WQCD-FM REPLACED BY EMMIS

NEW YORK, Feb 05, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Emmis Communications today announced the launch of a new New York City radio station, 101.9 WRXP, The New York Rock Experience. "101.9 RXP" represents a new Adult Rock station in the New York tri-state market which merges New Music, Classic Rock, Alternative & Local Rock into a new adult blend called "The New York Rock Experience." 101.9 RXP will feature a variety of rock from artists like Franz Ferdinand, Bruce Springsteen, Nirvana, Coldplay, U2, Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews, The Police, Beck, Radiohead, The Who, Oasis, Arcade Fire, Social Distortion and REM ... a playlist not determined by era, but rather by the acoustic quality of each song, as determined directly by on-air personalities and staff.

"On-air personalities will play a direct part in choosing the music," announced 101.9 RXP Program Director Blake Lawrence. "It's unheard of in radio these days, but 101.9 RXP is about the music and not so much the music business -- we're merging rock styles and generations into a singular community that we call The New York Rock Experience."
"Having grown up on the great NY rock radio of the past, I'm absolutely thrilled that Emmis has identified an unserved audience that now has a great new 3 dimensional rock brand!" said Emmis VP of Programming Jimmy Steal. "This brand builds, and expands upon, NY's great rock radio legacy -- RXP is a rock station that truly represents a rock culture, for rock music lovers...and is not just another rock format."

The first song to air on 101.9 RXP was "Rock and Roll" by legendary New York Icon Lou Reed & the Velvet Underground, followed by the world premiere of REM's "Supernatural Superserious." "We're the first station in the world to premier the new REM song 'Supernatural Superserious,' and the only station that truly embodies the New York spirit of Lou Reed and the Velvet Underground classic 'Rock and Roll,'" said Director of Marketing Brian D'Aurelio. "Both songs are a fitting representation of this unique new adult rock brand."

The station, which is located in the NYC's West Village, will include another feature that is unique to New York radio with the regular inclusion of local rock artists. Local acts like Hold Steady, White Rabbits, Santogold, The National, and Nada Surf will all be part of the initial playlist, and the type of local talent that the station will support moving forward. "Some of the world's greatest rock artists got their start playing by the fountain in Washington Square Park just steps away from our studios," said new on-air personality and Music Director Bryan Schock. "That communal rock spirit is what we mean by the New York Rock Experience, and it is the spirit with which 101.9 RXP will be playing and launching new local artists." Effective immediately Bryan Schock will be heard weekdays in the afternoon drive shift. He is the first on-air personality to emerge from the massive search now underway for live and local on-air talent for the station.

"This is a completely unique & custom radio station with absolutely nothing off the shelf," Emmis New York Market Manager Dan Halyburton said. "Our talented team has been working tirelessly to offer a new adult rock radio brand that is truly unique and deserving of being the caretaker of New York's rich rock heritage."

The launch not only marks the beginning of a new home for rock on New York radio, it also debuts the 101.9 RXP Rock Republic -- an online network and informational hub for rock fans in the tri-state area and beyond based at the new 1019RXP.com .

Emmis Communications New York commissioned multiple research projects from Paragon Media Strategies prior to the launch of WRXP. Programming consultants included Mike Henry of Paragon Media Strategies and John Bradley and Dave Rahn of SBR Creative Media.
101.9 RXP replaces Smooth Jazz CD101.9, which will continue to be available to fans via 101.9's Smooth Jazz HD2 channel on all HD capable radios within the listening area. Information regarding Smooth Jazz CD101.9 HD Channel is available at cd1019.com .

For more information about the new 101.9 RXP programming, events and news, listen to 101.9 FM or log on to www.1019RXP.com .

About Emmis Communications -- Great Media, Great People, Great Service(R: 59.53, +2.61, +4.58%):
Emmis is an Indianapolis-based diversified media firm with radio broadcasting, television broadcasting and magazine publishing operations. Emmis owns 21 FM and 2 AM domestic radio stations serving the nation's largest markets of New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, as well as St. Louis, Austin, Indianapolis and Terre Haute, Ind. In May 2005, Emmis announced its intent to seek strategic alternatives for its 16 television stations, and has announced the sales of 15 of them. Emmis also owns a radio network, international radio stations, regional and specialty magazines, an interactive business and ancillary businesses in broadcast sales.

SOURCE Emmis Communications

NEW RELEASES

Al B. Sure! – The Very Best Of Al B. Sure! (Rhino)
Al Jarreau – Love Songs (Rhino)
Andrea Bocelli – Vivere: Live In Tuscany DVD/CD (Decca)
Billie Holiday – The Definitive Collection (Verve/UME)
Brian McKnight – 20th Century Masters: The Best Of Brian McKnight – The Millenium Collection (Motown/UME)
Charles Mingus – The Very Best Of Charles Mingus (Rhino)
Chick Corea & Gary Burton – The New Crystal Silence (Stretch/Concord)
Chick Corea & Return To Forever – The Definitive Collection (Verve/UME)
Fourplay – The Best Of Fourplay (Warner/Rhino)
Jack Johnson – Sleeping Through The Static (Brushfire/Universal)
Jean-Luc Ponty – The Very Best Of Jean-Luc Ponty (Rhino)
Jill Scott – Live In Paris + DVD (Hidden Beach)
Jimmy Smith – The Definitive Collection (Verve/UME)
John Lee Hooker – The Very Best Of John Lee Hooker (Rhino)
k.d. lang – Watershed (Nonesuch)
Kenny G – Rhythm & Romance (Concord/Starbucks)
Lenny Kravitz – Revolution (Virgin)
Louis Armstrong – The Ultimate Collection DVD (Hip-O/UME)
Mel Torme - Sings For Lovers (Concord)
Quincy Jones – Quincy Jones & Friends: 50 Years In Music –Live At Montreux 1996 DVD (Eagle Vision)
Rosemary Clooney – Sings For Lovers (Concord)
Sheryl Crow – Detours (A&M/Interscope)
Taylor Dayne – Satisfied (Intention Music)
Wes Montgomery – Plays For Lovers (Riverside/Concord)

NEW REMIXED AND REMASTERED FRANK SINATRA DUE

Warner Music Group's Reprise Records are planning tol release "Nothing But The Best," a single disc that will feature 22 songs remixed and remastered from the original master tapes, as well as a previously unreleased arrangement of "Body and Soul." The compilation will be available at traditional retail, as well as at FrankSinatra.com and at U.S. Post Offices, where Sinatra will feature on a stamp May 13. A limited number of the CDs will include a stamp.

WQCD-FM 101.9 DROPS THEIR SMOOTH JAZZ FORMAT

In case you have not yet heard, New York’s premier smooth jazz radio station, WQCD-FM 101.9 has flipped formats. According to a press release CD101.9 dropped the smooth jazz format due to a declining audience for Smooth Jazz over the past few years. On February 5th the station launched a supposed innovative new adult rock format on the 101.9 frequency called 101.9 RXP The New York Rock Experience. 101.9 RXP is a respectful and intelligent mix of new music, classic rock and alternative . "Smooth Jazz CD101.9" will still continue to exist on their HD2 channel. To receive the signal you’ll need to purchase an HD capable radio and you will be able to listen to your favorite Smooth Jazz artists for free. CD1019.com will continue to provide you with upcoming smooth jazz events in association with the HD2 channel, and members of the CD101.9 Loyal Listener Club you will continue to receive e-mail updates.

ALICIA KEYS NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES

Alicia Keys is embarking on a lengthy tour to support her latest album - "As I Am". The tour is scheduled to kick off later this month in Europe and swing through North America beginning this spring. The North American leg of the tour is listed below.

April
19 - Hampton, VA - Hampton Coliseum
20 - Philadelphia, PA - Liacouras Center
22 - Pittsburgh, PA - Peterson Events Center
24 - Rosemont, IL - Allstate Arena
26 - Columbus, OH - Value City Arena at Schottenstein Center
27 - St. Louis, MO - Scottrade Center
30 - Minneapolis, MN - Target Center

May
1 - Kansas City, MO - Sprint Center
5 - Los Angeles, CA - venue to be announced
7 - San Diego, CA - San Diego Sports Arena
9 - Las Vegas, NV - MGM Grand Garden Arena
10 - San Jose, CA - HP Pavilion at San Jose
12 - Phoenix, AZ - Jobing.com Arena
14 - Grand Prairie, TX - Nokia Theatre at Grand Prairie
18 - Houston, TX - Toyota Center
22 - New Orleans, LA - New Orleans Arena
24 - Tampa, FL - St. Pete Times Forum
25 - Miami, FL - American Airlines Arena
28 - Atlanta, GA - Philips Arena
30 - Greensboro, NC - Greensboro Coliseum
31 - Cincinnati, OH - US Bank Arena

June
3 - Detroit, MI - Joe Louis Arena
5 - Cleveland, OH - Wolstein Center at Cleveland State
6 - Toronto, Ontario - Air Canada Centre
8 - Montreal, Quebec - Bell Centre
11 - Boston, MA - TD Banknorth Garden
13 - Washington, DC - Verizon Center
15 - Baltimore, MD - 1st Mariner Arena
17 - Newark, NJ - Prudential Center
18 - New York, NY - Madison Square Garden

3rd ANNUAL JAZZ IN THE GARDENS MUSIC FESTIVAL

The City of Miami Gardens is pleased to announce the star-studded lineup for the 3rd annual Jazz in the Gardens music festival, being held on Saturday, March 15th and Sunday, March 16th at Dolphin Stadium. Confirmed artists include George Benson, Chaka Khan, The O'Jays, Wyclef Jean, Nancy Wilson, KEM, George Duke, Stanley Clarke, Chrisette Michele, Mike Phillips and Anthony David. Local artists names to be released soon.

Tickets go on sale at 10am, February 1st, 2008 at http://www.jazzinthegardens.com/ or through Ticketmaster. Tickets may also be purchased at the Dolphin Stadium ticket box office.
"Jazz in the Gardens has really become an internationally recognized event. It's exciting to know people from all over the world look forward to coming to Miami Gardens. It's incredible how music has the power to transcend language and culture, as it serves to unite people. With this year's line-up of jazz greats we will continue to make Miami Gardens a proud community and a more visible destination," says Miami Gardens Mayor Shirley Gibson.

Chaka Khan is an internationally loved diva of 'old school' soul music. Her energy, versatile soulful voice, dynamism, and passion are demonstrated in her live performances and musical career that spans three decades. Having worked in practically every genre of music from pop, classical R&B to Jazz, Chaka has brought her special brand of vocal magic to audiences the world over. Among her list of accolades, Chaka is an eight-time Grammy winner, from 1973 to 2003.
Jazz guitarist, singer and international superstar George Benson is appreciated as both a musician and a performer by millions. Benson began his journey as fledging guitarist, working the corner pubs of his native Pittsburg. Forty years later, George Benson is an eight-time Grammy winner who has played the world over. Benson's tone is juicy; his blues solos sparkle with a carefully honed logic where a jaunty funk and swing aesthetic prevail.

The O'Jays, legendary kings of old school, have an ocean-wide body of work that spawned 24 Top Ten smashes and 59 total charted songs. Known for their incredibly energetic and dynamic live shows, the O'Jays, Eddie Levert, Sr., Walter Williams, Sr. and Eric Nolan Grant, show no sign of slowing down. After 40+ years of making such international hits as "Back Stabbers," "For The Love Of Money," "Darlin' Darlin' Baby," "Love Train," "I Love Music," and "Use Ta Be My Girl," The O'Jays are light years away from easing up on the gas.

Wyclef Jean was launched into pop culture consciousness in 1994 as a member of The Fugees with Lauren Hill leading vocals. In 1997 he embarked on his journey as a solo performer, and has never looked back. From his chart-topping Grammy-nominated international smash hit duet with Shakira "Hips Don't Lie, to his current smash hit "The Sweetest Girl," which is tearing up the pop charts, Wyclef Jean is positioned to become a multi-cultural musical legend. This multi-Grammy award winning artist is a South Florida favorite, drawing music lovers young and old. He is also internationally recognized for his humanitarian efforts and work as an ambassador for Haiti.

Jazz icon and incomparable soulstress Nancy Wilson's musical style is so diverse, it is hard to classify. But whatever she performs she is riveting. Whether jazz, blues, pop or cabaret, she is the consummate "storyteller," a professor emeritus of body language. Wilson's stellar career spans over 40 years and over 70 albums. She is a three-time Grammy winner, Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame inductee, and recipient of the NAACP image award. Nancy's most recent Grammy was won in 2007 for her jazz album, "Turned to Blue." Nancy Wilson comes out of retirement to join the City of Miami Gardens for its 3rd Annual Jazz in the Gardens.
KEM is a self taught musician and Motown's rising star. He delivers rich, sweet vocals, with a blend of saucy scats and soothing lyrics. His captivating singing style carries listeners from the past to the present -- the essence of everything we love and miss about soul music. From his days of being homeless on the streets of Detroit, to his soulful honest lyrics that have captivated jazz and R&B audiences and guaranteed his rise to stardom, the hardworking and humble KEM never forgets what the journey has taught him. Nothing can be better than KEMISTRY for the soul.

George Duke's professional career has spanned five amazing decades. He began his piano studies at age seven, absorbing the roots of Black music at his local Baptist church. Fast forward to today and Duke's career has taken twists and turns, all bigger than the next. The list of artists and projects Duke has participated in is mind blowing. He has worked with Al Jarreau, Jean-Luc Ponty, Cannonball Adderly, Quincy Jones, Frank Zappa, Nancy Wilson, Joe Williams, Dizzy Gillespie, Jeffery Osborne, Barry Manilow, Gladys Knight, George Benson, Tony Bennett, Natalie Cole, Luther Vandross, Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover and the list of top notch, multi-platinum superstars that Duke has worked with goes on and on. Through the years, along with his own releases and busy producing schedule, George has acted as musical director for numerous artists and television specials including producing The Soul Train Music Awards for nine years. George Duke's career has been simply stunning and it doesn't look like its going to slow up any time soon.

In 1971, the jazz world immediately recognized the dexterity and complete musicality Stanley Clarke possessed. The former teen prodigy is now a Grammy & Emmy Award winner. His constant pursuit of perfection with relentless attention to be the best makes Clarke is a celebrated pioneer in fusion jazz music. He was Rolling Stone Magazine's very first 'Jazzman of the Year,' and the first bassist in history to ever headline tours and sell out shows.

She may be new to the music world, but Chrisette Michele is an old soul with a distinct voice and talent, way beyond her 23 years. Before signing with Def Jam records, the singer, song writer and composer toured with more established artists like KEM and India.Arie. She is a VH1 "You Oughta Know: Artist on the Rise" for January 2008 and is enjoying airplay on jazz and R&B stations worldwide. Michele has now found her own voice and stepped into the limelight with her debut album and introduction to the world, "I AM." A growing fan base now surrounds her mix for soul and pop, filled with the soul of jazz.

Mike Phillips is a saxophonist with an undeniable presence that captivates. Armed with his signature passion and magnetic presence, this talented musician challenges established jazz norms by embracing a variety of musical influences while adding his own unique flavor to the mix. His unique style earned him a coveted spot in Prince's world renowned NPG Band during the 90-city Musicology Tour. He was subsequently offered the opportunity to perform with Stevie Wonder at Nelson Mandela's 90th birthday celebration in South Africa. Mike Phillips sizzles.

Anthony David, a Georgia-based singer/songwriter, has successfully merged old and new school grooves with a distinct Southern flavor. Thinking of himself more as a songwriter, it took several years before David was willing to showcase his voice publicly. Using soul greats Bill Withers and Anita Baker as models, he found his own vocal style, a rough, raspy Southern baritone that worked well with his poetic compositions. After moving to Atlanta to pursue his career, David met India.Arie, and the two formed a friendship based in part on their mutual love of 60s and 70s soul music. A break came when Arie released her highly acclaimed debut, "Acoustic Soul," in 2002, which included a David composition, "Part of Your Life."

Jazz in the Gardens, in just three years, has become the best jazz festival in South Florida, raising the bar each year with its star studded line-up. The jazz festival, with attendance levels expected at 20,000 this year, delivers a diverse mix of music genres that range from Jazz, R&B and Caribbean sounds.

This is the second year that the City has teamed up with Circle of One Marketing for Media, Marketing and Public Relations and Concertz Event Management, Inc. for Artist and Event Management as producers of Jazz in the Gardens. With the leadership of The City of Miami Gardens, this team has, in just 2 years, taken Jazz in the Gardens to unprecedented levels of notoriety and reputation. Last year's phenomenal success included growing the attendance by 350% over the first year. With the tremendous line-up of artists, on-site attractions, tight event management and massive local, regional and national promotional efforts, this year's attendance is expected to top 20,000, up more than 200% over 2007.

Jazz in the Gardens is presented by The City of Miami Gardens and Dolphin Stadium and sponsored by American Airlines, Shula's Hotel & Golf Club, Royal Caribbean, UAIG, Miccosukee Resort & Casino, Southern Wines & Spirits, National Constructors, Warren Henry Auto, Publix and Opa Locka Flightline.

The City of Miami Gardens was incorporated on May 13, 2003 as the 33rd city in Miami-Dade County. At a population of approximately 109,000, it is the third largest city in Miami-Dade County. Miami Gardens and is a solid, working and middle class community of unique diversity. It is the largest predominantly African-American municipality in the State of Florida and boasts many Caribbean residents. In 2007, the City hosted the 41st annual Super Bowl. In 2009, the City will host the college BCS championship game and in 2010, will host the 44th Super Bowl.

UPCOMING NEW RELEASES FROM BOBBY WOMACK, BRIAN CULBERTSON, LIZZ WRIGHT & MORE…

Out March 11 is the Bobby Womack CD called simply, The Best Of Bobby Womack.

Verve Records will release the third CD from Lizz Wright called The Orchard. It’s her first since 2005. Also from Verve is a collection of Billie Holiday classics – The Definitive Collection. Release is set for February 5. Verve is also prepping Definitive Collections from Chick Corea , Return To Forever, and Jimmy Smith (all out on February 5).

Motown will release a 20th Century Masters “Best Of” collection for Brian McKnight (out February 5).

Hidden Beach Records will release Live In Paris + Words, Sights, and Sounds, Volume 1 from Jill Scott (February 5).

Hip-O Records is prepping a DVD title called The Portrait Collection for Louis Armstrong on January 29.

Brian Culbertson’s new album, Bringing Back The Funk, featuring funk classics and original tunes, is being executive produced by Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire fame. It’s set for release on April 8.

SANTANA 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
April 4 @ Agganis Arena, Boston MA
April 5 @ Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville CT
April 6 @ Merriweather Post Pavilion, Columbia MD
April 8 @ Madison Square Garden, New York NY
April 10 @ Times Union Center, Albany NY
April 11 @ Borgata Hotel, Atlantic City NJ
April 12 @ Borgata Hotel, Atlantic City NJ
April 14 @ Quebec Colisee Pepsi, Quebec City QC
April 15 @ Bell Centre, Montreal QC
April 17 @ Casino Rama, Rama ON
April 18 @ Casino Rama, Rama ON
April 19 @ Allstate Arena, Rosemont IL
April 21 @ Target Center, Minneapolis MN
April 22 @ Qwest Center, Omaha NE
April 23 @ Scottrade Center, St. Louis MO
April 25 @ Chastain Park Amphitheatre, Atlanta GA
April 26 @ Chastain Park Amphitheatre, Atlanta GA
April 27 @ Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa FL
April 29 @ New UCF Arena, Orlando FL
April 30 @ Seminole Casino, Hollywood FL
May 2 @ Verizon Wireless Center, Pelham AL
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

PAT METHENY TOUR DATES

Pat Metheny will perform the following concerts:
February 19 @ Napa Valley Opera House, Napa CA
February 20 @t Yoshi's, San Francisco CA
February 21 @ Yoshi’s, San Francisco, CA
February 22 @ Yoshi’s, San Francisco, CA
February 23 @ Yoshi’s, San Francisco, CA
February 24 @ The Wiltern, Los Angeles 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 17 @ Shubert Theater, New Haven CT
March 18 @ Town Hall, New York NY.

LAST.FM LAUNCHES LARGEST GLOBAL FREE-ON-DEMAND MUSIC PLATFORM

CBS-owned Last.fm has announced that it is launching a service to allow anyone to listen to music on the site for free. Last.fm has become one of the leading places in the world where people can go to listen to music online. Its vast library has attracted a community of more than 20 million unique monthly users in 240 countries around the globe. The heart of Last.fm is a powerful recommendation engine that guides listeners to music they are likely to enjoy based on prior selections, connecting them with the music they love and with others who share their tastes.

In launching this service, Last.fm becomes the first music website to offer free, global, on-demand access to the largest licensed catalogue of music built on partnerships with all four major record labels – including Universal Music Group, Sony/BMG, Warner and EMI - as well as CD Baby, IODA, the Orchard, Naxos and more than 150,000 independent labels and artists. Last.fm's free-on-demand service will be advertiser supported, allowing clients many unique opportunities to reach a highly targeted and engaged audience. Last.fm was acquired by the CBS Corporation (NYSE: CBS.A and CBS) on May 30, 2007.

"It is clear to us that communities built around great content are increasingly driving traffic and revenue online," said Leslie Moonves, President and CEO of the CBS Corporation. "We acquired Last.fm because music is one of the best ways to build communities on the internet. Adding such a tremendous collection of content to Last.fm will help it grow by leaps and bounds. The skill set that we're learning along the way will be very important as we build additional online communities around our other world-class content as well."

Martin Stiksel, Last.fm co-founder, said: "We're giving the listener free access to what is basically the best jukebox in the world. The ability to dip into such a uniquely broad catalogue from your laptop, home or office computer, and listen to whatever you want for free represents a new way of consuming music that in turn might change the way you listen to music. In that respect, nobody else can currently offer what Last.fm is offering right now."

At the same time, Last.fm is launching an unprecedented "Artist Royalty" arrangement, whereby those artists not signed with a label who choose to upload their music to Last.fm will receive payment, directly from Last.fm, every time one of their tracks is played. This means artists without traditional recording or publishing deals will be able to reach millions of music fans, offer their music for free, while generating revenue.

"We're building a platform to help redesign the music economy, enabling artists and labels to earn revenue according to how people listen, rather than how they buy," said Last.fm's other co-founder, Felix Miller. "Now we can offer the arrangement to unsigned music creators too. For the first time, anyone can upload tracks and get paid when those tracks are played. It's a whole different model -- one that benefits the artists, labels and advertisers - but most of all the listeners."

Launching earlier this month in the US, UK and Germany, Last.fm is scheduled to roll out the free-on-demand service globally in the coming months. All tracks can be streamed for free up to three times each. At that point, the listener has the option to purchase the song for download via any of Last.fm's affiliate partners including iTunes, Amazon and 7 Digital.

Founded in 2002 in London, Last.fm is the online, social music revolution that connects people with music and artists with listeners. By joining the Last.fm community, music fans can choose to share their music preferences by linking their media player to the Last.fm database. This database is populated continually with over 600 million monthly track submissions from Last.fm music fans. As a result, Last.fm can intelligently recommend songs, artists, local concerts and even other members based on their musical tastes. Thanks to partnerships with EMI, Warner Music Group, Sony BMG, CD Baby, independent aggregators The Orchard and IODA, and more than 100,000 independent musicians and 20,000 labels that upload music directly to the site, Last.fm can draw recommendations from one of the most extensive online music catalogues. Learn more about Last.fm at http://www.last.fm/.

JILL SCOTT: LIVE IN PARIS + DVD RELEASES FEB. 5

Grammy-winning soulstress Jill Scott takes fans on a journey to Paris, France with Jill Scott: Live In Paris + DVD releasing February 5th. Available in both Standard & Deluxe editions, the combo coincides with "The Real Thing" US Tour starting Feb. 5th in Seattle. Pulled from the Hidden Beach vault, the awe-inspiring show was recorded at the historic Elysee Montmartre where Jill left the Parisian crowd speechless with songs like "Golden," "He Loves Me(Lyzel in E Flat)" and "Whatever." Additionally, Live In Paris + hits right before Jill attends the Grammy's for her 3 Grammy nods & 2 Image Award nods including her first award nomination in film. Bridging a great 2007 into 2008 the singer/actress will continue the momentum starring in her first lead role with Oscar winning director Anthony Minghella (Cold Mountain/The English Patient) in "No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency" (Weinstein Co./HBO).

Jill Scott: Live In Paris + is the first in a series of Hidden Beach Basement Tapes; un-released gems pulled from the Hidden Beach vault which continues the label's on-going commitment to quality. The DVD Program contains special bonuses including a documentary with her French fans as well as four songs from Jill's concert at The House of Blues where Prince & Stevie Wonder were wowed in amazement by performances of "Hate On Me," "My Love" & "Crown Royal." Filmed with camera crew well-hidden in head to toe black, clearly instructed by Jill not to be seen nor heard; not to intrude in any way on the intimate exchange between audience and artist. Hidden Beach worked hard to capture the raw energy, that musical food that Jill serves on stage every night and serve it on a piping hot DVD. The offering answers fans begging for a concert DVD experience from Jill Scott, and for those who've never seen her live, an opening invitation to do so.

Totaling 12 career Grammy nominations, "The Real Thing" has been nominated for Best R&B Album, Best Female R&B Vocal performance for "Hate On Me" as well as Best Urban/Alternative Performance for "Daydreamin" by Lupe Fiasco off Jill Scott's "Compilations" album. From the NAACP Image Awards come more recognition in the form of two nominations for Outstanding Female Artist & Best Actress in Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married?"

No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency was written by Anthony Minghella (The English Patient, Cold Mountain) & screenwriter Curtis Martin (Bridget Jones Diary, Notting Hill). Based around the detective, Precious Ramotswe (Scott) the dramady follows her and her assistant Mma Makutsi( Anika Noni Rose -- Dreamgirls) as they take on a cheating husband, insurance fraud, witchcraft and a kidnapped youngster. The film also stars Idris Elba (28 Weeks Later) & was the first major film to be shot in Botswana, South Africa. The film is based on the best-selling book of the same name by Alexander McCall Smith.

Acting has become a new joy for Jill, who made the scene at Sundance earlier in the year in support of her role in the Dakota Fanning movie "Hounddog," in which she plays Big Momma Thornton, the artist who originally sang the Elvis Presley hit. Jill is also currently in talks to star in several upcoming films.

Music continues to be Jill's passion with the release of "The Real Thing," the follow up to 2004's Beautifully Human: Words & Sounds Vol. 2, which was nominated for a Grammy for Best R&B Album and won the Best Urban/Alternative Performance Grammy for the single "Cross My Mind." Jill Scott made a huge splash in the music industry when she released the critically acclaimed Who Is Jill Scott? Words & Sounds Vol. 1, which earned
Jill four Grammy nominations, including a Best New Artist nomination. Earlier this year, Jill Scott released the effortlessly cool genre-hopping Collaborations, a compilation of all Jill's best collaborations, including the Grammy-winning "God Bless The Child" with George Benson and Al Jarreau.

SCARLETT JOHANSSON TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM

Scarlett Johansson will release her debut album, "Anywhere I Lay My Head," on Atco Records, an imprint of Warner Music Group's Rhino Entertainment, on May 20. The inspired album features 10 Tom Waits songs and includes one original track. Collaborating with TV on the Radio producer David Sitek, Johansson is also joined by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs guitarist Nick Zimmer, Sean Antanaitis from Celebration, as well as others. Johansson spent five weeks last spring recording in Louisiana at Dockside Studios.

NEW RELEASES FROM INCOGNITO GUITARS, MESHELL NDEGEOCELLO, SEU JORGE, VIOLA WILLS & OTHERS...

NEW RELEASES
Aaron Jerome – Time To Rearrange (BBE/UK)
Afromotive – Scare Tactics (Harmonized)
Afro Elements – It Remains To Be Seen (Freestyle/UK)
Black Ivory – Then And Now (Panoramic/France)
Cooly’s Hot Box - Take It (Purpose)
Don Cherry – Tibet (Sonet/Picadilly)
Eumir Deodato – Eumir Deodato Ao Vivo No Rio (Biscoito Fino/Brazil)
Funky Muchachos – Funky Muchados Play Soul Jazz (Tito’s Record/UK)
Incognito Guitars – Bluey & Tony Remy – First Protocol (Dome/UK)
Indigo Jam Unit – 2x2 (Basis/Japan)
Intruders – Save The Children (Gamble/Japan)
Johnny Taylor – She’s Killing Me (Columbia/Japan)
Major Lance – Um Um Um Um Um: The Best Of Major Lance (Okeh/Japan)
Manhattans – Back To Basics (Columbia/Japan)
Meshell Ndegeocello – World Has Made Me The Man Of My Dreams (Universal)
Naruyoshi Kikuchi Dub Sextet – Revolution Will Not Be Computerized (East Works/Japan)
Quinn Harris & The Masterminds – All In The Soul (Reynolds/Undercover Brother)
Roger Nichols & The Small Circle of Friends – Full Circle (JVC/Japan)
Seu Jorge – America Brazil O Disco (EMI/Brazil)
Thirdiq – Monologue (Origami/Japan)
Trammps – Trammps (Golden Fleece/CBS/Japan)
Various Artists – Freedom: Quasimode Jazz Collection (Sony/Japan)
Various Arists – Future Sounds Of Jazz Volume 11 (Compost/Germany)
Various Artists – Hammond Street 3: A Funky Selection Of Huge Organ Grooves (Acid Jazz/UK)
Various Artists – Tighten Up: Latin Jazz Lounge (Columbia/Japan)
Vee Allen – Woman Enough (Leland)
Vibrations – New Vibrations (Okeh/Japan)
Viola Wills – Best Of Viola Wills (Harlequin)
Yuji Ohno & Lupintic Five – Lupin The Third Jazz – What’s Going On? (VAP/Japan)

WAYNE SHORTER TOUR DATES

Wayne Shorter will perform the following concerts: January 5 at Philharmonic Hall in Liverpool UK, March 28 at Kimmel Center in Philadelphia PA, May 6 at Kanserthus in Stavanger Norway, May 16 at Four Seasons Hotel in San Francisco CA, and June 6 at Symphony Center in Chicago IL.

ORNETTE COLEMAN TOUR DATES

Ornette Coleman will perform the following concerts:
February 5 @ Arlene Schnitzer Hall, Portland OR
February 17 @ Chan Centre, Vancouver BC
February 22 @ Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington New Zealand
February 28 @ International Arts Festival, Hong Kong China.
February 29 @ International Arts Festival, Hong Kong China

THIEVERY CORPORATION: WARNING SHOTS - THE DIGIBOX

ESL Music has announced the release of Warning Shots -The Digibox. This iTunes-only multimedia release includes all four full-length Thievery Corporation studio albums - Sounds From The Thievery Hi-Fi, The Mirror Conspiracy, The Richest Man In Babylon and The Cosmic Game, plus a brand new audio interview with Thievery Corporation founders Eric Hilton and Rob Garza. The special-edition Digibox also features a digital booklet containing information and never-seen-before photographs, making it an absolute must for Thievery fans everywhere. The package is priced at $24.99 and is available only at www.itunes.com

MARCUS MILLER - MARCUS

Marcus Miller’s next CD slated for U.S release will be titled simply Marcus when it is released in the U.S. this February. The project had been previously released in the U.K. and Japan under the title Free. The U.S. version will include four additional songs not on the Japanese version, as Corinne Bailey Rae performs a version of the Deniece Williams hit, “Free.” Also appearing on the CD will be David Sanborn on a version of Tower Of Powers “What Is Hip?.” Lalah Hathaway, Keb’ Mo, and Taraji P. Henson. The new set follows up Miller's 2005 release, Silver Rain, which featured Eric Clapton on the reggae-influenced title track. For more on the artist, go to http://www.marcusmiller.com/.

LENNY WILLIAMS & GREG ADAMS TEAM UP FOR EAST BAY SOUL

Legendary Tower of Power arranger/trumpeter, Greg Adams, and signature singer and composer, Lenny Williams, are collaborating on a new horn-driven soul band – Easy Bay Soul. This powerhouse assembly will start touring this spring and are sure to set the concert music scene ablaze. Stay tuned for additional information soon.

MELODY GARDOT RE-RELEASE ON VERVE

Verve Records is re-releasing a 2006 album from Melody Gardot. The CD was previously released by independent Worrisome Heart. Melody Gardot has been referred to as “…Billie Holiday meets Tom Waits…has moments that recall pieces of Nina Simone, early Rickie Lee Jones, and even the sophistication of Cole Porter.” The 10-track album will be reissued on February 26 with new artwork.

VAN MORRISON - STILL ON TOP

Still on Top, the Greatest Hits collection for Van Morrison, will be expanded to a Limited Edition 3CD Box spanning Morrison’s illustrious career from 1964 to 2005. It will contain 51 tracks in a 3CD Boxed Digipak, which will be available on March 4.

JESSY J - TEQUILA MOON

Peak Records is releasing the debut CD from smooth jazz saxophonist in Jessy J, whose new album, Tequila Moon, will debut on March 4. Jessy J has previously worked with artists like Michael Buble, Jessica Simpson, Burt Bacharach, and many others.

KEITH SWEAT RETURNS WITH BRAND NEW CD - JUST ME

Atco Records, an imprint of Rhino Entertainment, announces the March 18 release of "JUST ME," the first new studio album from R&B legend Keith Sweat since his 2002 "Rebirth" set. The original "new jack" hitmaker, who celebrated 20 years as a chart artist at the end of 2007, produced and cowrote most of the material on his latest project which features guest artists Keyshia Cole, and Athena Cage (Keith's duet partner on the million-selling 1996 hit "Nobody").

The Harlem-born singer/songwriter and producer says he called his new album "JUST ME" "because I'm giving the people what they expect from me. You hear other artists out here who make the mistake of trying to be trendy. They really try to keep up. I know people want to hear Keith Sweat. I'm conscious of the people who have followed me the whole time, since day one. I remember that I have a fan base and I'm very careful to give the people what they expect from me."

The first single from the set is the sexy jam "Suga Suga Suga," featuring Paisley Bettis. Standout cuts include the hypnotic "Somebody," which showcases Sweat singing falsetto for the first time; the future classic "Love You Better," a truly memorable duet between Keith and hitmaker Keyshia Cole; and "Just Wanna Sex You," a hit-the-spot cut that Keith says is on the album "to remind people of what I've done and what I'm about musically."

Sweat, who first broke through as a leader in the "new jack" of the late '80s with the #1 single "I Want Her," reunites with producer Teddy Riley, with whom he worked on his multiplatinum debut album, for the track "The Floor"; former Kut Klose vocalist Athena Cage joins Sweat for a new duet, "Butterscotch." Producers for the album also include The Ambassadorz, and Roy Battle; Sweat executive-produced the CD, his first Atco release.

Since 1988, the multi-faceted artist has sold over 15 million albums worldwide, racking up six #1 R&B hit singles, with close to 30 chart entries, three multiplatinum, three platinum and two gold albums, including Rhino's 2004 "The Best Of Keith Sweat: Make You Sweat." In addition to his solo work, Keith also scored major hits with Johnny Gill and the late Gerald Levert as part of the popular L.S.G. trio in the '90s.

Currently the host of his own "The Keith Sweat Hotel" radio show, which is heard in 21 markets nationwide, Keith, who tours almost every weekend, regards his longevity as a recording artist as "a blessing that I don't take for granted. It's surprising to me that my career has had such a long life span. When you first start out, you hope people will hear the music and you don't expect to still be around 20 years later. It feels good."

"JUST ME" Track Listing:
1. Somebody featuring Chris "F.L.L." Conner
2. The Floor
3. Girl Of My Dreams
4. Sexiest Girl
5. Butterscotch featuring Athena Cage
6. Me And My Girl
7. Suga Suga Suga featuring Paisley Bettis
8. Never Had A Lover
9. Love You Better featuring Keyshia Cole
10. Just Wanna Sex You
11. What's A Man To Do
12. Teach Me

VAN MORRISON - KEEP IT SIMPLE

On March 11, Lost Highway will proudly release KEEP IT SIMPLE, the new album from Van Morrison. KEEP IT SIMPLE is Morrison's first album of new material since 2005, and the first in several years in which he penned all 11 songs specifically for one album. In the interim the legendary artist had a year that may be unprecedented for any living artist, having released three separate collections of his hits, with the latest, "Still On Top" entering the UK charts at #2 and selling platinum, proving the ongoing appetite for his unrivaled work.

His music has always incorporated the widely varied influences he heard and absorbed since his childhood days on the streets of Belfast- long before the bands of his youth and his initial breakthrough with Them. On KEEP IT SIMPLE, Morrison honors all those varied influences - jazz, folk, blues, Celtic, country, soul and gospel - at times melding them all together at once in his own signature sound. "I felt I had something to say with these songs ... " explains Morrison. There is a definite theme that recurs throughout the album, especially in the title track.

In keeping with that idea, KEEP IT SIMPLE does not boast the big horns or string arrangements of some of Morrison's previous work. What it does feature are gorgeous songs rich with emotion, depth and beauty. As on the poignant "Soul," where Morrison repeats the chorus, as if to subtly remind us that, "Soul is a feeling, a feeling deep within. Soul is not the color of your skin." Morrison explains his approach with the track, "Entrainment" - "Entrainment is when you connect with the music ... Entrainment is really what I'm getting at in the music ... It's kind of when you're in the present moment - you're here - with no past or future."

Whether it's the easy country gospel of "Song of Home" or the bluesy swing of "How Can A Poor Boy," throughout KEEP IT SIMPLE Morrison exudes a wisdom gained through five decades of making groundbreaking music. Few artists have successfully recorded in as many genres of music as Van Morrison, and even fewer have remained as relevant for as long (only Ray Charles, with whom Van collaborated, comes to mind). Morrison has done so by constantly moving forward and never sitting still. On the heels of a series of "Best Of" releases, this record starts fresh with what could well be a record full of all new classics.

NEW LIVE! ALBUM FROM B.B. KING

It has been estimated that blues great B.B. King has played more than 10,000 shows in a career spanning nearly 60 years. Whenever the King of the Blues has carried his venerable guitar Lucille onto any stage at any time, the performance has become an unforgettable classic -- and on occasion has been immortalized on some of the greatest live albums ever issued. Yet in 2006, he marked a first when he recorded a live album at two of his own clubs, B.B. King's Blues Club in Nashville, Tennessee on October 26/27 and in Memphis on October 29/30. The best of these memorable concerts are now presented in both the DVD and CD formats as LIVE! (Geffen/UMe), released February 19, 2008.

For the two-hour-plus DVD, the concerts were taped in high definition video and mixed in 5.1 Surround. Bonus material includes a behind-the-scenes "making of" feature and a special message from King to his fans. To fit on a single CD, the audio disc features 12 of the DVD's 18 songs.

On LIVE!, backed by his remarkable touring band, B.B. lays down quintessential performances from his signature tune "The Thrill Is Gone" to "When Love Comes To Town," the song that introduced him to a new generation in the late 1980s, to Big Bill Broonzy's "Key To The Highway," for which he teamed with disciple Eric Clapton in 2000. He also performs a pair of songs he has never before recorded -- the standards "You Are My Sunshine" and "When The Saints Go Marching In."

B.B.'s band opens the show on the DVD sans King with "Manhattan Blues" and "Two I Shoot." During the concert, the musical icon revives his '50s and '60s R&B hits "Rock Me Baby," "Don't Answer The Door" and "Why I Sing The Blues" plus other B.B. gems from that era such as "A Whole Lot Of Lovin'," "Ain't That Just Like A Woman," "Bad Case Of Love," "I Need You So," "Darling, You Know I Love You" and "All Over Again." Along with the early '70s hit "Guess Who" is "Blues Man" from the late '90s.

King was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, becoming one of the first artists so honored. In 2003, Rolling Stone ranked him #3 among the "100 Greatest Guitarists Of All Time." In 2006, he was presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest honor awarded to a civilian; his 1964 album LIVE AT THE REGAL was voted into the Grammy Hall of Fame; and he won his 14th Grammy Award, for Best Traditional Blues Album for B.B. KING & FRIENDS: 80, which celebrated his 80th birthday the previous year. He has won eight previous Grammys in that category and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. "The Thrill Is Gone" is also in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Whether live at the Regal, San Quentin, the Apollo, or a B.B. King's Blues Club, B.B. King rules over the blues.

ELVIS COSTELLO - THIS YEARS' MODEL: DELUXE EDITION

Elvis Costello's sophomore release, his first album with the Attractions, THIS YEAR'S MODEL was voted Album of the Year in 1978 in The Village Voice Jazz & Pop critics poll, was ranked #11 on Rolling Stone's list of the best albums of 1967-1987, and in 2003 was in the Top 100 of Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Albums of All Time." Led by the anthemic "Pump It Up," THIS YEAR'S MODEL, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, remains one of the most important albums of the punk/new wave era.

The two-CD THIS YEAR'S MODEL -- DELUXE EDITION (Hip-O/UMe), to bereleased on March 4, 2008, adds 11 b-sides, demos, live tracks, and alternate takes to the original album plus a second disc comprised of a previously unreleased concert recorded at the Warner Theater in Washington, DC, on February 28, 1978. Taped on the Starfleet mobile studio, this show was originally broadcast on WHFS in Maryland and only "Chemistry Class" has ever been issued before. Along with performances of several songs from THIS YEAR'S MODEL, including "Pump It Up," "Radio, Radio," "The Beat" and "No Action," this concert also features such Costello favorites as "Watching The Detectives," "(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes," "Less Than Zero" and "Waiting For The End Of The World."

THIS YEAR'S MODEL, produced by Nick Lowe, was harder and rawer than Costello's debut album, 1977's MY AIM IS TRUE, partly thanks to the singer-songwriter-guitarist's newly recruited band of keyboardist Steve Nieve, bassist Bruce Thomas and drummer Pete Thomas (no relation). The album outcharted its predecessor by reaching #30 in the U.S. and #4 U.K. THIS YEAR'S MODEL -- DELUXE EDITION includes the U.K. album-only album tracks "(I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea" and "Night Rally" plus the U.S. album-only "Radio, Radio."

The added selections, subsequently issued in a 2001 two-CD package, include the b-sides "Big Tears" and "Tiny Steps"; AMERICATHON soundtrack contribution "Crawling To The USA"; demos for "Running Out Of Angels," "Greenshirt" and "Big Boys"; live "Neat Neat Neat" and "Roadette Song"; and alternate takes of "This Year's Girl" and "(I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea."

Following THIS YEAR'S MODEL, Costello would crack the Top 10 in America and become a major pop culture figure. He would go on to spread his musical wings by delving into everything from country to sophisticated pop, classical to jazz, and collaborating with everyone from Paul McCartney, Burt Bacharach and Diana Krall to, most recently, R&B great Allen Toussaint. In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked him among its "100 Greatest Artists of All Time."

ELVIS COSTELLO AND THE ATTRACTIONS: THIS YEAR'S MODEL
DISC ONE:
1 No Action
2 This Year's Girl
3 The Beat
4 Pump It Up
5 Little Triggers
6 You Belong To Me
7 Hand In Hand
8 (I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea
9 Lip Service
10 Living In Paradise
11 Lipstick Vogue
12 Night Rally
13 Radio, Radio

Bonus material: b-sides, demos, live tracks, alternates, etc.
14 Big Tears
15 Crawling To The USA
16 Tiny Steps
17 Running Out Of Angels (demo version)
18 Greenshirt (demo version)
19 Big Boys (demo version)
20 Neat Neat Neat (live)
21 Roadette Song (live)
22 This Year's Girl (alternate Eden Studios version)
23 (I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea (alternate Basing Street Studios
version)

ELVIS COSTELLO AND THE ATTRACTIONS
Live At The Warner Theater, Washington, DC, February 28, 1978

DISC TWO:

1 Pump It Up*
2 Waiting For The End Of The World*
3 No Action*
4 Less Than Zero*
5 The Beat*
6 (The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes*
7 (I Don't Want To Go To) Chelsea*
8 Hand In Hand*
9 Little Triggers*
10 Radio, Radio*
11 You Belong To Me*
12 Lipstick Vogue*
13 Watching The Detectives*
14 Mystery Dance*
15 Miracle Man*
16 Blame It On Cain*
17 Chemistry Class

* Previously Unreleased

http://www.ilovethatsong.com
http://www.elviscostello.com
http://www.shorefire.com

LENNY KRAVITZ LAUNCHES "GET ON THE BUS WITH THE LOVE REVOLUTION TOUR"

Globally recognized and acclaimed rock musician Lenny Kravitz is set to hit the road today on his exclusive "Get on the Bus with the Love Revolution" club tour. Featuring only 9 select markets, the outing will kick off this evening at Santa Monica, California's Civic Center. The tour will culminate at New York City's Hammerstein Ballroom and be followed the following week by a slew of high profile television performances and interviews on Good Morning America, The Late Show With David Letterman, Live With Regis and Kelly, MTV's TRL and BET's 106th & Park to kick off the release of his 8th studio album It Is Time For A Love Revolution.

Virgin Records recording artist Lenny Kravitz joined forces with MySpace to launch the tour via an exclusive contest with the world's most popular social network. From November 14th through November 20th, the MySpace community was offered a chance to enter and win the opportunity to
travel on a Kravitz-designed custom 'Love Revolution' tour bus and become part of the artist's tour family on the road with full backstage access to the live concert event. The 10 lucky winners and their guests were selected to join him on the road and will participate in a photo shoot that will appear in the February issue of YRB with Lenny on the cover.

The "Get on the Bus with the Love Revolution Tour" is happening in conjunction with the release of Lenny Kravitz's It Is Time For A Love Revolution. Featuring 14 new songs, including the singles "Bring It On" and "I'll Be Waiting," the album is the artist's first new release in over three years. As the title indicates, the album is a thunderous rock 'n roll call-to-arms featuring Kravitz singing songs of a love revolution backed by a universal blend of soul, funk, and jazz grooves and the undeniable, anthemic lyricism that's been his trademark from day one.

The tour currently has nine scheduled stops in the US and will run from January 17th to February 1st. Sponsored by Champion and Southwest Airlines, the tour will be hitting cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, Minneapolis, Chicago, Detroit, Boston, Philadelphia and New York.

As co-sponsors of the Lenny Kravitz "Love Revolution Tour," Chase and Southwest Airlines will offer a select number of tickets especially for Southwest Rapid Rewards Visa card members for Denver, San Francisco and Philadelphia concerts.

In certain concert venues, Chase and Southwest-sponsored Lounge Areas will be set up as with special access for current Southwest Rapid Rewards Visa cardmembers who show their card and for those who apply for the card at the concert. Capitol Records, Chase and Southwest Airlines will offer 10 special experiences for Rapid Rewards Visa cardmembers as part of the Denver, Philadelphia and San Francisco concerts -- with unique experiences for fans ranging from a private meet-and-greet with Lenny Kravitz to signed memorabilia to concert tickets.

"Champion is excited to be the exclusive apparel sponsor of the Lenny Kravitz Love Revolution Tour," said Claire Edgar, Director Champion Brand Marketing. "Lenny is an iconic star and Champion is an iconic brand. Our tagline 'How You Play' inspires people to enjoy life whether through sport, music or fun, and Champion apparel has the performance and style for
whichever way you want to play."

Tour dates for the "Get on the Bus with the Love Revolution Tour" are as follows:

January 17 - Santa Monica, CA @ Santa Monica Civic
January 19 - San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield
January 22- Denver, CO @ Paramount Theater
January 24 - Minneapolis, MN @ Myth
January 26 - Chicago, IL @ Riviera
January 27 - Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore
January 29 - Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory
January 31- Boston, MA @ The Orpheum
February 1- New York City @ Hammerstein Ballroom

Lenny Kravitz Television Airdates (check local listings for times):
February 7 - MTV's TRL
February 6 - Good Morning America
February 6t - BET's 106th & Park
February 7 - Live With Regis & Kelly
February 8 - The Late Show with David Letterman

SHEILA E - WATERS OF LIFE

Speakerheart™, an online platform for independent artists and bands toupload, promote and sell their own music, has partnered with Sheila E. andher new group C.O.E.D. (Chronicles of Every Diva) to promote their firstsingle, "Waters of Life." To kick off the new year C.O.E.D. andSpeakerheart are co-sponsoring a contest for C.O.E.D.'s debut single"Waters of Life," which is available for download exclusively atSpeakerheart.com/coed. Sign up at www.speakerheart.com between now andFebruary 12, 2008, to be eligible to win. The grand prize is an 80 gigabyteiPod video player with second and third place winners receiving signedSheila E. Player's Series Congas. No purchase is necessary to win. "WithSpeakerheart, we were able to get our storefront up and running quickly,complete with e-mail marketing support," said famed percussionist Sheila E."Running the promotion and selling our music with Speakerheart has been agreat experience." In her lifetime Sheila E. has taken on the role of writer, philanthropist,producer and much more. Most noted for her tours with Prince, Sheila E. hasalso performed and collaborated with world renowned artists, appeared onseveral award shows and was the first female bandleader on late nighttelevision. In 2006 Sheila E. formed the all-girl group C.O.E.D.,commissioning Rhonda Smith on bass, Kat Dyson on guitar and CassandraO'Neal on keyboards. Individually, they have toured with such greats asStevie Wonder, Yolanda Adams, Justin Timberlake, Macy Gray and Seal.C.O.E.D. launched its career with a successful tour through Europe andJapan in early 2007.

B.B. KING TOUR DATES UPDATED

The mighty B. B. King is unstoppable as he continues on a relentless trek to perform at the following concerts:
January 25 at Uptown Theatre in Kansas City MO
January 26 at Tulsa PAC in Tulsa OK
January 27 at Eureka Springs City Auditorium in Eureka Springs AR
January 29 at Stiefel Theatre in Salina KS
January 31 at Morris PAC in South Bend IN
February 1 at Soaring Eagle Casino in Mt. Pleasant MI
February 2 at Murat Centre in Indianapolis IN
February 5 at Mystic Lake Casino in Prior Lake MN
February 7 at Hancher Auditorium in Iowa City IA
February 8 at Center for the Performing Arts in University Park IL
February 9 at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan IL
February 10 at Prairie Meadows in Altoona IA
February 13 at The Family Arena in St. Charles MO
February 15 at Fox Cities PAC in Appleton WI
February 16 at Fox Theatre in Detroit MI
February 28-29 at Keswick Theatre in Glenside PA
March 1 at House of Blues in Atlantic City NJ
March 3-4 at Music Center in North Bethesda MD
March 7 at Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie NY
March 8 at Palace Theatre in Albany NY
March 9 at Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank NJ
March 11 at Heinz Hall in Pittsburgh PA
March 12 at West Virginia Coliseum in Morgantown WV, March 14 at Warner
Theatre in Erie PA
March 15 at Shea's PAC in Buffalo NY
March 28 at Ryman Auditorium in Nashville TN
March 29 at Tennessee Theatre in Knoxville TN
March 30 at Memorial Auditorium in Chattanooga TN
March 31 at NC Blumenthal PAC in Charlotte NC
April 3 at House of Blues in New Orleans LA
April 4 at Horseshoe Casino in Bossier City LA
April 5 at Billy Bob's in Fort Worth TX
April 6 at Austin Music Hall in Austin TX
April 9 at Pikes Peak Center in Colorado Springs CO
April 10 at Vilar Center for the Arts in Beaver Creek CO
April 11 at Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre in Denver CO
April 15 at The Depot in Salt Lake City UT
April 29 at Centre for the Performing Arts in Montgomery AL
April 30 at Florida Theatre in Jacksonville FL
May 2 at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater FL
May 3 at BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise FL
May 4 at Barbara B. Mann Hall in Fort Myers FL
May 5 at King Center in Melbourne FL
May 9 at War Memorial Auditorium in Greensboro NC
May 10 at House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach SC
May 11 at Landmark Theater in Richmond VA
May 13 at Bergen PAC in Englewood CA
May 14 at Stanley Theatre in Utica NY
May 16 at Hanover Theatre in Worcester MA
May 17 at Capitol Center in Concord NH
May 18 at Merrill Auditorium in Portland ME
June 9 at Potawatomi Bingo Casino in Milwaukee WI
June 12 at Vicksburg Convention Center in Vicksburg MS

NEW RELEASES FROM IDEA 6, TIMO LASSY, QUINTETTO LO GRECO, MODULO 5 & OTHERS...

Aaron Jerome – Time To Rearrange (BBE/UK)
Afro Elements – It Remains To Be Seen (Freestyle/UK)
Aretha Franklin – Beautiful Ballads & Love Songs (Arista/Legacy)
Armando Trovajoli – Una Magnum Special Per Tony Saitta (Beat/Italy)
Barry Manilow - Beautiful Ballads & Love Songs (Arista/Legacy)
Benji Jumping – Charme & Shake (Irma/Italy)
Berardi Jazz Connection – Do It (Antibemusic/Italy)
Billie Holiday - Beautiful Ballads & Love Songs (Columbia/Legacy)
Bongolion – Outer Bongolio (Blow Up/UK)
Brownout – Homenaje (Freestyle/UK)
Buddy Collette – Polyhedric (Déjà vu/Italy)
Buku Banton – Inna Heights: 10th Anniversary Edition (CD/DVD, VP)
Cassiano – Apresentamos Nosso Cassiano (EMI/Brazil)
Clara Nunes – Claridade (EMI/Odeon/Brazil)
Dells – The Dells Sing Dionne Warwick’s Greatest Hits (Cadet/Dusty Groove)
Elaine Elias – Something For You: Elaine Elias Sings & Plays Bill Evans (Blue Note)
Ennio Morricone – Trio Infernal (Dagored/Italy)
Fino Coletivo – Fino Coletivo (Dubas/Brazil)
Frank Sinatra - Beautiful Ballads & Love Songs (Columbia/Legacy)
George Duke – Liberated Fantasies (MPS/Japan)
Idea 6 – Idea 6 Remix (Déjà vu/Commodo Depot/Japan)
Joao Donato – New Sound Of Brazil (RCA/BMG/Brazil)
John Klemmer – Solo Saxophone 2 – Life (Elektra/Wounded Bird)
Johnny Bristol – Bristol’s Crème (Atlantic/P-Vine/Japan)
Johnny Bristol – Strangers (Atlantic/P-Vine/Japan)
Joyce – Revendo Amigos (EMI/Brazil)
Kenny Rogers – A Love Song Collection (Capital/EMI)
Ladysmith Black Mambazo – Ilembe: Honoring Shaka Zulu (Heads Up)
Marcos Valle – Mustang Cor De Sangue (Odeon/EMI/Brazil)
Maria Bethania – Dentro Do Mar Tem Rio (Biscoito Fino/Brazil)
Marvin Gaye – Here, My Dear (Hip-O Select)
Miles Bonny – Smell Smoke (Inmate Sounds)
Million Dollar Orchestra – Better Days (BBE/UK)
Modulo 5 (Paolo Apollo Negri & Dave Masoch) - Soundstation Movements (Irma/Italy)
Nnenna Freelon – Quintessential Nnenna Freelon (Concord)
Norberto Goldberg – Batida Diferent (Come N Drum)
Quintetto Lo Greco – Right Spirit (Schema/Italy)
Pharoah Sanders – Pharoah Sanders’ Finest (Timeless/Dopeness Galore/Netherlands)
Raheem DeVaughn – Love Behind The Melody (Jive)
Rhoda Scott – From C To Shining C (Doodlin)
Salongo – Salongo (Eddie Allen)
Samuel Jon Samuelsson – Fnykur (SJS Music/Iceland)
Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’88 – Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’88 (BMG/Brazil)
Shade & Blu Swing – Jazzyster (Jazzyster/Japan)
Simone – Cigarra (EMI/Odeon/Brazil)
Soul Cycle – Urban Organics (Soul Cycle)
Steve Evans – Two Sets (Kahshohu)
Tamba 4 – Tamba 4 (Orfeon/Mexico)
Thirdiq – Monologue (Origami/Japan)
Timo Lassy – Soul & Jazz Of Timo Lassy (Ricky Tick/Finland)
Toni Tornado – BR3 (EMI/Brazil)
Toninho Horta – Toninho Horta (EMI/Brazil)
Various Artists – Future Sounds Of Jazz Volume II (Compost/Germany)
Various Artists – The Definitive Slow Jams Collection (Capitol)
Various Artists – Lust – Art & Soul: A Personal Collection By Joey Negro (Susu/UK)

THE POLICE CONTINUE TO TOUR INTO 2008 - NEW DATES ANNOUNCED!

The Police will perform the following concerts:
January 17 at WestpacTrust Stadium in Wellington New Zealand
January 19 at Western Springs Stadium in Auckland New Zealand
January 22 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane Australia
January 24 at Telstra Stadium in Sydney Australia
January 26 at Cricket Grounds in Melbourne Australia
January 28-29 at Adelaide Entertainment Centrein Hindsmarsh Australia
February 1-2 at Members Equity Stadium in Perth Australia
February 10 at Kyocera Dome in Osaka Japan
February 13-14 at Tokyo Dome in Tokyo Japan
June 5 at SAP Arena in Mannheim Germany
June 8 at LTU Arena in Dusseldorf Germany
June 17-18 at Manchester Evening News Arena in Manchester UK

WYNTON MARSALIS & JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER TOUR DATES

Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra will perform the following concerts:
January 19 @ Bloomington Center, Bloomington IL
January 20 @ Notre Dame University, South Bend IN
January 21 @ Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis MN
January 24 @ Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium, Santa Cruz CA
January 25 @ Wells Fargo Center, Santa Rosa CA
January 26 @ University of California, Berkeley CA
January 27 @ Stanford, Palo Alto CA
January 28 @ Humboldt State University, Arcata CA
January 29 @ University of California, Davis CA
January 31 @ Orange County PAC, Costa Mesa CA
February 1 @ Walt Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles CA
February 2 @ Smothers Theatre, Malibu CA
February 4 @ Mesa Arts Center, Mesa AZ
February 5 @ Centennial Hall, Tucson AZ
February 6 @ Kiva Auditorium, Albuquerque NM
February 8 @ Folly Theater, Kansas City MO
February 9 @ Sheldon Concert Hall, St. Louis MO
February 10 @ University of Missouri, Columbia MO
February 12 @ University of Iowa, Iowa City IA
May 7 @ Kennedy Center, Washington DC

CLUB CLASSICS & NEW REMIXES FROM ASHFORD & SIMPSON

For fans of dance music and R&B from yesteryear and today, the highly anticipated release of the legendary ASHFORD & SIMPSON's "THE WARNER BROS. YEARS: HITS, REMIXES & RARITIES" is the ultimate compilation. The Rhino Records two-disc set exquisitely represents the great soul and disco era of the '70s including hits and impossible to find remixed gems from their nine albums recorded at Warner Bros. Records from 1973 - 1982. In addition, the package includes a disc of Ashford & Simpson songs from that same era that have been recently remixed by some of dance music's current top remixers including Tom Moulton, Joey Claussell, Joey Negro and Dimitri From Paris.

Ashford & Simpson's timeless talent over four decades as songwriters, producers and performers has shaped the face of music. This stunning collection bears witness to the mighty power of Nick and Val to create glorious records with pristine production, soulful vocals and the most important element -- enduring grooves.

Producer Johnny "D" DeMairo who lovingly assembled the package began creating the compilation as a way to re-introduce the public to the great soul and disco tracks. Until now, much of the music was virtually impossible to find in any existing format. "We put complete faith in Johnny to take care of our babies and the remixers he selected totally came through," said Nick Ashford. "We love the results," he concluded.

Disc One contains six songs originally released as promo-only 12" remixes. The great Jimmy Simpson (brother of Valerie), one of the original pioneers of "intros and breaks" began extending Ashford & Simpson's album tracks for the dance floor back in the '70s. This configuration resulted in additional accessibility for club DJs, which coined the now household term "remix" music. Jimmy Simpson's masterpieces include the duos hits "Send It," "Top of the Stairs" and "Have You Ever Tried It." Some of these are out-of-print masterpieces or available for over $2000 on music sites. Other Ashford & Simpson remixes include their fan favorites "Don't Cost You Nothing," "Nobody Knows," "Tried, Tested And Found True" and "Love Don't Always Make It Right" amongst others.

Featuring more than an hour of remixes, the second disc spotlights eight tracks by some of the world's most respected remixers whose admiration for the accomplishments of Ashford & Simpson's music is obvious. "These remixers did an incredible job breathing new life into our songs while maintaining the integrity of them," noted Valerie Simpson. DJ supreme Tom Moulton unearths parts of the mega-hit "Found A Cure" that were long forgotten including adlibs and an entirely new base line. Joe Claussell takes "Bourgie Bourgie" and brings it to another level, adding synths and precussion to create a rhythmic tour de force. Paul Simpson and John Morales recreate "Over And Over" and "Tried, Tested And Found True," and Dimitri From Paris carefully re-edited Jimmy Simpson's masterful 12" remix of "One More Try" and turns in two versions of "Stay Free" -- one at the song's original tempo and the other a slamming club mix. Joey Negro turns "Love Don't Always Make It Right" into a new house club anthem, while Tommy Musto thins out the mix on "It Seems To Hang On" to create a sexy between the sheets groove. "When Valerie and I listened to the final remixes, we wondered why we hadn't thought of some of these ideas," stated Ashford.
"THE WARNER BROS. YEARS: HITS, REMIXES & RARITIES" Track Listing

Disc 1: Originals [TT 75:05]

1. OVER AND OVER (12" Disco Mix)
2. HAVE YOU EVER TRIED IT
3. EVERYBODY'S GOT TO GIVE IT UP
4. ONE MORE TRY (12" Disco Mix)
5. TRIED, TESTED AND FOUND TRUE (12" Disco Mix)
6. SEND IT
7. TOP OF THE STAIRS
8. DON'T COST YOU NOTHING (12" Disco Mix)
9. IT SEEMS TO HANG ON (12" Disco Mix)
10. FOUND A CURE (12" Disco Mix)
11. NOBODY KNOWS (12" Disco Mix)
12. LOVE DON'T MAKE IT RIGHT (12" Disco Mix)
13. STAY FREE
14. BOURGIÉ BOURGIÉ

Disc 2: Remixes [TT 78:15]

1. FOUND A CURE (A Tom Moulton Mix)
2. IT SEEMS TO HANG ON (Tommy Musto Re-Touch)
3. ONE MORE TRY (Dimitri Re-Edit)
4. BOURGIÉ BOURGIÉ (Joe Claussell's Classic Remix)
5. OVER AND OVER (Simphouse/M&M Mix)
6. STAY FREE (Dim's The Missing Mix)
7. LOVE DON'T MAKE IT RIGHT (Joey Negro Mix)
8. TRIED, TESTED AND FOUND TRUE (Simphouse/M&M Soulful Mix)
9. STAY FREE (Dim's Club Mix)

THE WEATHER CHANNEL PRESENTS: THE BEST OF SMOOTH JAZZ

The Weather Channel has released a smooth jazz CD collection, The Weather Channel Presents: The Best of Smooth Jazz, that has turned out to be a genre hit. The CD, issued in October on Nashville's Midas Records, just recently reached Number Two on Billboard's Top Contemporary Jazz Albums chart. The 12-track collection features tunes by Jeff Lorber, Dave Koz, Chick Corea, 480 East, Joyce Cooling, Najee, and Pieces Of A Dream. The music has become familiar to viewers who watch the cable channel's "Local on the 8s" weather updates. The new CD also includes three tracks exclusively recorded for the Weather Channel: Mark Krumowski's "Wait a Minute," Ryan Farish's "Holding Hands" and Jeanne Ricks' "Simple Pleasure." Additional releases are being planned.

DAVE KOZ - AT THE MOVIES RE-RELEASED

Koz's At The Movies CD of movie themes will be re-released in February in a special deluxe edition together with a new DVD. Blue Note will issue the Double Feature package on February 5th. Besides the full CD, the At The Movies, Double Feature will include a DVD of concert performances by Koz with the album's special guest artists. These include Chris Botti, Peter White, Barry Manilow, Anita Baker, Johnny Mathis, Vanessa Williams, Donna Summer and India Arie. In the meantime. Koz’s most recent CD release Memories Of A Winter's Night, recently moved to Number One on the Billboard Top Contemporary Jazz Albums chart. The jump to the top spot was sparked by his first week on the road with the Dave Koz & Friends A Smooth Jazz Christmas Tour, which kicked off on Friday, November 24th. The new CD features newly recorded holiday tunes in addition to selections from Koz's previous holiday sets, 1997's December Makes Me Feel This Way and 2001's A Smooth Jazz Christmas. For more information on the tour and a schedule of tour dates go to www.davekoz.com.

MARVIN GAYE- HEAR MY DEAR EXPANDED

Marvin Gaye's 1978 album "Here, My Dear," was reissued in expanded form Jan. 15 via Hip-OSelect.com/Motown. Disc one of the project includes a remastered version of the original album plus a new mix of "Ain't It Funny (How Things Turn Around)" by Bootsy Collins. The second disc offers a resequencing of "Here, My Dear" comprised of Gaye's demo vocals and unused instrumental tracks from the period. Contributors on the album include Mocean Worker, Easy Mo Bee, Leon Ware and Salaam Remi.

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.

FOURPLAY - NEW CD FOR 2008

Fourplay members Bob James, Nathan East, Larry Carlton, and Harvey Mason are headed back to the studio in January for a new release. According to the groups website (www.fourplayjazz.com), they say they are , "… anxiously awaiting our new album for 2008. We start back in the studio in January and will be on schedule for a June '08 release date! A new album brings a new look which we will be showcasing next year as well with another reconstruction of our website." Fourplay's previous CD was 2005's X, at Number One on Billboard's Top Contemporary Jazz chart upon its release. The set included the single "My Love's Leaving'" featuring Michael McDonald.

DAVE KOZ - AT THE MOVIES RE-RELEASE

Dave Koz's At The Movies CD of movie themes will be re-released in February in a special deluxe edition together with a new DVD. Blue Note will issue the Double Feature package on February 5th. Besides the full CD, the At The Movies, Double Feature will include a DVD of concert performances by Koz with the album's special guest artists. These include Chris Botti, Peter White, Barry Manilow, Anita Baker, Johnny Mathis, Vanessa Williams, Donna Summer and India Arie. In the meantime. Koz’s most recent CD release Memories Of A Winter's Night, recently moved to Number One on the Billboard Top Contemporary Jazz Albums chart. The jump to the top spot was sparked by his first week on the road with the Dave Koz & Friends A Smooth Jazz Christmas Tour, which kicked off on Friday, November 24th. The new CD features newly recorded holiday tunes in addition to selections from Koz's previous holiday sets, 1997's December Makes Me Feel This Way and 2001's A Smooth Jazz Christmas. For more information on the tour and a schedule of tour dates go to www.davekoz.com.

SMOOTH JAZZ GRAMMY NOMINATIONS

Patti Austin has received a Grammy nomination for her live big-band project Avant-Gerswhin, which celebrates the music of the revered American songwriter George Gershwin. Other jazz nominees include Dave Koz, Jeff Lorber, Brian Bromberg, Kirk Whalum, Spyro Gyra, Herbie Hancock, Chris Botti, Randy Crawford & Joe Sample, Michael Buble, and the late Michael Brecker.

Dave Koz received nomination in two categories. He received a nomination for best pop instrumental album and the track “Over The Rainbow” from his album At The Movies and earning a best pop instrumental nomination. Kirk Whalum and Spyro Gyra also compete in the best pop instrumental album category against Dave Koz with Roundtrip and Good To Go-Go, respectively. The category also includes a nomination for trumpeter Chris Botti's Italia. Spyro Gyra is also a double nominee, going against Koz again in the best instrumental performance category with the track "Simple Pleasures."

Nomination for best contemporary jazz album went to Jeff Lorber for He Had A Hat; Brian Bromberg for Downright Upright; and Herbie Hankcock for River: The Joni Letters, which also received an album of the year nomination for Hancock. The late Michael Brecker was nominated in the best jazz instrumental solo category for a track from his final CD Pilgrimage, which was also nominated as the best jazz instrumental album

Randy Crawford & Joe Sample, who reunited and released So Good this year, received a nomination in the traditional R&B vocal performance race with their track "All Night Long." Singer Michael Buble's Call Me Irresponsible received a nomination in the traditional pop vocal category against Barbra Streisand, James Taylor, Bette Midler, and Queen Latifah's Trav'lin' Light.

MARVIN GAYE - HEAR MY DEAR EXPANDED

Marvin Gaye's 1978 album "Here, My Dear," will be reissued in expanded form Jan. 15 via Hip-OSelect.com/Motown. Disc one of the project includes a remastered version of the original album plus a new mix of "Ain't It Funny (How Things Turn Around)" by Bootsy Collins. The second disc offers a resequencing of "Here, My Dear" comprised of Gaye's demo vocals and unused instrumental tracks from the period. Contributors on the album include Mocean Worker, Easy Mo Bee, Leon Ware and Salaam Remi.

JAZZ CHILL CORNER NEWSBITS...

Gloria Gaynor appears at the Carnival Center For The Performing Art at the Ziff Ballet Opera House in Miami on March 22, 2008.

Veteran R&B artist Keith Sweat will release his first album in over five years, Just Me, March 18 as the first in a new deal with Rhino's Atco label. The first single is Suga Suga Suga.

Lalah Hathaway will be featured on Marcus, the forthcoming CD by Grammy-winning Marcus Miller. It will be released in the U.S. this February. The project had been previously released in the U.K. and Japan under the title Free. Hathaway is already working on her next CD, which is tentatively titled Self Portrait for a spring 2008 release on the Stax label.

Keyboardist and producer George Duke has signed a recording and distribution agreement with Heads Up International for his next CD release, due sometime in the fall of 2008.

The Wailers will perform the following concerts: December 30 at Fillmore in Denver CO, and December 31 at The Klein in Bridgeport CT.

Billy Joel is currently on the road and will perform the following concerts during 2008: February 26 at ARCO Arena in Sacramento CA, February 28 at Pepsi Center in Denver CO, and March 2 at Bradley Center in Milwaukee WI.

Kenny G’s debut CD for Concord, Rhythm And Romance, is scheduled for release in February.

Marcus Johnson’s new release is titled, The Phoenix, and its out now on Three Keys Music. The new release includes several romantics ballads featuring guest vocalists Jarian Felton on Raheem DeVaughn’s “Believe,” and Frank McComb on “Love.”

ORNETTE COLEMAN TOUR DATES

Ornette Coleman will perform the following concerts:
February 5 @ Arlene Schnitzer Hall, Portland OR
February 17 @ Chan Centre, Vancouver BC
February 22 @ Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington New Zealand
February 28 @ International Arts Festival, Hong Kong China.
February 29 @ International Arts Festival, Hong Kong China

GAMBLE & HUFF TO BE INDUCTED INTO 2008 ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME

Legendary songwriting and production team Kenneth Gamble & Leon Huff, widely renowned as the architects of the classic Philly soul sound, will be inducted into the 2008 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with a presentation of the highly prestigious "Ahmet Ertegun Award." The Grammy-winning, multi-platinum selling duo are responsible for one of the most recognizable and influential catalogs of pop and soul music ever recorded: 70 #1 Pop and R&B singles, 175 RIAA Gold, Platinum and multi- platinum certifications, five Grammys including the Recording Academy's Trustees Award and more than 3,500 songs produced to date. The Gamble & Huff signature sound is internationally recognized as "The Sound of Philadelphia" with a Gamble & Huff song being played somewhere in the world every 13.5 minutes.

Comments Gamble & Huff: "We are extremely happy and appreciative of this honor. We have always wanted to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and wholeheartedly thank the foundation for this prestigious induction. We are especially excited about being the first inductees under the newly named Ahmet Ertegun Award. Moreover, the timing couldn't be better as we celebrate a 45-year creative vision that has impacted people and music all over the world including the music of Rock and Roll."

Jay-Z, 50 Cent, Daft Punk, Michael Buble, Mary J. Blige, Usher, Jennifer Lopez, Outkast and Bette Midler are just a few of the top artists who have sampled or covered the Gamble & Huff song catalog. Gamble & Huff's instantly recognizable tunes and influential lyrics are a favorite among advertising agencies, music production houses, commercials, motion pictures and television sitcoms. They also have one of the most sought after sought-after pop and soul catalogs in the world.

Their Philadelphia International Records label built a solid stable of talent including Patti LaBelle, The O'Jays, Teddy Pendergrass, Lou Rawls, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, Archie Bell and the Drells, Billy Paul and the Three Degrees to name a few. PIR recordings reached the top of the charts from day one, at one point selling more than 10 million records in a nine- month period with hits such as Billy Paul's "Me & Mrs. Jones," a Grammy winning #1 Pop and R&B hit; Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes' "If You Don't Know Me By Now," a popular track also covered by UK group Simply Red; The O'Jay's "Love Train" and "Backstabbers" among others.

An historic new agreement was announced last August in which the complete Philadelphia International Catalog of music has been licensed by Sony BMG Music Entertainment to be released through its Commercial Music Group and Legacy Recordings.

VAN MORRISON REISSUES 29 ALBUMS

Van Morrison and Exile Productions in association with Polydor/UMe are pleased to announce the worldwide release of Van Morrison's back catalog beginning in January 2008. This worldwide exclusive reissue program covers 29 albums from 1971's "Tupelo Honey" through 2002's "Down The Road," and also includes the 1997 2-CD collection "The Story of Them." All of the albums have been remastered and each will include bonus material, none of which has been previously available. Additionally, each album will feature its original artwork and include complete lyrics to Morrison's compositions.

The first series of 6 albums will be released on January 29, 2008, followed by three additional release dates with the remaining titles. The first set in January includes:"Tupelo Honey" "It's Too Late To Stop Now" "Wavelength" "A Sense Of Wonder" "Avalon Sunset""Back On Top" The bonus recordings are of particular interest since this is the first time Morrison has authorized any unreleased material since "The Philosopher's Stone" in 1998. Each album will include exclusive, unreleased recordings from their respective time period -- giving a unique insight into some of his most revered songs.

The bonus content for the initial titles can be seen below:

"Tupelo Honey," 1971 -- "Wild Night" (alternative take) and a reworking of the traditional "Down By The Riverside"

"It's Too Late To Stop Now," 1974 -- a live take on "Brown Eyed Girl"

"Wavelength," 1978 -- "Kingdom Hall" and "Wavelength" (Live at the RoxyTheatre, L.A., Nov 26, 1978)

"A Sense Of Wonder," 1984 -- "Crazy Jane On God" and "A Sense Of Wonder"(alternative takes)

"Avalon Sunset," 1989 -- "Whenever God Shines His Light" (alternative take)and "When The Saints Go Marching In" (with additional lyrics by Van Morrison)

"Back On Top," 1999 -- "Philosopher's Stone" (alternative take) and "ValleyOf Tears" (a completely new arrangement of the Fats Domino song)

AYO - JOYFUL

Here’s a great new release from Ayo, whose name translates to "joy" inYoruba, is the daughter of a Nigerian father and a gypsy Romanian mother.Raised in Germany, Ayo's rich cultural background inspired her to listen toher father's diverse collection of Donnie Hathaway, Jimmy Cliff, Fela Kutiand Pink Floyd. On Joyful, she strives to naturally and sincerely share herstories and touch others, boosted solely by her life experience and dreams."Down On My Knees" rests upon a cool reggae rhythm, a simple folk melodyand elegant production with a voice that is 100% soul singing, crying outits love, nothing more. "If people interpret something else, hidden betweenthe lines, by all means, they're free to do so," Ayo insinuates. Laced withHispanic undertones and a hint of Caribbean spice, "And It's Supposed To BeLove" is Ayo's only cover taken from the repertoire of jazz singer AbbeyLincoln. Straightaway, "Help Is Coming" has a rhythmic style with elementsof rock and reggae, belying its emotional nature as a ballad. For fans ofany type of music, it is an immense joy to hear Ayo, but it is an absolutedelight for followers of Corinne Bailey Rae, India.Arie, and Angie Stone.

SMOOTH JAZZ GRAMMY NOMINATIONS

Patti Austin has received a Grammy nomination for her live big-band project Avant-Gerswhin, which celebrates the music of the revered American songwriter George Gershwin. Other jazz nominees include Dave Koz, Jeff Lorber, Brian Bromberg, Kirk Whalum, Spyro Gyra, Herbie Hancock, Chris Botti, Randy Crawford & Joe Sample, Michael Buble, and the late Michael Brecker.

Dave Koz received nomination in two categories. He received a nomination for best pop instrumental album and the track “Over The Rainbow” from his album At The Movies and earning a best pop instrumental nomination. Kirk Whalum and Spyro Gyra also compete in the best pop instrumental album category against Dave Koz with Roundtrip and Good To Go-Go, respectively. The category also includes a nomination for trumpeter Chris Botti's Italia. Spyro Gyra is also a double nominee, going against Koz again in the best instrumental performance category with the track "Simple Pleasures."

Nomination for best contemporary jazz album went to Jeff Lorber for He Had A Hat; Brian Bromberg for Downright Upright; and Herbie Hankcock for River: The Joni Letters, which also received an album of the year nomination for Hancock. The late Michael Brecker was nominated in the best jazz instrumental solo category for a track from his final CD Pilgrimage, which was also nominated as the best jazz instrumental album

Randy Crawford & Joe Sample, who reunited and released So Good this year, received a nomination in the traditional R&B vocal performance race with their track "All Night Long." Singer Michael Buble's Call Me Irresponsible received a nomination in the traditional pop vocal category against Barbra Streisand, James Taylor, Bette Midler, and Queen Latifah's Trav'lin' Light.

RACQUEL ROBERTS - THE SECRET OF CHRISTMAS

Racquel Roberts is a female vocalist with a technique acquired through years of practice at the top level of musical theatre on Broadway and international stages. All of that experience reaches its fruition on her latest release The Secret of Christmas.

On The Secret of Christmas, Racquel took traditional holiday arrangements and transformed them by composing her own bright and spirited musical interpretations with the help of Los Angeles jazz composer Nick Mancini.

Racquel has been singing since her older sister introduced her to music as a child. While in college at UC Irvine in 1999, she auditioned for the Broadway musical Rent which led to several years performing on stage around the world with Rent, Hairspray, and The Lion King. Throughout those great experiences, Racquel has learned more than she could have ever imagined about the business and along the way, it has established her as a legitimate voice in the independent music business and on stage.

The Secret of Christmas takes what you would expect from a holiday album and turns it upside down, in a refreshing and pleasing way. Holiday music lifts the spirit and everyone has his or her yearly favorites however, how many Christmas albums that are in your collection could you play all year and enjoy? Few recordings have that kind of versatility and appeal.

The Secret of Christmas draws from the foundations of jazz and dips into the well of the blues, rhythm and blues, funk, and pop. Racquel Roberts is true to her heart and turns out an outstanding overall recording, that will touch your soul, enliven your spirit and renew your faith in humankind, and most importantly will make you move to the beat and inspire you to dance. The originality and feeling of these recordings touches upon the true meaning of Christmas and you realize that the secret to unlocking what it all means is inside you. Great music and words can help to bring the truth to light.

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.

RANDY MULLER – GROOVIN’U

The Groove Boutique has been featuring tracks from Randy Muller Boom Chang Bang’s Groovin’ U CD. Here’s what dustygroove.com has to say about Randy Muller: “…an artist we know from his great work with larger horns in ‘70’s soul, but who steps out nicely here on his own! The album focuses on Randy’s own work on funky flute, and features some really great grooves with a sweetly jazzy style! Given Muller’s pedigree in classic club, the rhythms here are a lot better than you’d hear on similar albums of this nature, never too smooth, nor too polished, always nicely chunky, and often a but funky – a perfect setting for Randy sweetly gliding solos on flute! Most titles are instrumental, but there were a bit of vocals on the record too – and titles include “Magic”, “Call Me”, ‘Always And Forever”, “Westchester Nights”, ‘Devotion”, “Hello”, “Bala”, and “Easy Luv”.

ANDY WILLIAMS – I DON’T REMEMBER EVER GROWING UP

Here’s a brand new release from the crooner who has continued to tour and record since he first came onto the scene five decades ago. His newest CD, I Don’t Remember Ever Growing Up features 12 new recording including “The Shadow of Your Smile” (with Chris Botti), “Desperado”, “She’s The One”, “One Sweet Day”, and more. Very few artists could claim to have had hits spanning several decades, but Andy Williams has managed to remain consistently popular with music fans of all ages due to his silky smooth vocals and smooth jazz grooves. He currently appears on a regular basis at his own theatre in Branson, Missouri. The new CD is a collection of the world’s greatest songs.

On the set, Andy pays tribute to some of the most memorable songs ever, including She's The One (Robbie Williams), One Sweet Day (Mariah Carey), Lady In Red (Chris De Burgh), Desperado (The Eagles), and Breaking Up Is Hard To Do (Neil Sedaka). The album also includes a duet with Chris Botti, one of the leading trumpeters in the world with their take on Sinatra's beautiful The Shadow Of Your Smile.

Recorded in 2006 over a period of 8 months, the album was recorded at Capitol Studios in Hollywood, Bratislava in Slovakia, as well as at Andy's Moon River theatre in Branson, Missouri. Williams, who turns 80 this year, possesses one of the most distinct and memorable voices of the entire pop era. This new collection is a must-have for all fans of Andy, as well as all lovers of the musical art of romance.

Tracklisting:
1. Lady In Red
2. Desperado
3. Breaking Up Is Hard To Do
4. Have I Told You Lately
5. She’s The One
6. I Don’t Remember Ever Growing Up
7. I Don’t Want To Talk About It
8. I’ll Never Break Your Heart
9. The Shadow Of Your Smile (with Chris Botti)
10. Just To See Her
11. One Sweet Day
12. Every Breath You Take
13. Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman

SMOOTH JAZZ CHRISMAS WITH YELLOWJACKETS, HIROSHIMA & ROBERTO PERRERA

Yellowjackets – Peace Round
This one’s a collection of well-known traditional Christmas songs with the kind of contemporary jazz trimmings that only a team like keyboardist Russell Ferrante, saxophonist Bob Mintzer, bassist Jimmy Haslip and drummer Marcus Baylor can hang. Includes seasonal classics such as “Silent Night,” “Deck the Halls,” and “Oh Little Town of Bethlehem.”

Hiroshima - The Spirit of the Season
Fueled by the East-meets-West juxtaposition of modern-day synthesizer and traditional Japanese koto, flute, and percussion frequently underscored by exotic world-beat rhythms, this unique holiday recording puts a multicultural spin on some well-known Christmas songs and introduces a few original compositions that are likely to become holiday favorites in the years to come. Among the holiday treats are “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” Little Drummer Boy,” and Irving Berlin’s classic “White Christmas.”

Roberto Perera - Christmas Fantasies
This acclaimed harpist strikes a perfect balance between Latin rhythms and the classic music of Christmas. Seasonal favorites include "Winter Wonderland," incongruously but effectively dressed up in a merengue rhythm, and "The Christmas Song," a hot salsafied version which shows Perera's total affinity with the energy and harmony of the Caribbean. Other selections are regional standards little known and heard outside Latin America such as the classic Venezuelan "Niño Lindo" and "La Peregrinación" of Argentine folklore.

NEW RELEASES

AIFF – Afro Soul System (Unique/Germany)
Billie Holiday – Rare Live Recordings 1935-1959 (ESP Disk Ltd.)
Birgit Lystager – Birgit Lystager (Disques Dessinee/Japan)
Blossom Dearie – Christmas Spice So Very Nice (Daffodil/Celeste/Japan)
Blue Mitchell – Bantu Village (Blue Note)
Chocolateclay – Chocolateclay (Cat/P-Vine/Japan)
Enrico Simonetti with Goblin – Gamma (Bella Casa/UK)
Ernie Watts – Wonder Bag (Vault/Wounded Bird)
Fascinations – Quiet Dance (High Contast/Japan)
Giorgio Azzolini – Azzolini’s Spanish Portrait (Jazz D’Essai/Commodo Depot/Japan)
Jacy Parker – Spotlight On Jacy Parker (Verve/Japan)
James Brown – The Singles Vol. 4 1966-1967 (Hip-O Select)
Joe Henderson – The Milestone Years (Milestone)
Mark De Clive-Lowe – Journey 2 The Light (Freedom/Japan)
Mathia Landaeus – Goes A Long Way (Moserobie/Sweden)
Maxine Weldon – Chilly Wind (Mainstream/P-Vine/Japan)
Mel Torme – Mel Torme Swings Shubert Alley (Verve/Japan)
Miles Davis – Star People (Columbia/France)
Modern Jazz Gang – Miles Before & After (Adventure/Commodo Depot/Japan)
Moon Baker – ABC Of Romance (Supertracks/Netherlands)
Narada Michael Walden – Looking At You Looking At Me (Atlantic)
Nicole Willis & The Soul Investigators – Keep Reachin’ Up Remixed (Timmion/UK)
Oscar Pettiford – Deep Passion (ABC/Japan)
Patricia Scot – Once Around The Clock (ABC/Japan)
Pierre Henry – Pierre Henry 8.0 (Universal/France)
Sarah Vaughan – Time In My Life (Mainstream/P-Vine/Japan)
Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings – 100 Days 100 Nights (Daptone)
Sly Stone – Family Soul Sessions: The Rare 45 RPSs 1963-1966 (Cleopatra)
Stanley Turrentine – Let It Go (Impulse/Japan)
Starvue – Upward Bound (Midwest/P-Vine/Japan)
Timo Lassey – Soul & Jazz Of Timo Lassey (Ricky Trick/Finland)
Tribe Collective – Livin’ In A New Day (Community Projects)
Wyclef Jean – Carnival Vol II: Memoirs Of An Immigrant (Columbia)
Wynton Matsalis – Levee Low Moan – Soul Gestures In Southern Blue Vol 3 (Columbia)

MARY J. BLIGE - GROWING PAINS

NEW YORK, Dec. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Geffen Records superstar andhit-making songwriter Mary J. Blige, is set to follow-up the mostsuccessful album of her career, the triple platinum "The Breakthrough,"with her eighth (8th) studio CD "Growing Pains" on Tuesday, December 18th,one week before Christmas. "Growing Pains" includes her top ten single "Just Fine" which hasbecome an instant favorite on radio enjoyed by over 20 million listeners."Just Fine" is in heavy rotation on MTV, BET and VH-1, and Mary recentlyshot the video for her second single, "Work That," which is currentlyfeatured in an Apple iPod commercial.

After selling over 40 million CDs and garnering six Grammy Awardsduring her phenomenal 15-year career, Mary is confident that her fans willnot be disappointed with "Growing Pains." "They're going to get a sense ofwhat my state of mind is and how I view the world," she says. "Andhopefully, most of all, they're going to hear just the sincere honesty andlove that I have for them." She adds, "'Growing Pains' represents acceptingthat there's pain that goes along with growing and change. No pain, nogain." "Growing Pains," with Mary co-writing most of the songs on the album,features guest appearances by Ludacris and Usher and production by TheNeptunes, Jazze Pha, Johnta Austin, Neyo, Stargate, Bryan-Michael Cox, Dreand Vidal, Tricky, Dream, and Sean Garrett.

Mary makes her message loud, clear and seriously funky on the firstrelease "Just Fine" produced by Jazze Pha and Tricky and co-written by Maryand Dream. A celebration of life, "Just Fine" gives you Mary fierce, and asthe video shows, glamorous. The song's vibe? "Sometimes it feels likeyou're having this miserable time, like all 365 days of the year are tough.But then, you get one of those days; maybe when your hair is great, oryou're not stuck in traffic; where it's a 'just fine' day. At some point,"Mary laughs, "You've got have one or two of those."

The party and positivity keeps on keeping on with the rump shakingsecond single "Work That." Mary comments, "When I meet a woman who doesn'tknow what to do about her weight or her hair I always say -- 'whatever itis that you have, make that work for you, Work what you got.'" After releasing her bestselling anthology "Reflections" last year,"Growing Pains" is Mary's first CD of new material since "The Breakthrough"debuted at #1 in 2005, selling over 700,000 copies its first week -- thebest opening week for a solo R&B female artist in SoundScan history. Thealbum's first single, "Be Without You," also made chart history by holdingdown the #1 spot on the Billboard R&B charts for a record breaking 16straight weeks; making it the longest-running No. 1 song on the R&B chartin over 40 years.

Mary led all artists with eight 2007 Grammy nominationsfor the landmark album, and she took home honors for Best Female R&B VocalPerformance, Best R&B Song (both for "Be Without You"), and Best R&B Album.After earning three Grammy Awards, she continued her award show dominationby winning nine Billboard Music Awards, two American Music Awards, two BETAwards, two NAACP Image Awards, and a Soul Train Award.

"The Breakthrough"lived up to its name selling over seven million copies worldwide. You can witness the incredible magic of Mary J. Blige on televisionthis week as she performs on "CNN Heroes: All All-Star Tribute" on December6th and "Movies Rock!" on CBS on December 7th (both at 9 PM Eastern time).Mary will also bring in 2008 on New Year's Eve on MTV.

JAZZ CHILL CORNER NEWSBITS...

CHRIS STANDRING 5-CD COLLECTION
Chris Standring is offering a discount for those who purchase all 5 of his CD’s. He has a 4 CD complete album collection on sale during the month of December for $39.95 (a savings of $40). It includes the albums: Soul Express, Groovalicious, Hip Sway, Velvet and Solar System. If you are looking to purchase these you need to order before December 31. Go to Chris’ website for more information at www.chrisStandring.com

HARDCASTLE 5
Paul Hardcastle’s next release Hardcastle 5 can now be pre-ordered at www.trippinrecords.com The site also allows you to preview the first single to be released to radio “Your Smile”. The label is offering the CD at $9.99 while supplies last.

GROOVE BOUTIQUE AT THE KEY CLUB
Rafe Gomez will bring his Groove Boutique to The Key Club on Tuesday, December 31 from 6PM to 3AM. You can also expect a performance by The Mix Band featuring Ambrosia. The Key Club is located at 58 Park Place, Newark, New Jersey. Go to www.keyclubnj.com for more information.

GIANT STEP RECORDS HOLIDAY PARTY
Giant Step Records is hosting their annual holiday party on December 12 at BLVD. The party will feature an incredible lineup of DJs, including Mr. Scruff, Turntables on the Hudson, Moni, Tyler Askew, DJ Center and Dhundee, plus live performances by Taylor McFerrin, Tiombe Lockhart, Jose James. There will be an open bar with Stolichnaya Vodka from 9PM to 11PM. BLVD is at 199 Bowery in New York City.

SMOOTH JAZZ TV
This weekend on the Smooth Jazz TV syndicated program look out for Grammy nominee Corinne Bailey Rae, Lee Ritenour, Ivan Linn, and Spyro Gyra. Check your local listings for air times