YO-YO MA’S SONGS OF JOY & PEACE

Sony Masterworks has announced that Yo-Yo Ma's recently released holiday recording, Songs of Joy & Peace, has garnered more sales in one week than any other in the history of the cellist's 30-year recording career with Masterworks. The unprecedented sales propelled the critically acclaimed disc to the #20 spot of Billboard's Top 200 chart, Ma's highest position ever. Songs of Joy & Peace, featuring a star-studded cast of musicians, is a musical party in celebration of the joys of the holiday season. Songs of Joy& Peace has been chosen as a featured holiday selection at Starbucks and is being sold at select Starbucks locations nationwide.

Some of the artists Ma collaborates with on Songs of Joy & Peace include James Taylor Alison Krauss, Renee Fleming, Diana Krall, Chris Botti, Joshua Redman, Sergio and Odair Assad, and Dave and Matt Brubeck. "It started with the idea of a party, a party built around the concept of joy and the infinite varieties of joy to be found in the world," recalled Ma. "But joy can't exist in our world without the comfort of peace. As we all draw closer and closer together in this world, nothing is more important. So as much as the music in this album is about joy, it is also about peace, about the two operating in tandem."

To celebrate the release of Songs of Joy & Peace, and in keeping with the theme of coming together in the musical spirit,Yo-Yo Ma teamed up with Indaba Music, http://www.indabamusic.com/, the leading collaboration tool and social network for musicians. Ma recorded the melody for Dona Nobis Pacem and made it available for other musicians to record to it -- creating a virtual music party. The music is available as part of a contest hosted at Indaba Music for artists to compete to create the most original and interesting counter melody or most creative set of variations. Musicians have until December 31, 2008 to submit their piece. Submissions so far have ranged in style from classical to world music to hip-hop, and even heavy metal. The Indaba Music community will vote for their favorites, and Ma will choose the winner who will have the opportunity to record with him. The contest began in early October and to date has attracted 500 entries.

Also available is a special deluxe edition of Songs of Joy& Peace featuring an expanded booklet and an exclusive DVD showcasing five music videos of Yo-Yo Ma joining forces with guest artists James Taylor ("Here Comes the Sun"), Alison Krauss ("The Wexford Carol"), Renee Fleming ("Touch the Hand of Love"), Diana Krall ("You Couldn't Be Cuter") and Chris Botti ("My Favorite Things"). In addition, the Songs of Joy & Peace bonus DVD premieres a behind-the-scenes 60-minute video documenting the making of the album.

JOHN LEGEND TOUR DATES

Grammy-winning multi-platinum recording artist John Legend has just confirmed a new round of concert dates - his first shows in 2009 -- on his forthcoming North American tour. The 2nd leg of John's North American concert tour runs from January 12 through February 7. Joining Legend will be London-based emerging singer/rapper/songwriter Estelle who will appear as John's special guest on the 2nd leg of his tour. The first artist signed to John's HomeSchool Records label, Estelle rocketed to #1 on the UK charts with her single "American Boy" and is featured on "No Other Love," a key track on John's new album EVOLVER. John Legend will kick off his extensive worldwide concert tour November 19 in Minneapolis with the first leg wrapping up December 13 in Durham, North Carolina. John Legend's upcoming tour dates mark the artist's first major concert series since his massively successful world tour in 2007.

News of John's first tour dates in the New Year comes hot on the heels of EVOLVER's recent arrival in the #4 slot on the Billboard 200 best-selling albums chart. A crossover sensation, EVOLVER has already reached the #1 position on America's R&B Album chart, #1 on the Album Retailer chart and #1 on the Digital Albums chart. As one of the most eagerly awaited releases of 2008, EVOLVER is John Legend's first full-length studio album in two years. In addition to Estelle, guests on EVOLVER include OutKast's Andre 3000, R&B/pop superstar Brandy and John's longtime collaborator Kanye West. Songs on EVOLVER include the single "Green Light" (featuring Andre 3000), "It's Over" (featuring Kanye West), "Everybody Knows," "No Other Love" (featuring Estelle), "Satisfaction," "This Time," "Cross The Line," "I Love, You Love," "Good Morning," "If You're Out There," and "Quickly" (featuring Brandy).

Released in late December 2004, John Legend's debut album, Get Lifted, peaked at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 album chart and became America's #1 Top R&B/Hip-Hop album in January 2005. A critical and commercial triumph, Get Lifted earned John an astounding eight Grammy nominations -- he won Best New Artist, Best Male R&B Vocal Performance ("Ordinary People") and Best R&B album -- while selling more than three million copies worldwide. John's second collection, Once Again, entered the Billboard Top 200 at #3 shortly after its release in October 2006, peaking at #1 on the R&B Album Sales chart, earning an RIAA platinum certification while securing two Grammy nominations: "Save Room" (for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance) and "Heaven" (which won Best Male R&B Vocal Performance). John racked up his fifth overall career Grammy win in 2006 when "Family Affair" -- a track he'd cut with Joss Stone and Van Hunt for Different Strokes by Different Folks, a Sly & the Family Stone tribute album (Epic/Legacy) -- took home top honors in the Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals category.

John Legend Tour Dates
North American Tour - 2008 (w/ special guest Raphael Saadiq):
Nov 19 - Minneapolis, MN @ Northrop Auditorium
Nov 20 - Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
Nov 24 - E. Lansing, MI @ Wharton Center For Performing Arts
Nov 26 - Detroit, MI @ Masonic Temple Theatre
Nov 28 - Toronto, Ont. @ Roy Thompson Hall
Nov 29 - Montclair, NJ @ Wellmont Theatre
Dec 1- Montclair, NJ @ Wellmont Theatre
Dec 2 - Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theatre
Dec 5 - Philadelphia, PA @ Tower Theater
Dec 6 - Fairfield, CT@ Fairfield University - Alumni Hall
Dec 8 -Baltimore, MD @ Lyric Theatre
Dec 9 - Washington, DC @ Constitution Hall
Dec 10 - Greenville, SC @ Peace Center
Dec 12 - Charlotte, NC @ Ovens Auditorium
Dec 13 - Durham, NC @ Durham Performing Arts Center

North American Tour Dates - 2009 (w/ special guest Estelle):
Jan12 - Oakland, CA @ Paramount Theatre
Jan13 - Universal City, CA @ Gibson Amphitheatre
Jan16 - La Jolla, CA @ RIMAC Arena
Jan 22 - Dallas, TX @ Nokia Theatre @ Grand Prairie
Jan 23 - Austin, TX @ Bass Concert Hall
Jan 24 - Houston, TX @ Verizon Wireless Theater
Jan 26 - Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
Jan 28 - Orlando, FL @ Bob Carr Performing Arts Center
Jan 29 - Clearwater, FL @ Ruth Eckerd Hall
Jan 30 - Miami, FL @ The Fillmore Miami Beach At Jackie Gleason Theater
Feb 3 - Atlanta, GA @ Fox Theatre
Feb 5 - New York, NY @ Radio City Music Hall
Feb 6 - Mashantucket, CT@ MGM Grand Theater @ MGM Foxwoods
Feb 7 - Atlantic City, NJ @ Borgata Events Center

For more information on John Legend click to:
http://www.johnlegend.com/
http://www.myspace.com/johnlegend
http://www.johnlegendnetwork.com/

JONATHAN SCHWARTZ JOINS SIRIUSLY SINATRA

As host of High Standards with Jonathan Schwartz on SIRIUSLY Sinatra, Schwartz will showcase his encyclopedic knowledge of music and his passion for popular American standards. Guiding listeners through the sound and meaning of this timeless genre, Schwartz will play classic favorites by Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Mandy Patinkin, Joni Mitchell and many more. SIRIUS and XM listeners can also expect to hear music from Irving Berlin and Cole Porter to that of Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein, along with Schwartz's informed and compelling commentary celebrating the great American songbook.

"Jonathan Schwartz, my family and I have cleared up past misunderstandings, as Jonathan and his show join us at SIRIUSLY Sinatra on XM and SIRIUS weekdays from 3 - 6 pm ET and Sundays from noon - 4 pm ET," said Nancy Sinatra. "Jonathan and I are talking about taking part on each other's broadcast from time to time to add insight into the life and music of our time and in particular to the style, heart and genius of my father, Frank Sinatra." "What a joy," said Jonathan Schwartz. "I can't wait to join the Sinatra family on SIRIUSLY Sinatra to perpetuate the most profound body of work this country knows."

Often called "the Dean of American pop standards," Jonathan Schwartz has been one of New York City's most popular on-air hosts since 1967. His columns have appeared regularly in GQ Magazine and The Village Voice. Schwartz is also an accomplished singer and cabaret performer and has recorded three albums, Alone Together, New Sun in the Sky and Anyone Would Love You. Fans from New York will remember Jonathan from the many years he spent hosting his radio show at WNEW-AM.

High Standards with Jonathan Schwartz will air on SIRIUSLY Sinatra, SIRIUS channel 75, and XM channel 73, starting Wednesday, November 12 on weekdays from 3 pm to 6 pm ET, Saturdays from 3 pm to 6 pm ET and Sundays from 12 noon to 4 pm ET. SIRIUSLY Sinatra is the only 24-hour, seven-day-a-week, commercial-free channel to broadcast the entire spectrum of Sinatra's career as well as artists and songs from the standards era. Produced by SIRIUS XM and the Sinatra family, the channel features regular blocks of Sinatra's music, archival performances and is the home of Nancy for Frank, a weekly show hosted by his daughter, Nancy Sinatra. SIRIUSLY Sinatra also broadcasts The Chairman's Hour, a weekly radio show hosted by Frank Sinatra himself using archival material and presented by SIRIUS XM and the Sinatra family.

For more information click to
http://www.sirius.com/siriuslysinatra and http://www.xmradio.com.

PANAMA JAZZ FESTIVAL 2009

American jazz saxophonist Wayne Shorter's acclaimed quartet with Danilo Perez, John Patitucci, and Brian Blade, and the legendary Cuban pianist Chucho Valdés are among the headliners at the 6th annual Panama Jazz Festival, which will take place in Panama City January 12 through 17, 2009. The Boston-based Panamanian pianist Danilo Perez, who founded the festival in 2003 and whose Danilo Perez Foundation coordinates its educational component, anticipates more than 16,000 attendees.

"The Panama Jazz Festival has been a magical journey to a dream we've had for years in Panama," says Perez. "We, as a country, see the entire world pass through the Panama Canal every day, and we are honored to be the bridge of the Americas. But today, we are proud to say that every year--for the past six years--the Panama Jazz Festival has been the national event where the world does not pass by, but makes a stop in our wonderful land. The world's best jazz artists, as well as students and volunteers from all over the globe, unite in Panama with one goal in mind: to celebrate the world's diversity through jazz."

The 2009 festival will be dedicated to the late bassist, composer, and arranger Clarence Martin Sr., whose contributions to Panamanian jazz date from the 1940s and have influenced several generations of musicians from many genres such as jazz, classical, and Caribbean music.

The festival will open with a gala concert at the Teatro Nacional by a flamenco jazz group from Spain, sponsored by the Spanish Embassy. Other artists scheduled to perform at the festival are the Puerto Rican saxophonist Marco Pignataro and his quintet, featuring Eddie Gomez and Billy Drummond; American singer Luba Mason, whose quintet includes flute master Hubert Laws, bassist Jimmy Haslip, and vocalist Rubén Blades (Mason's husband, and Panama's Minister of Culture); and the young Panamanian saxophonist Jahaziel Arrocha, who won a Berklee College of Music scholarship at the 4th annual Panama Jazz Festival and currently attends Berklee as a Presidential Scholar.

Auditions for admission and scholarships to the New England Conservatory, Berklee College of Music, and the Conservatorio de Puerto Rico will be scheduled during the week of the festival. Also planned are ensemble, flute, trumpet, guitar, composition, drum, bass, piano, and saxophone workshops by the New England Conservatory Ensemble, led by jazz department chair Ken Schaphorst, and master classes by Berklee professors Jim Odgren and Jim Kelly. All classes will take place at the Ascanio Arosemena Educational Center, on the Panama Canal Administration Campus. Chucho Valdés, John Patitucci, Brian Blade, and pianist Edna Golandsky (with the Golandsky Piano Institute) are among the artist/instructors.

For the fourth consecutive year, the Panama Jazz Festival will offer clinics and courses on music technology under the auspices of the Berklee College of Music Production and Engineering Department (MP&E) and Music Synthesis Department (MS). Courses on recording, mixing, and live sound will be presented by Rob Jaczko, Chair of MP&E; Alejandro Rodríguez, Associate Professor of the MP&E Department; and Neil Leonard, Chair of Berklee's Music Synthesis Department.

The keynote for the 2009 festival is "expansion," notes Perez, as the concert lineup expands from 3 to 5 days a week and the scope of the master classes expands to include a new private lesson component. "We're also reaching out even more than before to other disciplines, such as art and dance, and we're opening a classical music department," says Perez. "We're expanding our scholarship opportunities to Panamanian schools in need by giving admission to the festival to students who demonstrate academic progress. And we are expanding our children's program to include even more communities in need of outreach programs."

THE NEW SIRIUS XM STATION LINEUP

The new Sirius XM has unveiled new enhanced channel lineups. Effective immediately, and for the first time, XM subscribers will hear SIRIUS' dynamic and exclusive music, news, talk, sports and comedy shows and channels, and SIRIUS subscribers will have access to XM's equally diverse and unique content. SIRIUS and XM subscribers will hear the exclusive music, talk and comedy channels and shows from Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Jimmy Buffett, Elvis Presley, Grateful Dead, Eminem, Frank Sinatra, Jamie Foxx, Metropolitan Opera, NPR, NYU's Doctor Radio, The Catholic Channel, Blue Collar Comedy, Cosmo Radio, Tom Petty, B.B. King, Willie Nelson, the Grand Ole' Opry, Barbara Walters, Deepak Chopra, and more, now available to all subscribers.

Listeners can now get easy access to channels spanning SIRIUS and XM that feature music's most critically-acclaimed artists for the first time at no increase in the subscription fee and with no need to change or upgrade their existing radios. With this new programming lineup, subscribers will receive the same number of music and non-music channels on the SIRIUS and XM services as they have in the past. "This is the ultimate evolution for our channels and sets a new bar for audio entertainment. The breadth and quality of the new programming lineups make it clear that everything worth listening to is now on SIRIUS XM," said Scott Greenstein, SIRIUS XM's President and Chief Content Officer.

XM subscribers will have access to new exclusive music, talk and comedy channels and shows. Here is a selection:
-- Bruce Springsteen's E Street Radio features music spanning three decades from the rock icon, including new releases, concert recordings, rare archival recordings and interviews.
-- Jimmy Buffett's Radio Margaritaville is a radio paradise of great music as well as live broadcasts of Buffett's concerts.
-- The Grateful Dead Channel features music spanning the band's career with unreleased concert recordings, rare archival interviews with Jerry Garcia and original shows hosted by band members Bob Weir, Mickey Hart and Bill Kreutzmann.
-- Eminem's Shade 45 features uncensored, commercial-free hip-hop programming executive produced by Eminem.
-- "Little Steven" Van Zandt's Underground Garage and Outlaw Country channels, both created and executive produced by the E Street Band member, feature the best rock 'n' roll records ever made and shows hosted by some of country music's biggest names, including Mojo Nixon, Shooter Jennings and others.
-- Elvis Radio is the world's first and only officially authorized, commercial-free, Elvis all-the-time radio channel, broadcast live from Graceland.
-- Frank Sinatra on SIRIUSLY Sinatra broadcasts the Great American Songbook as recorded by Sinatra and the greatest singers of all time.
-- Metropolitan Opera Radio broadcasts live performances throughout the Met's entire season and classic performances spanning the Met's 77-year broadcast history.
-- Jamie Foxx's comedy channel, The Foxxhole, is Jamie Foxx's exclusive 24/7 entertainment channel. Foxx created the channel and hosts a live, weekly show.
-- Blue Collar Radio features favorites from the Blue Collar Comedy Tour and everyman humor from other great comedians and hilarious new stand-up stars.
-- Cosmo Radio, geared toward Cosmopolitan magazine's audience of fun, fearless females, features smart relationship advice, tips on beauty, fashion and health, and entertainment news.
-- SIRIUS XM Stars features exclusive weekly shows from Barbara Walters, Deepak Chopra, Jane Pratt, Judith Regan, Senator Bill Bradley and others.
-- The Catholic Channel, produced by SIRIUS XM and the Archdiocese of New York, is a modern talk format with an open dialogue focused on Catholicism in today's world, including daily call-in talk shows, live daily Mass from Saint Patrick's Cathedral, and football and basketball games from the University of Notre Dame.
-- NPR Now offers in-depth news, features, and entertainment produced and assembled by NPR specifically for SIRIUS and XM Radio, featuring shows Fresh Air and Marketplace, plus public radio favorites like Car Talk, Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!, Talk of the Nation, and more.
-- Doctor Radio powered by NYU Langone Medical Center is a groundbreaking 24/7 national radio channel featuring live, call-in shows hosted by leading doctors from the NYU Langone Medical Center, representing a vast array of fields including child psychology, sexual health, men's health, diet, nutrition and more.
SIRIUS subscribers will have access to new exclusive music channels and shows. Here is a selection:
-- Bob Dylan's Theme Time Radio Hour is an award-winning weekly show hosted by the iconic artist that features an eclectic mix of songs from a wide variety of musical genres related to that week's theme, as well as on-air thoughts and commentary from Dylan and special guests.
-- Tom Petty's Buried Treasure is a weekly hour of musical rarities and classic tracks handpicked by Petty from his private vaults.
-- Willie's Place broadcasts live from Willie Nelson's very own honky tonk deep in the heart of Texas, featuring a nickel jukebox playing the best traditional, rustic and rich country and western swing.
-- B. B. King's Bluesville features a broad range of blues and gospel music hand-selected by the Mayor of Bluesville, B.B. King.
-- Grand Ole' Opry showcases the best live American country music with performance archives and programs hosted by Eddie Stubbs, a regular announcer for the Grand Ole' Opry, popular country music DJ and respected country music historian.
-- '40s on 4 is where you go for the biggest hits from the 1940s and the greatest standards to come out during the first half of the 20th century.
-- enLighten broadcasts Southern Gospel roots music based on four-part harmony featuring family groups, trios, quartets and soloists.
-- '90s on 9 plays the biggest hits of the decade featuring songs from every genre - pop, rock and rhythm ... from grunge to boy bands.
-- XM's Artist Confidential series, hosted by Lou Brutus, features up close and personal interviews, plus exclusive performances from some of the biggest names in music including Paul McCartney, Coldplay, Sting, Santana and over a hundred more.
Enhanced music, talk, and sports channels will bring together the best hosts in their fields and genres.
-- The Loft will continue to be led by Mike Marrone and will now add exclusive shows by rocker Lou Reed, Vin Scelsa, Dave Marsh and David Johansen.
-- Deep Tracks will add veteran rock DJ Pat St. John.
-- Marky Ramone's show, Punk Rock Blitzkrieg, can be heard on Faction.
-- Jonathan Schwartz, the renowned Standards DJ, will host his daily and Sunday show on SIRIUSLY Sinatra.
-- '60s on 6 has a stellar lineup of hosts including Cousin Brucie, the legendary Oldies DJ who will continue his Wednesday show on '50s on 5.
-- '70s on 7 will now air Casey Kasem's original American Top 40 countdowns, as well as Joe Causi's Disco Saturday Night.
-- '80s on 8 will be the home of all the former MTV VJs including Mark Goodman, Martha Quinn, Alan Hunter and Nina Blackwood.
-- XM's channel for the presidential election, POTUS '08, and SIRIUS' channel for the independent voter, Indie Talk, have combined into POTUS - Politics of the United States, and will be heard on both SIRIUS and XM. POTUS will feature, from SIRIUS, actor and commentator Ron Silver, The Blog Bunker (the first show dedicated to the biggest blog headlines), and Pete Dominick; and from XM, Joe Mathieu, Tim Farley and more.
-- SIRIUS XM Book Radio, previously known to XM subscribers as Sonic Theater, now brings SIRIUS and XM listeners excerpts of the greatest and hottest books, interviews with authors, and readings by some of the biggest authors in the business.
-- Kids Place Live, targeted to entertain kids aged 3-8, now offers the best kid-friendly music previously heard on Kids Stuff and XM Kids, along with hosts Kenny Curtis, Absolutely Mindy and Robbie Schaeffer, and guests and specials.
-- The previously announced Mad Dog Radio sports talk channel will launch soon on SIRIUS channel 123 and XM channel 144 offering sports fans engaging talk and interviews 24 hours a day. Renowned sports talk personality Chris 'Mad Dog' Russo headlines the channel and can currently be heard hosting its anchor program, Mad Dog Unleashed, weekday afternoons live on SIRIUS 123 and XM 144.

The new SIRIUS XM channel lineup will also continue to feature channels from the top news outlets in the country, including BBC World Service, Bloomberg Radio, ESPN Radio, CNBC, CNN, CNN en Espanol, Fox News Channel and Fox News Talk, among others. As part of the rationalization, XM subscribers will be unhappy to learn they have lost favorites such as Lucy, Flight 26 Fungus, Beyond Jazz, Rhyme, The System, Viva and XM Exclusive but maybe happy to learn they will pick up former Sirius only stations such as E Street Radio, Margaritaville, Little Steven's Underground Garage, Elvis Radio Frank Sinatra and Metropolitan Opera Radio. Non music pickups on XM include The Foxxhole, Blue Collar Radio, Cosmo Radio, Catholic Channel, NPR Now and Doctor Radio.

TONY BENNETT - A SWINGIN' CHRISTMAS

Tony Bennett is about to release his first holiday CD in forty years since his 1968 release of Snowfall, and this latest project, Tony Bennett: A Swingin' Christmas featuring The Count Basie Big Band, is destined to become an annual favorite of the season. Featuring 11 tracks, Tony swings such classics as "I'll Be Home for Christmas," "Winter Wonderland," "Santa Claus is Coming to Town,' and the CD introduces his daughter, Antonia, who duets with Tony on "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," Phil Ramone, who has worked with Bennett on several of his recent outings including the multi-platinum, "Duets: An American Classic," produced the CD. A Swingin' Christmas is available everywhere on RPM Records/Columbia. In the meantime, on November 20, the 15-time Grammy award winner will be on hand when Bloomingdales' unveils their holiday windows on Lexington Avenue in New York City, with a special mini-holiday concert to be held outside on 59th street in front of the store starting at 4:30 pm that day. This concert event is Bloomingdales' gift to New York City as it is free and open to the public. Bennett will perform a selection of holiday classics from A Swingin’ Christmas. The performance choir from the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts, the NYC public arts high school that Tony founded with his wife Susan, will perform some holiday favorites prior to Tony Bennett taking the stage. One of the highlights of the season will be Tony Bennett's performance with the Count Basie Orchestra at New York's historic Apollo Theatre on December 16th. The event will be his only concert appearance with the famed Basie Band in support of his new holiday album, A Swingin' Christmas.

Tony Bennett Upcoming Tour Dates:
Nov 14 – Bossier City, LA @ Horseshoe Casino
Nov 19 – Montclair, NJ @ Wellmont Theatre
Nov 20 – New York, NY @ Bloomingdale’s Holiday Window Concert
Nov 21 – Atlantic City, NJ @ Caesar’s Casino
Nov 22 - Atlantic City, NJ @ Caesar’s Casino
Nov 28 – Las Vegas, NV @ Las Vegas Hilton
Nov 29 – Las Vegas, NV @ Las Vegas Hilton
Dec 3 – New York, NY @ Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting
Dec 4 – Westbury, NY @ Capital One Theatre
Dec 5 – Westbury, NY @ Capital One Theatre
Dec 7 – Beverly, MA @ North Shore Music Theatre
Dec 14 – Buffalo, NY @ University at Buffalo Center for the Arts
Dec 16 – New York, NY @ Apollo Theatre

BRIAN CULBERTSON'S A SOULFUL CHRISTMAS WITH SPECIAL GUESTS

Contemporary and smooth jazz favorite Brian Culbertson, for the third consecutive year, is taking BRIAN CULBERTSON'S A SOULFUL CHRISTMAS to venues across the country. This year's line-up features an all-star cast consisting of vocalist Vesta Williams, vocalist & guitarist Tony Maiden (of Rufus), and saxophonist Mike Phillips. In addition, Brian is proud to have his friends at AirTran Airways return as the tour sponsor. In typical “Brian Culbertson ashion," the show will feature uplifting and soulful performances of holiday favorites and tunes from Brian's holiday album, A SOULFUL CHRISTMAS (in stores now)! In addition, Brian and his guests will play hits from their respective catalogues. "For a third year, I get to bring this fantastic show on tour to audiences across the country," said Culbertson. "I'm thrilled to share the Holiday season and the stage with such an amazing group of performers!" In the span of a fantastic career this far, Brian Culbertson has released eight albums so far. The first three were on the Blue Moon label: "Long Night Out" 1994, "Modern Life" 1995, and "After Hours" 1996. After moving to Atlantic Records three more albums followed: "Secrets" 1997, "Somethin' Bout Love" 1999, and the critically acclaimed "Nice & Slow" 2001. "Come on Up" 2003 was released on Warner Jazz, and Culbertson then moved to GRP Records for his project, "It's On Tonight" 2005 which debuted at #1 on Billboard Magazine’s contemporary-jazz charts.

Tour dates are as follows (with more dates to be announced soon):
November 28 - Seattle, WA @ Benaroya Hall Theatre
November 30 - Harrisburg, PA @ Sunoco Performance Theater
December 4 - Albuquerque, NM @ Kimo Theatre
December 8 - Alexandria, VA @ The Birchmere
December 12 - Las Vegas, NV @ Boulder Station Hotel & Casino
December 13 - Palm Desert, CA @ McCallum Theatre

NEW RELEASES FROM MOTOWN (50th ANNIVERSARY), DIANA ROSS (SURRENDER - EXPANDED), WAR (COLLECTOR’S EDITION), AND MORE…

Celebrating Motown's forthcoming 50th anniversary early in 2009, MOTOWN: THE COMPLETE NO. 1'S (Motown/UMe), to be released December 9, 2008, brings together every Motown No. 1 hit from every U.S. and international chart and every genre - a staggering 192 tracks, plus 10 bonus tracks whose cover versions were also No. 1. Housed in a jaw-dropping package – a replica of the original Motown headquarters, "Hitsville U.S.A." -- are five digipaks, each containing two CDs, and a mini-photo book including rare and classic images, track annotations and an essay by Motown's first No. 1 hit-maker, the legendary Smokey Robinson. Every No. 1 Motown recording from the Supremes, the Temptations, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, The Marvelettes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Four Tops, Martha & the Vandellas, Mary Wells, Gladys Knight & the Pips, the Jackson 5, Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, the Commodores, Rick James, Lionel Richie, Johnny Gill, Boyz II Men, Erykah Badu and more is contained here.

Hip-O Select and Motown have scheduled the release of an expanded edition of the album Surrender, the 1971 album by Diana Ross. In addition to the original eleven tracks, this set is expanded with nine bonus tracks. Included are alternate vocals and mixes of several songs found on the album, as well as the unreleased Surrender sessions tune, “Baby, I’ll Come.” One of the tunes in the bonus disc is a demo with vocal track by songwriter Valerie Simpson (Ashford & Simpson, both of whom were major song contributors to the album) of “Remember Me.” The booklet contains a new essay, photos, and a song-by-song commentary. This re-mastered album is planned for December 9.

Fania Records is set to release a 4-CD/58 track Various Artists collection of Salsa favorites entitled Salsa: A Musical History. This collection will be made available on December 9.

GRP and Verve Records have scheduled a batch of Jazz releases for February 10. The GRP titles are Satchmo at Pasadena (Louis Armstrong), and Chapter One: Latin America (Gato Barbieri). The Verve titles are Ubiquity (Roy Ayers), On My Way and Shoutin’ Again (Count Basie), Dynasty (Stan Getz), You’ve Got It Bad Girl (Quincy Jones), Oscar Peterson & Nelson Riddle (Peterson/Riddle), Blues in the Closet (Bud Powell), Let It Be Me (Nina Simone), and Feels So Good (Grover Washington, Jr).

On November 25 you can find an 8-CD superset coming for War called Collector’s Edition: The Eight Original Gold and Platinum Studio Albums.

CHRISTMAS RELEASES...

From what we’ve seen thus far, there’s plenty of new holiday-themed releases coming our way. Here goes what we have found thus far…

Verve Records is releasing Remixed Christmas as the next in the series of Verve Remixed releases. This one is the first Holiday-themed Remix album for this series. Songs on the CD incliudee “What a Wonderful World” – Louis Armstrong, The Orb Remix; as well as “Zat You, Santa Claus?,” also by Louis Armstrong called The Heavy Remix. There are eleven songs altogether. (Out now).

Motown has released set Playlist Your Way, which collects Various Artists tunes from talent like Stevie Wonder (“Someday at Chrismas”), Jackson Five (“Santa Claus is Coming to Town”), The Miracles (“It’s Christmas Time,” “Christmas Everyday”), The Supremes (“Oh Holy Night”), The Temptations (“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” and the previously unreleased “Jingle Bells”), and a few others. (Out now).

Rounder Records will release the first Holiday-themed album from Bela Fleck & The Flecktones. It is called Jingle All the Way and is a covers classic set stamped with the sound of The Flecktones.
(Out now).

Hip-O Records will release a Various Artists package of 14 classic Christmas tunes entitled Classic Rock Christmas. This compilation features songs by Elton John (“Step into Christmas”), Bryan Adams (“Christmas Time”), The Moody Blues (“December Snow”), Lynyrd Skynyrd (“Run Rudolph Run”), Richie Sambora (“O Come all Ye Faithful”), with even more by Styx, Joan Osborne, Timbuk 3, .38 Special, Elvin Bishop, Pat Benatar, and more than these. (Out now).

Columbia will issue A Swingin’ Christmas by Tony Bennett featuring The Count Basie Big Band in both a standard CD package and a deluxe digipak CD/DVD set. The DVD will include Live performances as well as in-studio footage. (Out now).

If you haven’t picked up this one yet you should as it is simply great! RCA has assembled a collection CD called Elvis Presley Christmas Duets. This is a bit of studio gimmickry in the same way that Natalie Cole was able to duet with her father, Nat King Cole, through the magic of technology. On this Elvis Presley duets album, he will be paired with singers like Gretchen Wilson (“Merry Christmas Baby”) – this one is definitely a standout!, Amy Grant (“White Christmas”), Anne Murray (“Silver Bells”), and Carrie Underwood (“I’ll be Home for Christmas”). (Out now).

From Yo-Yo Ma comes Songs of Peace & Joy. This set includes 22 songs with participation by the likes of Diana Krall, Edgar Meyer & Chris Thile, James Taylor, Dave Brubeck, Chris Botti, and many, many others. This album will be released in a standard CD digipak package and a deluxe CD/DVD set that will add a 60-minute film of behind-the-scenes sessions footage, a gallery, and five music videos (“Here Comes the Sun” w/James Taylor; “You Couldn’t be Cuter” w/Diana Krall; “The Wexford Carol” w/Alison Krauss; “My Favorite Things” w/Chris Botti; and “Touch the Hand of Love” w/Renee Fleming). (Out now).

NOW That’s What I Call Christmas. What would Christmas be without yet another Now That’s What I Call Christmas collection. In this one you’ll hear “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” – John Lennon/Yoko Ono; “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” – Andy Williams; “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” – Dean Martin; “A Holly Jolly Christmas” – Burl Ives; “Run Rudolph Run” – Chuck Berry; “Feliz Navidad” – Jose Feliciano; “Silent Night” – The Temptations; and a whole lot more that you’ll immediately recognize.

Brian Setzer Orchestra issues of Christmas Rocks: The Best-of Collection, which contains 20 traditional classics (two previously unreleased), and Christmas Rocks: The Ultimate Christmas Collection, which brings together the CD AND the DVD (LA’s Universal Amphitheatre in 2004). The DVD had been previously broadcast on PBS in edited form but here, you get the whole 100-minute show. It’s out now on Surfdog Records..

The folks at Time/Life have assembled a collection of Christmas favorites entitled A Sexy Christmas and will contain 12 that mix the holiday with a little snuggle. With songs like “Please Come Home for Christmas” (Aaron Neville), “Snowflakes of Love” (Toni Braxton), and “The Mistletoe Jam (Everybody Kiss Somebody)” (Brenda White-King & Luthor Vandross). Another Time-Life collections also offers a some well-known Christmas classics – “Silver Bells” (Doris Day), “The Little Drummer Boy” (Roger Whittaker), and “Winter Wonderland” (Elvis Presley) to name a few – along with a bonus CD-Rom of 473 Christmas recipes. In addition, the set will come with a free one-year subscription to the magazine, Taste of Home. The Various Artists collection is called Taste of Home: Home for Christmas.

Epic Records hasl released a collection called Winter Songs featuring female singer-songwriters like KT Tunstall (“Sleigh Ride”), Katy Perry (“White Christmas”), Fiona Apple (“Frosty the Snowman”), Emily Wells (“O Holy Night”), and Priscilla Ahn (“Silent Night”), amongst other current female stars. Winter Songs is available in both CD and LP formats.

Other releases include Christmas Spirit (Epic Records) by Los Lonely Boys; Christmas (Rhino Records) by Al Jarreau; It’s Christmas (Verve Records) from Ledisi;

DARK STREETS - ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK

Atlantic Records has announced the release of "Dark Streets - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack," the musical companion to the upcoming Samuel Goldwyn Films film noir musical fantasy. The album features original songs performed by an array of soul and blues legends, including Etta James, Dr. John, and Solomon Burke, alongside such new stars as Atlantic recording artists Marc Broussard and Serena Ryder. The soundtrack will be released digitally on November 25th. "Dark Streets" is set for release in selected cities nationwide on December 12th.

"Dark Streets - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack" features original songs written especially for the film by James Compton, Tim Brown, and Tony DeMeur. To perform them, veteran producer/music supervisor George Acogny (Paul Simon, Sting, Peter Gabriel) gathered a veritable who's who of musical masters, which also includes Natalie Cole, Aaron Neville, Chaka Khan, and Richie Sambora. Acogny himself criss-crossed the country to record and produce all 10 tracks with each of the acclaimed artists featured on the soundtrack, capturing the gritty authenticity, raw power and aching beauty of the blues echoed in the film. Additionally, Acogny composed the "Dark Streets" film score.

A noir fever dream of music, seduction, and murder, "Dark Streets" tells the story of Chaz Davenport (Gabriel Mann), a dashing bachelor who owns what promises to become the hottest new nightclub in town -- if only the lights would stay on. Surrounded by the sumptuous blues music he adores, and with his pick of the gorgeous women who perform their sensual dance numbers onstage every night, Chaz is the envy of every man.

But with the city thrown into darkness by frequent blackouts and a menacing loan shark closing in, Chaz is in danger of losing the club -- and far more. At the same time, he finds himself embroiled in a love triangle with the club's alluring star singer, Crystal (Bijou Phillips), and a new arrival at the club -- the mysterious and seductive chanteuse Madelaine (Izabella Miko).
When people close to Chaz begin turning up dead, he doesn't know where to turn or whom to trust. And the harder he tries to uncover the truth, the further he's drawn into the darkness of lies and betrayal -- a darkness as black as the city's streets during yet another power outage. Welcome to the Blues...

Directed by Rachel Samuels ("The Suicide Club") from a screenplay by Wallace King, the film stars Gabriel Mann ("The Bourne Supremecy"), Bijou Phillips ("Choke"), Izabella Miko ("Coyote Ugly"), Elias Koteas ("The Thin Red Line"), Michael Fairman ("Thirteen Days"), and Toledo ("Don's Plum"). The film is produced by Andrea Balen, Claus Clausen, Corina Danckwerts, and Glenn M. Stewart; and executive produced by Steffen Aumueller.

In homage to the blues music which drives "Dark Streets" the film's producers will be donating half of the film's profits to The Blues Initiative. This non-profit organization administered by The Baton Rouge Area Foundation will directly aid musicians and contribute to the revival of the cultural and music arts in New Orleans, in the aftermath of Hurricanes Gustav and Katrina.

"Dark Streets - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack" Complete Tracklisting 1. Chaka Khan - "Too Much Juice"
2. Natalie Cole - "Send Me Your Kiss"
3. Aaron Neville - "Life On The Layaway Plan"
4. Marc Broussard - "Lose Somebody"
5. Etta James - "It Ain't Right"
6. Richie Sambora - "Blood On The Ground"
7. Dr. John - "It Don't Make No Never Mind"
8. Serena Ryder - "The Game Of Life"
9. Toledo - "Talkin' To The Devil"
10. Solomon Burke - "Dark Streets"

THE MAKING OF 'SOUL MEN' SOUNDTRACK

When award winning writer/producer Frank Fitzpatrick was asked to create a classic hit representing the signature Memphis Soul era for Samuel L. Jackson and Bernie Mac to sing in their upcoming film, he knew exactly what to do. Soul Men director Malcolm D. Lee needed a song that sounded like it could have been the Real Deal's (the film's fictitious band featuring Jackson, Mac and Grammy-winning John Legend) number one song from the height of their career - 1969. In a line up of unforgettable classics like I'm Your Puppet, Memphis Train (Rufus Thomas), Do Your Thing (Isaac Hayes), Soul Dressing (Booker T & the MG's) and I Take What I Want (Sam & Dave), the request might have been a tall order.

But Malcolm loved the song and the filmmakers decided to make Soul Music the title track. Fitzpatrick then brought in six-time Grammy nominated Anthony Hamilton to record the song for the film and for the first single off the soundtrack album on Concord/Stax Records. "I really felt Anthony was the perfect artist to bring that classic feel and still give an original voice to the song. I had wanted to work with Anthony for some time, so this was the perfect opportunity. He is a great artist and a beautiful human being," commented Fitzpatrick. The song was recorded in Memphis to uphold the integrity of the era and the sound of the older Stax classics. Fitzpatrick produced a second version of the song, featuring members of his old band Hidden Faces, for the film's Main Title sequence. The single featuring Hamilton closes the film, accompanying a tribute to Bernie Mac.

The story is not all happy endings, as the film also marks the last performances by entertainment icons Bernie Mac and Isaac Hayes, who passed away unexpectedly just one day apart from each other in early August. "We were all shocked to learn of their passing. Isaac had a profound musical influence on me and I have truly fond memories of working with Bernie on prior films -- both were inspiring entertainers and amazing people. I feel honored to have been part of the film and to have had the opportunity to pay homage to the music we all loved and shared," said Fitzpatrick, who joined co-star Samuel L. Jackson and director Malcolm D. Lee, along with many others, to pay tribute to Mac and Hayes at the Apollo Theater, where the film premiered on October 28th.

Soul Men will be released nationwide November 7, 2008 (Dimension Films/MGM). The soundtrack, featuring additional music from Isaac Hayes, Anthony Hamilton, John Legend, Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings, will be released November 4th (Concord/Stax Records). Other mixes of Soul Music, including an "Old School Mash Up" are available exclusively on iTunes . For more information click to http://www.frankfitzpatrick.com/.

GLORIA GAYNOR - CHRISTMAS PRESENCE

Gloria Gaynor, long known as a source of inspiration for her hit single "I Will Survive," has released a Christmas album entitled "Christmas Presence," just in time for the holiday season. The CD includes many traditional holiday songs such as God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman, Frosty the Snowman and O Holy Night.

Gaynor has also recorded a touching original song, Christmas Prayer, which is her tribute to American military men and women. "Though it's important to keep our troops in our thoughts and prayers all year long, Christmas is a time when we are able to express that even more," said Gaynor, "and I'm so happy to include Christmas Prayer on my new album."

This coming year, Gaynor is celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the release of "I Will Survive." A veteran of the music industry, Gaynor signed her first record contract at the age of nineteen and has been entertaining audiences with her music ever since. In 1973, Gloria made history as Billboard gave birth to the Disco Action Charts and Never Can Say Good-Bye bowed at #1 on the charts and became the first dance song to reach #1 status in dance music. Gloria continued to set the standard when, in March of 2001, her single Just Keep Thinkin' About You topped the Billboard Dance/Club charts at #1, while her international hit Last Night debuted at #1 throughout Europe.

In September 2002, Logic Records/BMG released the highly anticipated U.S. album "I Wish You Love." This was her first worldwide release in 15 years and it delivered four #1 dance singles on Billboard's Dance Charts as well as her first top ten hit, I Never Knew, on Billboard's Adult Contemporary Charts. She also recorded a new live version of I Will Survive in Spanglish, recorded in Brazil.

With many hits and a successful international music career, Gaynor's popularity continues to flourish. In 2001 she was honored at the World Music Awards in Monte Carlo with the coveted "Legend" award presented by long-time fan Prince Albert. In 2005, Gloria, along with her hit song I Will Survive, was inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame. She made a splash on Broadway in "Smokey Joe's Café," the longest-running musical revue, and has been a guest star on such popular programs as "That '70's Show" and "Ally McBeal," introducing her to a whole new generation of fans.

I Will Survive continues to be a theme of survival, encouragement, and steadfast strength not only for Gaynor, but for several generations of music fans. In addition to releasing her new album, Gaynor keeps busy by lending her support to numerous charities, ranging from the likes of The Rita Hayworth Gala for Alzheimer's to Revlon's Annual Run/Walk for Life.
In January 2009, Gloria will kick off her symphony tour with the Houston Symphony. More details to come.

"Christmas Presence" is available from Koch Records, available in retail stores nationwide, as well as iTunes, Amazon and Gloria Gaynor's personal website: http://www.gloriagaynor.com/.

SUSAN TEDESCHI - BACK TO THE RIVER TOUR DATES

Susan Tedeschi has released her latest CD – Back To The River, available on the Verve label. And has embarked on a whirlwind tour in support of the album. Tour dates are below:

Nov. 6 – Virginia Beach, VA @ Sandler Center for Performing Arts
Nov. 7 – Baltimore, MD @ Rams Head Live
Nov. 8 – Boston, MA @ Berklee Performance Center
Nov. 11 – West Hartford, CT @ University of Hartford – Lincoln Center
Nov. 12 – New York, NY @ The Fillmore NY Irving Plaza
Nov. 14 – Albany, NY @ Hart Theater
Nov. 15 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Byham Theatre
Nov. 16 – Alexandra, VA @ Birchmere
Nov. 18 – Glenside, PA @ Keswick Theatre
Nov. 20 – Chicago, IL @ Park West
Nov. 21 – Minneapolis, MN @ Pantages Theatre
Nov. 22 – Madison, WI @ Barrymore Theatre
Nov. 24 – Indianpolis, IN @ Vogue Theatre
Nov. 25 – Louisville, KY @ Brown Theatre
Nov. 26 – Milwaukee, WI @ Northern Lights Theatre
Dec. 27 – Jacksonville, FL @ Florida Theatre
Dec. 28 – Pompano Beach, FL @ Pompano Beach Amphitheatre
Dec. 29 – Tampa, FL @ Tampa Theatre
Dec. 31 – Atlanta, GA @ The Fabulous Fox Theatre
Jan. 24 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ The Fabulous Fox Theatre

JOHN LEGEND - EVOLVER & CBS PROMOS

John Legends got another new album, EVOLVER, slated for release on Tuesday, October 28, and the multi-platinum-selling multiple-Grammy-winning artist has joined forces with CBS Television Network to help launch the album. Legend has given "Green Light," the album's first single, to CBS for use in the network's upcoming fall lineup promotional campaign, "The Biggest November Ever is Ready to Go on CBS," while a variety of tracks from EVOLVER will be heard during CBS daytime and prime time programming on October 28 and 30. In addition,, John Legend will also make appearances on CBS's morning news and late night programming.

The CBS on-air promo spots will feature shots from John's "Green Light" music video intermixed with images from the network's hit dramas, comedy and reality programs. Scheduled to launch Monday, October 27, "The Biggest November Ever" campaign will be broadcast nationally on the CBS Television Network as well as through local affiliates. John's "No Other Love" will be heard in the October 28 episode of "NCIS," Tuesday's #1 rated program and ranked #3 among all primetime shows. On October 30, CBS is also featuring John's new song "Cross the Line" on "The Young and the Restless," the top rated daytime drama for nearly 20 straight years. In addition to the CBS-sponsored opportunities, John Legend has been separately booked for appearances on the CBS shows "The Early Show" on October 28 followed by a performance on the "Late Show with David Letterman" on October 30.

John Legend - 2008 Tour Dates
11/19 - Minneapolis, MN @ Northrop Auditorium
11/20 - Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
11/24 - E. Lansing, MI @ Wharton Center For Performing Arts
11/26 - Detroit, MI @ Masonic Temple Theatre
11/28 - Toronto, Ont @ Roy Thompson Hall
11/29 - Montclair, NJ @ Wellmont Theatre
12/1- Montclair, NJ @ Wellmont Theatre
12/2- Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theatre
12/5 - Philadelphia, PA @ Tower Theater
12/8 - Baltimore, MD @ Lyric Theatre
12/9 - Washington, DC @ Constitution Hall
12/10 - Greenville, SC @ Peace Center
12/12 - Charlotte, NC @ Ovens Auditorium
12/13 - Durham, NC @ Durham Performing Arts Center

http://www.johnlegend.com/
http://www.myspace.com/johnlegend
http://www.johnlegendnetwork.com/
http://www.showmecampaign.org/

http://www.columbiarecords.com/

THE NOVEMBER CONCERT LISTINGS

Herbie Hancock @ Teatro Maestranza, Seville, Spain, Nov 1
Herbie Hancock @ Victoria Hall, Geneva, Switzerland, Nov 2
Dave Koz Cruise w/ Dave Koz, Eric Benet, Alonzo Bodden, Jonathan Butler, George Duke, Candy Dulfer, Jeff Golub, Deniece Williams, Tower Of Power, Brian Simpson, U-Nam, Najee, Arlington Jones @ Ft Lauderdale to Samana, St. Thomas, St. Barths & Half Moon Cay, Nov 2-9
Richie Havens @ Hamilton Place, Hamilton, Canada, Nov 3
Louis Vega @ Hudson, New York, NY, Nov 3
Richie Havens @ Centennial Hall, London, Canada, Nov 4
Herbie Hancock @ Elizabeth Hall, Antwerp, Belgium, Nov 5
Anthony Hamilton @ House Of Blues, Chicago, IL, Nov 5
Marcus Johnson @ Holiday Inn, Washington, DC, Nov 6
Louis Vega, Anane @ The Delano, Miami Beach, FL, Nov 6
Regina Belle, Black Ivory, Norman Connors, Michael Henderson, Kenny Latimore, Phil Perry, Ray, Goodman & Brown, The Manhattans @ The Apollo Theatre, New York, NY, Nov 6
Richie Havens @ Pantages Playhouse Theatre, Winnipeg, Manitoba, CA, Nov 6
Marcus Johnson @ Nineteenth St Baptist Church, Washington, DC, Nov 7
Anthony Hamilton @ Epic Event Center, Minneapolis, MN, Nov 7
Gerald Alston, The Manhattans @ Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle, WA, Nov 7-9
Susan Tedeschi @ Lincoln Theatre, West Hartford, CT, Nov 8
Lalah Hathaway @ Dimcock Center, Boston, MA, Nov 8
Conya Doss @ Beachland Ballroom, Cleveland, OH, Nov 8
Richie Havens @ Northern Alberta Jubilee, Edmonton, Alberta, CA, Nov 9
Mavis Staples @ B.B. Kings, New York, NY, Nov 9
Anthony Hamilton @ House Of Blues, St. Louis, MO, Nov 9
David Byrne @ The Birchmere, Washington, DC, Nov 9
Susan Tedeschi @ Berklee Performance Center Of Boston, Boston, MA, Nov 11
Anthony Hamilton @ House Of Blues, Cleveland, OH, Nov 11
Herbie Hancock @ Tripod Theatre, Dublin, Ireland, Nov 11-12
Richie Havens @ Jack Singer Concert Hall, Calgary, CA, Nov 12
Susan Tedeschi @ The Fillmore At Irving Plaza, New York, NY, Nov 12
Marcus Johnson @ Washington Times Arbor Ballroom, Washington, DC, Nov 12
Marcus Johnson @ Holiday Inn, Washington, DC, Nov 13
Anthony Hamilton @ Lincoln Theater, Washington, DC, Nov 13
Richie Havens @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver, CA, Nov 13
Mindi Abair @ Meyer Theatre, Green Bay, WI, Nov 13
Mindi Abair @ Millenium Centre, Southfiedl, MI, Nov 14
Anthony Hamilton @ Electric Factory, Philadelphia, PA, Nov 14
Marcus Johnson @ Café 611, Frederick, MD, Nov 14
Herbie Hancock @ Sage Theatre, Gatehead, UK, Nov 14
Richie Havens @ Alix Goodlin Hall, Victoria, CA, Nov 14
Blues Travler @ The Joint, Las Vegas, NV, Nov 14
Susan Tedeschi @ Hart Theatre, Albany, NY, Nov 14
Tony Bennett @ Horseshoe Casino, Bossier City, LA, Nov 14
Kenny G @ Beau Rivage Casino, Biloxi, MS, Nov 14
Russell Thompkins Jr & New Stylistics, Evelyn Champagne King, The Delfonics, GQ, Blue Magic, Eddie Holman @ Fernwood Resort, Poconos, PA, Nov 14-16
Herbie Hancock @ Festival Hall, London, UK, Nov 15
Anthony Hamilton @ Rams Head Live, Baltimore, MD, Nov 15
Susan Tedeschi @ Byham Theatre, Pittsburgh, PA, Nov 15
Ledisi @ Arena Theatre, Houston, TX, Nov 15
Kenny G @ Arena Theatre, Houston, TX, Nov 15
Richie Havens @ Admiral Theatre, Bremerton, WA, Nov 15
Herbie Hancock @ Bridgewater, Manchester, UK, Nov 16
Susan Tedeschi @ Birchmere, Alexandra, VA, Nov 16
Anthony Hamilton @ Tralf Music Hall, Buffalo, NY, Nov 16
Marcus Johnson @ Holiday Inn, Washington, DC, Nov 16
Kenny G @ Jefferson Civic Center, Birmingham, AL, Nov 16
Susan Tedeschi @ Keswick Theatre, Glenside, PA, Nov 18
Anthony Hamilton @ Showcase Live, Foxboro, MA, Nov 18
Herbie Hancock @ The Barbican, London, UK, Nov 19
Anthony Hamilton @ Blender Theater, New York, NY, Nov 19
Tony Bennett @ Wellmont Theatre, Montclair, NJ, Nov 19
Kenny G @ Nutter Center, Dayton, OH, Nov 19
John Legend @ Northrop Auditorium, Minneapolis, MN, Nov 19
Herbie Hancock @ Concert Hall, Birmingham, UK, Nov 20
Susan Tedeschi @ Park West, Chicago, IL, Nov 20
Tony Bennett @ Bloomingdale’s Holiday Window Concert. New York, NY, Nov 20
Marcus Johnson @ Camelot by Martins, Upper Marlboro, MD, Nov 20
John Legend @ Chicago Theatre, Chicago, IL, Nov 20
Lee Ritenour, Dave Grusin, John Pattitucci, Will Kennedy @ Town Hall, New York, NY, Nov 20
Kenny Lattimore @ Atlantic Civic Center, Chicagoi, Il, Nov 21
Susan Tedeschi @ Pantages Theatre, Minneapolis, MN, Nov 21
Anthony Hamilton @ Music City, Greensboro, NC, Nov 21
Richie Havens @ The Sellersville Theatre, Souderton, PA, Nov 21
Tony Bennett @ Caesar’s Casino, Atlantic City, NJ, Nov 21-22
Anthony Hamilton @ Lincoln Theater, Raleigh, NC, Nov 22
Marcus Johnson @ JW Marriott, Washington, DC, Nov 22
Michael Franks @ Tarrytown Music Hall, Tarrytown, NY, Nov 22
Bobby Caldwell @ Palm Springs Art Museum, Palm Springs, CA, Nov 22
Richie Havens @ Patchogue Theatre For The Performing Arts, Patchogue, NY, Nov 22
Susan Tedeschi @ Barrymore Theatre, Madison, WI, Nov 22
Herbie Hancock @ Arcimboldie Theatre, Milan, Italy, Nov 23
Anthony Hamilton @ Amos Theater, Charlotte, NC, Nov 23
Susan Tedeschi @ Vogue, South Bend, IN, Nov 24
John Legend @ Wharton Center For Performing Arts, East Lansing, MI, Nov 24
Herbie Hancock @ Megaron, Athens, Greece, Nov 25
Susan Tedeschi @ Brown Theatre, Louisville, KY, Nov 25
Herbie Hancock @ Auditorio Musica, Rome, Italy, Nov 25
Susan Tedeschi @ Northern Lights Theatre, Milwaukee, WI, Nov 26
John Legend @ Masonic Temple Theatre, Detroit, MI, Nov 26
Herbie Hancock @ Sporting Club, Monte Carlo, Monaco, Nov 27
Anthony Hamilton @ City Block, Louisville, KY, Nov 27
John Legend @ Roy Thompson Hall, Toronto, Ontario, Nov 28
Peter White, Mindi Abair, Rick Braun @ Hyatt Regency, Incline Village, NY, Nov 28
Dave Koz & Friends Smooth Jazz Christmas Tour w/Jonathan Butler, Jeff Golub, Keiko Matsui @ Sunrise Theatre, Ft. Pierce, FL, Nov 28
Anthony Hamilton @ Centerstage, Atlanta, GA, Nov 28
Richie Havens @ Stone Mountain Arts Center, Brownfield, ME, Nov 28-29
Tony Bennett @ Las Vegas Hilton, Las Vegas, NV, Nov 28-29
John Legend @ Wellmont Theatre, Montclair, NJ, Nov 29
Peter White, Mindi Abair, Rick Braun @ One World Theatre, Austin, TX, Nov 29
Dave Koz & Friends Smooth Jazz Christmas Tour w/Jonathan Butler, Jeff Golub, Keiko Matsui @ Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, FL, Nov 29
Anthony Hamilton @ Orpheum Theater, Memphis, TN, Nov 29
Bobby Caldwell, Richard Elliot, Paul Brown, Jessy J @ Hyatt Regency, Incline Village, NV, Nov 29
Herbie Hancock @ Silesian Center of Culture, Katowice, Polanc, Nov 30
Anthony Hamilton @ Wild Horse Saloon, Nashville, TN, Nov 30
Dave Koz & Friends Smooth Jazz Christmas Tour w/Jonathan Butler, Jeff Golub, Keiko Matsui @ Van Wezel Performing Arts Center, Sarasota, FL, Nov 30

BRIAN CULBERTSON SMOOTH JAZZ NETWORK AFFILIATES

Brain Culbertson’s Smooth Jazz Radio Show has been added to a new batch of radio affiliates around the country and we’ve go the full list. His show is typically broadcast every Saturday and Sunday from 6AM to 10AM. The full list of affiliates follows:

WEAG-FM/Augusta, GA 92.3 www.923smoothjazz.com
KABQ-FM/Albuquerque, NM 104.1 www.nmsmoothjazz1041.com
WCIN-AM/Cincinnati, OH www.wcinam.com
WJZA-FM--WJZK-FM/Columbus, OH 103.5/104.3 www.columbusjazz.com
WDSJ-FM/Dayton, OH 106.5 www.daytonjazz.com
KKHI-FM/Denver, CO
KJZN-FM/Fresno, CA www.1055kjzn.com
WAUN-FM/Green Bay, WI www.smoothjazzgreenbay.com
KORL-FM/Honolulu, HI
WJZL-FM/Lansing, MI www.wjzlonline.com
WKYL-FM/Lexington, KY www.smoothjazz1021.com
WJZX-FM/Milwaukee, WI 106.9 www.smoothjazz1069.com
WZJZ/Ft. Myers, FL 100.1 www.wdrr.com
WJCD-FM/Norfolk, VA 107.7 www.smoothjazz1077.com
KOCD-FM/Oklahoma City, OK 103.7 www.smoothjazzoklahoma.com
KJZZ-FM/Palm Springs, CA
KKXS-FM/Redding, CA www.smoothjazz961.com
KJZS-FM/Reno, NV www.smoothjazzreno.com
WQJZ-FM/Salisbury, MD www.wqjz.com
KKSF/San Francisco, CA 103.7 www.kksf.com (Saturday Only)
WJZT-FM/Tallahassee, FL www.wjztfm.com
KMYT-FM/Temecula, CA 94.5 www.kmyt945.com
KUJJ/Tri-Cities, WA www.smoothjazz1019.com
WSBZ-FM--WZJZ-FM/Ft. Walton Beach, FL 106.3 www.wsbz.com

NEW RELEASES FROM AZYMUTH, HI FLY ORCHESTRA, JAZZANOVA, LABELLE, MAYSA & OTHERS

Albert Mangelsdorff – Mangelsdorff Solo (Trombirds)
Anthony Valdez – Go/B Side For Philly (Record Breakin)
Azymuth – Butterfly (Far Out)
BB&Q Band – Genie (Elektra/Collectors Choice)
Bossa A La Mode – Reborn (Rambling/Japan)
Carroll Thompson – Carroll Thompson (Ultra Vybe/Japan)
Club Jazz A La Mode 3 (Rambling/Japan)
Cro-Magnon – Remixes (Lastdrum/Jazzy Sport)
Dusty – Keep It Raw EP (Jazz & Milk/Germany)
Ed Motta – Chapter 9 (Trama)
Fanga – Natural Juice (Cosmic Groove)
Five Special _ Five Special (Elektra/Wounded Bird)
Flat Three – Sky Is The Limit (Flower)
Garnet Mimms – Is Anybody Out There? (Evidence)
Harvey Mason – Funk In A Mason Jar (Arista/Japan)
Hi Fly Orchestra – Mambo Atomico (Tramp)
Howard Tate – Blue Day (Evidence)
Isley Brothers – Go All The Way (T Neck/Iconoclassic)
Isley Brothers – Showdown (T Neck/Iconoclassic)
J Rawls & Others – J Rawls Presents The Liquid Crystal Project 2 (HBS)
Jazzanova – Of All The Things (Universal/Japan)
Karen Aoki – Shining (Rambling/Japan)
Kenny Dope & Deb Karge Presents Kay Dee Records Vol. 2 (Kay Dee)
Kloud 9 – Enjoy The Ride (Expansion)
Labelle – Back To Now (Verve)
LaSonya Gunter – Crazy Beautiful (Blak Dol/Regular)
Lloyd Miller – Eastones Tonal Tranquility (Eastern Arts)
Kindred The Family Soul – Arrival (Hidden Beach)
Love Train: The Sound of Philadelphia (Legacy)
Maysa – Metamorphosis (Shanachie)
Miriam Aida – Come On Home (Connective)
Musicanossa 1 – Sparatacus Jazz Lounge (Universal/Japan)
PJ Morton – Live In LA (2PM Music)
Philadelphia Soul Varities (Universal Love)
Roman Andren – Juanita & Beyond Live Studio Sessions (Ajabu/P-Vine)
Shawn Lee – Under The Sun Original Soundtrack (Ubiquity)
Songbyrd Jackson - Vol 1 Pain Passion & Liberation (Wyseeye)
Souljazz Orchestra – Manifesto (Do Right)
Three Degrees – New Dimensions (Ariola/Japan)
Till Bronner – Rio (Verve)
Trio Valore – Return Of The Iron Monkey (Record Kicks)
Viva 60’s (Rambling/Japan)

ALICE RUSSELL - POT OF GOLD

Six Degrees Records has announced the signing of British soul singer Alice Russell for North and South America, whose sophomore studio album, Pot Of Gold, will be released digitally on Nov. 4th and on CD Jan. 6th. Alice Russell has gained an enviable reputation as one of the UK's hottest singers, having recorded with the likes of Massive Attack and The Quantic Soul Orchestra, performed with the The Roots and supported Femi Kuti, De La Soul and appeared on the bill with Amy Winehouse in Cannes 2007. Alice's recent collaboration with Ninja Tune's Mr. Scruff on 'Music Takes Me Up' is a standout track from his new album Ninja Tuna and was released to rave reviews. As for her own material, she's been distilling her sound, laying live strings, horns and piano to compliment very intimate and uplifting shift in her style for her new album, Pot Of Gold. So make sure you don't miss a chance to sneak a first peek of the new Alice Russell material during her U.S. tour dates this November - her nine date tour hits major markets including Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York.

Nov 3 – Cincinnati, OH @ Bogarts
Nov 5 – Chicago, Il @ Park West
Nov 6 – Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater
Nov 7 – Madison, WI @ High Noon Saloon
Nov 8 – St. Louis, MO @ Blueberry Hill
Nov 9 – Lawrence, KS @ Liberty Hall
Nov 10 – San Francisco, CA @ The Independent
Nov 13 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Hotel Café
Nov 14 – New York, NY @ Hiro Ballroom

LOVE TRAIN: THE SOUND OF PHILADELPHIA- THE CONCERT

Part one of "Love Train: The Sound of Philadelphia" -- a two-part PBS television special celebrating the enduring musical legacy of the mythic musical production/songwriting duo Kenny Gamble & Leon Huff and the entire family of Philadelphia International Records artists -- will premiere on KERA TV on Saturday, October 25th at 7:00PM, with subsequent airings across-the-country during the PBS December Pledge Week (please check your local listings).

Gamble & Huff are best-known as the creators of the classic Philly Soul Sound that began dominating music and radio charts in the early 1970s and continues to thrive into the 21st century.

A cornerstone event in Legacy Recordings' monumental Philly Soul reissue project, "Love Train: The Sound of Philadelphia" was filmed during an historic live concert showcasing some of the greatest music and musicians in the Philadelphia International Records catalog including The O'Jays, Harold Melvin's Blue Notes, Russell Thompkins Jr. & The New Stylistics, The Delfonics, The Intruders, Jerry Butler, Bunny Sigler, Three Degrees, The Soul Survivors, Jean Carne, G.C. Cameron, and The Sound Of Philadelphia Orchestra.

The "Love Train" concert was filmed in front of a live audience on Saturday, June 7, 2008 at the landmark Borgata Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, documented in High Definition with a 11 camera set-up and state-of-the-art audio reproduction. Performances on part one of the "Love Train: The Sound of Philadelphia" concert specials include "TSOP" (TSOP Orchestra with The Three Degrees), "The Love I Lost" (Harold Melvin's Blue Notes), "Expressway to Your Heart" (Soul Survivors), "I'm Stone In Love With You" (Russell Thompkins Jr. & The New Stylistics), "I Love Music" (The O'Jays), "Rubberband Man" (G.C. Cameron), "Me & Mrs. Jones" (Bunny Sigler), "Used To Be My Girl" (The O'Jays), "Wake Up Everybody" (Harold Melvin's Blue Notes), "Ain't No Stopping Us Now" (Bunny Sigler, Jean Carne, The Three Degrees), "Never Gonna Give You Up" (Jerry Butler), "La La Means I Love You" (The Delfonics) and "People Get Ready / Love Train" (The O'Jays ).

“Love Train: The Sound of Philadelphia" is an unprecedented musical experience, the most comprehensive cavalcade of Philly Soul icons ever. Combining dramatic sets and vibrant lighting, inspired by the design aesthetic of Philadelphia International Records' classic album covers, with a non-stop succession of electrifying performances, "Love Train: The Sound of Philadelphia" provides a 21st century venue for one of the greatest soul revues in concert history, a high energy tribute to the immortal sights and
sounds of Philly Soul.

The "Love Train" Pledge Week broadcasts will offer PBS subscribers an expanded "Love Train" companion DVD as well as selections from the Legacy Recordings/Philadelphia International Records reissue catalog.
The "Love Train: Sound of Philadelphia" DVD will include bonus tracks and an exclusive documentary overing the Gamble & Huff collaboration which has so deeply influenced popular music and culture over the past five decades. A second one-hour "Love Train: Sound of Philadelphia" special will be scheduled for pledge broadcast in 2009.

GEORGE BENSON SIGNS WITH WORKSHOP LIVE

In conjunction with receiving a 2009 National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters Award today at Lincoln Center, legendary performer George Benson announced his new project as an online jazz guitar instructor at WorkshopLive.com. The new project will take the form of a members-only online club named "George Benson's Breezin' Lounge" where Mr. Benson takes a no-holds-barred look at his musical ideas, playing techniques, formative years and the inspiration which has made him one of the best jazz guitarists and performers in the world.

"My hope is that aspiring guitar players everywhere will get something valuable out of my candid comments and demonstrations," says Mr. Benson. Bob Land, Chief Marketing Officer of WorkshopLive added, "George Benson's playing is truly masterful so we're thrilled to be able to offer this incredible level of direct access to him and his music."

The lessons are unlike any other offered online or off and come complete with printable sheet music, animated notation, tab and most importantly a fretboard where students can watch Mr. Benson's riffs being played note-for-note, slow down the playback and practice like never before. The Breezin' Lounge also plans to offer lucky fans exclusive live Webcasts where Mr. Benson will perform and respond to questions.

George Benson's Breezin' Lounge is a service of WorkshopLive.com, the leading online community for learning music, using a proven methodology and curriculum. It is subsidized by advertising so members only pay $9.95/month for two super-sized lessons, Webcasts, forums, and the opportunity to learn directly from legendary master artists. These workshops are a great new way for the artists to connect with their fans and were introduced earlier this year.

ANTHONY HAMILTON – THE PLAYIN’ IT COOL TOUR

Six time Grammy-nominated recording artist Anthony Hamilton is gearing up for a national tour that kicks off in Chicago, IL on November 5th, with 25 performances scheduled through December 13. The "Playin' It Cool" tour takes its name from the lead single "Cool" featuring David Banner, from Hamilton's forthcoming album, The Point Of It All, set for release on December 2nd.

The Southern-bred singer, who has been compared to Al Green and Donny Hathaway, is known to captivate his audiences with his phenomenal performances and soul-infused music. In 2006, Newsweek called him, "one of the music industry's best-kept secrets." People Magazine has named him "one of the most important R&B artists of his generation." The Point Of It All contains a wide range of raw soul-infused music with Hamilton at the helm co-writing the entire album and co-producing on the album as well with his longtime collaborators, producer/songwriter Mark Batson and Kelvin Wooten. Other producers on the album include The Avila Brothers and Jack Splash.

Most recently, Anthony Hamilton made his big-screen debut performing his poignant hit single "Do You Feel Me," in the Oscar-nominated American Gangster movie. He will also have a track in the upcoming film and soundtrack "Soul Men" starring Samuel L. Jackson and the late Bernie Mack. Over the past five years, Hamilton has established a loyal following from his 2003 platinum-certified debut album Comin' From Where I'm From, which spawned the hit "Charlene," which climbed to #3 on the R&B Albums chart and garnered him three Grammy nominations, to his last album, the gold-certified sophomore Ain't Nobody Worryin' released in 2005, which sparked the #1 hit "Can't Let Go." Hamilton is an "artist's artist" who has collaborated with a wide range of his peers including: Buddy Guy, Al Green, Dr. Dre, Santana, Angie Stone, Young Jeezy, Nappy Roots, Musiq Soulchild and more.

"Playin' It Cool" Tour Dates:

Nov 5 - Chicago, IL @ House of Blues
Nov 7 - Minneapolis, MN @ Epic Event Center
Nov 9 - St Louis, MO @ House of Blues
Nov 11- Cleveland, OH @ House of Blues
Nov 13 - Washington, DC @ Lincoln Theater
Nov 14 - Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory
Nov 15 - Baltimore, MD @ Rams Head Live
Nov 16 - Buffalo, NY @ Tralf Music Hall
Nov 18 - Foxboro, MA @ Showcase Live
Nov 19 - New York, NY @ Blender Theater
Nov 21- Greensboro, NC @ Music City
Nov 22 - Raleigh, NC @ Lincoln Theater
Nov 23 - Charlotte, NC @ Amos Theater
Nov 27 - Louisville, KY @ City Block
Nov 28 - Atlanta,GA @ Centerstage
Nov 29 - Memphis, TN @ Orpheum Theater
Nov 30 - Nashville, TN @ Wild Horse Saloon
Dec 3 - Dallas, TX @ Majestic Theater
Dec 4 - New Orleans, LA @ House of Blues
Dec 5 - Austin, TX @ Paramount Theater
Dec 7 - Houston, TX @ Arena Theater
Dec 10 - Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues
Dec 11 - Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
Dec 12 - San Deigo, CA @ House of Blues
Dec 13 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern

LOVE TRAIN: THE SOUND OF PHILADELPHIA

In 1971, Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff's Philadelphia International Records (PIR) began its odyssey to become "the second-largest African-American owned enterprise, second only to Motown," in the 1970s, according to Los Angeles Times writer Lynell George's opening liner notes essay. The evolution of the City of Brotherly Love from a decaying urban landscape into a modern mecca of soul music recording, production, songwriting and artist development, is explored in full panoramic depth on LOVE TRAIN: THE SOUND OF PHILADELPHIA. This deluxe 4-CD boxed set will be available at all physical and digital retail outlets starting October 21st through PIR/Legacy, a division of SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT.

LOVE TRAIN includes 71 tracks, an appropriate homage to PIR, which was launched by Gamble & Huff in 1971. Some 48 tracks represent the scope of PIR during its hitmaking prime, from the familiar sounds of the O'Jays, the only act to be found on all four discs ("Back Stabbers," "Love Train," "Time To Get Down," "Put Your Hands Together," "For The Love Of Money," "Give The People What They Want," "Let Me Make Love To You," "I Love Music," "Livin' For The Weekend," "Use Ta Be My Girl") to less frequently anthologized PIR artists including the Ebonys, Johnny Williams, the Futures, Bunny Sigler, People's Choice, Dee Dee Sharp, Jean Carn, the Jones Girls, and Leon Huff himself ("I Ain't Jivin', I'm Jammin'").In between is an indispensable collection of multiple tracks – hit singles, B-sides, album cuts – by PIR's flagship artists between 1971 and 1983: The Intruders, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, Billy Paul, MFSB, The Three Degrees, Lou Rawls, the Jacksons, Teddy Pendergrass, McFadden & Whitehead, and Patti LaBelle, the artists who shaped the PIR dynasty and sent its commercial success into the stratosphere.

Fully one-third of the tracks on LOVE TRAIN are non-PIR recordings, broadening the scope magnanimously. The Delfonics, Jerry Butler, Dusty Springfield, Wilson Pickett, Joe Simon, the Stylistics, the Spinners, William DeVaughn, Trammps, the Manhattans, and Deniece Williams all utilized the talents of Gamble & Huff and their associates. Starting with 1967's "Expressway (To Your Heart)" on the Crimson label, the Top 5 pop/R&B crossover classic by the all-white psychedelic rock band Soul Survivors (written, produced and arranged by Gamble & Huff), the chronological program proceeds with a repertoire that is truly unique amongst collections of this kind.The chronology is placed in the context of a three-and-a-half-decade timeline that opens the lavish full color booklet accompanying LOVE TRAIN.

In addition to the timeline and extensive, complete discographic annotations on every track, the 15,000-word booklet includes nine sections of historic essays, memoirs, recollections, and interview conversations by a host of luminaries. Along with Lynell George, whose primary four-part 2,000-word opening essay is entitled "You Can Still Stand Tall: The Sound Of Philadelphia," the other notable contributors include:

- British writer and lecturer Maurice Bottomley ("The Next Stop That We Make Will Be England");

- English and African American Studies professor Gerald Early of Washington Univers¬ity in St. Louis ("Am I Black Enough For You?");

- veteran Philly session guitarist-producer Bobby Eli ("A Day In The Life");

- Russell Hall of Performing Songwriter magazine (who conducts a conversation with Gamble & Huff);

- New York area radio personality Felix Hernandez, host of "Rhythm Revue," who discovered his cousin was Sigma Sound Studios mastermind engineer Joe Tarsia ("Family Reunion"); and

- Political Science professor James Miller of the New School for Social Research, former music critic for Rolling Stone and Newsweek ("Love Is The Message");

- Leo Sacks, the Grammy-nominated producer who has supervised more than 200 historic album projects, conducts a conversation with Thom Bell;

- Grammy Award-winning veteran A&R man and former music journalist Joe McEwen's essay is entitled "Conquer The World," named for the recent PIR rarities anthology he co-produced with Sacks.

SARAH MCLACHLAN - CLOSER: THE BEST OF SARAH MCLACHAN

Grammy Award winning, multi-platinum recording artist Sarah McLachlan has claimed the # 11 spot with her first ever"greatest hits" collection entitled CLOSER: THE BEST OF SARAH MCLACHLAN (available on Arista) with a total of 39, 564 albums scanned, according to Nielsen SoundScan. This album marks Sarah's 5th Top 15 charting album, joining the ranks of Mirrorball, Surfacing, Afterglow, and Wintersong.

Closer: The Best Of Sarah McLachlan contains 14 classic tracks personally selected by the artist from her award-winning catalog, as well as two newly recorded and previously unreleased songs, "U Want Me 2" and"Don't Give Up On Us," working with her longtime producer Pierre Marchand. Additionally, a deluxe limited edition 2-Disc set was also released, which includes a 20 page booklet insert featuring rare photos and original pen and ink drawings by Sarah, and boasts 11 additional recordings from Sarah's discography.

Sarah performed her new song and Top 5 AAA radio hit "U Want Me 2" on Good Morning America, Regis and Kelly, CBS Early Show, Late Night With Conan O' Brien week of release and was featured on MSN, AOL, Yahoo, and MySpace, Imeem, Quicktime, and Clear Channel Online. People Magazine calls Closer "'The Reissue of the Week' ... This disc reminds us why Sarah never goes out of style." Billboard raves: "U Want Me 2" is the best song she has issued in this decade, a glorious return deserving ... a Grammy Award bidfor best female pop vocal performance."

Since joining Arista two decades ago, every one of Sarah McLachlan's studio and live albums and videos have been certified gold, platinum, or multi-platinum by the RIAA, starting with Touch (1988) and Solace (1991), both gold sellers. Her 1993 breakthrough, Fumbling Towards Ecstasy(triple-platinum) was followed by the digitally enhanced multimedia version of The Freedom Sessions (1995, gold). Sarah's landmark fifth album, the 8x-platinum Surfacing (1997), contained two Grammy Award-winning tracks, as "Building a Mystery" won for Best Female Pop Vocal, and "Last Dance" was voted Best Pop Instrumental. 1999's triple-platinum Mirrorball, and its platinum long-form video counterpart, were both culled from that year's Lilith Fair tour, and spun off Sarah's third Grammy-winning performance, as"I Will Remember You" won for Best Female Pop Vocal.

The double-platinum Afterglow followed in 2003, and received a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album, while its opening track, "Fallen" was nominated for Best Female Pop Vocal. 2007's Wintersong, was the #1 best seller on the HolidayAlbum charts that year, was nominated for a Grammy for Best Traditional PopVocal Album, and was certified Platinum, marking her 15th release to becertified gold, platinum, or multi-platinum by the RIAA.

AMERICAN URBAN NETWORKS PROMOTES EXERCISING VOTING RIGHTS WITH RADIO CAMPAIGN

In an effort to circumvent voter suppression tactics and confusion at the polls, award winning actress, Angela Bassett; Tonight Show bandleader, Kevin Eubanks; actress, LisaRaye McCoy Misick; and singer/actress, Brandy Norwood; are among the list of celebrities voicing public service announcements urging people to vote early or be first in line on Election Day. The joint initiative between American Urban Radio Networks (AURN) and the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (NCBCP) marks the second phase of their nonpartisan radio campaign aimed at ensuring African Americans cast a ballot that counts on Election Day. "We've already received numerous reports of possible voter suppression. It's essential to get the word out to vote early or be first in line to avoid the drama on November 4th," said Melanie L. Campbell, executive director and CEO, NCBCP. "AURN is the largest African American owned radio network company reaching 20 million listeners weekly. We appreciate AURN and all of the celebrities involved, their help ensures that the critical message to vote early will reach our target audience." Jerry Lopes, president of program operations and affiliations for AURN adds, "I am pleased to join hands with Unity '08, a group of prestigious organizations working to protect the rights that our ancestor's fought and died for. It was also a great opportunity to engage these celebrities and refreshing to see so many who wanted to help in the effort to protect our right to vote. I thank and applaud all of them for donating their time to this vital effort."

Tanya Hart, host of AURN's "Hollywood Live" coordinated the Los Angeles effort. Other celebrities participating in the campaign include: recording artists, James Ingram, Earth, Wind and Fire's, Verdine White, Siedah Garrett, Doc Powell and Take 6's, David Thomas. From the big and little screens: Obba Babatunde, Ernest Harden Jr., Reginald Dorsey, Regina Taylor, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Rolanda Watts, Hattie Winston, LaTonya Richardson Jackson, TV game show host, Mark Walberg and from BET's "Sunday Best," Beth Payne. Ambassador Shabazz, the daughter of Malcolm X, Susan L. Taylor, editor-in-chief emeritus of Essence magazine, and political comedian, Shang, also participated in the campaign. In addition to making an appeal for African Americans to be first to vote in this historic election, phase two of the PSA campaign encourages people to call the NCBCP's Unity '08 voter assistance hotline, 866-MYVOTE 1, to locate their polling place in advance. On the ground, NCBCP state coordinators are hosting get-out-the-vote rallies, monitoring the polls, and mobilizing voters in states where early voting has already started. During the initial phase of the campaign AURN produced and distributed voter education PSA's, while NCBCP representatives were on the ground in 18 states registering voters, hosting education forums, and making sure eligible voters verified their registration. For more information about the NCBCP's Unity '08 campaign visit www.blackcampaign.org. To receive a copy of the PSA's contact Lenore Williams at AURN at 412-456-4098 or via email Lenore Williams.

DANNY GREEN – WITH YOU IN MIND

Pacific Coast Jazz, founded in 2003, is a boutique jazz label that also offers artist management services. All PCJ artists are distributed worldwide by MVD Audio/Big Daddy Music. The San Diego-based independent record label, has announced the addition of San Diego-based Brazilian jazz pianist, Danny Green, to their roster of distinctive artists. Green's own independent label, Alante Recordings, will now be an associate label under the Pacific Coast Jazz umbrella.

This affiliation anticipates the release of Green's first solo release With You In Mind, slated for a street date of January 20, 2009. "The quality of Danny's work is outstanding and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to high quality independent artists," says Donna Nichols, founder and president of Pacific Coast Jazz. Nichols' label has teamed up with publicist Joy Foster of SV Media Relations and radio promoter Neal Sapper at New World N'Jazz and will give Alante Records access to international media buying and retail distribution.

Clearly Danny Green has managed to carve out a place for himself in the lineup of young San Diego jazz artists who have a pulse on keeping the tradition of jazz piano alive while stepping boldly into the future through the use of cultural sounds and world music rhythms. With You In Mind is Danny's debut solo outing and was co-produced with Allan Phillips and features Justin Grinnell (bass), Dylan Savage (drums), Allan Phillips (percussion) and Tripp Sprague (soprano saxophone). In With You In Mind Danny Green combines both Brazilian and Latin influences and cradles them in mainstream jazz and classical nuances. As a result of Danny's musical influences his sound comes across to listeners as a pianistic mixture of Bill Evans, Brad Mehldau, Danilo Perez, and Ravel with original compositions emerging from the sincerity of his soul. "A beautiful addition to our artist roster," added Nichols.

K.D. LANG - WATERHSHED

Known for her inimitably sultry voice, country roots, and collaborations with the likes of Tony Bennett, k.d. lang has ranked #33 on VH-1's 100 Greatest Women in Rock & Roll in 1999 and #26 on CMT's 40 Greatest Women in Country Music in 2002. Her current tour highlights the critically acclaimed new release, Watershed, lang's first collection of original songs in almost seven years. Described as a snapshot of the singer/songwriter's aesthetic at this particular moment in her career, Watershed graciously pays homage to the musical path she has taken during the last 25 years. Lang's dedicated core following and casual fans of her chart-topping hit "Constant Craving" will all appreciate what has been hailed as her most confident and revealing work to date.

Of Watershed, lang explains, "(it) is like a culmination of everything I've done -- there's a little bit of jazz, a little country, a little of the Ingénue sound, a little Brazilian touch. It really feels like the way I hear music, this mash-up of genres, and I think it reflects all the styles that have preceded this in my catalogue." In addition to writing and singing, the Grammy-award winner produced the album, the first time lang has taken on this additional role. James Hunter of Rolling Stone says, "Watershed is first-rate singer-songwriter music; lang fuses the various styles she has tapped -- country, pop, Brazilian -- with an alluring integration. She produced herself, and when a steel guitar waltzes in with charming rightness on the otherwise art-song "I Dream of Spring," or soulful soprano tone floods the symphonic air on "Close Your Eyes," her work sings. With Watershed, k.d. lang does what the gifted and the lucky always should: improve as time passes."

JOHN LEGEND - EVOLVER

Multi-platinum Grammy-Award-winning recording artist and acclaimed performer John Legend will embark on an extensive worldwide concert tour kicking off November 19 in Minneapolis. The first leg of John's North American tour wraps up December 13 with a second leg running from January 12 through February 9. The upcoming John Legend concerts mark the artist's first major tour since his massively successful world tour in 2007 (captured on Live From Philadelphia CD and DVD). John's special guest on the tour's initial dates is his Columbia Records' label mate Raphael Saadiq, who will be performing songs from his just-released new album, The Way I See It.

One of the most eagerly awaited releases of 2008, EVOLVER is John Legend's first full-length studio album in two years and will be released October 28. Guests on EVOLVER include OutKast's Andre 3000, emerging hip-hop/soul ingenue Estelle, R&B/pop superstar Brandy and John's longtime collaborator Kanye West.Songs on EVOLVER include the single "Green Light" (featuring ANDRE 3000), "It's Over" (featuring Kanye West), "Everybody Knows," "No Other Love" (featuring Estelle), "Satisfaction," "This Time," "Cross The Line," "I Love, You Love," "Good Morning," "If You're Out There," and "Quickly" (featuring Brandy).

In December 2004, John Legend's debut album, Get Lifted, peaked at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 album chart and became America's #1 Top R&B/Hip-Hop album in January 2005. A critical and commercial triumph, Get Lifted earned John an astounding eight Grammy nominations -- he won Best New Artist, Best Male R&B Vocal Performance ("Ordinary People") and Best R&B album -- while selling more than three million copies worldwide.John's second collection, Once Again, entered the Billboard Top 200 at #3 shortly after its release in October 2006, peaking at #1 on the R&B Album Sales chart, earning an RIAA platinum certification while securing two Grammy nominations: "Save Room" (for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance) and "Heaven" (which won Best Male R&B Vocal Performance).

John racked up his fifth overall career Grammy win in 2006 when "Family Affair" -- a track he'd cut with Joss Stone and Van Hunt for Different Strokes by Different Folks, a Sly & the Family Stone tribute album (Epic/Legacy) -- took home top honors in the Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals category.

In 2007, John Legend launched the Show Me Campaign (ShowMeCampaign.org), a grassroots movement whose mission is "to fight economic and spiritual poverty through fostering sustainable development (personal, social, educational, economic) at the individual, family, and
small community levels."

John Legend - 2008 Tour Dates
Wed 11/19 - Minneapolis, MN @ Northrop Auditorium
Thu 11/20 - Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
Mon 11/24 - E. Lansing, MI @ Wharton Center For Performing Arts
Wed 11/26 - Detroit, MI @ Masonic Temple Theatre
Fri 11/28 - Toronto, Ont. @ Roy Thompson Hall
Sat 11/29 - Montclair, NJ @ Wellmont Theatre
Mon 12/1 - Montclair, NJ @ Wellmont Theatre
Tue 12/2 - Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theatre
Fri 12/5 - Philadelphia, PA @ Tower Theater
Mon 12/8 - Baltimore, MD @ Lyric Theatre
Tue 12/9 - Washington, DC @ Constitution Hall
Wed 12/10 - Greenville, SC @ Peace Center
Fri 12/12 - Charlotte, NC @ Ovens Auditorium
Sat 12/13 Durham, NC @ Durham Performing Arts Center

http://www.johnlegend.com/
http://www.myspace.com/johnlegend
http://www.johnlegendnetwork.com/
http://www.showmecampaign.org/
http://www.columbiarecords.com/