BETTYE LAVETTE - THE SCENE OF THE CRIME

LOS ANGELES, CA--(Marketwire - December 7, 2007) - BETTYE LaVETTE continues her bold ascent with a GRAMMY nomination for Best Contemporary Blues Album for her CD "THE SCENE OF THE CRIME" (Anti- Records). Joined by the Drive-By Truckers as her backing band, BETTYE's essential new entry into the soul music canon channels more than 40 years of blood, sweat, and shattered dreams into one glorious catharsis.

"I haven't been this happy since 1962 when this whole thing started," declares an elated BETTYE.
It was 35 years ago in Muscle Shoals -- a decade after she scored a top-ten hit with her debut single "My Man - He's A Lovin' Man" -- that BETTYE recorded the career-defining masterpiece that never was: Atlantic Records inexplicably shelved the record. Scarred but not broken, BETTYE persevered as a tireless performer, honing her craft and focusing her heartbreak.

Now "THE SCENE OF THE CRIME" has indisputably become the career-defining masterpiece that is. On the heels of her critically lauded Anti- debut (2005's "I've Got My Own Hell To Raise"), "SCENE" has been garnering nonstop rave reviews -- and not a few rhetorical questions:

NPR asks, "Is there any soul singer who brings more guts, more conviction and more emotion to her singing?" and Entertainment Weekly wonders, "Is there a more wrenching soul singer alive than Bettye LaVette?"
Elsewhere, the praise has been every bit as assertive as BETTYE herself is in redefining cuts like Elton John and Bernie Taupin's "Talking Old Soldiers," Willie Nelson's "Somebody Pick Up My Pieces," and Don Henley's "You Don't Know Me At All" on "THE SCENE OF THE CRIME":

"LaVette's nuanced singing evokes prime Tina Turner with even more command," says Rolling Stone. Adds USA Today, "This album...just rips, with some truly sublime peaks. 'The Scene of the Crime' is a smoldering revelation displaying an artist nearly a half century into her career who is only now approaching the peak of her considerable powers," notes Paste. And the All Music Guide: "It gets better with each listen, and stands so far outside the realm of anything her better-known peers are doing today that it's almost scary."

50th ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARD NOMINATIONS

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Dec. 6, 2007) — Nominations for the 50th Annual GRAMMY® Awards were announced today by The Recording Academy® reflecting one of the most diverse years ever with the Album Of The Year category alone representing the country, hip-hop, jazz, pop and rock genres. The press event was held at The Music Box @ Fonda in Hollywood and was attended by national and international media, as well as key music industry executives. Artists reading nominations this morning included Akon, Chester Bennington (of Linkin Park), Fergie, Vince Gill, Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters) Herbie Hancock, Jimmy Jam, Taylor Hawkins (Foo Fighters), George Lopez, Mike Shinoda (of Linkin Park) and Taylor Swift. The 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards will be held on "GRAMMY Sunday," Feb. 10, 2008, at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and once again will be broadcast live in high definition TV and 5.1 surround sound on CBS from 8 – 11:30 p.m. (ET/PT).

Kanye West tops the nominations with eight, Amy Winehouse garners six, and the Foo Fighters, Jay-Z, Timbaland, Justin Timberlake, and T-Pain each earn five nods. Akon, Dierks Bentley, Chris Daughtry, Feist, Tim McGraw, John Newton, Ne-Yo, Rihanna, and Bruce Springsteen receive four each.

"This year's nominations truly reflect a diverse and talented community of artists and creators who represent some of the most exceptional music of the year," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy. "The GRAMMY Awards process once again has yielded a comprehensive group of excellent nominees and coupled with the fact that it's our milestone 50th year, this year's telecast promises music fans a spectacular show filled with stellar performances and unique 'GRAMMY Moments' for which Music's Biggest Night™ has come to be renowned."

Following is a sampling of nominations in 110 categories from the GRAMMY Awards' 31 Fields:

GENERAL FIELD
Nominees for Album Of The Year are:
Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace — Foo Fighters
These Days — Vince Gill
River: The Joni Letters — Herbie Hancock
Graduation — Kanye West
Back To Black — Amy Winehouse

Nominees for Record Of The Year are:
"Irreplaceable" — Beyoncé
"The Pretender" — Foo Fighters
"Umbrella" — Rihanna Featuring Jay-Z
"What Goes Around…Comes Around" — Justin Timberlake
"Rehab" — Amy Winehouse

Best New Artist nominees are:
Feist
Ledisi
Paramore
Taylor Swift
Amy Winehouse

Song Of The Year nominees include:
"Before He Cheats" — John Kear & Chris Tompkins, songwriters (Carrie Underwood)
"Hey There Delilah" — Tom Higgenson, songwriter (Plain White T's)
"Like A Star" — Corinne Bailey Rae, songwriter (Corinne Bailey Rae)
"Rehab" — Amy Winehouse, songwriter (Amy Winehouse)
"Umbrella" — Shawn Carter, Kuk Harrell, Terius "Dream" Nash & Christopher Stewart, songwriters (Rihanna Featuring Jay-Z)

POP FIELD
Nominations for Best Pop Vocal Album go to:
Lost Highway — Bon Jovi
The Reminder — Feist
It Won't Be Soon Before Long — Maroon 5
Memory Almost Full — Paul McCartney
Back To Black — Amy Winehouse

Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals nods go to:
"Steppin' Out" — Tony Bennett & Christina Aguilera
"Beautiful Liar" — Beyoncé & Shakira
"Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)" — Robert Plant & Alison Krauss
"The Sweet Escape" — Gwen Stefani & Akon
"Give It To Me" — Timbaland Featuring Nelly Furtado & Justin Timberlake

Best Pop Instrumental Performance nominees are:
"Off The Grid" — Beastie Boys
"Paris Sunrise #7" — Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals
"Over The Rainbow" — Dave Koz
"One Week Last Summer" — Joni Mitchell
"Simple Pleasures" — Spyro Gyra

DANCE FIELD
For Best Dance Recording, the nominees are:
"Do It Again" — The Chemical Brothers
"D.A.N.C.E." — Justice
"Love Today" — Mika
"Don't Stop The Music" —Rihanna
"Love Stoned/I Think She Knows" — Justin Timberlake

ROCK FIELD
Nominations for Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance go to:
"Timebomb" — Beck
"Only Mama Knows" — Paul McCartney
"Our Country" — John Mellencamp
"Radio Nowhere" — Bruce Springsteen
"Come On" — Lucinda Williams

Best Rock Album nominees are:
Daughtry — Daughtry
Revival — John Fogerty
Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace — Foo Fighters
Magic — Bruce Springsteen
Sky Blue Sky — Wilco

Nods for Best Rock Song go to:
"Come On" — Lucinda Williams, songwriter (Lucinda Williams)
"Icky Thump" — Jack White, songwriter (The White Stripes)
"It's Not Over" — Chris Daughtry, Gregg Wattenberg, Mark Wilkerson & Brett Young, songwriters (Daughtry)
"The Pretender" — Dave Grohl, Taylor Hawkins, Nate Mendel & Chris Shiflett, songwriters (Foo Fighters)
"Radio Nowhere" — Bruce Springsteen, songwriters (Bruce Springsteen)

R&B FIELD
Nominees for Best R&B Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals are:
"Same Girl" — R. Kelly Featuring Usher
"Disrespectful" — Chaka Khan Featuring Mary J. Blige
"Hate That I Love You" — Rihanna Featuring Ne-Yo
"Baby" — Angie Stone Featuring Betty Wright
"Bartender" — T-Pain Featuring Akon

For Best Contemporary R&B album, the nominees are:
Konvicted — Akon
Just Like You — Keyshia Cole
Fantasia — Fantasia
East Side Story — Emily King
Because Of You — Ne-Yo

Best Urban/Alternative Performance nods go to:
"Make A Baby" — Vikter Duplaix
"That's The Way Of The World" — Dwele
"Daydreamin'" — Lupe Fiasco Featuring Jill Scott
"Fantasy" — Meshell Ndegeocello
"Dream" — Alice Smith

RAP FIELD
Best Rap/Sung Collaboration nods go to:
"I Wanna Love You" — Akon Featuring Snoop Dogg
"Kiss, Kiss" — Chris Brown & T-Pain
"Let It Go" — Keyshia Cole Featuring Missy Elliott & Lil' Kim
"Umbrella" — Rihanna Featuring Jay-Z
"Good Life" — Kanye West Featuring T-Pain

Nominees for Best Rap Song are:
"Ayo Technology" — N. Hills, Curtis Jackson, Timothy Mosley & Justin Timberlake, songwriters (50 Cent Featuring Justin Timberlake & Timbaland)
"Big Things Poppin' (Do It)" — Clifford Harris & Byron Thomas, songwriters (T.I.)
"Can't Tell Me Nothing" — A. Davis & Kanye West, songwriters (Kanye West)
"Crank That (Soulja Boy)" — Soulja Boy Tell'Em, songwriter (Soulja Boy Tell'Em)
"Good Life" — A. Davis, F. Najm & K. West, songwriters (Kanye West Featuring T-Pain)

For Best Rap Album, the nominees are:
Finding Forever — Common
Kingdom Come — Jay-Z
Hip Hop Is Dead — Nas
T.I. vs T.I.P. — T.I.
Graduation — Kanye West

COUNTRY FIELD
Nods for Best Country Collaboration With Vocals go to:
"Days Aren't Long Enough" — Steve Earle & Allison Moorer
"Because Of You" — Reba McEntire & Kelly Clarkson
"I Need You" — Tim McGraw & Faith Hill
"Lost Highway" — Willie Nelson & Ray Price
"Oh Love" — Brad Paisley & Carrie Underwood

For Best Country Song, the nominees are:
"Before He Cheats" — Josh Kear & Chris Tompkins, songwriters (Carrie Underwood)
"Give It Away" — Bill Anderson, Buddy Cannon & Jamey Johnson, songwriters (George Strait)
"I Need You" — Tony Lane & David Lee, songwriters (Tim McGraw & Faith Hill)
"If You're Reading This" — Tim McGraw, Brad Warren & Brett Warren, songwriters (Tim McGraw)
"Long Trip Alone" — Brett Beavers, Dierks Bentley & Steve Bogard, songwriters (Dierks Bentley)

Nominations for Best Country Album are:
Long Trip Alone — Dierks Bentley
These Days — Vince Gill
Let It Go — Tim McGraw
5th Gear — Brad Paisley
It Just Comes Natural — George Strait

JAZZ FIELD
For Best Contemporary Jazz Album, the nominees are:
Party Hats — Will Bernard
Downright Upright — Brian Bromberg
Re-Imagination — Eldar
River: The Joni Letters — Herbie Hancock
He Had A Hat — Jeff Lorber

Nods for Best Jazz Vocal Album go to:
Avant Gershwin — Patti Austin
Red Earth — A Malian Journey — Dee Dee Bridgewater
Music Maestro Please — Freddy Cole
Nightmoves — Kurt Elling
On The Other Side — Tierney Sutton

This year's Producer Of The Year, Non-Classical nominations go to: Howard Benson, Joe Chiccarelli, Mike Elizondo, Mark Ronson, and Timbaland

In the newly added Best Zydeco Or Cajun Music Album category, nominations go to: Le Cowboy Creole (Geno Delafose & French Rockin' Boogie), King Cake (Lisa Haley), Live: Á La Blue Moon (Lost Bayou Ramblers), Blues De Musicien (Pine Leaf Boys), Racines (Racines), The La Louisianne Sessions (Roddie Romero And The Hub City All-Stars), and Live! Worldwide (Terrance Simien & The Zydeco Experience).

In the Latin Field, Best Latin Rock, Alternative Or Urban Album has now been split into two categories. Nominations for Best Latin Rock Or Alternative Album are: No Hay Espacio (Black:Guayaba), Adelantando (Jarabe De Palo), Amantes Sunt Amentes (Panda), Kamikaze (Rabanes), Memo Rex Commander Y El Corazón Atómico De La Via Láctea (Zoé). For Best Latin Urban Album, nods go to: E.S.L. (Akwid), El Abayarde Contra-Ataca (Tego Calderón), Residente O Visitante (Calle 13), El Cartel: The Big Boss (Daddy Yankee), and Vacaneria! (Fulanito).

GRAMMY ballots for the final round of voting will be mailed on Dec. 12 to the voting members of The Recording Academy. They are due back to the accounting firm of Deloitte by Jan. 9, 2008, when they will be tabulated and the results kept secret until the telecast.

The 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards are produced by John Cossette Productions and AEG Ehrlich Ventures for The Recording Academy. Ken Ehrlich and John Cossette are executive producers, Walter C. Miller is producer/director, Tisha Fein is the coordinating producer, and Tzvi Small is supervising producer.

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."