic young Irish guitarist (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) and a sheltered young cellist (Keri Russell) who have a chance encounter one magical night above New York's Washington Square but are torn apart, leaving in their wake an infant, August, orphaned by circumstance. Now performing on the streets of New York and cared for by a mysterious stranger (Robin Williams), August (Freddie Highmore) uses his remarkable musical talent to seek the parents from whom he was separated at birth. The film, which also stars Terrence Howard, is directed by Kirsten Sheridan and produced by Richard Barton Lewis from a screenplay by Nick Castle and James V. Hart, story by Paul Castro and Nick Castle.

"August Rush - Music From The Motion Picture"

Tracklisting

1. Main Title - Mark Mancina
2. Bach/Break - Steve Erdody and Jonathan Rhys Meyers
3. Moondance featuring Jonathan Rhys Meyers
4. This Time - Jonathan Rhys Meyers
5. Bari Improv - Kaki King
6. Ritual Dance - Kaki King
7. Raise It Up - Jamia Simone Nash and Impact Repertory Theater
8. Dueling Guitars - Heitor Pereira and Doug Smith
9. Elgar/Something Inside - Steve Erdody and Jonathan Rhys Meyers
10. August's Rhapsody featuring Freddie Highmore - Mark Mancina
11. Someday - John Legend
12. King of the Earth - John Ondrasik
13. God Bless the Child - Chris Botti and Paula Cole
14. La Bamba - Leon Thomas III
15. Moondance - Chris Botti (Hidden Track)

CHRIS STANDRING - LOVE PARAGRAPHS

Chris Standring has just finished work on his brand new album entitle “Love & Paragraphs.” It’s scheduled for release in January. Chris is releasing this on his own record label - Ultimate Vibe Recordings. He’s contracted for a joint venture with The Artizen Music Group (Rick Braun & Richard' Elliot’s label) which enables him to have national distribution through Ryko. Speaking of Rick Braun and Richard Elliot, Chris Standring has co-written a song with them called "R n R", the first single from their new album of the same name. The song is a huge hit on the smooth jazz radio and was recently charted at number one for the eighth week running.

GROOVE BOUTIQUE WEDNESDAYS

Rafe Gomez brings the sound of the groove boutique to The Key Club in Newark, New Jersey. He’ll spin his mixes every Wednesday from 6 to 9PM beginning on December 5. The Key Club is at 58 Park Place in Newark.

AIR JAMAICA JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL

The 2008 Air Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival will feature performances by Jill Scott, Anita Baker, Diana Ross, Billy Ocean, Hugh Masakela, Beres Hammond. The three-day music festival runs from January 24-26, 2008 in Montego Bay and it is being billed as the “Caribbean’s biggest party.” The event will celebrate its 22nd year and is expected to attract over 40,000 music fans from all over the world.

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO TOUR DATES

Ladysmith Black Mambazo will perform the following concerts:
November 29 @ Is Sanat Istanbul Hall, Istanbul Turkey
December 1 @ Auditorium Massimo, Rome Italy
December 3 @ Konsorthuset, Stockholm Sweden
December 4 @ Kaarli Church, Tallinn Estonia
December 5 @ Konzerthaus, Vienna Austria
January 15 @ St. Pauls School, Concord NH
January 16 @ Colonial Theatre, Pittsfield MA
January 18 @ Standers Theatre, Cambridge MA
January 19 @ Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Troy NY
January 20 @ Kimmel Center, Philadelphia PA
January 22@ Paramount Theater, Charlottesville VA
January 23 @ Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, Baltimore MD
January 25 @ State Theatre, Ithaca NY
January 26 @ B.B. King's Blues Club, New York NY
January 27 @ Sunoco Performance Theatre, Harrisburg PA
January 29 @ Victoria Theatre, Dayton OH
January 30 @ EJ Thomas Hall, Akron OH
February 1 @ Spivey Hall, Morrow GA
February 2 @ Phillips Center, Gainesville FL
February 8 @ Holland PAC, Omaha NE
February 9 @ Harris Center, Grinnell LA
February 10 @ Blanche M. Touhill PAC, St. Louis MO
February 12 @ Humphrey Coliseum, Mississippi St. MS
February 14 @ Manship Theatre, Baton Rouge LA
February 15 @ Manship Theatre, Baton Rouge LA
February 17 @ Rosa Hart Theatre, Lake Charles LA
February 18 @ Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth TX
February 20 @ Kiva Auditorium, Albuquerque NM
February 22 @ Prochnow Auditorium, Flagstaff AZ
February 23 @ Rialto Theatre, Tucson AZ
February 24 @ Scottsdale Center, Scottsdale AZ
February 26 @ Bovard Auditorium, Los Angeles CA
February 27 @ Arlington Theatre, Santa Barbara CA
February 28 @ Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, San Francisco CA
February 29 @ Laxson Auditorium, Chico CA
March 1 @ Napa Valley Opera House, Napa CA
March 2 @ John Van Duzer Theatre, Arcata CA
March 4 @ Tower Theatre, Bend OR
March 5 @ Egyptian Theatre, Boise ID
March 6 @ Stephens PAC, Pocatello ID
March 8 @ Alberta Bair Theater, Billings MT
March 9 @ Emerson Center, Bozeman MT
March 11 @ The Met, Spokane WA
March 12 @ Moore Theatre, Seattle WA
March 13 @ Aladdin Theater, Portland OR
March 14 @ Admiral Theatre, Bremerton WA
March 15 @ McDonald Theatre, Eugene OR
June 1 @ Kennedy Center in Washington DC

TOM SCOTT TO RECORD FOR CONCORD

Tom Scott has recently recorded a new album for the Concord label that pays tribute to the late saxophone player Julian "Cannonball" Adderley. Special guests on the CD include Terence Blanchard, George Duke, Marcus Miller, Steve Gadd, and Nancy Wilson. The still-untitled CD is due to be released in January 2008. Scott included an Adderley tune as well as tunes by Wayne Shorter, Chick Corea, and Michel Legrand on his 2006 straight ahead jazz outing, Bebop United.

ZIGGY MARLEY - LOVE IS MY RELIGION

Ziggy Marley announces the re-release of his Grammy-winning album Love Is My Religion, including three bonus tracks as well as an independent distribution deal. In a bold move, Marley is eschewing the traditional record industry formula and big name labels, instead penning a distribution deal between Tuff Gong Worldwide and Ryko Distribution.

Love Is My Religion was originally released in the US exclusively at Target Stores and is now scheduled for wide distribution on December 4, 2007, with additional material including live recordings of Jammin, Dragonfly, and Look Who's Dancin'. These live tracks, plus the highly-anticipated live DVD (scheduled for early 2008 release), were recorded at Los Angeles' Avalon during the 2006 Love Is My Religion world tour.

Pushing the envelope is an inborn trait for Ziggy Marley. He comes by it honestly. He has remained true to the independent nature instilled inhim by his legendary father, establishing himself in recent years as a solo artist and producing his first independently-released projects on the Tuff Gong Worldwide label. Firmly instituted as a solo artist, he has now set his sights on yet another quest.

Tuff Gong was first founded in 1965 by Bob Marley, with the vision of producing, distributing, and promoting his music free from the constraints of corporate label politics. In a time decades before artist-owned record labels were commonplace, Marley's vision was characteristically well ahead of it's time. Now, nearly half a century later, his dream is being realized.

Ziggy released his first solo effort, Dragonfly, in 2003. The album included guest artists from the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Incubus. His second solo album, Love is My Religion, was released in July of 2006 and garnered Marley his first solo Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album, giving him a total of four Grammys. Love soared to #6 on the Billboard Reggae charts.

Love showcases Ziggy's keenly honed talents as a composer, producer, and musician, with all tracks written and produced by Ziggy, and shared production on three tracks with Grammy-winning producer Ross Hogarth. Marley also played a majority of the instruments on the album.

Born in Trench Town, Jamaica, Ziggy Marley was surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Jamaican recording industry. First accompanying his father in the studio at a tender age, he soon joined with his siblings to form The Melody Makers. The act enjoyed two decades of successful touring and recording, netting three Grammy Awards and worldwide notoriety.

Ziggy has contributed to a variety of soundtracks including 50 First Dates, Dora the Explorer, the PBS children's show Arthur, and Shark's Tale, in which he delved into acting for the first time, playing the character of Bernie, the Jamaican jellyfish. In addition to his skills as a singer, songwriter and producer, Ziggy founded U.R.G.E. (Unlimited Resources Giving Enlightenment), a non-profit organization that benefits a wide range of charitable children's causes in Jamaica, Ethiopia and other developing nations. More recently he has lent his support to the Youth AIDS campaign.

More information about Ziggy is available at http://www.ziggymarley.com.

BOBBY CALDWELL TOURS JAPAN; TEAMS WITH JOYCE COOLING

Bobby Caldwell is gearing up for a tour of Japan during the month of December with a string of performance scheduled for various Billboard Live venues. Next year, Caldwell teams with Joyce Cooling for a special performance at the Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix, Arizona.
December 6 @ Billboard Live, Tokyo Japan
December 7 @ Billboard Live, Tokyo Japan
December 8 @ Billboard Live, Tokyo Japan
December 10 @ Billboard Live, Osaka Japan
December 11 @ Billboard Live, Osaka Japan
December 12 @ Billboard Live, Osaka Japan
December 14 @ Billboard Live, Fukuoka Japan
December 15 @ Billboard Live, Fukuoka Japan
December 16 @ Billboard Live, Fukuoka Japan
December 31 @ Rossi’s Blue Bar, Minneapolis MN
February 23 @ Celebrity Theatre, Phoenix AZ

PAT METHENY TOUR DATES

Pat Metheny will perform the following concerts:
February 23 @ Yoshi's, San Francisco CA
February 26 @ Anthology, San Diego CA
February 27 @ Anthology, San Diego CA
February 29 @ Fox Theatre, Tucson AZ
March 1 @ el Pedregal, Scottsdale AZ
March 2 @ Lensic PAC, Santa Fe NM
March 5 @ Verizon Wireless Theatre, Houston TX
March 6 @ Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth TX
March 9 @ Center for the Arts, Boca Raton FL
March 10 @ Tampa Theatre, Tampa FL
March 11 @ Peabody Auditorium, Daytona Beach FL
March 14 @ State Theatre, Falls Church VA
March 15 @ Keswick Theatre Glenside PA
March 16 @ Somerville Theatre, Somerville MA
March 18 @ Town Hall, New York NY

VAN MORRISON TOUR DATES

Van Morrison will perform the following concerts:
November 23 @ Theatre Royal Norwich, Norwich UK
November 24 @ Theatre Royal Norwich, Norwich UK
November 30 @ The Sage, Gateshead UK
December 1 @ International Centre, Harrogate UK
December 7@ Ironworks, Inverness UK
December 8 @ Ironworks, Inverness UK
December 19 @ Providence PAC, Providence RI
December 20 @ Northrop Auditorium, Minneapolis MN
December 21 @ Grand Sierra Resort, Reno NV
December 27 @ Nob Hill Masonic, San Francisco CA
December 28 @ Nob Hill Masonic, San Francisco CA
December 29 @ Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas TX
December 30 @ Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas TX
January 18 @ Carling Apollo Hammersmith, London UK
January 25 @ City Hall, Sheffield UK
January 26 @ Opera House, Blackpool UK
February 29 @ Palladium, Cologne Germany
March 1 @ Jahrhunderthalle Hoechst, Frankfurg Germany
March 21 @ New Theatre Oxford, Oxford UK
March 22 @ Colston Hall, Bristol UK
March 27 @ Bridgewater Hall, Manchester UK
March 28 @ Bridgewater Hall, Manchester UK
April 25 @ Baltiska Hallen, Malmo Sweden
April 26 @ Lisebergshallen, Goteborg Sweden
May 9 @ Tempodrom, Berlin Germany

DAVID SANBORN IN THE STUDIO

David Sanborn is in the studio working on his next CD project. On his website, the influential jazz player says he has gone into the studio with veteran Phil Ramone, who has worked with Elton John, Tony Bennett, Johnny Mathis, Dave Koz, Barbra Streisand, Chicago, and dozens more. Sanborn's last studio release was 2005's Closer, which was produced by Stewart Levine. Sanborn recently wrapped a series of dates in Washington, D.C at Blues Alley on November 14th and 15th.

SIMPLY RED TO DISBAND

Simply Red lead singer Mick Hucknall has announced that British pop soul band Simply Red has decided to split up in 2009. Mick Hucknall told the U.K.'s Gold Radio that the group plans to split up after 25 years together. Simply Red's current CD, Stay, will be its final release, and the group will disband after completing a series of tour dates. Hucknall will then focus on a solo career, where he can "invent a new form of music" influenced by R&B tracks from the 1960s. "It's a big challenge but I can't do it under the name of Simply Red," Hucknall said. He’s already completed work on his first solo project, which is a tribute to Bobby Bland, a blues and R&B artist. Simply Red formed in 1984with three ex-members of the band Durutti Column -- bassist Tony Bowers, drummer Chris Joyce, and keyboard and brass player Tim Kellett -- as well as guitarist Sylvan Richardson and keyboardist Fritz McIntyre. The group charted its first single in 1985 with "Money's Too Tight To Mention" from their debut Playbook. The band subsequently released nine more albums, including the current Stay, their first issue on the SimplyRed.com label. Simply Red's performance of the Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes classic "If You Don't Know Me By Now" earned a 1989 Grammy Award for writers Gamble & Huff as best R&B song. Simply Red is releasing a new version of "The World And You Tonight," as their last single

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS 10th ANNUAL SMOOTH JAZZ CHRISTMAS SHOW

Dave Koz and his friends are in rehearsal as we speak, busily preparing for their 10th Annual Smooth Jazz Christmas Show. Along for the ride this year are Jonathan Butler, Wayman Tisdale and American Idol’s Kimberley Locke take to the stage. Here is the full schedule for the Dave Koz Annual Smooth Jazz Christmas Show.

Nov. 23 – Lake Tahoe, NV @ Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe
Nov. 24 – Denver, CO @ Paramount Theatre
Nov. 26 – Baltimore, MD @ Hippodrome Theatre
Nov. 28 – West Reading, PA @ Scottish Rite Catherdral Performing
Nov. 29 – Sewell, NJ @ Commerce Bank Arts Center
Nov. 30 – Morristown, NJ @ Community Theatre
Dec. 1 – Melbourne, FL @ King Center for Performing Arts
Dec. 2 – Naples, FL @ Philharmonic Center for the Arts
Dec. 3 – Clearwater, FL @ Ruth Eckerd Hall
Dec. 4 – Fort Lauderdale, FL @ AuRene Theatre Broward Center for Performing Arts
Dec. 5 – Sarasota, FL @ Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Dec. 7 – New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre
Dec. 8 – Columbus, OH @ Palace Theatre
Dec. 9 – Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
Dec. 11 – Cleveland, OH @ Playhouse Square Center
Dec. 12 – Detroit, MI @ Music Hall
Dec. 13 - Temecula, CA @ Pechanga Resort Casino
Dec. 14 – San Diego, CA @ Copley Symphony Hall
Dec. 15 – Oakland, CA @ Paramount Theatre
Dec. 16 – Tacoma, WA @ Temple Theatre
Dec. 19 – Mesa, AZ @ Mesa Arts Center/Ikeda Theatre
Dec. 21 – Cerritos, CA @ Cerritos Center for the Perfoming Arts
Dec. 22 – Cerritos, CA @ Cerritos Center for the Perfoming Arts

KENNY "BABYFACE" EDMONDS ANNOUNCES TOUR DATES

Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds will return to the road for his first U.S. tour date schedule in years this fall, in support of PLAYLIST. His newest album is the first release on the newly re-launched Mercury Records label, and feat­ur­es his new Top 10 version of James Taylor’s “Fire & Rain.” The U.S. tour has just been expanded to a dozen cities, opening Friday, November 23rd at The Paramount Theater in Oakland, CA, and running to December 14th at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, VA. Kenny's special guest is Ayo, the critically-acclaimed, International platinum soul singer/songwriter whose U.S. debut CD will be released on Interscope Records on November 20th. Her PBS special, "Live From Monte Carlo", will air in December.

PLAYLIST is the first Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds album devoted (mostly) to cover versions of some of his favorite songs. Building on the success of “Fire & Rain” at the AC and Smooth Jazz radio formats, Edmonds’ original “Not Going Nowhere” recently moved inside the Top 40 at Urban AC. In addition to another original song, “The Soldier Song,” an evocative elegy in this time of war, PLAYLIST contains definitive new versions of songs from Bob Dylan (“Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door”), Dan Fogelberg (“Longer”), James Taylor (“Shower The People”), Eric Clapton (“Wonderful Tonight”), Bread (“Diary”), Jim Croce (“Time In A Bottle”), and Dave Loggins (“Please Come To Boston”).

As momentum for PLAYLIST continues, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds has maintained a high profile on TV and in the media. Television performances have included: The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Today Show, Live with Regis & Kelly, CMT Crossroads Concert Special featuring Trisha Yearwood, Ellen, and The Tyra Banks Show. Upcoming appearances include: The Tavis Smiley Show, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson and Late Night with Conan O’Brien.

KENNY “BABYFACE” EDMONDS ON TOUR:
Nov. 23 Oakland, CA The Paramount Theater
Nov. 24 Sparks, NV Rose Ballroom at the John Ascuaga's Nugget
Nov. 30 Detroit, MI Palace of Auburn Hills
Dec. 1 Indianapolis, IN Madame Walker Theater Center
Dec. 2 Cincinnati, OH Cintas Center
Dec. 5 Westbury, NY North Fork Theater @ Westbury
Dec. 7 Philadelphia, PA Keswick Theater
Dec. 8 Boston, MA Berklee Performing Arts Center9 New York, NY Nokia Theatre
Dec. 10 Alexandria, VA Birchmere
Dec. 12 Atlanta, GA Cobb Energy Centre
Dec. 14 Norfolk, VA Chrysler Hall

For more info and ticket details, go to www.babyfacemusic.com

TRIPPIN 'N' RHYTHM SIGNS SEKOU BUNCH

Trippin 'N' Rhythm Records is pleased to announce the recent acquisition of bass player to the stars ''Sekou Bunch''. Bunch's trippin debut "The Next Level" bows late 1st quarter '08 and is an absolute who's who in Smooth jazz/ urban radio, and features stand out performances by Stanley Clarke, Boney James, George Duke, Angela Winbush, Everette Harp and Sheila E.

Say's label CEO / President Les Cutmore," having recently trimmed some fat from our roster, has enabled us to secure this truly amazing talent. The incredible success we have had recently with U-Nam and Oli Silk, further confirms to us that this is the direction that we need to be headed as a record company by continuing to bring new and exciting artist's into the fold.

Sekou may not be new in terms of what he has accomplished in the business as a first call session and touring player, but as he finally takes hold of the reigns as a leader, this top shelf, A game player/performer will bring a new sense of excitement to our label and to radio as well". Bunch's resume sounds like the VIP list for an Grammy after party, having shared the stage and or recording studio with Quincy Jones, Rod Stewart, Stevie Wonder, Roger Daltry, Whitney Houston, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross, Anita Baker, Ray Charles, Chaka Khan, George Benson, Wayne Shorter, George Howard, Tom Browne, Lionel Richie, the Tonight Show Band .Phew.. to name just a few.

Receiving his very first RIAA Certified Gold Record at the young age of 17 playing on the best selling funk classic "Funkin For Jamaica" with Tom Browne, Bunch established himself as a bass player to watch and has since spread his wings into television staring in the 13th installment of the International hit Survivor "Cook Islands" and carries the distinction of being the first one voted off the island. Being the first one voted off didn't faze me, say's Bunch. I felt Victorious. It was a great experience and the opportunity of a lifetime".Say's Cutmore, "Sekou's time has come. He has been the consummate sideman for years and we feel it is time for him to step front and center and take his rightful place as a leader. His feel and mastery of him instrument are truly unparalleled. It is time for him to take things to The Next Level and we couldn't be happier welcoming him into the trippin family"."The Next Level", will be released to radio late spring '08

B.B.KING TOUR DATES

B.B. King will perform the following concerts:
November 12-13 - BB King Blues Club, New York, NY
November 15 - Broome County Arena, Binghamton, NY
November 16 - Burlington Memorial Auditorium, Burlington, VT
November 17 - Lowell Municipal Auditorium, Lowell, MA
November 18 - Kirby Center, Wilkes-Barre, PA
November 21 - Singletary Center, Lexington, KY
November 23 - Cincinnati Music Hall, Cincinnati, OH
November 24 - Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI
November 25 - French Lick Springs Resort, French Lick, IN
November 27 - Rosebud Theatre, Effingham, IL
November 28 - Peoria Civic Center, Peoria, IL
November 30 - Chevrolet Centre, Youngstown, OH
December 1 - Palace Theatre, Columbus, OH
December 27 - Palace Theatre, El Paso, TX
December 28 - Route 66 Casino, Albuquerque, NM
December 29 - Maricopa Events Center, Sun City West, AZ
December 31 - Star of the Desert Arena, Primm, NV
January 3 - House of Blues, Anaheim, CA
January 4 - The Wiltern, Los Angeles, CA
January 5 - Fantasy Springs Casino,Indio, CA
January 9 - Rogue Theatre, Grants Pass, OR
January 10 - Feather Falls Casino, Oroville, CA
January 11 - Marin County Civic Center, San Rafael, CA
January 25 - Uptown Theatre, Kansas City, MO
January 26 - Tulsa PAC, Tulsa, OK
January 27 - Eureka Springs City Auditorium, Eureka Springs, AR
January 29 - Stiefel Theatre, Salina, KS
January 31 - Morris PAC, South Bend, IN
February 1 - Soaring Eagle Casino, Mt. Pleasant, MI
February 5 - Mystic Lake Casino, Prior Lake, MN
February 7 - Hancher Auditorium, Iowa City, IA
February 8 - Center for the Performing Arts, University Park, IL
February 9 - Genesee Theatre, Waukegan, IL
February 10 - Prairie Meadows, Altoona, IA
February 13 - The Family Arena, St. Charles, MO
February 15 - Fox Cities PAC, Appleton, WI
February 16 - Fox Theatre, Detroit, MI
February 28-29 - Keswick Theatre, Glenside, PA
March 1 - House of Blues, Atlantic City, NJ

TAYLOR DAYNE NEW STUDIO ALBUM - SATISFIED

"SATISFIED", the highly anticipatedalbum from recording artist TAYLOR DAYNE, is set for release on February5th, 2008. Dayne's fifth studio album and first effort in ten years,"SATISFIED" delivers a powerful selection of 13 songs from acclaimed writers and producers including Rick Nowels, Billy Steinberg, Mike Mangini, Peter Wade, and Richie Jones, among others. With "SATISFIED", Dayne is poised to triumphantly return to the forefront of popular music. Dayne is no stranger to success.

Known worldwide for her premier vocals and hit recordings, she has sold over 75 million albums and singles worldwide and has had ten Top 10 hits including "Tell It To My Heart" and"Love Will Lead You Back," three Grammy nominations, and two sold-out worldtours. On "SATISFIED", Dayne has opted to leave the major labels behind and make her own way by releasing her newest offering on her own label, Intention Music, distributed by Adrenaline/ADA, Warner Music. "This is an exciting time musically for me," says Dayne. "And this record reflects that. It was great to have the opportunity to be creative and make some magic with some of the producers and writers I have admired over the years. This record has been a long time coming."

"Beautiful", the first single from the disc, will hit radio in November 2007 and will be available for download everywhere on December 11, 2007. The song is co-written by Dayne, who also co-writes three additional songs on the album, and is the perfect introduction to "SATISFIED".

eMUSIC HITS 350,000 SUBSCRIBERS

As the holidays approach, eMusic hits a new level of critical mass: today, the world's largest retailer of independent music -- and the world's second-largest digital music service after iTunes -- announces that it has surpassed 350,000 paid subscribers and that its catalogue totals more than three million tracks. Since establishing the current subscription model in 2003, eMusic has sold more than 165 million music downloads and, in the last 50 days alone, approximately 25,000 digital audiobooks. The 350,000 subscriber benchmark comes only six months since eMusic reached 300,000 subscribers in April. And, with more than three million tracks from more than 20,000 labels, eMusic's offers the largest catalogue of independent music ever assembled.

eMusic customers include conventional web-based subscribers and subscribers to eMusic Mobile, eMusic's over-the-air download service with AT&T, which is now available on 14 mobile phones. eMusic's rich catalogue of independent music continues to grow with new label and distributor signings, as well as new labels added through existing agreements. New titles from every musical genre -- including jazz, classical, r&b, metal, electronic and more -- arrive on a weekly basis.

Labels recently or about to be added include:
Rough Trade
Madacy Entertainment
Harmonia Mundi France
Shout Factory
Rooftop Comedy
Boompa Records
Brunswick Records
Century Media
Clone Records
Dragonstorm Records
Dorian Records
The Echo Label Limited
Engine Company Red
Exceptional Records
Giant Slayer Records
Gusto Records
Jay Records
Lone Hill Jazz
Lyrita Records
Made in eTaly
MGM Distribution
Neurodisc Records
N.E.W.S. Distribution NV
Newline Records
Peacefrog
Pinnacle Entertainment, Ltd.
RSK Entertainment
Saavn
604 Records
Southern Records Distributors
Squealer Music
Supraphon
Telarc
Vee-Jay Records
Vox Records

"We are elated to be hitting our stride just as our busiest time of year -- the holiday season -- kicks into high gear," said David Pakman, President and CEO of eMusic. "While other subscription services have lost customers, these milestones demonstrate eMusic's momentum as we simultaneously grow our catalogue and our customer base and add new methods of distribution and product lines. Sophisticated consumers of music and literature know that eMusic is the place to discover entertainment that will move their feet and feed their minds. We have never been more excited about our business and our customers' response to it."

eMusic (www.emusic.com) is a digital entertainment retailer focused on serving customers aged 25+ by offering independent music and audiobooks in a universally compatible format at a great value. It is the world's largest retailer of independent music and the world's second-largest digital music service after iTunes, with more than three million tracks from 20,000 of the world's leading independent labels and over 1,000 titles from top audiobook publishers. To super-serve its customers, eMusic provides award-winning editorial content, a vibrant online community and unrivaled music discovery tools. eMusic's subscription-based service offers 25 free downloads and one free book at sign-up, giving consumers an inexpensive, low-risk way to explore great new music and books they wouldn't find otherwise. Its universally compatible MP3 files play on any audio device including the iPod®. Based in New York with an office in London, eMusic.com Inc. is wholly owned by Dimensional Associates, Inc., the private equity arm of JDS Capital Management, Inc.

NEW RELEASES: ALISON LOYET, EUMIR DEODATO TRIO, ROBERT PLANT, TAMBA TRIO & MORE...

Alison Moyer – The Turn (W14 Music/UK)
Andy Lewis – You Should Be Hearing Something Now (Acid Jazz/UK)
Arrested Development – Since The Last Time (Vagabond)
Arthur Verocai – Encore (Far Out/UK)
Bobby Womack – Roads Of Life (Arista/Expansion/UK)
Bugge Wesseltoft – IM (Jazzland/Norway)
Charles Mingus – 20th Century Masters: The Millenium Collection (Verve/UME)
Dennis Brown – Visions Of Dennis Brown (VP)
Eddy Meets Yannah – Once In A While (Compost/Germany)
Eumir Deodato Trio – Ao Vivo No Rio (Biscoito Fino/Brazil)
Frank Rosolino – I Play Trombone (Bethlehem/Japan)
Frank Sinatra – The Cole Porter Songbook (Acrobatic/RED)
Gato Barbieri – Bahia (Fania)
Immagrant’s Bossa Band – Message (DIE The Garden/Japan)
Inobe – Spiritual Soul (Modest Music)
John Coltrane – The Impulse! Albums: Volume One (Verve)
Jonathan Butler – Jonathan Butler Live In South Africa (CD/DVD; Rendezvous)
Julie London – All Through The Night: Julie London Sings The Choicest Of Cole Porter (Blue Note)
Kiruna – Tarasarus (Plastic Strip Press/Norway)
Kutiman – Melting Pot (Germany)
Lorna Luft – Songs My Mother Taught Me (First Night/UK)
Main Ingredient – Spinning Around – The Singlews 1967-1975 (RCA/Kent/UK)
Miles Bonny – Closer Love EP (Melting Pot/Germany)
Nancy Wilson – The Nancy Wilson Show (Blue Note)
Peabo Bryson – Quiet Storm (Wounded Bird)
Peabo Bryson – Positive (Wounded Bird)
Perry Como – Lightly Latin (SSJ/Japan)
Quantic Soul Orchestra – Tropidelico (Tru Thoughts/UK)
Ray Barretto – Greatest Hits: I’m A Man (Fania)
Ray Charles – Live At Montreux 1977 (DVD; Eagle Vision)
Robert Plant & Alison Krauss – Raising Sand (Rounder)
Ruben Blades – Nothing But The Truth (Wounded Bird)
Sarah Vaughan – Divine One (Roulette)
Stanley Clarke – Children Of Forever Polydor)
Tamba Trio – Tamba Trio (Phillips/Japan)
Temptations – Back To Front (New Door/UME)
Youssou N’Dour – Rokku Mi Rokka/Give And Take (Nonesuch)
Will Downing – After Tonight (Peak/Concord)
Zimba Trio – Volume 3 (RGE/Bomba/Japan)

JAHEIM JOHNS ATLANTIC RECORDS

R&B singer, Jaheim, is the latest artist to join Atlantic Records' roster. The singer's first piece of business will be to release his highly anticipated next album, but before that, he's already leaked his first single, "Never," which is getting a warm reception at radio. Jaheim's as-yet-untitled new album will see the New Brunswick, New Jersey-born singer joining forces with a variety of artists including KayGee (Naughty By Nature, Zhane), and R. Kelly, among others. Among its expected highlights will be a duet with Keyshia Cole, as well as a tribute to Jaheim’s hero, Luther Vandross, recorded with the dearly departed soulman's former producer, Nat Adderley Jr.In addition to the new album, Jaheim can be heard on Atlantic's soundtrack to the new film, Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married?" He is featured on "DJ Don’t (Remix)," alongside the late, great R&B legend, Gerald Levert. It's in stores now. Jaheim burst onto the scene with 2001's acclaimed Ghetto Love. Fueled by the breakthrough singles, "Could It Be" and "Just In Case," the album reached the Billboard 200's top 10 on its way to earning RIAA platinum for sales exceeding 1 million.After the album, he was honored with a number of award nominations, including the Soul Train Music Award for Best R&B/Soul Single (for "Just In Case"), and the BET Awards for 'Best Male R&B Artist. He went on to release his sophomore album, Still Ghetto, in 2004, which was also a commercial and critical success, then ended this Ghetto trilogy with Ghetto Classics in 2006.

SANTANA - ULTIMATE SANTANA

Multi-million selling, legendary recording artist Carlos Santana's new career-spanning album ULTIMATE SANTANA debuts at #8 on the Billboard chart with 56,475 albums sold, according to Nielsen SoundScan. This is Santana's third Top 10 debut and #11th Top 10 album. Having sold over 90 million albums worldwide, the entire scope of Santana's history is presented together on one volume for the first time ever. ULTIMATE SANTANA, a celebration of an artist and his music, is highlighted by three brand new, previously unreleased collaborative tracks with Chad Kroeger, Tina Turner, and Jennifer Lopez featuring rapper Baby Bash.

The first single and previously unreleased new track "Into The Night" featuring Chad Kroeger was the #1 most added at the Hot AC radio format and most added at Top 40 radio first week out and has remained the #1 most added track at Hot AC charts for 4 consecutive weeks with the video in rotation on VH-1. "Into The Night" is # 20 on the Hot Digital Tracks Chart,
up 58% this week, and is Santana's highest ranking track ever on the chart.

Other previously unreleased, brand new tracks include a dynamic pairing with Tina Turner on the track "The Game of Love," and Jennifer Lopez and Baby Bash join Santana on the red hot, brand new track "This Boy's Fire." ULTIMATE SANTANA marks the first anthology to include touchstone tracks from the band's earliest hitmaking years on Columbia Records ("Oye Como
Va," "Black Magic Woman," "Evil Ways," to name a few), alongside groundbreaking collaborations like "Smooth" with Rob Thomas, "Maria Maria" with Product G&B, and "The Game of Love" with Michelle Branch, among others, that highlighted their three consecutive blockbuster Arista albums: Supernatural (1999), Shaman (2002), and All That I Am (2005).

HOWARD HEWITT - IF ONLY

Billboard Magazine in its current issue ranks Howard Hewett's new single "Can You Feel Me" as one of the hot new singles in R&B. The Single ranks # 25 in Adult R&B airplay. Hewett's signature single is included in his current album "If Only" also charting # 94 on Billboard's top R&B/Hip Hop Albums. This is his first debut in 11 years and 17th as a solo artist since leaving the group Shalamar in 1985, Billboard reported.

With his silky smooth, straight-from-the-heart soulful style, Howard Hewett is gifted with one of the most instantly recognizable voices in contemporary music. With the 2007 release of his Groove Records' debut IF ONLY, his loyal worldwide audiences will be reminded of just why Howard Hewett has endured, sustained and maintained a solid career as a solo artist for over two decades.

IF ONLY also represents a reunion of sorts for Howard who serves as executive producer the album with Ralph Johnson, one of the founding members of super group Earth, Wind & Fire. Michael Reynolds, CEO of The Machine Productions, Groove Record's parent company said, "Howard's many fans will be thrilled that he's taken his time to release a new album. It includes such standout tracks as 'I'll Be Right Here,' 'Enough' and the exceptional title track, IF ONLY, is a further testament to Howard Hewett's enduring artistry and a reminder that when it comes to great music, good things truly do come to those who wait!"

PAUL HARDCASTLE – HARDCASTLE 5

Paul Hardcastle is completing work on his latest CD set for release on February 8, 2008. This one is aptly titled, “Hardcastle 5”, and it is one that is sure t energize the his fan base and continue his long run of dominance on the smooth jazz charts. “Hardcastle 5” is infected with strong hooks and memorable melodies which have become the Hardcastle trademark. From the midtempo thriller and first radio single “Lucky Star”, to the groove laden “Marimba” and the Barry White-influenced “Don’t You Know”, “Hardcastle 5” delivers on all levels. “Hardcastle 5” also introduces vocalist and newcomer Beki Biggins, who puts her unique imprint on four songs.

SAKAI – DREAM BIG

Family Tree Records has joined forces with The Rob Nonies Label Groupand Koch Distributionon the release of Sakai’s Dream Big.  "I Like," the first single from Dream Big is graced with the guitar-playing wizardry of  Dwayne Wiggins of Tony! Tone! Toni!. “I Like,” debuted at the #8 position on Billboard’s "Hot R&B & Hip Hop Singles Sales" chart.

Dream Big is an 18-track collection of songs, most of which were co-written by Sakai and Family Tree Records’ CEO and President, Kevin "Darkside" Smith, which crosses a variety of genres.  Traditional R&B, urban-infused hip-hop, salsa, jazz and straight up soul are all represented. 

This focus is clearly evident on the standout tracks "Friendship To Love", (co-written by Sakai, Darkside and the esteemed Narada Michael Walden), a ballad which charts the progression of a relationship from the friendship stage to a full-blown love affair and the inspiring and life-affirming "Leap of Faith", which is about following your heart, spreading your wings, and calling upon the strength of one’s spirit to overcome any obstacle; and “A Place Between” a sensual ballad overlaid with the patina of a Spanish guitar which explores the metaphorical “space” between lust and love, the sadness and the warmth of a smile, the space between “your heart and mine.”  Finally, this emotionally engaging set closes with the anthemic ”Dream Big,” which encourages listeners to reach for the stars and give yourself over to your greatest hopes and biggest dreams, and despite what it might look like, Sakai promises us that it’s “Gonna Be Fine” because faith will see you through and it’s time to take control of your destiny.

Sakai’s vocal skills and range have been duly noted by such industry luminaries as Celine Dion on whose hit single “A New Day” Sakai’s is the first voice you hear.  She has also worked with a stellar crew of industry notables such as Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, Curtis Mayfield, Chaka Khan, Oleta Adams, Steve Winwood and Michael Bolton, among others.  

CHICAGO TOUR DATES

Chicago will perform the following concerts:
October 27 – MGM Grand, Las Vegas, NV
October 29 – MGM Grand, Las Vegas, NV
October 30 – MGM Grand, Las Vegas, NV
October 31 - MGM Grand, Las Vegas NV
November 29 - Omaha Civic Music Hall, Omaha NE
November 30 – Orpheum, Minneapolis, MN
December 1 - Genesee Theatre, Waukegan, IL
December 2 - Murat Theatre, Indianapolis, IN
December 5 - US Cellular Coliseum, Bloomington, IL
December 6 - Coronado PAC, Rockford, IL

KHUI-FM “THE JEWEL” HITS THE JACKPOT

KHUI-FM 99.5 in Honolulu is celebrating the success of their “Jewel’ format as the station is the No. 4 station and is No. 6 weekday mornings among Oahu radio listeners 12 and older. The station features music from the likes of Frank Sinatra, Mel Torme, Ed Ames as well as newer artists including Michael Buble and Celine Dion. The station has leapt from last summer's rankings of No. 19 Mondays through Sundays and No. 20 weekday mornings, to this summer's Top 10. It changed to adult standards from Hawaiian music last year.

NEW RELEASES FROM SANTANA, TIERRA, QUINCY JONES, ROY AYERS & MORE...

Meschell Ndegeocello – World Has Made Me The Man Of My Dreams (Universal)
Michel Legrand – RCA Years (BMG/RCA/Japan)
Mikki Howard – The Very Best Of Mikki Howard (Rhino/Warner)
Ntamrosie – Patience (Appletree/Netherlands)
Patrice Rushen – Haven’t You Heard: The Best Of Patrice Rushen (Rhino/Warner)
Peabo Bryson – Positive (Elektra/Wounded Bird)
Quarteto Em Cy – Single & More (Elenco/Japan)
Quincy Jones – Summer In The City – The Soul Jazz Grooves Of Quincy Jones (A&M/Germany)
Rahsaan Patterson – Wines And Spirits (Artistry)
Ramp – Come Into Knowledge (Blue Thumb)
Randolph – Lonely Eden (Still Music/Germany)
Ray Russell – Turn Circle (CBS/Vocation/UK)
Roy Ayers – Lifeline (Polydor)
Santana – Ultimate Santana (Arista)
Stanley Clarke – Children Of Forever (Polydor)
Stanley Clarke – The Toys Of Men (Heads Up)
Take 6 – Greatest Hits (Rhino/Warner)
Tamba Trio – Tamba Trio (Phillips/Japan)
Tevin Campbell – The Best Of Tevin Campbell (Rhino/Warner)
Tierra – Greatest Love Songs (Thump)
Tommy Potter – Hard Funk In Sweden (East West Jazz Connections/Spain)
Viola Wills – Dare To Dream (Get Disconnected)
Zapp & Roger – All The Greatest Hits (Rhino/Warner)

PAUL CULLEN - DREAMDANCE

Paul Cullen’s resourcefulness reaches fruition on his new release Dreamdance. By combining his love of music, fine food and wine, Paul brings his music to wine related events in several different regions of the country. 

Paul was inspired at 19 years old by jazz-fusion artist Pat Metheny and Weather Report. After hour upon hour of diligent work with his new obsession, life was about to change. The opportunity to perform presented itself he started paying his dues on the road. It all paid off when he had a chance meeting with members of AC/DC in 1989, whom were friends with rock legends Bad Company. As they say, timing is everything in life, as the band needed a bass player. In the early 90’s Paul toured the world with Bad Company, playing in front of millions of people. For Paul, it was a dream come true: “It was the most fun I ever had until now,” he remembers, “To get to the point where I was playing in front of 20,000 people every night…it was incredible.”

In 1992, Paul’s successful run with Bad Company ended and another phase of his career began. At that point he decided to start writing, playing acoustic guitar and singing. Taking his vision and love for fine wine and food then transforming it into music was something he knew was not only possible but also very marketable. Dreamdance is now a reality and it was all done the indie way. The music is all ready in motion currently through the CD and live performances on a worldwide level. Paul is traveling to fine wine and food locations everywhere from Bermuda back to his home turf in Delaware.

Dreamdance offers a cross-section of music ranging from adult contemporary pop to jazz flavored tracks.Paul commented: “I’ve had everyone from their 20’s to their 60’s approach me and passionately convey how much they take pleasure in my music. It’s been even more than what I envisioned.”

Catch Paul Cullen liveUnplugged & Uncorked on Wine Lover’s Wednesday-October 27th @ 6pm at the Casa DiLeo in Rehoboth Beach Delaware. Visit Paul’s website for more information, updates, sound samples and more.

DUKE ELLINGTON & SATHIMA BEA BENJAMIN - A MORNING IN PARIS

The Duke Ellington-produced album A Morning in Paris - recorded in 1963 by South African jazz singer Sathima Bea Benjamin featuring Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, and Abdullah Ibrahim - will be reissued for download on October 16 in celebration of Sathima's 71st birthday. CDs will be in stores January 22, 2008, but advance copies were be available at Sathima's birthday concert at New York's Sweet Rhythm Jazz Club on Wednesday, October 17.

The story of Sathima Bea Benjamin's A Morning in Paris -- one of the lost and found gems of jazz recording history -- begins in 1963 when a young South African singer named Beattie Benjamin, living in exile in Zurich, catches Duke Ellington's ear after his own performance and convinces him to come directly down to the Club Africana to listen to her boyfriend's trio. Beattie (who would later be given the name "Sathima" by bassist Johnny Dyani) exercised that night a persistence that would dramatically change her life and career, as well as that of her future husband, Dollar Brand (later Abdullah Ibrahim), and perhaps even the history of jazz. Duke not only agreed to hear the trio; he also insisted that Beattie sing for him. Enthralled by what he heard, Duke sent the musicians to Paris, whereupon both Dollar and Beattie would record albums for Frank Sinatra's Reprise Records, for which Duke was in charge of A&R. Dollar's album became in short time a classic that would establish him as one of the most uniquely personal pianists in jazz history.

Sathima's tapes, which feature the pianist work of Abdullah Ibrahim, Billy Strayhorn, and Duke himself, never reached the public, and were ultimately thought to be lost. However, the tapes resurfaced in 1996 when author David Hajdu, in the course of working on a Billy Strayhorn biography, was given a copy of the session that was secretly made by Gerhard Lehner, the recording engineer. For Sathima, the events of that Paris morning were dream-like in more ways than one -- the performances lived on the courage to take a chance, flourished under the unexpected support of a great artist; became dreams of the past when the possibility of ever hearing them again disappeared into thin air, only to resurface for her and the world to hear 33 years later.

Writing about the morning, Sathima Bea Benjamin notes "I know I shall never, ever again have such a positively wonderful and ecstatic musical experience. I have been blessed beyond words, to have Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, and Abdullah Ibrahim as my accompanists that 'Morning in Paris.' Their input in my musical career empowers me forever."

Since the recording debut, the Grammy-nominated jazz singer Sathima Bea Benjamin has established herself as a master interpreter of American jazz standards, having recorded and collaborated with some of the most legendary figures in jazz. In 2004, President Thabo Mbeki recognized Sathima's work in jazz and support of the exiled ANC during apartheid, and awarded her the Order of Ikhamanga, South Africa's highest honor.

Out-of-print for several years now, A Morning in Paris was made available for download for the first time ever on October 16, 2007. Copies of the CD, distributed exclusively through City Hall Records, will be in stores January 22, 2008.

However, advance copies were made available at Sathima's 71st birthday concert, at New York's Sweet Rhythm Jazz Club, on October 17, 2007. The concert featured Sathima in performance with pianists Stephen Scott and Onaje Allan Gumbs, bassist Marcus McLaurine, and drummer George Gray.

MESHELL NDEGEOCELLO - THE WORLD HAS MADE ME THE MAN OF MY DREAMS

Singer/songwriter Meshell Ndegeocello has just launched a 13-city tour behind her new album, "The World Has Made Me the Man of My Dreams." The trek began Monday night (10/15) in Tucson, AZ, and continues tonight in Los Angeles with a full band that includes Oren Bloedow and Chris Bruce on guitars, Jason Lindner on keyboards, Mark Kelley on bass and Charles Haynes on drums.
      
Released last month, Ndegeocello's latest studio effort features such veteran collaborators as Oliver Lake, Don Byron, Jack DeJohnette, Kenney Garrett and a host of other jazz names.      

"I've always dreamed about being in a group, being surrounded by musicians like in all those big bands I admired when I was a kid," Ndegeocello said in a press release. "When I play solo I'm often out front, and that's not the place I was really looking for."

Here are Meshell Ndegeocello's remaining tour dates:
October 2007
19 - Los Angeles, CA - Echoplex
20 - Monterey, CA - Monterey Music Summit
21 - Sacramento, CA - Harlow's
22 - San Francisco, CA - The Independent
24 - Eugene, OR - WOW Hall
25 - Portland, OR - Roseland Theater

November 2007
12 - Detroit, MI - Majestic Theater
13 - Chicago, IL - House of Blues
14 - Milwaukee, WI - Turner Hall Ballroom
15 - Minneapolis, MN - Fine Line Music Café

KOOP – KOOP ISLANDS

Atlantic recording group KOOP has announced details of their upcoming North American tour. The dates celebrate the recent release of "KOOP ISLANDS." KOOP -- aka Oscar Simonsson and Magnus Zingmark -- will kick off their concert schedule on November 2nd at New York City's Hiro Ballroom, with dates continuing through a November 10th show at Los Angeles' Barker Block (see itinerary below). When performing, Simonsson and Zingmark magically transform KOOP from a two-man studio project into a full-scale orchestra, complete with multiple singers and up to nine live instruments. KOOP themselves play piano/accordion (Simonsson) and sampler (Zingmark).

KOOP is a true original, known for their groundbreaking sample-based amalgamation of jazz, dance, and electronica. "KOOP ISLANDS" sees Simonsson and Zingmark absorbing the influence of the classic Big Band sound of the Twenties, Thirties, and Forties to create an inimitable groove they call "SWINGTRONICA." Joining KOOP on their remarkable musical journey are a number of guest vocalists including Hilde Louise Asbjornsen (featured vocalist for the U.S. tour as well as a featured recording artist and co-lyricist of "Strange Love" from "KOOP ISLANDS"), Yukimi Nagano, Mikael Sundin, and ex-Galliano frontman Rob Gallagher (all of whom appeared on "WALTZ FOR KOOP"), as well as the acclaimed Norwegian singer-songwriter Ane Brun.

Among the many highlights of "KOOP ISLANDS" is the syncopated "Come To Me," featured earlier this year on an episode of ABC's blockbuster "Grey's Anatomy." The track -- included on the recently released "GREY'S ANATOMY ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK 3" -- was also used in a series of ABC promos from early April through the May sweeps. In addition, the tracks "Let's Elope" and "Koop Island Blues" can be heard on FX's "Nip/Tuck" and the trailer for the Pandemic Studio's videogame, Saboteur, respectively.

Emerging from Stockholm's inventive jazz scene in the late 1990s, KOOP drew immediate notoriety for their unique and passionate musical fusion. "WALTZ FOR KOOP," the duo's second album, established KOOP as true pioneers, unafraid to blend diverse styles into their own retro groove. The collection received reams of critical praise, with Muzik hailing it as "near-perfect." "Stirring atmospheres are KOOP's true forte... beautifully arranged," noted Q, while The Observer declared the album "highly infectious... a delight." "('WALTZ FOR KOOP') is something special and unprecedented," raved The Independent, "a jazz-meets-electronic-dance-music album that actually sounds like jazz."

In the four years since the initial release of "WALTZ FOR KOOP," it has found its way into the hearts of more than 160,000 record buyers around the globe. A number of world tours followed (including appearances at such renowned festivals as Glastonbury, Montreux Jazz Festival, Pukkelpop, Umbria Jazz, and Roskilde), as well as hundreds of remixes for artists ranging from like-minded British duo Zero 7 to legendary Afro-Peruvian songstress Susana Baca to the one-and-only Yoko Ono.

KOOP North American Tour Dates
November 2 – New York, NY @ Hiro Ballroom
November 3 – Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
November 5 – Toronto, ONT @ The Mod Club Theatre
November 6 – Chicago, IL @ The Double Door
November 8 – San Francisco, CA @ Bimbo’s 365 Club
November 10 – Los Angeles, CA @ Barker Block

HOUSE OF GROOVES RADIO TO FEATURE THEMED SHOWS

House Of Grooves Radio starts airing special Wednesday broadcasts covering funk and soul music genres of the '70s and '80s. Each Wednesday a two hour show will will play every four hours throughout the day, with House Of Grooves own funk impresario, Uncle Buster, treating listeners to lessons in funk history, trivia and personal experience.

Starting Wednesday October 17 with "The DC Go-Go Beat Show" -- the Washington DC Go-Go Beat movement from the early eighties. Covering what was arguably the greatest urban club movement ever. Featuring music by Chuck Brown, Trouble Funk, EU, Rare Essence, Little Benny and The Northeast Groovers. This show includes a "Chuck Brown & The Soul Searchers Live At The 9:30 Club" show. Broadcasts start at Noon EST, 9 a.m. PST, 4 p.m. GMT and repeating every four hours throughout the day to accommodate House Of Grooves' fervent international audience. Information and access to the broadcast are available at http://www.HouseOfGroovesRadio.com, where interested parties can see a countdown to the broadcast ticking away, and sign up for e-mail notification just prior to the broadcast as a reminder.

The following Wednesday, October 24, the theme will be "The S.O.L.A.R. Show" -- as Uncle Buster features the music of Dick Griffey's Solar record label, which almost single-handedly brought urban music back to earth from the disco years. The Whispers, Shalamar, Dynasty, Lakeside, Midnight Star, all responsible for enormous R&B hits in the first half of the '80s.

Future shows planned include the "Cincinnati / Dayton Show", with Bootsy Collins, The Ohio Players and more, "The Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis Show" featuring music written and produced by the prolific hit making duo and recorded by Janet Jackson, SOS Band, Cherrelle, Klymaxx, Sounds Of Blackness and more. The station also has plans for a "Funk Classics Performed Live" show, with live versions of funk favorites, and "Funk: The New Movement" showcasing the new breed of funk artists, Jacuzzi 500, Gnappy, Papa Grows Funk, ulu and more.

House Of Grooves Radio special shows can be heard tarting Wednesdays at Noon Eastern, 9 a.m. Pacific, and 5 p.m. Greenwich time. The station broadcasts burning funk and jazz music 24 hours a day, and is in the Live365 Top Ten Ranked funk stations.

LIVE NATION ANNOUNCES NEW DIVISION

Live Nation President and Chief Executive Officer, Michael Rapino has announced the structure behind its Artist Nation division. The new division was formed to partner with artists to manage their diverse rights, grow their fan bases and provide a direct connection to fans through the global distribution platform and marketing proficiencies that have made Live Nation the world's largest live music company. Artist Nation will service the company's 10-year partnership with Madonna.

Comprised of recorded music, merchandise, artist fan site/artist ticketing, broadcast/digital media rights, sponsorship and marketing divisions, Artist Nation is led by its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael Cohl. Mr. Cohl commented, "Artist Nation works for the direct benefit of the artist to better market their music across all their diverse businesses to extend their fan base. Our company can leverage Live Nation's many assets in order to help artists reach their fullest potential and deliver the ultimate experience to the fan. This is really an extension of the work we have already been doing with the Rolling Stones, U2 and many other bands over the years. In order to execute this, Artist Nation has put together a superstar team in every area of the music chain."

At the heart of the Artist Nation model are Live Nation's deep relationships within the industry and its global distribution and marketing platform which provides artists with access to hundreds of seasoned marketing, promotion and production personnel and a team of nearly 200 national and local sponsorship employees. The Company is strategically positioned in more than 80 offices in 18 countries around the world, with over 160 venues, all servicing the 35 million fans that attend Live Nation shows each year.

Through corporate alliances, direct marketing, mobile telephone partnerships, online activities, fan websites and innumerable other powerful tools, such as a growing ticket component and a growing database of over 25 million fans, Artist Nation is well positioned to exploit Live Nation resources and build a better relationship between artists and their fans.

Artist Nation, headquartered in Miami, Florida, has a streamlined infrastructure in place to execute on these additional revenue streams. In total, Artist Nation currently has over 300 employees around the world and relationships with more than 500 artists. As the Artist Nation division continues to grow, its infrastructure will be supplemented to provide artists with the best service possible while maintaining an efficient cost structure.

By itself the new Madonna partnership is expected to generate a financially sound return for Madonna and for Live Nation shareholders, as the partners work together over the next ten years to unlock the value of the "Madonna Music Business." In addition, Live Nation believes the return will be enhanced as it expects the Madonna partnership to attract other artists to Artist Nation and accelerate growth.

Artist Nation's divisions are comprised of:

-- RECORDED MUSIC: Artist Nation's recorded music division serves in the creation, production, marketing, promotion, sales and distribution of artists' recorded rights.

-- MERCHANDISE: Artist Nation's merchandise division includes creative product development, sourcing, licensing, marketing and fulfillment services under three brands:

-- Anthill Trading is a global merchandising company, representing some of the most prestigious icons and trademarked properties in music, entertainment and lifestyle. Anthill has relationships with over 50 artists, including names such as AC/DC, Il Divo, Neil Young, Pink Floyd, John Legend, Pearl Jam, Nelly Furtado, The Police, The Rolling Stones, Run DMC, The Wu Tang Clan, and Frank
Zappa.

-- TRUNK, Ltd. is a specialty merchandise company that acquires licenses primarily from music artists to design, manufacture and sell authentic, limited edition apparel and accessories for men,
women and children through various distribution channels. TRUNK has relationships with over 100 music artists.

-- Musictoday is the official online store for over 500 artists and athletes, including Dave Matthews Band, Elvis Presley, and the Rolling Stones.

-- ARTIST FAN SITES AND ARTIST TICKETING: Artist Nation's online division and provides more than 500 artists with fan club and website services and artist fan ticketing products.

-- Ultrastar is the official artist website and fan club for over 20 artists including the Rolling Stones, The Police, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Genesis. Ultrastar also produces and syndicates
original video content through its Virtual Ticket solutions delivering content to online video and exclusive DVD's. The company also has full service marketing capabilities to integrate and manage an artist's entire online presence through contests, partnerships, affiliate marketing, social networking and grass roots outreach.

-- Musictoday executes fan club ticketing for over 500 artists, festivals and venues and also manages 25 fan websites for artists such as John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band, Kenny Chesney, and Celine Dion.

-- BROADCAST/DIGITAL MEDIA RIGHTS: Artist Nation's broadcast/digiital media rights division provides artists means to produce and distribute live music audiovisual products.

-- Studios: Studios provides artists with seamless, integrated means to produce and distribute live music audiovisual products. Studios has produced more than 1,000 recordings, pioneering the delivery of live concerts to 3G mobile phones in the U.S., helping artists sell more than 250,000 CDs and digital downloads to date and producing over 200 shows annually.

-- Media Rights: Media Rights develops and contracts media rights all forms of distribution, including television, home video, internet, mobile, radio, digital cinema and other emerging
channels. Recent projects include DVD's for the Rolling Stones, Mariah Carey and Barbra Streisand, and documentaries for Pete Seeger and Harry Belafonte.

-- SPONSORSHIP AND MARKETING: Artist Nation's alliances group offers music marketing and sponsorship opportunities that provide unparalleled access to the overall music experience through long term partnership programs. Artist Nation also works with Live Nation's local and
national sponsorship groups that employ over 200 sales professionals. In addition, Artist Nation's Tour Design division provides audio and visual production, post production, international design and development, graphic design, and marketing creative services.

Live Nation is the future of the music business – yeah that’s right folks, those music labels are once again being hammered to future obscurity.. The big labels should really focus on their consumers as opposed to suing them. In any event, Live Nation has the most live concerts, music venues and festivals in the world and the most comprehensive concert search engine on the web, Live Nation is revolutionizing the music industry: onstage and online. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Live Nation is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, trading under the symbol "LYV."

NAPSTER UNVEILS NAPSTER 4.0

Napster has unveiled a major redesign of the industry's leading music subscription service with the launch of Napster 4.0, a feature-rich web-based service that allows subscribers to access and play their music on any internet-connected computer without downloading any software.

"Consumers want their digital music to be available wherever they are," said Rob Enderle, principal analyst with the Enderle Group. "By migrating to the Web and eliminating the need to download any software, Napster has taken a significant leap forward, making it possible for subscribers to access its complete catalog -- and more importantly, their own Napster music library -- whenever and wherever they have access to the internet."

Napster 4.0 gives subscribers the freedom to enjoy on-demand access to its massive music catalog of 5 million tracks anytime, anywhere -- from work, a friend's home, or while on the road. Subscribers just need to sign in to the new cross-platform application available on PC, Mac and Linux from an Internet Explorer or Firefox web browser. Subscribers will also be able to access any saved tracks, albums or playlists.

In addition to a fresh design, easy navigation and intuitive user interface, Napster 4.0 introduces a rich set of features for a dynamic, flexible music discovery and listening experience, including:

-- Napster automix, a new innovative and automated music
recommendation/discovery tool that finds and plays hours of music like the
track you're listening to with a single click, streaming a customized
playlist based on the Napster community's musical preferences.

-- Easy access to music discovery tools, including Billboard charts,
genre pages, new releases, radio stations, staff picks, other subscriber's
music collections and more.

-- Pre-programmed playlists across a variety of genres and themes and the
ability to easily create and view your own playlists.

-- Access to exclusive content available first on Napster, including
today's release of three collector's edition albums from 1970s British rock
band Joy Division; "Oblivion with Bells" from British electronic music duo
Underworld; exclusive tracks from R&B legend Betty Davis and "American
Idol" star Bo Bice; and playlists created for Napster by The Bravery and
Atreyu.

"The launch of Napster 4.0 reflects the spirit of online music innovation that is synonomous with Napster. We are committed to providing our subscribers with cutting-edge ways to find new music, enjoy old favorites, and actively participate in a community of music lovers," said Napster CEO Chris Gorog.

"Napster has a dynamic product roadmap encompassing the online, mobile and home entertainment environments and we are focused on introducing more exciting products and services moving forward," Gorog added. "The development of the web-based architecture allows us to explore opportunities with a variety of other web properties and internet-connected devices. These initiatives are focused on expanding our user base, eliminating barriers and allowing consumers to enjoy music wherever they are." Napster 4.0 also gives Mac and Linux users for the first time the ability to stream music from the industry's leading subscription service, including unlimited, on-demand access to Napster's massive catalog of 5 million songs. The Napster 4.0 client user interface mirrors the web-based service. PC-based subscribers can use the client to manage their music collection, rip and burn CDs and transfer tracks to a compatible portable device.

Napster is the pioneer of digital music, offers the ultimate in interactive music experiences, creating better ways to discover, share, acquire and enjoy music -- anytime, anywhere. The company's offerings include "Napster" (www.Napster.com) -- the most popular on-demand music subscription service in the world; "Freenapster" (www.freenapster.com) -- a unique Web experience offering free on demand music legally; and "Napster Mobile" -- one of the industry's fastest growing mobile music platforms. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Napster's services are available in markets across North America, Europe and Japan.

STACEY KENT - BREAKFAST ON THE MORNING TRAM

Vocalist Stacey Kent delivers a charming mix of standards, pop covers, French chansons, and original songs on her Blue Note debut, Breakfast on the Morning Tram. The album, set for October 2 release in the US, was produced by Kent’s husband, tenor saxophonist Jim Tomlinson, whose latest album, The Lyric, featured Kent’s vocals and won Best Album at the 2006 BBC Jazz Awards.

Breakfast on the Morning Tram marks Kent’s return to the studio after a four-year recording hiatus, and inspired the album’s title, referring to the start of something new; a journey in a new direction. It is also the name of one of four new original songs — the first originals that Kent has ever recorded — written especially for her by Tomlinson and acclaimed author Kazuo Ishiguro, winner of the Booker and Whitbread prizes for such literary works as The Remains of the Day and Never Let Me Go.

Stacey Kent Tour Dates -
Nov24 - Oyster Bay, Ny @ LI Doubleday Babcock Center
Nov. 27 - New York, NY @ Birdland
Nov. 28 - New York, NY @ Birdland
Nov. 29 - New York, NY @ Birdland
Nov. 30 - New York, NY @ Birdland
Dec. 1 - New York, NY @ Birdland
Dec. 2 - New York, NY @ Birdland
Dec. 4 - Boston, MA @ Ma Schullers
Dec. 6 - Washington, DC @ Blues Alley
Dec. 7 - Washington, DC @ Blues Alley
Dec. 8 - Washington, DC @ Blues Alley
Dec. 9 - Philadelphia. PA @ PA World Cafe

BETTY BUCKLEY 1967

Tony Award (R) Winner and Broadway legend, Betty Buckley, has become the first female artist signed to Playbill Records, a join-venture partnership with SONY BMG Masterworks Broadway. Buckley's first CD as a newly signed artist to Playbill is entitled Betty Buckley 1967 and will be released on October 16th, 2007. This will mark Playbill Records' second studio-album release, following its successful, label-launching record, the self-titled Brian Stokes Mitchell. Buckley's second album for the label, Quintessence, is slated to release on Valentine's Day 2008.

Betty Buckley 1967 features this artist's unique vocal talents at the ripe age of 19, in her very first professional recording and reveals a voice whose beauty is second to none. From the moment the recording begins, one can't help being uplifted by the joyous sounds of a young woman who was primed to become one of the Great White Way's most impressive talents of a generation. This never-before-released recording showcases Buckley in an enormous array and range of songs including a refreshingly upbeat rendition of Bye, Bye Birdie's One Boy, the classic Gershwin number They Can't Take That Away From Me, a free-spirited Call Me, and the simplicity of Buckley and a piano in Where is Love? The album was originally recorded and engineered by T Bone Burnett. "It is truly remarkable to finally see this album be released after forty years. To listen to this recording, I remember a girl who loved to sing for the pure joy of it," said Betty Buckley.

Philip S. Birsh, President and Publisher of Playbill and Playbill Records President, stated "Betty is an astounding talent. I have seen her perform in theatres filled to capacity and in the intimacy of a recording studio. No matter the setting, the reaction is always the same; those present are moved and mesmerized by the sheer beauty of her voice." Richard Jay-Alexander, Executive Producer of Playbill Records, echoes those same sentiments and adds, "I'm so happy we found a queen for our king at Playbill Records."

Buckley herself is overjoyed by the release of this album after four decades. This album proves that the music and talent featured in "1967" is just as timeless and significant as the person who sang them. Because Buckley never got to see her first album actually become a record, Playbill is pressing special, limited-edition 12-inch vinyl LPs of "1967" to commemorate the release. This special collector's item will be available only through PlaybillStore.com. 2007 continues to be a landmark year for Buckley. She recently began filming the highly anticipated film from director M. Night Shyamalan entitled "The Happening." She will make her debut at New York's Town Hall in a special one-night-only performance on October 20th, 2007. Buckley's second release on Playbill Records,

Quintessence, celebrates Buckley's 17-year working relationship with musical director and pianist Kenny Werner. Backed by a quintet of musicians, Buckley offers original renditions of Amelia, I've Grown Accustomed to His Face, Cry Me a River, No One Is Alone and So Many Stars. Before landing her first Broadway role on her very first audition, before Cats made her a household name, before it all, there was 1967. This album is simply the prelude to a brilliant and unmatched career.

NEW RELEASES

Abbey Lincoln – Abbey Lincoln Sings Billie Holiday (Enja/Germany)
Ann-Margret – On The Way Up (RCA/Japan)
Angie Stone – The Art Of Love And War (Stax/Concord)
Aretha Franklin – Rare & Unreleased Recordings From The Golden Reign Of The Queen Of Soul (Rhino)
Arthur Verocai – Encore (Far Out/UK)
Bob Marley & The Wailers – Another Dance: Rarities From Studio One (Heartbeat/Rounder)
Brand New Heavies – Get Used To It Remixes (Delicious Vinyl)
Buddy Greco – Magic Of It All (SSJ/Japan)
Celi Bee & The Buzzy Bunch – Celi Bee & The Buzzy Bunch (Get Disconnected)
David Murray – Lucky Four (Enja/Germany)
Deodato – Do It Again – The Fantastic Jazz Funk Of Eumir Deodato (MCA/Germany)
Elaine Delmar – Sneakin’ Up (CBS/Vocation/UK)
Ennio Morricone – Mussolini Ultimo Atto (Cinevox/Italy)
Ennio Morricone – Indagine Su Un Cittadino Al Di Sopra Di Ogni Sospetto (Cinevox/Italy)
Ergo Sum – Mexico (Musea/Lion)
Eric Marienthal – Just Around The Corner (Peak/Concord)
Gabor Szabo – Macho (Salvation)
Gerald Albright – The Very Best Of Gerald Albright (Rhino/Warner)
Grover Washington, Jr. – Anthology Of Grover Washington, Jr. (Rhino/Warner)
Henri Rene – Music For Bachelors (RCA/Rev-Ola/UK)
Idea 6 – Steppin’ Out (Déjà Vu/Italy)
Ike & Tina Turner – Ike & Tina Turner Story 1960-1975 (Time Life)
Impressions – Finally Got Myself Together (Curtom)
James Moody – Teachers (Perception Castle/UK)
Joe Cuba – We Must Be Doing Something Right (Tico)
Joe Henderson – The Milestone Years (Milestone)
Julio Frade – MusicaEn Serio – Bossa Jazz Roots (Roadrunner/Uruguay)
Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock & Jack DeJohnette – My Foolish Heart: Live At Montreux 2001 (ECM)
Latimore – Back ‘Atcha (Henry Stone)
Lee McDonald – I’ll Do Anything For You (Favorite/France)
Leon Spencer – Sneak Preview (Prestige)
Les McCann – Bucket O’ Grease (Limelight)
Lou Donaldson – Mr. Shing-A-Ling (Blue Note)
Luis Quintero – Percussion Madness Revisited (BBE/UK)
Luther Vandross – Love, Luther (Epic/Legacy)
Marlene Dietrich – Marlene Dietrich With The Burt Bacharach Orchestra (Bureau/Germany)
Mass Production – Firecrackers: The Best Of Mass Production (Rhino/Warner)

DRM-FREE TRACKS WITH 256 KBPS AAC ENCODING

On October 17th Apple(R) announced that it has expanded its iTunes(R) Plus offering to over two million tracks and lowered the price of all iTunes Plus tracks to just 99 cents. All iTunes Plus tracks feature DRM-free music with high quality 256 kbps AAC encoding for audio quality virtually indistinguishable from the original recordings. The iTunes Plus catalog is now the largest DRM-free catalog in the world, and includes artists from Sub Pop, Nettwerk, Beggars Group, IODA, The Orchard and many others, along with EMI's digital catalog.

"iTunes Plus has been incredibly popular with our customers and now we're making it available at an even more affordable price," said Eddy Cue, Apple's vice president of iTunes. "We're adding over two million tracks from key independent labels in addition to EMI's digital catalog and look forward to even more labels and artists making their music available on iTunes Plus."

EMI began offering their catalog on iTunes Plus earlier this year, and their impressive selection has grown to include singles and albums from the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Norah Jones, Frank Sinatra and the solo catalogs of all four Beatles.

With the expansion of iTunes Plus, customers can now download tracks from a variety of labels without limitations on the type of music player or number of computers that purchased songs can be played on. iTunes Plus songs purchased from the iTunes Store will play on all iPods, iPhone(TM), Windows or Mac(R) computers, widescreen TVs with Apple TV(TM), as well as many other digital music players.

The iTunes Store is the world's most popular online music, TV and movie store and has become the number three music retailer in the US, surpassing both Amazon and Target. The iTunes Store features the world's largest catalog with over six million songs, 550 television shows and over 500 movies and has sold over three billion songs, 100 million TV shows and over two million movies.