Entertainment,Arts,Fashion & Technology
May 7
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TRACY MORGAN TO HOST SPIKE TV’S FIRST ANNUAL “GUYS CHOICE”
Two-Hour Event Saluting Everything Guys Love
Premieres Wednesday, June 13th at 10 PM, ET/PT at 10 PM, ET/PTAll-Star Nominees Include Jessica Alba, Beyonce, Jessica Biel, Borat, Kobe Bryant,
George Clooney, Will Ferrell, James Gandolfini, Chuck Liddell, Masi Oka, Kiefer Sutherland, LaDainian Tomlinson And Rainn Wilson
Log-On To www.guyschoice.spiketv.com To VoteNew York, NY, May 7, 2007 – The preeminent night of the year for men will take place when comedian/actor Tracy Morgan hosts Spike TV’s first annual “GUYS CHOICE.” Spike TV is giving the biggest shout-outs in television history to the things guys love most and is relying on its millions of viewers to decide who to bow down to from the worlds of sports, music, film, television and the internet. The show is scheduled to tape on June 9 at CBS Radford in Los Angeles. Spike TV’s “GUYS CHOICE” premieres Wednesday, June 13 at 10:00 PM, ET/PT. It’s guys night out this June at 10:00 PM, ET/PT.
– The preeminent night of the year for men will take place when at 10:00 PM, ET/PT. It’s guys night out this June with this non-traditional awards show that promises to be a one-of-a-kind raucous and manly two-hour television spectacular. This star-studded event will feature everything guys want including comedy, the hottest women in the world, the best in music, sports and so much more. Also, for the first time in awards show history, Spike TV will narrow the field for all awards to only two nominees, so it can be settled like men: ‘mano a mano.’In addition to honoring the coolest guys and the most awe-inspiring women from the past year, GUYS CHOICE will also feature unforgettable tributes to legendary entertainers, rockers and most viral videos, as well as edgy stand-up comedy and house-shaking musical performances.
Tracy Morgan has received critical acclaim for playing the wild and unpredictable movie star Tracy Jordan on NBC's "30 Rock." As a standup comic who headlined across the country, TV audiences first met Morgan in his role as "Hustleman" on the hit comedy series "Martin." Morgan next joined "Saturday Night Live" in 1996 where he appeared for seven seasons and created such memorable characters as "Astronaut Jones" and "Brian Fellows." Morgan’s feature-film credits include "The Longest Yard," "Little Man," "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" and "Head of State."The official sponsors of Spike TV’s “GUYS CHOICE” are American Express, Cingular, now the new AT&T, Corona, Jeep® Patriot, Pizza Hut, SNICKERS®Brand, Southern Comfort® and U.S. Army.Voting for this year’s nominees are held online at
www.guyschoice.spiketv.com and wirelessly by texting "GUYS" to 22422. Wireless voting is sponsored exclusively by Cingular, now the new AT&T and runs through Friday, June 1. Also online, fans can log on to view exclusive red carpet and backstage coverage of the event.Following are the categories and nominees for Spike TV’s “GUYS CHOICE” (additional nominations will be announced shortly on SpikeTV.com):BIGGEST ASS KICKER
Gerard Butler (“300”) vs. Kiefer Sutherland (Fox’s “24”)BALLSIEST BAND
Disturbed vs. Lamb of God
HOTTEST GIRL ON THE PLANET
Beyonce vs. Adriana Lima
LUCKIEST BASTARD
Dominic Monaghan (Evangeline Lilly’s boyfriend) vs. Cash Warren (Jessica Alba’s boyfriend)
FUNNIEST M.F.
Will Ferrell vs. Sacha Baron Cohen
GIFT FROM THE GODS
Minka Kelly (NBC’s “Friday Night Lights”) vs. Rashida Jones (NBC’s “The Office”)MOST UNSTOPPABLE JOCK
Kobe Bryant vs. LaDainian Tomlinson
HOTTEST JESSICA
Jessica Alba vs. Jessica Biel
BEST GANGSTERTAINMENT
“The Departed” vs. “The Sopranos”MOST DANGEROUS MAN
Chuck Liddell (UFC) vs. Dog (The Bounty Hunter)
FEMME FATAL
Tricia Helfer (Sci-Fi’s “Battlestar Galactica”) vs. Rose McGowan (“Grindhouse”)COCKIEST CREW
HBO’s “Entourage” crew vs. “Jackass 2” crewSICKEST RHYMES
Nas vs. Jay-Z
COOLEST GEEK
Rainn Wilson (NBC’s “The Office”) vs. Masi Oka (NBC’s “Heroes”)GUTSIEST MOVE
Steven Colbert (his speech from White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner) vs. Chris Peterson (head football coach at Boise State)KINGPIN (GUY OF THE YEAR)
(GUY OF THE YEAR)James Gandolfini vs. George Clooney
Emmy Award-winning producer Joel Gallen of Tenth Planet Productions and Casey Patterson, Senior Vice President, Event Production & Talent Development for Spike TV will serve as executive producers. Alicia Portugal is the executive in charge of production for Spike TV.Spike TV is available in 91.6 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. A unit of VIACOM (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), MTV Networks is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms.
Fans of Soul Songstress Jill Scott Can Enter the VerizonSurround 'Love Rain' Music Video Contest to Win Tickets to Her Concert and Autographed CDs
Verizon Presents Two Nights of Soul Starring Scott and Special Guests at Radio City Music Hall, June 13 and 14
-- Fans of Grammy Award-winning soul and rhythm and blues singer and songwriter Jill Scott can enter a music video contest and win the opportunity to meet with Scott and attend one of her two concert performances next month at Radio City Music Hall, featuring special guests Musiq Soulchild, Chaka Khan and Robin Thicke, courtesy of Verizon.
To enter the VerizonSurround "Love Rain" music video contest, visit http://verizon.net/jillscott. Contestants must submit a one-to-two-minute video file that gives an original interpretation performance inspired by Scott's song "Love Rain." Entry videos must include the lyrics of the song or a rework of the lyrics. (See official rules online.) Verizon's Scott video contest page is on the company's cutting-edge, broadband entertainment site, VerizonSurround (http://surround.verizon.net/), which features movie trailers, hot news, cool games and fast-paced message boards.
"Verizon is fast becoming the company for all your entertainment needs, so it only made sense for us to host this online contest to give Jill Scott's fans not only the chance to win cool prizes, but the chance to be creative," said Pat Hennebry, director of corporate sponsorships for Verizon." Scott will perform at Radio City Music Hall on June 13 and 14 at 8 p.m. Award- winning comedian, TV star and clothing designer Mo'Nique, who is presently starring in VH1's "Flavor of Love Girls Charm School," will join Scott on both nights as show host.
Scott's music has been described as a blend of 70s soul, jazz and blues, together with 80s hip-hop. Her debut album, "Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1," was released in July 2000. "Experience: Jill Scott 826+," appeared the following summer and featured the single "A Long Walk," earning her a Grammy nomination in early 2003 for Best Female Vocal Performance. Scott's "Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds, Vol. 2" came out in 2004 and the more recent "Collobarations" in 2007. Her next album, "The Real Thing," is expected to be released this summer.
Musiq Soulchild will be featured at Scott's June 13 performance. He made a blockbuster debut in 2000 and since then he has had multiple platinum albums and has won several awards, including Billboard Music Awards, Soul Train Music Awards and ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Awards, and multiple nominations for Grammy Awards and BET Awards.
Chaka Khan and Robin Thicke will join Scott's performance on June 14. Multiple Grammy Award-winner Khan is well known for her famous song, "I'm Every Woman," which became a smash hit again for Whitney Houston a decade after Khan released it.
Thicke's smash single, "Wanna Love You Girl," can be heard throughout the country on radio stations, formats and in clubs. His career began at 16 when, with no formal training, he began writing and producing music for recording artists like Brandy and Brian McKnight. Thicke has dozens of gold and platinum records with artists including Usher, Mary J. Blige, Michael Jackson and Christina Aguilera. Currently, his second U.S. single, "Lost Without U," is a smash hit on air and on the charts.
The grand-prize winner of Verizon's video contest will receive two tickets to Scott's June 14 performance, and three runners-up will win autographed CDs. The grand-prize winner will also have the opportunity to meet Scott backstage after the show.
Video files for the online contest will need to be in one of these formats: QuickTime (.mov), MPEG (.mpg), MPEG-4 (.mp4), Windows Media (.wmv), or (AVI (.avi). One video entry per person. Entries must be original works that have not been previously published nor infringe upon the copyrights, trademarks or other intellectual property, or other rights of any person or entity. For complete rules to the VerizonSurround "Love Rain" music video contest, please visit http://verizon.net/jillscott.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) , headquartered in New York, is a leader in delivering broadband and other wireline and wireless communication innovations to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving 60.7 million customers nationwide. Verizon's Wireline operations include Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world, and Verizon Telecom, which brings customers the benefits of converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network. A Dow 30 company, Verizon has a diverse workforce of more than 238,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of more than $88 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.
MEET THE STARS OF SHOWTIME'S POPULAR
“DEBBIE DOES DALLAS ...AGAIN” SERIES ON THURSDAY, MAY 10TH AT TOKIO IN L.A.
VIVID GIRLS MONIQUE ALEXANDER, CASSIDEY AND
SUNNY LEONE TO HOST RELEASE PARTY FOR THE “DEBBIE DOES DALLAS ...AGAIN” MOVIE
WHO: Vivid Girls Monique Alexander, Cassidey and Sunny Leone, stars of the popular Showtime reality series and sizzling adult blockbuster of the year, "Debbie Does Dallas …Again," will host the release party in L.A.
: , and , stars of the popular reality series and sizzling adult blockbuster of the year, "," will host the release party in L.A.WHAT: “Debbie Does Dallas …Again” is the first adult movie to ever be released in both HD DVD and Blu-ray and has already received worldwide press coverage. The sequel to the 1978 classic is released by Vivid Entertainment, the world’s leading adult film company. The Showtime series followed the behind-the-scenes fun and drama in the making of the movie.
: “Debbie Does Dallas …Again” is the first adult movie to ever be released in both and and has already received worldwide press coverage. The sequel to the 1978 classic is released by , the world’s leading adult film company. The Showtime series followed the behind-the-scenes fun and drama in the making of the movie.Guests will get to mix and meet with Monique, Cassidey and Sunny, who will also sign complimentary “Debbie” DVDs.
WHERE: Tokio, 1640 N. Cahuenga Blvd. ( Cross Street : Hollywood Boulevard ) - (323) 464-2065.
, 1640 N. Cahuenga Blvd. ( Cross Street : Hollywood Boulevard ) - (323) 464-2065.WHEN: Thursday, May 10th from 8-10pm with open bar. Open to the public starting at 10pm.
from with open bar. Open to the public starting at .…Again” tells the story of a team of sexy all-American cheerleaders who compete with one another in both cheerleading and sexual prowess as they practice for the National Cheerleading World Championships, their exploits on and off the practice field revealing hidden talents and skills that will keep viewers riveted to the film. The three-disc set includes the original “Debbie Does Dallas” and is the first Hi-Def DVD with multiple camera angle options.
About Vivid:
Founded in 1984, Vivid Entertainment Group is the world’s leading adult film company. Vivid has always placed heavy emphasis on high quality erotic film entertainment and has created wide brand-name awareness through its films and through a licensing and marketing program that extends to advertising, apparel, book publishing and other products.
The company’s Vivid-Alt imprint is headed by Eon McKai, alt-porn’s dominant icon. McKai has been widely credited as the founder of this new and edgy film genre. He has been profiled in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times and The Village Voice. Visit Vivid-Alt’s popular website www.vividalt.com. Tristan Taormino, popular columnist with The Village Voice and an award winning director has also launched a Vivid-Ed imprint for the company. Visit www.vivid-ed.com.
Rising Star Daniel Merriweather Signs With J/Allido Records
First Single From Mark Ronson's Album "Stop Me" Featuring Merriweather #1 on UK Charts!
-- Australian singer Daniel Merriweather, whose soulful voice is taking England by storm, has signed an exclusive recording agreement with J Records, to be released on DJ/producer Mark Ronson's imprint Allido Records. Born in Melbourne, Australia and currently a resident of New York City, Daniel made his recording debut this month as the lead vocalist on "Stop Me," which was the #1 single on the UK airplay charts two weeks ago. "Stop Me" is the first single from DJ/producer Mark Ronson's forthcoming album Version which has been hailed by the UK Press: Q Magazine said: "Mark Ronson is the man of the moment. Version is a blast, the sound of someone enjoying their success and throwing a party for all corners." The Daily Mail calls "Stop Me" - "Brilliant."
An ingenious cover of the Smiths' 1987 classic (original title: "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before"), "Stop Me" featuring Daniel Merriweather was first released as a digital download on April 2 and as a mini-EP via iTunes worldwide exclusive on April 9. Version, Ronson's debut will be released in stores in the US on June 12th (RCA/Allido Records). Daniel Merriweather is in elite company on Version - other artists featured on the album include Amy Winehouse, Robbie Williams, Lily Allen, and Kasabian.
States Mark Ronson: "I've worked with Daniel off and on for almost 5 years now and I've seen his voice leave everyone from Sean Paul to D'Angelo speechless. He has one of my favorite voices of anyone I've ever worked with and he's also a talented writer and musician. His talent scares me."
Currently, singer and producer are hard at work on Merriweather's forthcoming debut album to be released early 2008.
Mark Ronson and entrepreneur Rich Kleiman founded Allido Records in 2004. The label's first full-length release in July 2006 was the critically acclaimed debut album by Grammy Award-winning rapper Rhymefest Blue Hi Collar (Allido/J Records), with tracks produced by Ronson, Kanye West, No I.D., Just Blaze, and Cool & Dre.
Source: J Records
Web site: http://www.jrecords.com/
PBS KIDS Sprout(SM) Adds New Original Afternoon Block, The Let's Go Show, to Preschool Line-Up
Interactive show designed to encourage preschoolers to ask questions and be curious about the world around them debuts on Monday, June 25, 2007 at 3:00 pm EDT
PHILADELPHIA, May 7 /PRNewswire/ -- PBS KIDS Sprout (SproutOnline.com), the first and only 24-hour preschool destination available on TV, on demand and online for kids ages 2-5 and their parents and caregivers, is adding the original afternoon block, The Let's Go Show, to its line-up of gold-standard preschool programming on Monday, June 25, 2007. Airing every afternoon from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. EDT, The Let's Go Show is designed to encourage preschoolers to ask questions, be curious about the world around them and participate in a daily musical adventure.
Host Miles (played by actor Milton Barnes) and his puppy friend Banjo (voiced and brought to life by puppeteer Ali Eisner), an adorable and spirited puppet who loves to play her homemade banjo, will embark each afternoon on a musical journey in their cardboard car, Carla. Miles loves to sing, discover new things and connect with viewers to help them learn through humor, music and interactive play. Always ready for adventure, Banjo represents the wonder, energy and curiosity of a preschooler.
"Sprout's programming is uniquely designed to follow the day of the preschooler from breakfast to bedtime," said Andrew Beecham, senior vice president of programming for PBS KIDS Sprout. "Whether it's discovering a new song with Miles and Banjo on The Let's Go Show or winding down for bed with Nina and Star on The Good Night Show, Sprout creates opportunities throughout the preschooler's day to invite their families into their world to share meaningful and playful moments together."
Between episodes of Sprout's gold-standard, curriculum-based shows -- such as Jim Henson's The Hoobs(TM), Angelina Ballerina(TM) and Bob the Builder(TM) -- Miles and Banjo will:
-- Learn a song and have a "boogie woogie break" at Music Hill;
-- Enjoy a special healthy snack prepared for them by Brussel Sprout at
the Sprout Diner Field;
-- Create age-appropriate science experiments at Wonder Why Valley;
-- Encourage viewers to become "Sprout Scouts" by helping Miles and Banjo
find their way to each location by asking questions;
-- Inspire kids to be creative and discover all the great things they can
make and do at home with their parents and caregivers.
Questions will be posed on-air during each show and viewers will be encouraged to try to figure out the answers at home or by visiting SproutOnline.com to find out more. The Association of Children's Museums (ACM), a professional service organization representing more than 350 children's museums around the world, worked with member museums to provide child-friendly and scientifically accurate explanations on SproutOnline.com for all the experiments featured on season one of The Let's Go Show.
Music also plays an important role on The Let's Go Show. Different styles of music and musical instruments will be introduced on each episode and viewers will be encouraged to create their own musical instruments -- such as a tissue box guitar -- and play along at home.
High-resolution images of Miles, Banjo and Carla are available in the media gallery at http://www.fishwithfeet.com/index-4.html.
About Sprout
PBS KIDS Sprout(SM) (SproutOnline.com) the first and only 24-hour preschool destination available on TV, on demand and online for kids ages 2-5 and their parents and caregivers, was created as a partnership among Comcast Corporation, the country's leading provider of cable, entertainment and communications products and services; HIT Entertainment, a leading provider of quality entertainment for young children; PBS (Public Broadcasting Service), the most trusted distributor of award-winning children's programming; and Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street(R).
The 24-hour network, which launched in September 2005, is available on digital cable and satellite to 20 million homes. With over 110 million orders in 2006, Sprout is the #1 Kids On Demand service. The network's program lineup of gold-standard, curriculum-based children's shows includes: Sesame Street(R), Bob the Builder(TM), Barney & Friends(TM), Thomas & Friends(TM), Angelina Ballerina(TM), Sagwa: The Chinese Siamese Cat(TM), Caillou(TM), The Berenstain Bears(R), Jay Jay the Jet Plane(R), Teletubbies(TM), Dragon Tales(TM), Pingu(TM), Make Way For Noddy(TM), Jakers! The Adventures of Piggley Winks(TM) and more.
Web site: http://www.sproutonline.com/
Carrie Underwood's 'Before He Cheats' Soars Into the Top 10 of the Mainstream Top 40!
Powerhouse Single Spent Five Weeks atop the Country Chart, Underscoring Underwood's Cross-Format Undeniability!
'Before He Cheats' is the first country video ever played on TRL
CMA Female Vocalist of the Year and double GRAMMY winner Carrie Underwood recently wrapped a three-week reign at #1 on the country charts with "Wasted," and now her previous multi-week country chart-topper, "Before He Cheats," showcases her massive cross-format appeal as it cracks the Top 10 on the Billboard Mainstream Top 40 Radio Airplay chart this week at #9*. The last country song to break into the Top 10 on the Mainstream Top 40 Radio Airplay chart was Faith Hill back in 2000 with "Breathe."
Already a Top 10 at Hot AC, "Before He Cheats" notched a whopping five weeks as country's #1 single in late '06, scoring a People's Choice Award for Favorite Country Song and earning multiple trophies at the 2007 CMT Music Awards. Now in rotation at MTV, the video for "Before He Cheats" was a recent "First Look" on TRL and became the first country video ever to air on the show and the first country video added to MTV since Shania Twain's "Man, I Feel Like a Woman" in 1999. It's also red hot at VH1, where it's the #4 most- played video and #4 on the viewer-voted VSpot Top 20 Video Countdown.
"Before He Cheats" is from Carrie's Arista Records/19 Recordings breakthrough debut album, Some Hearts, now certified Quintuple Platinum. Released in November of 2005, the disc's incredible sales momentum has propelled it to #1 for a remarkable 23 of its 76 chart weeks -- holding the #1 position on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart across multiple weeks in 2005, 2006, and 2007, and reclaiming the top spot again on the current chart. Billboard's Album of the Year and Country Album of the Year in 2006, the disc's singles have amassed 14 weeks atop Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart. A GRAMMY winner for Female Country Vocal Performance as well as Best New Artist, Underwood has received honors from the American Music Awards, the Academy of Country Music, the Country Music Association, and more.
Source: Arista Records
'Elvis At The Movies' Available in Stores and Online June 5th 2007
40 Tracks On Two Cds
5 Elvis Movie Soundtracks Released Digitally Only
-- On June 5th, 2007, SONY BMG Music Entertainment will release "Elvis At The Movies" -- the most comprehensive Elvis Presley 2 CD movie package ever produced. The double-disc, 40-song collection features some of the popular tunes from Elvis Presley's remarkable run of 31 Hollywood movies, including show-stopping numbers like "Jailhouse Rock," "What I'd Say" from Viva Las Vegas, and "Rock A Hula Baby" from perennial fan-favorite Blue Hawaii. Also included are such #1 hits as "Love Me Tender" and "Teddy Bear" plus 17 more Top 40 singles and classic contributions from legendary songwriters Jerry Leiber & Mike Stoller, Doc Pomus & Mort Shuman, and Otis Blackwell.
At the same time SONY BMG Music Entertainment will make the following 5 Elvis movie soundtracks exclusively available for digital download: G.I. Blues, Frankie and Johnny, Girls! Girls! Girls, Spinout and Kissin' Cousins.
Track listing:
1) Love Me Tender - Love Me Tender
2) Loving You - Loving Room
3) Jailhouse Rock - Jailhouse Rock
4) Treat Me Nice - Jailhouse Rock
5) Hard Headed Woman - King Creole
6) King Creole - King Creole
7) G.I. Blues - G.I. Blues
8) Frankfort Special - G.I. Blues
9) Flaming Star - Flaming Star
10) Lonely Man - Wild In The Country
11) Can't Help Falling In Love - Blue Hawaii
12) Blue Hawaii - Blue Hawaii
13) Rock-A-Hula Baby - Blue Hawaii
14) Follow That Dream - Follow That Dream
15) King Of The White Wide World - Kid Galahad
16) Return To Sender - Girls!Girls!Girls!
17) One Broken Heart For Sale - It Happened At The Worlds Fair
18) They Remind Me Too Much Of You - It Happened At The Worlds Fair
19) Bossa Nova Baby - Fun In Acapulco
20) Viva Las Vegas - Viva Las Vegas
21) C'mon Everybody - Viva Las Vegas
22) Kissin' Cousins - Kissin' Cousins
23) Little Egypt - Roustabout
24) Do The Clam - Girl Happy
25) (Such An) Easy Question - Tickle Me
26) I'm Yours - Tickle Me
27) Shake That Tambourine - Harum Scarum
28) Frankie And Johnny - Frankie And Johnny
29) This Is My Heaven - Paradise Hawaiian Style
30) All That I Am - Spinout
31) I'll Be Back - Spinout
32) Long Legged Girl (with the short dress on) - Double Trouble
33) The Love Machine - Easy Come, Easy Go
34) Clambake - Clambake
35) Let Yourself Go - Speedway
36) Stay Away - Stay Away, Joe
37) A Little Less Conversation - Live A Little, Love A Little
38) Charro - Charro
39) Clean Up Your Own Back Yard - The Trouble With Girls
40) Rubberneckin' - Change Of Habit
Web site: http://www.bmg.com/
Nick at Nite Celebrates Mother's Day With 'Momedy Saturday' and Finale of Funniest Mom in America 3
Winner of Funniest Mom in America 3 to Win $50,000 and Chance to Host a Special Night of Programming on Nick at Nite
Nick at Nite kicks off its Mother's Day celebration one day early this year on Saturday, May 12 at 10 p.m. ET/PT with "Nick at Nite's Momedy Saturday" -- a four-hour maternal marathon of some of the network's greatest Mom-isodes from shows like Full House, Roseanne, The Fresh Prince of Bel Air and The Cosby Show. The celebration doesn't stop there because on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 13 at 9 p.m. ET/PT, the network will air the much-anticipated one-hour finale of its six-part series, Funniest Mom in America 3, as the winner of the competition is selected to win $50,000 and the chance to host a special night of programming on Nick at Nite. The finale features the three remaining contestants in the series -- Vicki Barbolak of Vista, CA, Pat Candaras of Brooklyn, NY and Cathy Ladman of Santa Monica, CA -- as they compete for the title by performing their stand-up before an audience, the judges Kim Coles and Hal Sparks, and host Roseanne Barr. Following the premiere of the finale, the network will air more hilarious mom-isodes from its line-up of shows.
"Nick at Nite's Momedy Saturday" and Mother's Day schedule is as follows (all times ET/PT):
Saturday, May 12, 10 p.m. - 2 a.m.
10 pm - America's Funniest Home Videos
This is a Mother's Day-themed episode.
10:30 pm - Full House - "Matchmaker Michelle"
Michelle feels she needs a mother figure in the house, so she invites her teacher over for lunch in the hopes that she will fall in love with Danny and become her new mom.
11 pm - Roseanne - "Scenes from a Barbeque"
Shelley Winters guest-stars as Roseanne's grandmother, Mary, whose wisecracking personality charms everyone, so much so that Roseanne begs her to stay with the Conners - permanently.
11:30 pm - Roseanne - "Don't Make Me Over"
A glamorous Roseanne emerges from her Mother's Day makeover at the Beauty Box only to discover Becky and Darlene have an ulterior motive behind their very thoughtful gift - to attend a weekend rock concert.
12 am - The Fresh Prince of Bel Air - "Mothers' Day"
When Jazz and his wife try unsuccessfully to conceive a child, they ask Will to "father" the baby. Phil urges the kids to give Vivian thoughtful Mother's Day gifts.
12:30 am - The Fresh Prince of Bel Air - "Vying for Attention"
Will becomes childishly jealous when his mother arrives for a visit -- with a man who could easily become Will's new stepfather.
1 am - The Cosby Show - "One More Time"
When Clair babysits for a newborn baby, she yearns to have another child of her own. Cliff, however, doesn't think it's such a good idea. In an effort to change Clair's mind, he introduces her to Mrs. Burke, a patient of his who is expecting child number 13. But Cliff's plan backfires when Clair is struck by how good Mrs. Burke looks.
1:30 am - The Cosby Show - "Knight to Night"
When Cliff realizes that Clair is overstressed at home and in the office, he treats her to a night in a deluxe, first-class, spare-no-expense room at the Biltmore Hotel. Back at home, Denise is left to watch over the younger kids.
Sunday, May 13, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.
9 pm - Funniest Mom in America 3 Finale
The three finalists face their biggest challenge yet: to bring home the crown and $50,000 check! To help insure that each mom is ready for her big chance at stardom, we're sending each home with a comedy coach to help her develop the routine that will bring down the house! Will the hard work payoff? We'll find out at the historic Alex Theatre in Los Angeles, where the fate of the Funniest Mom in America will rest in the hands of the studio audience.
10 pm Roseanne - "Sweet Dreams"
Experience the secret desires of a domestic goddess in Roseanne's ultimate dream fantasy. An exhausted Roseanne has only one wish - to take a long hot bath. But the kids are calling for her, and Dan won't leave the bathroom until he fixes the sink. While waiting, Roseanne falls asleep and dreams she is in paradise being pampered by attractive men, and loved beyond her wildest dreams. But even in her fantasy, Dan and the kids keep messing things up, so she takes matters into her own hands and kills them off in her own unique way. After returning to her man servants for her long awaited bath, she finds herself under arrest for murder and forced to undergo one of TV's strangest trials.
10:30 pm Roseanne - "Mommy Nearest"
Roseanne and Jackie's mother comes to town with shocking news. She's moving to Lanford! To ease the blow, she's giving her children thousands of dollars. Also, Jackie begins dating a much younger man.
11 pm The Fresh Prince of Bel Air - "Mommy Nearest"
Will tries to tell his mother that he doesn't want to return to Philadelphia with her after his high school graduation.
11:30 pm The Fresh Prince of Bel Air - The Young and the Restless
Will sneaks out with Philip's mother to a rap concert. Despite his anger, Philip realizes he must worry less about his mother's health and allow her to live life as she wants.
12 am - Funniest Mom Finale Encore
Funniest Mom in America 3 is executive produced by Allison Grodner (Big Brother, Blowout) and presented by KFC.
Nick At Nite is Nickelodeon's nighttime programming block that features timeless hit comedies including the Emmy Award-winning series The Cosby Show, the popular family comedies Full House, Growing Pains, and The Fresh Prince of Bel Air as well as Roseanne, one of the most talked about and celebrated sitcoms in television history. Nickelodeon, in its 27th year, is the number- one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in almost 92 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for almost 12 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) .
Web site: http://www.nick.com/
Toby Keith to Entertain Troops on USO Tour to Germany and the Persian Gulf
Music superstar Toby Keith is set to embark on his fifth USO tour to the Persian Gulf and Germany. The two-time winner of the "Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year" award will perform, shake hands with service men and women, tour a variety of job posts and provide a break from the daily grind for the troops.
A strong supporter of our troops, the native Oklahoman previously traveled to Africa, Cuba, Belgium, Kuwait, Bosnia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Italy, Germany and numerous times to Iraq and Afghanistan for the USO. Keith's devotion becomes even clearer when listening to some of his most popular tracks including "American Soldier."
Selling more than 30 million records, Keith has toured the world, bringing his blend of country music to a devoted fan base. The success led to a number of awards, including honors from the Academy of Country Music, the Country Music Association, the American Music Awards and the Billboard Music Awards. His latest effort, "Big Dog Daddy," is scheduled to be released June 12.
This tour continues the USO's tradition of bringing celebrities to troops stationed far from home. Entertainers who recently participated in USO tours include Alex Trebek, Chely Wright, Gary Sinise, Five For Fighting, Carrie Underwood, Wilmer Valderrama, Jo Dee Messina, Larry The Cable Guy, Montgomery Gentry and Rascal Flatts.
AT&T, Inc. is the official telecommunications sponsor of USO entertainment tours.
About the USO: For more than 66 years, the USO (United Service Organizations) has been providing morale, welfare and recreational services to U.S. military personnel and their families. The USO is a nonprofit, charitable organization, relying on the generosity of the American people to support its programs and services. The USO is supported by Worldwide Strategic Partners AT&T Inc., BAE Systems North America, Clear Channel Communications, The Coca- Cola Company, DRS Technologies, Inc., Military Channel, S & K Sales Co., TriWest Healthcare Alliance and The Walt Disney Company. Other corporate donors, including the United Way and Combined Federal Campaign (CFC-11381), have joined thousands of individual donors to support the USO. For more information on the USO, please visit our Web site at http://www.uso.org/.
CONTACT: Reggie Borges of USO, +1-703-908-6471, rborges@uso.org
Web site: http://www.uso.org/
May 6
| 1 | - | Spider-Man 3 | Sony Pictures Releasing | $148,000,000 | $148,000,000 | 1 | 4252 |
| 2 | 1 | Disturbia | Paramount Pictures | $5,720,000 | $59,883,000 | 4 | 3132 |
| 3 | 4 | Fracture | New Line Cinema | $3,420,000 | $26,453,000 | 3 | 2365 |
| 4 | 2 | The Invisible | Buena Vista Pictures Distribution | $3,125,000 | $12,346,000 | 2 | 2019 |
| 5 | 3 | Next | Paramount Pictures | $2,768,000 | $11,835,000 | 2 | 2733 |
| 6 | - | Lucky You | Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution, Village Roadshow International, Warner Bros. Pictures International | $2,515,000 | $2,515,000 | 1 | 2525 |
| 7 | 7 | Meet the Robinsons | Buena Vista Pictures Distribution | $2,466,000 | $91,771,000 | 6 | 2107 |
| 8 | 5 | Blades of Glory | Paramount Pictures | $2,302,000 | $111,632,000 | 6 | 2113 |
| 9 | 6 | Hot Fuzz | Rogue Pictures (Focus) | $2,054,000 | $16,145,000 | 3 | 1266 |
| 10 | 10 | Are We Done Yet? | Sony Pictures Releasing | $1,700,000 | $46,106,000 | 5 | 1704 |
May 4
ENVIRONMENTAL MOTORS GREEN CARS & GIBSON SUSTAINABLE GUITARS ON MAY 17th 2007.
Gibson/Baldwin who creates sustainable guitars, recycles and reclaims their product line of instruments along with Environmental Motors which is a Southern CA based electric car company are coming together to raise awareness. This event will create community energy as well a national press outreach on the topic of clean air & clean green living.
Musicians already involved include: Billy Morrison (his band Circus Diablo- about to go on the Ozzfest Tour) Paul Freeman (just signed to Clive Davis and album drops June) Michael DesBarres amongst others. Other notable talent invited include: Nick & Cisco Adler, Sharon Lawrence, Kelly Rutherford, Vanessa Williams, Rosanna Arquette, Jewel just to name a few!
This event will take place on the evening on May 17th, 2007 at the GIBSON BALDWIN SHOWROOM in Beverly Hills at 9350 Civic Center Drive.
Environmental Motors will be displaying their electric cars along with some very special musical guests playing acoustic guitars. There will be organic light fare and hosted beverage served through out the evening. We will also have other eco companies involved from furniture to apparel to beauty. We will be having a charity element as well as a foundation that works with the environment and improves the community. There will be a silent & a live auction component.
Their will 200 invited guests attending along with Media outlets including news crews, entertainment news shows, radio, all major magazine & newspapers outlets. We will interview all talent who attends as well. Gibson Showroom has a stage set up in the space, there are instruments galore- pianos, drums, guitars, bass etc.
We have also asked the City of Beverly Hills Council to attend, from the Mayor to the head of Public Works for Beverly Hills. We will be planting a tree in honor of this day we create as well as for the charity & the city.
ON LOKATION PRESENTS "SPRING FEVER"Socialite and Model Katie Rost hosts "Spring Fever," the fashion and design-themed charity event in the soon to be National Crime and Punishment Museum
WHO: On Lokation, the roving fashion retail concept with socialite and model Katie Rost
WHAT: Design-themed shopping and cultural experience
WHERE: 575 7th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20004
WHY: Shop and support the well deserved HoopsForAfrica, a HIV/AIDS charity for youth in Africa
HOW: Please RSVP to the media list at info@onlokation.com
DOOR: Tickets $40; $50 at the door
WASHINGTON, DC - On Lokation, the roving fashion-retail concept, continues its savvy shopping and cultural experiences with its upcoming spring and summer event, entitled "Spring Fever", on May 17, 2007 at the Tishman Speyer Main Tower location, which is the future location of the National Crime and Punishment Museum.
"Spring Fever" is a luxury shopping and art-infused event for hipsters, style connoisseurs and socialites, alike, delivering high fashion from designers from Italy, New York, LA, and Toronto.
"Imagine your favorite store from any of those cities, the art from your favorite museum and the food from your favorite restaurant all in one space, with your favorite DJ," says Kellie Crawford On Lokation's principle.
On Lokation will be “on location” on a gritty canvas of 9,000 square-feet of pre-construction raw space. Interior and interpretive design will be executed by the Jackson Design Group, LLC.. The Remedy Furniture is providing the contemporary interior design installation. Featured artists include metal sculptor Chris Tousimis and painter Alison Poland. Other artwork will be provided by the esteemed Zenith Gallery.
Stockholm Krystal Vodka is the exclusive spirit patron of the evening. Guests will experience it with hors d'oeuvres and the new Fever stimulation beverage. They will also enjoy runway presentation including the spring/summer collections from Lia Kes, Majo Lab, Jim Barnier, Susan Farber and the launch of the men's wear collection R.Lucien, whose philosophy focuses on a mix of fine tailoring and contemporary details.
The full experience is all under the glare of lights and cameras of the CW Network's Late Night with Erik Haase and all for a good cause. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit HoopsforAfrica, an organization dedicated towards HIV/AIDS awareness for youth in Africa. Thus far, Hoops for Africa has reached over 26,000 kids in three different countries, Cameroon, Kenya and Botswana. Their goal is to reach 2 million kids continent wide. Since 2003, supporters have included Chris Tucker, Larry King, Congressman Donald Payne, Senator James Inhofe, Ambassador of Botswana, Gabon and Rwanda, Morgan Stanley, and Verizon.
"This is a unique shopping experience for Washington, DC's fashion elite," says Crawford. "It is a lifestyle event set in partnerships. The people who start fashion trends, appreciate contemporary art, and believe in social innovation all have a similar aesthetic. Spring Fever" is set to be the high-fashion and cultural experience of the year."
On Lokation is a lifestyle driven men and women’s retail concept. It combines the best of its high fashion with art, architecture, interior design and music through its ever-growing network of revolutionary artists. With a history of partnership with both corporate and private firms, it is on the frontier of cross-branding and co-marketing. Previous events have been held at the award-winning Numark Gallery and the former Ford Model-T showroom at the T-Street flats. # # #
ARRIS Successfully Demonstrates Next Generation Video Delivery
System for the Chinese Market
ARRIS (Nasdaq ARRS) today announced the availability of its next generation wideband data and video delivery system as demonstrated during the recent CCBN Conference in Beijing. The solution is designed to assist Chinese cable operators looking for cost-effective solutions to deliver digital video IP VOD and Ultra High Speed Data services to their customers as part of the Government mandate to deliver digital video throughout the Chinese market.
The ARRIS solution consists of the D5™ Universal Edge QAM in combination with the C4® CMTS and Touchstone® Wideband Modems to deliver broadcast video, on-demand video and video over DOCSIS® as well as bi-directional wideband data over 120 Mbps wideband data and IPTV services to their customers. The solution offers cable operators cost efficient, flexible network and technology choices while delivering multiple service options to subscribers.
ARRIS has been working closely with national cable operator China Cable Network (CCN) in a SARFT-sponsored trial on Hainan Island, Hainan province in one of the first such IP Video over broadband trials in China.
"We are extremely impressed with the ability of the C4 and D5 in tandem to deliver basic and advanced video service in a cost-effective manner to our trial households," said Steven Sheng, Acting CTO of CCN. "The ARRIS solution clearly demonstrates the capability of DOCSIS technology to deliver the services required for the Chinese market in a cost-effective and highly reliable manner."
Steven Sheng will appear on an ARRIS-moderated panel entitled "IPTV Abroad: Global Drivers and Universal Lessons" -- Tuesday, May 8th from 8:00-9:15 AM in Ballroom L of the Mandalay Bay Convention Center during NCTA's Cable Show in Las Vegas.
About ARRIS
ARRIS provides broadband local access networks with best-in-class video, high-speed data, mobile and fixed-line telephony systems for the delivery of voice, video and data to their residential and small-to-medium sized business customers. ARRIS complete solutions enhance the reliability and value of converged services from the network to the end-user. Additionally, ARRIS provides a complete set of tools and cable system infrastructure products. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, ARRIS has R&D centers in Atlanta, Chicago, Cork, Ireland and Shenzhen, China and operates support and sales offices throughout the world. Information about ARRIS products and services can be found at www.arrisi.com.
For more information about the ARRIS C4 CMTS visit http://www.arrisi.com/c4. For more information about the ARRIS D5 Universal Edge QAM visit www.arrisi.com/d5.
TEAM UP TO OFFER STORM STORIES EPISODES FOR ON-DEMAND VIEWING &
PURCHASE
TotalVid.com's First Network TV Deal To Boost Worldwide Exposure and Sales for The Weather
Channel
Norfolk, Va., May 2, 2007 - TotalVid, Inc. and The Weather Channel (TWC) announced that they have reached a digital distribution agreement that will make original programming from TWC available for on-demand viewing and purchase through TotalVid's Internet video-on-demand platform. Initially, The Weather Channel will make thirty (30) episodes of its Storm Stories series available at www.totalvid.com and plans to add episodes of its It Could Happen Tomorrow series in coming months. Storm Stories features the real-life experiences of survivors and rescuers who have battled nature's astonishing weather events, capturing the drama of ordinary people caught in a wide variety of extraordinary circumstances.
"As a leader in enthusiast, educational and instructional video programming, TotalVid has always sought out programming that appeals to consumers who are passionate about their interests," said Karl Quist, TotalVid's president. "Storm Stories is a natural fit with our growing audience of action-sport and outdoor enthusiasts—many of whom have experienced extreme weather firsthand. We look forward to working with The Weather Channel and other leading cable networks to create the most comprehensive video subscription available online."
"We are pleased that our popular program, Storm Stories, will now have an online distribution outlet that offers consumers another opportunity to see the dramatic stories the series provides. We look forward to additional distribution of programming favorites by TotalVid.com," said Becky Powhatan, EV, Distribution and Business Affairs/General Counsel for The Weather Channel Companies.
The Weather Channel programming will be available on a download-to-own basis for $1.99 per episode, as well as part of TotalVid's unlimited download subscription plan. For $9.95 per month, consumers can choose from more than 4,000 full-length, premium videos in more than 110 subject-matter categories.
About TotalVid.com
TotalVid.com unleashes the power of broadband to deliver on-demand access to the world's largest collection of full-length enthusiast, educational, and instructional videos. With more than 4,000 titles across 100+ categories, TotalVid's content represents the collective interests and passions of more than 150 million people. Consumers can access TotalVid's library on www.totalvid.com or through a growing number of distribution partners. Headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, TotalVid is a wholly owned subsidiary of Landmark Communications Inc., which also owns The Weather Channel, Q Interactive and a variety of other media businesses. Partners of TotalVid include AT&T, AOL, Blinkx, Comcast, D-Link, Google, Microsoft Windows Media (MSFT), The Platform, Verizon, W-Cities, Weather.com, Xbox 360, and Yahoo. With strong partnerships and a growing customer base, TotalVid.com is fast becoming a leading broadband video destination for consumers and a powerful distribution partner for content owners looking to expand their customer base.
About The Weather Channel
The Weather Channel®, a 24-hour weather network, is seen in almost 93 million U.S. households. Its Web site, weather.com, reaches more than 30 million unique users per month and is consistently ranked #15 among all Web sites by Nielsen//NetRatings. The Weather Channel also operates Weatherscan®, The Weather Channel Radio Network, The Weather Channel Newspaper Services, and is the leading weather information provider for emerging technologies. This includes PC applications, broadband and interactive television applications, with wireless weather products accessible through high-speed Internet services, mobile phones, pagers, and other personal digital assistants. The Weather Channel is owned by Landmark Communications, Inc., a Norfolk, VA-based, privately held media company.
Joaquim de Almeida & Leisha Hailey Lead the Way Through a Very Intense Evening in "La Cucina"
May 04, 2007 -- Shelly (Leisha Hailey) is a pregnant newly-wed looking for advice from the lesbian who lives upstairs (Rachel Hunter), and finds the answers to all of her own woes in cooking.
Lily (Christina Hendricks) is a thirty year old woman dazzled by Michael (Joaquim de Almeida), a man twenty years her senior, but arguably one of the sexiest men alive, and a good cook to boot.
Theirs are two of the stories, in two of the kitchens that take us through one hot, intense and very revealing night in "La Cucina" with Joaquim de Almeida and Leisha Hailey leading the way.
Lily and Joaquim's character, Michael, dance around what they want in life as they dance around the kitchen, preparing their dinner in a seductive and emotional game, that barley allows them to eat at all.
Leisha's character, Shelly, is thirty one years old, pregnant with her first child and always thought that being married and pregnant was the answer to true happiness.
Now she knows different, and now she doesn't know what to do, so she's come to Jude for all the answers and ended up with a plate of ricotta sformato and more questions then she ever thought she had.
"La Cucina" wrapped principal photography in April. It was produced independently by Starlotte Smith, Jackie Olson, Zachary Kahn, Allison Wilke and Crystal Santos, written by A.W. Gryphon, and was directed by the husband and wife team of Allison Hebble & Zed Starkovich.
Jennifer Tilly Plays Predatory Teacher in New Teen Horror Film
"Camp is the Word" says writer/producer Jackie Linder Olson of this wickedly funny and spine-tingling film, "THE CARETAKER," that caught the eyes of Jennifer Tilly, Judd Nelson and a fantastic group of teenage up-and-comers.
"THE CARETAKER" follows a group of teenage boys out to give their girlfriends a good scare on Halloween. They head to an abandoned house in a grapefruit orchard where they are stalked by a real life urban legend, known as "The Caretaker."
Judd Nelson delivers a disarmingly creepy performance as an overprotective father. The teenagers' outlandish teacher, played by Ms. Tilly, is obsessed with getting famous by sleeping with a student. "We took a current trend that we found both tragic and disturbing and put it in the forefront of our film," says director Bryce Fridrik Olson. "No one could do a better job as this character than the sexy and talented Jennifer Tilly. We were lucky to have her and Judd."
"It's refreshing to be working on a fun genre picture with good scares, a lot of laughs and not too much gore," says Producer Allison Wilke. "The audience is going to love it."
"The Caretaker" stars Jennifer Tilly, Judd Nelson, Jonathan Breck ("Jeepers Creepers"), Jennifer Freeman ("You Got Served"), Andrew St. John, James Immekus, Diego Torres and Kira Verrastro. The project is currently in post production with original music being composed by Jim Lang ("John Carpenter's Body Bags," "In The Mouth Of Madness"). It is produced by Jackie Olson, Brynn McQuade and Allison Wilke, written by Jackie Linder Olson, and directed by Bryce Fridrik Olson, with Executive Producer and President of TRP Steve Vande Vegte.
May 3
Barbara Mandrell has been listed in PEOPLE magazine's "Most Beautiful" issue. Nearly 10 years since she stepped off the stage and out of the spotlight, retiring from an illustrious 38 year career, Barbara is still turning heads. Perhaps she caught the eye of PEOPLE when she stepped back into the spotlight late last year for the release of a tribute album in her honor, She Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool: A Tribute to Barbara Mandrell . In addition to mega-stars and legends stepping up in her honor, GAC tipped their hat to Mandrell with a number of specials and series to commemorate the event. Also on her plate in the past year were presenting “Entertainer of the Year” to friend Kenny Chesney at the CMA Awards, honoring Reba McEntire at CMT Giants, and most recently presenting "Video of the Year" at the 2007 CMT Awards to Carrie Underwood.
Time Life is also recognizing Barbara with the release of The Best of Barbara Mandrell & The Mandrell Sisters to DVD for the very first time. The NBC variety show, starring Barbara Mandrell and her sisters Louise and Irlene, aired over two seasons (1980-1982). The show garnered a massive 40 million viewers a week and earned a combined eleven Emmy® and Golden Globe® nominations in its short two year run. It seems that even in retirement, and to no one's surprise, Barbara's legacy continues to thrive.
2007 MTV Video Music Awards Sets Up Next Act in Las Vegas
For One Night Only, The "2007 MTV Video Music Awards" Set to Air Live from The Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas on Sunday, September 9, 2007 at 9PM ET/PT
-- Christina Norman, President, MTV, announced today that MTV is bringing The 2007 MTV Video Music Awards to the city of Las Vegas to take over every available nook and cranny of the infamous celebrity stomping ground, The Palms Casino Resort. Demolishing the constraints of a traditional four walled venue, performances will be staged throughout The Palms Casino Resort from their intimate posh hotel suites to the mind blowing scenic rooftop. Nothing will be off-limits as for the first time ever MTV will program a whole VMA weekend featuring not-to-be-missed events, appearances and sizzling performances culminating with the star- studded music extravaganza. In an unprecedented move for the network, the show will air only once in its original form - so what happens in Vegas really will stay in Vegas. Encore presentations of this year's VMAs will be remixed versions that will be programmed by and for the viewers, deeply connecting them to a complete music experience across multiple platforms. MTV's 24th annual Video Music Awards will air live on Sunday, September 9, 2007 at 9PM (Live ET/Tape Delayed PT). Host, performers, nominees, and presenters for the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards will be announced at a later date.
"The VMA's have a tradition of creating some of the most unforgettable moments in pop culture history and now, this year's show is ready for its next act. We're deconstructing every expectation of what an awards show should be to deliver a music experience for our audience unlike anyone else connecting them beyond television," said Christina Norman, President, MTV. "We knew that we didn't have to look any further than the Maloofs and The Palms Casino Resort as they are the perfect partners and have the infamous reputation of throwing star-studded events. We look forward to a weekend of rock n' roll chaos and producing the most sinful and explosive musical showcase of the year."
"The Palms is honored to be host of the 2007 Video Music Awards. This is a Las Vegas first," said George Maloof, Owner of The Palms Casino Resort. "The opportunity to showcase The Pearl Concert Theater as the venue for the awards show is extremely exciting."
MTV has tapped Jesse Ignjatovic to executive produce this year's music spectacular. Ignatovic has a long history with the network having spent many years as Vice President of Music & Talent Development, creating, executive producing and developing shows like, MTV Ultimate Mash Ups featuring Jay- Z/Linkin Park, Life & Rhymes of ... , Jennifer Lopez: Beyond The Runway, Meet The Barkers, and MTV Icon. As Executive Producer, Ignjatovic will not only bring his creative genius to what will be the hottest event thrown in Las Vegas in 2007 but he will also bring with him the close relationships and friendships he has been able to create and maintain with talent over the years. In addition, this year's VMAs production team will also include Chris Choun who will lend her expertise as Co-Executive Producer.
"2007 MTV Video Music Awards" will continue to be everywhere our audience lives. The August 31st premiere of the "2006 MTV Video Music Awards" was also the most watched telecast for the night (8-11:30p) among P12-34 across all of television, even out delivering broadcast with total VMA programming through Sunday, Sept. 3rd reaching 40,082,000 million viewers. Online, MTV.com broke all kinds of stream records on Friday, Sept 1st with 6,675,632 streams making it our highest day ever by more than double. Uniques to MTV.com the day of and day after the VMA were 792,892 and 845,251, up +500% and 259% from a year ago, respectively. This year's three day VMA event is expected to generate more streams.
MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 130 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of which are trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services. The network also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.
The Palms Casino Resort, heralded as one of Las Vegas' hippest resorts, is an all-encompassing, one-stop resort destination. Owned by the Maloof family, the 703-room property boasts a diverse mix of bars and restaurants and a 95,000-square-foot casino. Amenities include the legendary Playboy Club - the first and only club of its kind to open in 25 years; The Pearl Concert Theater; Moon Nightclub; Nove Italiano; Little Buddha; The Palms Pool & Bungalows; Palms Spa and AMP salon; Brenden Theatres, a 14-theatre Cineplex; Rain Night Club; ghostbar; Hart and Huntington Tattoo Company; and over 60,000 square-feet of meeting space. The Palms is home to the Real World: Las Vegas and Bravo's Celebrity Poker Showdown, as well as E!'s Party at the Palms, hosted by Jenny McCarthy, and A&E's Inked. The resort features the hottest collection of Fantasy Suites including the Erotic Suite with its trademark Show Shower, the Real World Suite, as seen on MTV, and the Hardwood Suite, the only hotel room in the world with its own basketball court. E!'s Girls Next Door, VH1, MTV and CSI feature the Palms on a regular basis and the Victoria's Secret Angels made the Palms a featured destination on their "Angels Across America" tour. The Palms Casino Resort is located just west of the Las Vegas Strip and I-15 on Flamingo Road. For room reservation information, call toll free at (866) PALMS-RES, (866) 725-6773, or visit www.palms.com. For groups of 15 rooms or more, contact the Sales Department at (866) PALMS-MTG or (866) 725-6768.
Source: MTV
Web site: http://www.mtv.com/
Sony Computer Entertainment America Expands Its Business Development Team, Announces New Licensing Department
Videogame and Legal Veteran to Direct Licensing for PlayStation(R) Brand
Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) Inc. today announced it is expanding its business development organization by forming an intellectual property (IP) licensing team designed to increase awareness of the company's brands and characters and to expand collaborations with new and existing business partners. As part of this expansion, the company has appointed Shelly Gayner to director of Licensing within Business Development, effective immediately. In this newly created position, Gayner will report to Phil Rosenberg, senior vice president of Sales and Business Development
As part of her role, Gayner will manage SCEA's licensing team, which is responsible for licensing the PlayStation(R) brand, including first-party game characters, for merchandise and entertainment products. She will also oversee the licensing of peripherals and accessories for PlayStation platforms including PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) and PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system.
"Shelly has the perfect blend of legal expertise and videogame industry knowledge which will help us grow the PlayStation business by introducing our valued brands to a wider audience," said Phil Rosenberg, senior vice president of Business -- Development and Sales, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "We now have a dedicated team to help us capture licensing and revenue opportunities, which is important to our business and long-term growth."
Gayner brings more than fourteen years of industry experience to this role, with the most recent years being at SCEA. Previously, she was director of Legal and Business Affairs, where she negotiated a wide-range of intellectual property related agreements, including content, merchandise, software and end-user licenses. She also worked on the company's property licenses, which include MLB, NHL, the Gran Turismo(TM) series, Downhill Domination(R) and Tourist Trophy The Real Riding Simulator(TM). Prior to joining SCEA, Gayner held the position of corporate trademark counsel at Sun Microsystems Inc. and was corporate counsel for Sega of America.
About Sony Computer Entertainment America
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(R) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, and the ground-breaking PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system.
Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets, and distributes software for the PS one game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the PSP system and the PS3 system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif. Sony Computer Entertainment America, Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Visit us on the Web at http://www.us.playstation.com/
NOTE: "PlayStation," "PLAYSTATION," "PSP," "PS one" and the PlayStation logo are registered trademarks and "PS3" is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Source: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.
Web site: http://www.playstation.com/
Dramatika Films Announces World Premiere of 'Man of a Thousand Faces'
Theatrical Docudrama on Life and Accomplishments of Legendary Actor James Hong to Premiere in Cannes, France
Las Vegas-based Dramatika Films, LLC, announced today it will premiere the new docudrama "Man of a Thousand Faces" in Cannes, France on May 19, 2007. The theatrical film chronicles the life of legendary actor James Hong, whose career spans more than half a century and includes nearly 500 film and television performances. The world premiere screening will be held at the American Pavilion in the Salle des Conferences with James Hong and director/producer Kym Secrist in attendance.
Although Hong's vast body of work has made him one of the most recognizable actors in the world, many moviegoers do not know him by name. Part documentary, part dramatization, "Man of a Thousand Faces" sheds light on the man behind the well-known face and his compelling journey to rise above ethnic prejudice and succeed in Hollywood.
This visually stunning film features highlights from Hong's illustrious career including blockbuster hits such as "Blade Runner," "Big Trouble in Little China," "Chinatown," "Black Widow" and "Wayne's World 2." It also features more than a dozen interviews with Hong's family and fellow actors including David Carradine, Tia Carrere, Dom DeLuise and the last interview with the late, great Japanese actor Mako.
"Every location we took the production, whether it was on the streets of Minneapolis or a hotel lobby in Beijing, people instantly recognized James and, beaming with a huge smile, would express how much they enjoyed his movies," said producer and director Kym Secrist. "He is a respected actor among his peers and critics, he is an icon to his loyal fans and admirers, and his achievements in film and television are unparalleled in virtually every country and culture."
Secrist, who also served as writer and director of photography, is an accomplished writer, director and cinematographer with more than 100 awards for commercials and music videos. "Man of a Thousand Faces" marks his theatrical directorial debut. Hong and Secrist met in 2000 and, along with producer Deborah Quan, formed the creative partnership that brought "Man of a Thousand Faces" to the big screen. An award-winning producer, Quan has enjoyed tremendous success in the independent feature and documentary film business.
"Man of a Thousand Faces" captures the early years of the actor's life in vivid, motion picture quality re-enactments, and features numerous clips from some of Hong's most memorable performances. The film tells of Hong's tireless efforts to combat stereotypes in Hollywood, where many Asians and Asian Americans are continually cast in stereotypical roles even today.
About Dramatika Films
Las Vegas-based Dramatika Films, LLC, is a full-service production company specializing in the financing and creation of outstanding independent motion pictures and documentaries with a number of planned motion picture projects on the horizon through 2010.
Source: Dramatika Films, LLC
Porter Wagoner Celebrates 50 Years With Grand Ole Opry With Special May 19 Performance Featuring Dolly Parton, Patty Loveless, and Others Including Televised Segment on GAC
Martin Issues Custom Guitar to Honor Wagoner; New CD "WAGONMASTER" a "Riveting Collection of Southern Gothic Numbers" in Stores June 5; "Committed to Parkview" Video on the Way
-- Country Music Hall of Famer PORTER WAGONER celebrates his 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday, May 19 with a special performance featuring WAGONER, Patty Loveless, Dolly Parton -- PORTER's longtime duet partner in the '60s and '70s -- and others. Marty Stuart -- who produced PORTER's upcoming CD "WAGONMASTER" (out June 5 on Anti-) -- hosts a one-hour segment of the evening's event to be televised on Great American Country's "Grand Ole Opry Live," starting at 8pm EDT.
The Martin Guitar Company is honoring PORTER's half century with the Opry by introducing the Martin D-41 Porter Wagoner Custom Edition guitar. The visually arresting instrument is a fitting tribute to an artist instantly recognizable for his sparkling Nudie suits and flowing pompadour.
Meanwhile, PORTER was "Committed To Parkview" this past weekend, as he shot a video with director Brian Barnes for the Johnny Cash-penned track. The first single from the forthcoming "WAGONMASTER" was hand-picked for PORTER more than 25-years ago by Johnny Cash (after having previously been recorded by Cash and with the Highwaymen).
Marty Stuart explains: "In 1981, I was on tour with Cash in Europe, and I had a Porter tape and played it for Cash, and he and I got into a Porter listening marathon. And Cash said, 'I got a song for Porter, called 'Committed to Parkview,' -- because they had both been guests there -- and he gave me an envelope with a cassette in it to take to him. Well, we got home and I forgot all about it, but when we were choosing material for this album, I remembered and finally found it."
Already, "WAGONMASTER" is grabbing critics' ears. Writes Alanna Nash for Amazon.com: "One of the major problems with modern country revolves around the fact that -- save George Jones, Merle Haggard, and Loretta Lynn -- almost all the characters who poured the foundation for post-World War II hillbilly culture are dead or no longer recording. Which brings us to the miracle of Porter Wagoner's new album, "WAGONMASTER"... a riveting collection of Southern Gothic numbers."
12 Girls Band CD Coming from Manhattan Records in June
Chinese Ensemble Fuses Traditional Instrumentation with Eclectic Repertoire;
Asian Chart-Toppers Also Star in PBS Special Recorded Live in Shanghai with First Major U.S. Tour to Launch October 2nd on West Coast
-- A refreshing and innovative blend of East and West, pop and traditional -- that's what has made China's 12 Girls Band an international sensation like no other. With their latest US release, Shanghai, which arrives from Manhattan Records on June 5th, American audiences will have their best opportunity yet to discover these immensely talented and engaging young women. And with the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing fast approaching, the world's attention is already turning to the culture of China. And the biggest success story in that country's burgeoning music scene is 12 Girls Band.
Shanghai coincides with a very special milestone in the career of 12 Girls Band: "Live From Shanghai," their first pledge drive event on PBS, which airs this June on stations around the country. Notably, this debut marks the very first time an Asian artist or group has been celebrated with a PBS special. This television first was recorded live beneath Shanghai's famed Oriental Pearl Tower, a spectacular tourist attraction along the banks of the Huangpu River that dominates the city's dynamic, skyscraper-dotted landscape.
This fall, 12 Girls Band also launches their first major U.S. tour. Set to begin October 2nd in Oakland, CA., the tour will include a debut at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles (Oct. 5), as well as concerts in San Diego, Seattle, Portland, Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, Philadelphia, Boston, New York, Dallas, Houston, Miami, Tampa, and Atlanta. With over 30 major markets in the States, the tour will cap a spectacular year for the ensemble.
12 Girls Band was formed in 2001, after its accomplished players-all of whom studied music at the most prestigious conservatories and schools across the People's Republic of China, and have played in China's top orchestras-were culled from a rigorous audition process. More than 4,000 young musicians applied, answering ads that were placed in newspapers across the country.
The idea behind the group was to fuse the ancient traditions of Chinese classical and folk music with the sounds of Western pop, classical, and jazz music. The enchanting result is 12 Girls Band. Their first concert, given in Beijing in October 2001, made 12 Girls Band into stars virtually overnight. Hailed by the Asian media as a perfect blend of grace, beauty, and musicianship, 12 Girls Band represented a modern-day incarnation of the Yue Fang, which were all-female ensembles that played in the royal courts of the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE).
The number twelve has important resonances in Chinese culture, astrology, and numerology, and twelve jinchai ("golden hairpins") represent womanhood in ancient Chinese mythology. (There are actually thirteen musicians in the band, so that there is always a substitute player available at a moment's notice.)
The musicians perform expertly on an array of ancient and fascinating Chinese instruments, including the stringed and bowed erhu; the pear-shaped plucked lute called a pipa; the guzheng zither; the yangqin hammered dulcimer; a transverse flute called the dizi and the vertical flute known as the xiao; a single-stringed zither called the duxianquin; and the hulusi, a three-piped gourd flute.
On Shanghai, 12 Girls Band presents an exhilarating multi-cultural array of songs and pieces that range from beloved Chinese traditional and folk tunes such as "High Mountain, Floating Water" to pop smash hits (Sting's "Fragile" and Celine Dion's "My Heart Will Go On," also known as the theme from the movie Titanic), as well as Dave Brubeck's iconic jazz masterpiece "Take 5". The young ladies also play a sampling of Western classical masterpieces, including Handel's Music for the Royal Fireworks, Puccini's famous aria "Nessun Dorma" from the opera Turandot (strikingly, an opera about a Chinese princess), and an homage to Bach's Violin Concerto in A minor.
All of these pieces appear on the Live From Shanghai PBS television special, along with bonus video material for the DVD release that includes appearances by two other Manhattan recording artists: a rendition of the "Habanera" from Bizet's opera Carmen featuring Mexican-American songstress Lila Downs, as well as the Hoagy Carmichael standard "Georgia on My Mind," performed by singer Tim Sheff.
12 Girls Band's first international release, 2003's Beautiful Energy, debuted first in Japan in 2003 and sold nearly two million copies there, giving 12 Girls Band the record for both the fastest- and highest-selling Chinese release in Japanese chart history. Their follow-up, 2004's Shining Energy, broke another Japanese sales record with the highest number of sales of any album in a single day. The group went on to a hugely successful tour of Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Taiwan.
Their first US release, 2004's Eastern Energy, reached No. 1 on the Billboard World Music album chart, and scored 12 Girls Band the No. 62 spot on the Billboard Top 200-the highest-ranking debut for any Asian artist in Billboard chart history.
Since then, 12 Girls Band has recorded two more hit albums in the Asian market: 2005's Romantic Energy, and White Christmas, the first-ever album of international seasonal classics played on traditional Chinese instruments.
The group's PBS debut "12 Girls Band: Live From Shanghai" will air in markets across the country during June pledge drives. Viewers should check their local PBS listings for details on scheduled broadcasts.
Source: Manhattan Records
Web site: http://www.angelrecords.com/
R&B Singer/Songwriter Joe Debuts at #1 on Billboard R&B Charts
Set debuts at #2 on Billboard Hot 200
-- Jive recording artist and Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Joe debuts at #1 this week on Billboard's R&B Albums chart with his new album, Ain't Nothin' Like Me. The album also debuted in the #2 spot on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart selling 98,090 units. The album features collaborations with Nas, Yung Joc and label mate Papoose; with top- notch production by StarGate, Tim & Bob, Sean Garrett, Cool & Dre and others.
Ain't Nothin' Like Me, is the R&B balladeer's sixth album. Joe's single "If I Was Your Man" is currently a Top 5 staple on Billboard's Urban AC chart and is in rotation at BET and BET J. The album has received glowing reviews: AP raves, "Joe is still on his A-Game;" and The Dallas Morning News says the album "should reinforce his status as a certified soul crooner for the grown and sexy set ... "
Throughout his 14-year career, Joe has collaborated with a broad range of talented artists including: Mariah Carey, G-Unit and the late Big Pun. The Columbus, Georgia native has sold over 5 million albums to date. Joe recently performed his smash hit "If I Was Your Man" on The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson. Additional television appearances include BET's Mother's Day Special, and the new season of MTV's Making The Band.
Joe recently embarked on a national tour with fellow R&B singer Brian McKnight that kicked off in Oakland, CA on April 27 and will stop in most major markets including Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta and New York.
Source: Jive Records
Web site: http://www.jiverecords.com/
Mobile Streams Introduces LifeGroovz Christian Ringtone & Mobile Media Service to Launch in June
-- Mobile Streams, the premier global mobile music and media provider, introduces LifeGroovz, the first service to offer the faith-based community popular mainstream Christian content for ringtones, mobile music, and graphics.
Christian and Gospel Music currently enjoys a strong following, and now for the first time, a mobile music and media service will offer fans and consumers the talents of a broad range of popular Christian and Inspirational artists.
This exclusive new service is maintained by Mobile Streams' "Vuesia" distribution platform. Mobile Streams partnered with music and media industry veteran, Paul Wright III to launch LifeGroovz. Wright is the founder and Chairman of Alliant Music Group as well as a respected label executive who has shepherded the careers of top Gospel artists including Fred Hammond, Hezekiah Walker, Donnie McClurkin, Lamar Campbell and more.
"This site is absolutely the only Christian full-service download site," said Wright. "I felt there was a void in the marketplace and really these days the average mobile download customer can easily find any genre of ringtones except for Christian/Gospel music. We definitely want to super serve that marketplace as we believe in the growing number of faith-based consumers."
The partnership with Wright and Mobile Streams will establish LifeGroovz as the ultimate destination for ringtones from all genres of Christian music; ranging from contemporary to traditional; Quartet to Hip Hop -- every fan of Christian and Gospel music will find something specifically tailored to their tastes and lifestyles.
Brian Patterson, Business Development Manager, at Mobile Streams said, "We are delighted to strengthen our consumer marketing presence in fostering the Christian community's desire to express itself through specialized ringtones and mobile downloads."
CBS News Partners With Brightcove for the Online Syndication of News Video
-- CBS News and Brightcove, the Internet TV pioneer, today announced that CBS News will use the Brightcove service to syndicate ad-supported video from CBS News across the Internet. The partnership will expand non-linear distribution of CBS News content, available today on AOL News, Comcast and YouTube, to thousands of small and medium-sized websites and blogs.
In partnering with CBS News, Brightcove adds broadcast network news content to its growing portfolio of partners in the Brightcove Syndication Marketplace and will also feature CBS News on Brightcove.com.
Through the Brightcove managed syndication service, approved website publishers will have the opportunity to embed a CBS News video player directly onto their sites. The CBS News video player will include the latest video from the CBS EVENING NEWS with KATIE COURIC, THE EARLY SHOW and other CBS News programs, as well as video produced by CBS News exclusively for the Web.
"This partnership underscores CBS News' ongoing strategy of making our programming available on multiple platforms, while also generating additional revenue," said Sean McManus, President, CBS News and Sports. "Through this arrangement with Brightcove, we hope to meet the seemingly insatiable appetite for news online by building new distribution relationships and creating new opportunities for our advertisers."
"CBS News is one of the leading news organizations in the world," said Jeremy Allaire, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brightcove. "We are excited to be chosen by CBS News as the syndication platform to grow an audience of website affiliates who will carry the latest news to Internet audiences around the globe."
Websites interested in carrying CBS News on their sites will be able to go to cbsnews.com or to the Brightcove Syndication Marketplace at http://studio.brightcove.com/affiliates/syndication-marketplace.cfm to apply to become an affiliate.
About CBS News
The CBS News Division operates a worldwide news organization serving the CBS Television and Radio Networks and CBSNews.com with regularly scheduled news and public affairs programming - including, among others, the CBS EVENING NEWS, THE EARLY SHOW, 60 MINUTES, 48 HOURS MYSTERY, FACE THE NATION and SUNDAY MORNING - and special reports on breaking news. The division maintains 19 news bureaus and offices in the United States and abroad in addition to its world headquarters in New York.
About Brightcove
Brightcove is an Internet TV service that empowers video producers and programmers to build broadband businesses while giving viewers more choices and control over their use of video and television. Founded by Internet pioneer Jeremy Allaire in 2004 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Brightcove is the market-leading Internet video partner for international news and entertainment businesses, including British Sky Broadcasting (Sky), Discovery Communications Inc., Dow Jones & Company, Inc., MTV Networks, The New York Times Company, Reuters, Sony BMG, Time Life, Warner Music Group, and Washingtonpost.Newsweek Interactive.
Source: CBS News; Brightcove
Web site: http://studio.brightcove.com/
ZAKK WYLDE TO PLAY SPECIAL PERFORMANCE AT ROCKWALK
“IN THIS RIVER” FOR DIMEBAG DARRELL’S INDUCTION
CONFIRMED PERFOMERS FOR THE BLACK TOOTH BASH &
ARTIST ROSTER FOR THE HAND PAINTED SIX STRING MASTERPEICES
HOLLYWOOD ( May 2, 2007 ) – May 17th, 2007 marks the day of Dimebag Darrell Abbott’s induction to Guitar Center Hollywood RockWalk. Many of rock’s top players will be in attendance to honor our lost and beloved brother.
At the induction guitar virtuoso Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society, Ozzy) will perform live on Sunset Blvd. in tribute to his friend and brother. Wylde will play “In This River” - a song forever dedicated to Dimebag Darrell – According to Wylde, the song will never leave the set list for Black Label Society.
After the induction, come join us at the House of Blues Hollywood to further honor Dimebag Darrell Abbott where The Six String Masterpiece Auction will be held to benefit The Little Kids Rock Foundation. Dimebag’s Black Tooth Bash will immediately follow the auction with special performances comprised with some of Darrell’s closest friends and influences.
BLACK TOOTH BASH confirmed list of players are as follows:
confirmed list of players are as follows:The Little Kids Rock Band
Vinnie Paul, Jamey Jasta, Scott Ian, Jerry Cantrell, William Duvall (Alice in Chains), M. Shadows (Avenged Sevenfold), Evil D (Morbid Angel), Paul Grey (Slipknot), Ripper Owens, Nick Bowcot, John 5, David Draiman (Disturbed), Bob Zilla (Damageplan), Aaron Lewis (Staind), Brent Smith and Jasin Todd (Shinedown), Dave Navarro, Stephen Perkins, Matt Byrne (Hatebreed), Chester Bennington (Linkin Park) and many more surprise artists!
SIX-STRING MASTERPIECES: THE DIMEBAG DARRELL ART TRIBUTE created by the following artists:
created by the following artists:Zakk Wylde, Ace Frehley, Rob Zombie, Otep, Shinedown, Jerry Cantrell, Bob Zilla, Kelly Clarkson, Steve Stevens, Tommy Lee, Filip Leu (Leu Family Iron), Marilyn Manson, Ryan McGinness, Moby, Gill Montie, Tom Morello, Mark Mothersbaugh (Devo, Mutato Muzako), Munky (Korn)
Dave Navarro, Ted Nugent, Jim Root, Jack Rudy, Joe Satriani, Mike Shinoda (Linkin Park),
David Stoupakis (Sum 41), Mick Thompson (Slipknot), Greg Tribbett (Mudvayne), Hank Williams III plus many more – for a comprehensive list of all SIX STRING MASTERPIECES go to www.actionartsagency.com/sixstring1.html.
The collection comprises of over 60 DEAN ML guitars that have been hand-painted by world-famous Rock Stars and internationally known Tattoo & Visionary Artists in a memorial tribute to one of the greatest guitarists of all time, Dimebag Darrell Abbott. The guitars can be viewed prior to the auction May 4th to May 16th at LaLuz DeJesus Gallery in L.A. ( 4633 Hollywood Ave ).
The Little Kids Rock Foundation (501(C)3) is the charity of choice for Dimebag Darrell – so it’s Dime-Time folks and we are going to rock the house to honor Dimebag and raise money for the kids!
(501(C)3) is the charity of choice for Dimebag Darrell – so it’s Dime-Time folks and we are going to rock the house to honor Dimebag and raise money for the kids!The gear companies are uniting as one to raise money for the kids. The night’s sponsors are Dimebag Hardware, Dean Guitars, Dunlop, Musicians Institute, Seymour Duncan, GHS Strings, EMG Pickups, Schecter Guitars with more joining us each day!!
For more information on the charity and the Six String masterpieces go to www.rockwalk.com www.littlekidsrock.org, www.actionartsagency.com, www.myspace.com/sixstringmasterpieces.
May 2
Modest Mouse, Incubus, The Shins, Wolf Parade, Among Featured Talent at Download 2007 Festival Events
Live Nation, World's Largest Live Music Festival Producer, Successfully Grows Acclaimed UK Festival, Expanding to Four U.S. Markets: Boston, Chicago, San Francisco and Washington State
Additional Artist Lineups to Be Announced Soon
Download -- the acclaimed music festival produced by Live Nation which began in 2003 in the UK, offering fans unparalleled connectivity to the bands they love -- is returning to the U.S. this year with a star-studded lineup presenting the best in alternative and modern rock artists. Download 2007 Festival events will feature performances by such marquee bands as Modest Mouse, The Shins, Incubus and Wolf Parade, with other artists to be announced soon (each market has a distinct lineup, which will be announced in May). Expanding beyond last year's Download appearances in Boston and San Francisco (which this year have been set for August 18, and October 6, respectively), Download Festival 2007 will make additional stops in Washington State (August 25), and Chicago (September 1), proving the British creation is now an American mainstay. Tickets will be available at www.livenation.com and www.downloadfestival.com, and will go on sale June 9th (Washington State), June 16th (Boston), June 23rd (Chicago) and July 22nd (San Francisco).
Entering its fifth successful year, Download has become a festival phenomenon with multiple-day concert and technology emersion events in the UK and North America, drawing an audience uniquely plugged into the latest of everything. This year's Download Festival aims to take the fan experience to an entirely new level, with many increased opportunities for fan and artist interaction including meet and greets, Q & A sessions, artist master class workshops and autograph activities. The ultimate play day in each city will feature ten hours of continuous music emanating from multiple stages, interspersed with interactive activities and access to world class vendors featuring an eclectic mix of fashion, food and technology items.
"The growth of Download Festival to two additional U.S. cities is indicative of our strategy to expand our festival presence in North America," said Jason Garner, Live Nation's President of North American Concerts. "We are thrilled to once again present some of the best alternative music and modern rock acts at this year's Download Festival."
"Download has resonated so deeply with music fans around the world because it provides rare opportunities for them to connect with artists and sponsors like no other festival. We are keenly focused on creating engaging fan experiences with the many interactive elements of these shows through our collaboration with key brand partners," said Christopher Swope, Vice President of National Alliances at Live Nation.
Download 2007 will also be enhanced through the participation of select strategic partners. As the official automotive sponsor for all Download events, Volkswagen will take center stage, using its one-of-a-kind VW Garage to deliver memorable music-oriented moments. Budding musicians who choose to jam on supplied instruments will be digitally recorded, and their riffs spotlighted on vw.com. VW owners will earn rock star treatment, and all festival-goers can pick up cool VW merchandise and chill out in the Garage. "Music is a powerful platform for building community, and a Volkswagen/Download partnership is a natural extension of our long history of supporting pioneering music properties and emerging artists," said Heidi Korte, Consumer Events Manager. "The Download Festival is innovative in its pairing of music with technology, and speaks directly to the people who buy Volkswagens."
"Music, design and technology are passions of W Hotels," said Ross Klein, President of Starwood Luxury Brands Group, another festival sponsor. "Just as W provides a destination for people to connect with one another, the Download Festival has created one of the most innovative and engaging music experiences to foster this connection." Other sponsors include Now What, who will be onsite providing an interactive booth where concert-goers can stop by to get their free online photo, win great prizes and much more! Additional sponsors to be announced in the coming weeks.
For additional information on Download 2007, please visit www.downloadfestival.com.
Download 2007 events are as follows:
August 18th - Boston @ The Tweeter Center of Performing Arts
August 25th - Washington State @ The Gorge Amphitheatre
September 1st - Chicago @ Alpine Valley Music Theater
October 6th - San Francisco @ Shoreline Amphitheatre
About Live Nation
Live Nation is the world's largest live music company. Our mission is to inspire passion for live music around the world. We are the largest promoter of live concerts in the world, the second-largest entertainment venue management company and have a rapidly growing online presence. We create superior experiences for artists and fans, regularly producing tours for the biggest superstars in the business, including The Rolling Stones, Barbra Streisand, Madonna, U2 and Coldplay. Globally, we own, operate, have booking rights for and/or have an equity interest in more than 160 venues, including House of Blues(R) music venues and prestigious locations such as The Fillmore in San Francisco, Nikon at Jones Beach in New York and London's Wembley Arena. Our websites collectively are the second most popular entertainment/event websites in the United States, according to Nielsen//NetRatings. In addition, we also produce, promote or host theatrical, specialized motor sports and other live entertainment events. In 2006, we connected nearly 60 million fans with their favorite performers at approximately 26,000 events in 18 countries around the world. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Live Nation is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, trading under the symbol "LYV." For more information regarding Live Nation and its businesses or concerts near you, please visit our website at www.livenation.com.
Web site: http://www.livenation.com/
http://www.downloadfestival.com/
I Want to Be Shrek (and Donkey) on Broadway!
http://iwanttobeshrek.com/
SHREK, the new Broadway-bound musical, with music by Jeanine Tesori, book and lyrics by Pulitzer Prize-winner David Lindsay-Abaire, and directed by Jason Moore, is looking for a Shrek and a Donkey to star on Broadway!
Produced by DreamWorks Animation and Neal Street Productions, Ltd. (principals Sam Mendes and Caro Newling), the SHREK creative team is planning a two-week reading this summer (July 23- August 3rd) in New York which will be followed by a Broadway opening in 2008!
The creative team is male seeking performers of all cultural backgrounds for these roles.
SHREK: 20s - 30s. An ogre. His imposing physical appearance disguises a
warm heart. A lonely outsider with soul, strength, and wit. Values his
peaceful solitary life in the swamp. Seeking actors with a powerful
presence and strength with true Rock or R&B voices. Preferably a baritone.
DONKEY: 20s - 30s. A performer with a contemporary, urban edge and great
humor. Joins Shrek on his journey to capture Princess Fiona. Seeking
unique performers especially from slam poetry, comedy, Hip Hop worlds or
clever actors with great comic skill.
Anyone, no matter how Far Far Away, can try and audition for these roles! If you or a friend think you have what it takes to play Shrek or Donkey, follow the directions below:
1. Make a video recording of yourself singing one song and copy it on to
a DVD. (No lip-syncing please -- must be live!) Please clearly label
the DVD with your name and contact information.
2. Take a photograph of yourself and print it out, or if you have one,
send a copy of your headshot.
3. Put together a resume or list of background experience and, VERY
IMPORTANT, your contact information -- including address, phone and
e-mail.
4. BY SNAIL MAIL send items 1, 2 and 3 to:
DreamWorks Animation
I Want To Be Shrek
PO Box 2693
New York, NY 10108
YOU MUST SUBMIT THIS MATERIAL BY FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2007
KEEP COPIES OF ANYTHING YOU SEND. The DVD and any other materials you send in will be retained by and will become the sole property of the Producers, and will not be returned to you whether or not you are considered for a role. The Producers are not responsible for lost, stolen, or incorrectly mailed materials. The Producers will not be able to answer questions about the receipt or status of any materials.
For updated information please go to: http://iwanttobeshrek.com/
For those living under a rock in a swamp: Based on a children's book by William Steig, the character of Shrek has been featured in two major animated films to date. The first Shrek feature film hit theaters in the Summer of 2001, and went on to win the first-ever Academy Award(R) for Best Animated Feature. In 2004, DreamWorks released a sequel, Shrek 2, which went on to become the highest-grossing animated film of all time. The next chapter of the Shrek story, Shrek the Third, hits theaters this May 18, 2007.
Source: Boneau/Bryan-Brown
Web site: http://iwanttobeshrek.com/
May 1
Cable TV and Phone Calls are Taxed at Twice the Rate of Other Goods, Study Finds
A new study produced by a team of researchers from The Heartland Institute and Beacon Hill Institute finds taxes and fees imposed on cable TV and telephone subscribers are twice as high as the average sales tax on other products.
The average household pays approximately $250 a year in taxes and fees on cable TV and telephone services, and would save $126 a year if taxes and fees on communication services were no higher than retail sales taxes on other goods.
"Consumers pay more than $37 billion a year in communication taxes and fees," said coauthor David Tuerck, executive director of the Beacon Hill Institute and professor and chairman of the Department of Economics at Suffolk University in Boston, Massachusetts.
"Many of these taxes and fees are hidden in phone and cable bills. Because they are so high, they distort consumer decisions and business investment decisions, costing billions more every year in lost consumer benefits," Tuerck said.
The research team collected information on cable television, wireline and wireless telephone, and Internet access for 59 U.S. cities.
The study found:
-- Cable TV and phone service (wireline and wireless) customers pay taxes
and fees averaging 13.52 percent, twice as high as the national average
sales tax on other goods.
-- Taxes and fees on communication services nationally add up to $37
billion a year.
-- Communication taxes and fees are highly regressive. Families in the
lowest quintile of earnings pay 10 times as much as families in the
highest quintile, as a percentage of their income.
-- Taxes and fees vary dramatically from city to city, with consumers in
some cities paying more than three times as much as consumers in other
cities.
-- In some cities, taxes and fees on wireline telephone service are higher
than taxes on beer, liquor, and tobacco.
-- Economists estimate the value of services lost due to high taxes and
fees on communication services add up to a "deadweight loss" to society
of $11.4 billion a year.
The authors recommend that local governments reform cable franchise laws. They further recommend that state officials and the national government consider policies to preempt local franchising authority and to prohibit discriminatory taxation of communication services.
Talking points, an executive summary, and the full text of the study are available on The Heartland Institute's Web site at http://www.heartland.org/.
Source: The Heartland Institute
Web site: http://www.heartland.org/
The Palazzo to Showcase Broadway's Mega-Hit, 'Jersey Boys'
Tony-Award Winning Musical 'Too Good to be True' for Las Vegas
-- The much-anticipated opening of The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas just got bigger with the addition of the Tony-Award winning smash hit musical, Jersey Boys. The perennially sold-out show based on the life story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons has taken Broadway by storm and now has set its sights on Las Vegas, opening on the Strip in early 2008.
"With advance ticket sales over $30 million on Broadway we are confident that visitors from all over the world will come to see what is currently the hottest ticket on Broadway," said Rob Goldstein, president of The Venetian and The Palazzo. "Jersey Boys appeals to a wide range of audiences, beyond the traditional theatergoer. The spectacular musical is the type of entertainment that has become the hallmark of The Venetian: award-winning, great quality and distinctive. We expect The Palazzo, together with The Venetian, to continue to be the preeminent entertainment destination in Las Vegas."
Jersey Boys, which opened to rave reviews on November 6, 2005, continues to set weekly box office records and has been among the top grossing shows on Broadway ever since. As well as being a critical and audience favorite, the show won four 2006 Tony Awards including Best Musical. The original Broadway cast recording on Rhino Records won the Grammy Award for Best Show Recording and remains one of the best-selling show CDs in the US.
The smash hit musical follows the rags-to-riches tale of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, four blue-collar kids working their way from the streets of Newark to the heights of stardom, and features such hits as "Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry," "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You," "Oh, What a Night," and many more.
The Broadway creative team, including director Des McAnuff, choreographer Sergio Trujillo, authors Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, and The Four Seasons, will be directly involved in the Las Vegas production of Jersey Boys.
"BASE Entertainment and our producing partners Michael David and The Dodgers are extremely excited to be bringing this smash hit to, what we expect will be, the most luxurious resort in Las Vegas," said Scott Zeiger, co-CEO of BASE Entertainment. "The state-of-the-art theater housing this production will serve as a perfect setting for this extraordinary show."
The Palazzo is a stand-alone resort currently being built by Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS) in the heart of the famed Las Vegas Strip. When combined with the neighboring Venetian and Sands Expo and Convention Center, The Palazzo will give the company the largest hotel and convention complex in the world. In addition to Jersey Boys, the $1.8 billion Palazzo will feature more than 3,000 all-suite rooms and offer its new shopping, dining and entertainment on two luxurious levels. The 450,000-square-foot retail space, The Shoppes at The Palazzo(TM) will be highlighted by Barneys New York and connected to The Venetian via The Grand Canal Shoppes. It will house approximately 60 high-end and mid-level stores from the most recognizable brands to the hottest newcomers and unique one-of-a-kind boutiques drawn from all over the world. Additionally, The Palazzo will offer 14 new restaurants from renowned chefs, many of whom are not yet featured in the Las Vegas area.
Statements in this press release, which are not historical facts, are "forward looking" statements that are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward- looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties or other factors beyond the Company's control, which may cause material differences in actual results, performance or other expectations. These factors include, but are not limited to general economic conditions, competition, new ventures, government regulation, legalization of gaming, interest rates, future terrorist acts, insurance, and other factors detailed in the reports filed by Las Vegas Sands Corp. with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
ABOUT LAS VEGAS SANDS CORP.
Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS) is one of the leading international developers of multi-use integrated resorts.
The Las Vegas, Nevada-based company owns and operates The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino and the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas and the Sands Macao in the People's Republic of China (PRC) Special Administrative Region of Macao. The company is currently constructing four additional integrated resorts: The Venetian Macao Resort-Hotel in Macao; The Palazzo Resort-Hotel-Casino in Las Vegas; Sands Bethworks(TM) in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; and The Marina Bay Sands(TM) in Singapore.
LVS is also creating The Cotai Strip(TM), a master-planned development of resort-casino properties in Macao. Additionally, the company is working with the Zhuhai Municipal People's Government of the PRC to master-plan the development of a leisure resort and convention complex on Hengqin Island in the PRC.
About BASE Entertainment:
BASE Entertainment is an intellectual property based operating company and live entertainment studio with offices in New York, Las Vegas, and Houston. BASE develops, produces and manages intellectual properties which reach audiences through various platforms, including live, digital, broadcast and licensing.
BASE Entertainment partners include Brian Becker, Scott Zeiger, and Clarity Partners. Co-founders Brian Becker and Scott Zeiger have 45 years combined experience in the live entertainment industry. Becker previously served as Chairman and CEO of Clear Channel Entertainment (CCE), the world's leading producer and promoter of live entertainment events. Zeiger previously served as Chairman and CEO of CCE's North American Theatrical division and the CCE Productions Group. Clarity Partners, L.P. is a private equity firm focused exclusively on investments in media, communications, and business services. Clarity's current portfolio includes Vue Entertainment, Oxygen Media, Crescent Entertainment/Village Roadshow Pictures, Liberation Entertainment, and ImpreMedia.
BASE Entertainment's current projects include Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular, Gordie Brown and Wayne Brady: Making It Up at The Venetian, STOMP OUT LOUD at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, the Planet Hollywood Theater for the Performing Arts, and Wintuk, a new Cirque du Soleil winter holiday production coming to Madison Square Garden.
Source: Las Vegas Sands Corp.
'The Wumblers' Partners With ELH Enterprises for Plush Toy License
Groundbreaking Original Animated Preschool Television Series Signs on Plush Manufacturer, ELH Enterprises, to Kick Off Licensing Program
-- The Giddy Gander Company LLC is proud to announce a licensing partnership with ELH Enterprises for the manufacturing and retail distribution of plush merchandise based on characters from the upcoming preschool television series, The Wumblers. Heidi Schwartz, Director of Licensing, is pleased to kick off The Wumblers licensing program with ELH because of their innovative manner, clear understanding and enthusiasm for the series and brand as well as their continuous dedication to the production of high quality merchandise.
Richard Esposito, CEO of ELH Enterprises stated, "all of us at ELH are very excited about the opportunity to work with Laura Wellington and Heidi Schwartz on the Wumblers. This is more than just a new brand; it is a great story for children. Both Laura and Heidi are fantastic to work with and show amazing passion and drive for this mission they call The Wumblers. We are looking forward to bringing exciting new product to the consumer!"
Laura J. Wellington is the CEO of The Giddy Gander Company LLC and creator of The Wumblers. The Wumblers is dedicated to making the world a better place for all. The Wumblers are multi-colored, bulbous-shaped characters whose food falls from the sky, whose babies come from watermelon, and whose stories blend inspiration, imagination, and fun -- all to teach positive social attitudes and interactions, foster the concept that differences can unite rather than divide, and present the world as a global community. The Wumblers, an innovative animated pre-school TV series designed to teach children about values and global consciousness is set to begin airing on both the Trinity Broadcasting Network and Smile of a Child Network in the Fall of 2007.
ELH Enterprises based in Pleasanton, CA, specializes in the creation, design, manufacturing, marketing and distribution of high quality innovative "Gifts of Joy", including plush, collectibles, novelties, room decor, jewelry and stationery. Utilizing superior design and manufacturing processes, the company creates premium product lines featuring some of the most popular and classic licenses in the industry.
Source: The Giddy Gander Company LLC
Web site: http://www.sillygoosecompany.com/
MTV Networks' Music Group Allows Viewers to Cast Themselves in Future Seasons of MTV's 'The Real World' and VH1's 'I Love New York'
RealWorldCasting.com and ILoveNewYork2.com Provide Paths for Viewers to Appear on TV
-- Giving viewers paths to appear on TV, MTV Networks' Music Group is unveiling sites where fans can submit themselves for consideration as cast members on such popular shows as MTV's "The Real World" and VH1's "I Love New York." The sites add entirely new dimensions to the way in which viewers interact with their favorite programs by allowing them to visualize the makeup of the shows' casts and also potentially become cast members themselves. "The Real World" and "I Love New York" sites mark the first time television shows will be democratically influenced by communities of viewers prior to their on-air premieres and underscore MTVN's commitment to making viewers part of the fabric of its programs.
Beginning tomorrow, viewers can go to "The Real World" Casting site at http://www.realworldcasting.com/ to try for one coveted spot in the house or snag a seat on the casting director's couch to judge who should make it on-air. Fans of VH1's "I Love New York" can now go to http://www.ilovenewyork2.com/ to submit themselves for consideration and decide who gets to appear on the second season of "I Love New York." The "Real World" and "I Love New York" casting sites are just two of several "hyper-programmed" vertical channels that MTV Networks' Music & Logo group has introduced in recent months, including: BestWeekEver.tv, the companion vertical to VH1's 'Best Week Ever' franchise; WebJunk.tv, an extension of VH1's "Web Junk 20" program and Acceptable.TV, the site accompanying the viewer-interactive VH1 series of the same name; and Logo's recently acquired AfterEllen.com, AfterElton.com and 365Gay.com sites.
"'The Real World' and 'I Love New York' sites introduce new dimensions to the way we program our popular franchises and become doors through which our viewers can step into the TV," said Brian Graden, President of Entertainment for MTV Networks' Music Group. "These sites represent new models of engagement for our audience, giving disaggregated fans the power to come together as one community to affect the way we program our channels and our shows."
The Real World
"The Real World" Casting site is designed to be a highly immersive experience that engages viewers on multiple levels, from castee to judge. Viewers who join the community can register to be considered for the show or serve as a judge to help determine who makes the cut. In either instance, they are connected to the larger community of "The Real World" fans who share similar passions and who want to stay connected to -- and help influence -- the story arcs, characters and themes they see on-air.
Viewers who throw their hat into the ring for the cast of Season 20 must submit a 90-second 'confessional' video detailing their passions, life experiences and phobias. Viewers who elect to serve as judges can climb a virtual casting hierarchy to serve in any number of roles, from Head of Casting, to VP of Casting, Casting Director, Casting Associate, Casting Intern or just plain Voter. The hierarchy is determined by the number of votes a registered user casts; the more one votes, the higher on the ladder they climb. But it's not just castees who make it onto MTV. Even judges may appear throughout the season to discuss whom they voted for and why.
The current season of "The Real World: Denver" ranks #1 in its time period (10-10:30 p.m. Wednesdays) among P12-34 versus cable competition and has reached 91.4 million total viewers season-to-date. The season finale of "The Real World: Denver" is May 16. The next season -- season 19 -- will take place in Sydney, Australia and is currently in production. The viewers chosen through the RealWorldCasting.com site will be members of "The Real World" season 20.
"The Real World: Denver" is a massive hit on mtv.com as well. In the month of April, viewers streamed 4 million full episodes, sneak peaks and after shows, making "The Real World: Denver" the most-watched show at mtv.com. And since the show's on-air premiere in November, "The Real World: Denver" has delivered nearly 24 million streams, consistently making it one of the most- viewed TV shows on mtv.com.
"The Real World" was created for MTV by Jon Murray and Mary Ellis-Bunim of Bunim-Murray Productions, and Jon Murray and Jim Johnston serve as Executive Producers. Drew Tappon and Jacquelyn French are Executives Producers for MTV.
I Love New York 2
Five contestants in "New York's" next quest for love will be determined through user participation at ILoveNewYork2.com. The "I Love New York" casting site works in two ways: fans can submit themselves for consideration in the next installment of the series and they can vote to determine who makes the cut in the next competition for "New York's" heart. Online casting will be determined during three rounds of voting between April 29 and June 15. Round one submissions must include an uploaded video profile, biographical information and photos. After round one, the 60 would-be suitors with the most votes will move on to the next round. Details and requirements for each round of voting can be found at ILoveNewYork2.com.
The recent "I Love New York Reunion Special," resonated with viewers across broadband, mobile and linear platforms. VH1's "I Love New York Reunion Special" drew 5 million total viewers, making it the most watched episode of the season and catapulted VH1 to its third highest-rated day ever in the network's history. The series was also the second highest-rated season of any VH1 series ever. Close to 1 million video streams on VSPOT were logged in the 24 hours following the on-air special. Additionally, more than 50,000 mobile text messages were received that day by viewers responding to a dynamic on-air VH1 Mobile poll question related to the show. The series was also the most watched show on VH1 Mobile throughout its season.
The second season of "I Love New York" is scheduled to premiere later this year.
VH1's "I Love New York" is created and executive produced by Mark Cronin and Cris Abrego for Mindless Entertainment and 51 Pictures, who also produce the record-breaking hits "Flavor of Love," "The Surreal Life" and "My Fair Brady." Jeff Olde, Jill Holmes, Kristen Kelly and Michael Hirschorn oversee the series for VH1.
The casting sites complement the online hubs for both shows at MTV.com and VH1.com, which deliver full episodes, exclusive after shows, sneak peaks and cast photos.
MTV Networks
MTV Networks' goal is to be the premier portfolio of targeted Global Entertainment Communities. Our brands engage, empower and connect diverse audiences with culturally relevant creative content and unique experiences across every platform.
MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 130 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.
Source: MTV Networks Music Group
Web site: http://www.mtv.com/
http://www.realworldcasting.com/
T.I. Races to the Top With Chevrolet's Impala SS; King of Hip-Hop Teams Up With General Motors for Major Marketing Campaign; New Album, "T.I. vs. TIP," on Track for Summer '07
-- Grand Hustle/Atlantic recording artist T.I. and General Motors Corp. have united for a major promotional blitz celebrating the new Chevrolet Impala SS. The multi-million dollar campaign confirms the Grammy Award-winning rap superstar's status as one of the most visible and influential artists in modern hip-hop.
The promotion -- created in association with Translation Consultation & Brand Imaging, a New York City-based brand marketing firm headed by founder and Chief Creative Officer Steve Stoute -- kicked off late last year with the companion video for T.I.'s top 10 rap smash, "Top Back (Remix)." The clip -- which was a #1 rotation hit at BET and the MTV networks -- featured a number of vintage and current Chevys.
A trio of commercials co-starring T.I. and the new Impala SS followed in early 2007, the first created using footage from the smash "Top Back (Remix)" video. A second commercial, entitled "Infield," effectively merged two of America's biggest cultural phenomena -- hip-hop and motorsports -- by bringing together T.I. and NASCAR legends Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Tony Stewart. The campaign's third installment, dubbed "Ain't We Got Love," made its debut during the 2007 Super Bowl festivities and featured an all-star cast including T.I., Earnhardt Jr., Mary J. Blige, and Big N' Rich.
"Together, the Chevy brand team and Translation have displayed true creativity and vision in partnering with T.I.," said Camille Hackney, Atlantic Senior Vice-President of Brand Partnerships and Commercial Licensing. "This is only the beginning of a relationship that is sure to lead to more innovative concepts and pioneering ideas. T.I. and Atlantic are looking forward to expanding our partnership with Chevy and Translation in the coming months."
"I believe that T.I. represents a mindset shared by many young adults, regardless of gender and race," said Translation founder Steve Stoute. "Chevy is a brand that represents a voice of American Revolution, and T.I. shares some of those same values. The campaign has been very successful, as people have paid attention to the diverse usage of songs from country to hip-hop. Having T.I. represent the hip-hop perspective was the only choice that Translation felt would be solid and authentic."
The success of the Chevrolet promotion marks the beginning of what looks to be T.I.'s biggest year to date. The ATL-based superstar was the king of February's 49th Annual Grammy Awards, scoring the "Best Rap Solo Performance" award for his smash single, "What You Know." T.I. also received an additional prize for "Best Rap/Sung Collaboration," marking his alliance with Justin Timberlake on the #1 hit, "My Love." The twin Grammys capped off an incredible 2006-07 awards season for T.I., following his triumphs at last year's BET Awards, BET Hip-Hop Awards, and Billboard Music Awards.
"T.I. vs. TIP," the eagerly awaited follow-up to 2006's RIAA double-platinum, Billboard 200-topping smash, "KING," is slated for release on July 3rd. Recently ranked by XXL Magazine as one of the most anticipated releases of 2007, the album will feature a star-studded line-up of guests, including Justin Timberlake, Eminem, R. Kelly, Nelly, Akon, and Lil' Wayne. The production roster is equally impressive, with contributions from such studio luminaries as Timbaland, Scott Storch, Mannie Fresh, Wyclef Jean, Danjahandz, and Just Blaze.
Later this year, T.I. will follow his acclaimed big-screen acting debut in last year's "ATL" by co-starring in what is among 2007's most anticipated new films, "American Gangster." Due November 2nd, the Ridley Scott-directed crime drama will see T.I. sharing the screen with Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. A slate of further projects -- via T.I.'s own Grand Hustle Films -- will be announced in the coming weeks.
For more information, please visit www.trapmuzik.com and www.myspace.com/trapmuzik
Three Films Explore Identity in Academy/UCLA Documentary Series Screening
Beverly Hills, CA — The documentary short subject “Positively Naked,” the Oscar®-nominated documentary short subject “The Mushroom Club” and the documentary feature “Unknown White Male” will be screened on Wednesday, May 23, as the next installment in the 2006–2007 Contemporary Documentaries series, presented by the Academy Foundation of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the UCLA Film & Television Archive. The screenings will begin at 7 p.m. at the Academy’s Linwood Dunn Theater in Hollywood. Admission is free.
“Positively Naked” looks at 85 HIV-positive strangers who, with an art installation as their focus, find the opportunity to band together as a strong and proud community. Though many members of the group have experienced ostracism at one time or another, all have learned to thrive instead of perish – with strength, humor and heart. The film was directed and produced by Arlene Donnelly Nelson and David Nelson, both of whom will attend the screening and discuss the making of the film; Helen Hood Scheer was also a producer on the film.
At once a personal reflection and a moving portrait of a city and its people, “The Mushroom Club” explores the legacy of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Directed and produced by Steven Okazaki, the Oscar-nominated film looks at the myths surrounding the devastating incident, the lives of the remaining survivors and the city’s monuments to its dead. It reveals how Japan struggles to this day with a fateful moment in its past.
“Unknown White Male” introduces Doug Bruce, a 35-year-old stockbroker-turned-photographer who one day, riding alone on a New York subway train, could not remember his name, where he worked, who his friends were or how much money he had in his bank account. Suffering from one of the rarest forms of amnesia, Bruce embarks on a profound journey to learn who he was and who he will become. The film was directed by Rupert Murray and produced by Beadie Finzi.
All screenings in the series are free and open to the public. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Linwood Dunn Theater is located at the Academy’s Pickford Center for Motion Picture Study, 1313 Vine Street, at the northwest corner of Fountain Avenue and Vine Street in Hollywood. Parking is available behind the building through the entrance on Homewood Avenue, one block north of Fountain. For more information, call (310) 247-3600 or (310) 206-FILM.
©A.M.P.A.S.®
April 30
MTV PUTS FANS IN THE DIRECTOR'S CHAIR AS
NOMINEES FOR “2007 MTV MOVIE AWARDS” ARE ANNOUNCED
“300” Leads the Way With 5 Nominations Followed By
“Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” With 4 Nods
MTV Unveils New Categories “BEST MOVIE SPOOF”
And “BEST SUMMER MOVIE YOU HAVEN’T SEEN YET”
Sarah Silverman Will Host The “2007 MTV Movie Awards”
LIVE On Sunday, June 3rd at 8PM/7c
April 30, 2007 (Santa Monica, CA) - The destiny of the coveted golden popcorn lies in the hands of the viewers as MTV: Music Television today announced the nominees for the “2007 MTV Movie Awards.” Dominating the pack is “300” with 5 nominations followed by “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” with 4 nods. Also vying for the much sought-after statue is “Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan,” “Blades of Glory,” and “The Devil Wears Prada” with 3 nominations each. The 16th annual awards show will be executive produced by Emmy Award® winning producer Mark Burnett. Airing LIVE for the first time ever, the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” will be broadcast from the Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City, CA on Sunday, June 3rd at 8pm/7c. Performers and presenters for the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” will be announced at a later date.
It is all about the fans this year as MTV rolls out its first-ever user generated category, “BEST MOVIE SPOOF” where viewers have the opportunity to submit their own original movie shorts parodying films from the past year. As previously announced, MTV and Yahoo! have partnered to launch this interactive website via Yahoo! Movies (http://mtvmovieawards.yahoo.com) which explores the convergence of entertainment and technology like never before allowing fans to be part of the show. The undiscovered talent will be revealed to the world during the “2007 MTV Movie Awards.” Additionally, MTV unveils another new category, BEST SUMMER MOVIE YOU HAVEN’T SEEN YET giving a nod to upcoming summer blockbusters. And making its return this year is the mtvU Best Filmmaker on Campus award, offering the winner national exposure at the 2007 MTV Movie Awards and a $25,000 development deal with MTV Films.
“This year's star-studded show will be live, and inspired by all the new ways our audience experiences the movies,” said Christina Norman, President, MTV. “From texting their vote for 'Best Fight,' to uploading their own original movie spoofs, to posting photos online, fans are just a click away from being in the spotlight in this year's celebration of the movies and stars they love.”
Fans can vote by visiting movieawards.mtv.com before May 29th. Viewers can also vote from their mobile phones by texting “MOVIES” to 22422. Voting is also available by dialing toll free to 1-877-MTV-VOTE where fans can support their favorite nominees in each category. For the first time ever, the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” will offer live voting during the show. One category will remain open and viewers will be asked to cast their votes via mtv.com and text messaging on their wireless phones.
The “2007 MTV Movie Awards” will be available to a potential viewing audience of more than 1.4 billion people via MTV's global network of 55 channels reaching 492.7 million households around the world as well as through syndication. In addition, its convergent programming & content will reach the entire interactive community, via MTV's more than 200 digital media properties around the world.
Nominees for the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” are:
BEST MOVIE
300 (Warner Bros. Pictures)
(Warner Bros. Pictures)Blades of Glory (Paramount Pictures)
(Paramount Pictures)Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (20th Century Fox)
(20 Century Fox)Little Miss Sunshine (Fox Searchlight)
(Fox Searchlight)Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (Walt Disney Pictures)
(Walt Disney Pictures)BEST PERFORMANCE
Gerard Butler- 300 (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Johnny Depp- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (Walt Disney Pictures)
Jennifer Hudson- Dreamgirls (Paramount Pictures/DreamWorks SKG)
Keira Knightley- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (Walt Disney Pictures)
Beyoncé Knowles- Dreamgirls (Paramount Pictures/DreamWorks SKG)
Will Smith- The Pursuit of Happyness (Sony Pictures)
BREAKTHROUGH PERFORMANCE
Emily Blunt- The Devil Wears Prada (20th Century Fox)
Abigail Breslin- Little Miss Sunshine (Fox Searchlight)
Lena Headey- 300 (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Columbus Short- Stomp the Yard (Screen Gems)
Jaden Smith- The Pursuit of Happyness (Sony Pictures)
Justin Timberlake- Alpha Dog (Universal Pictures)
BEST COMEDIC PERFORMANCE
Emily Blunt- The Devil Wears Prada (20th Century Fox)
Sacha Baron Cohen- Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (20th Century Fox)
Will Ferrell- Blades of Glory (Paramount Pictures)
Adam Sandler- Click (Sony Pictures)
Ben Stiller- Night at the Museum (20th Century Fox)
BEST KISS
Cameron Diaz & Jude Law- The Holiday (Sony Pictures)
Will Ferrell & Sacha Baron Cohen- Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (Sony Pictures)
Columbus Short & Meagan Good- Stomp the Yard (Screen Gems)
Mark Wahlberg & Elizabeth Banks- Invincible (Walt Disney Pictures)
Marlon Wayans & Brittany Daniel- Little Man (Sony Pictures)
BEST VILLAIN
Tobin Bell- Saw III (Lions Gate Films)
Jack Nicholson- The Departed (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Bill Nighy- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (Walt Disney Pictures)
Rodrigo Santoro- 300 (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Meryl Streep- The Devil Wears Prada (20th Century Fox)
BEST FIGHT
Jack Black & Hector Jimenez vs. Los Duendes- Nacho Libre (Paramount Pictures)
Gerard Butler vs. “The Uber Immortal”- 300 (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Sacha Baron Cohen vs. Ken Davitian- Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (20th Century Fox)
Will Ferrell vs. Jon Heder- Blades of Glory (Paramount Pictures)
Uma Thurman vs. Anna Faris- My Super Ex-Girlfriend (20th Century Fox)
BEST SUMMER MOVIE YOU HAVEN’T SEEN YET
Evan Almighty (Universal Pictures)
(Universal Pictures)Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (20th Century Fox)
(20 Century Fox)Hairspray (New Line Cinema)
(New Line Cinema)Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix (Warner Bros. Pictures)
(Warner Bros. Pictures)Rush Hour 3 (New Line Cinema)
(New Line Cinema)Transformers (Paramount Pictures)
(Paramount Pictures)mtvU BEST FILMMAKER ON CAMPUS
Robert Dastoli (University of Central Florida) – “Southwestern Orange County vs.
The Flying Saucers”
Maria Gigante (Columbia College, Chicago) – “Girls Room”
Josh Greenbaum (University of Southern California) – “Border Patrol”
Alexander Poe (Columbia University) – “Please Forget I Exist”
Andrew Shipsides (Savannah College of Art and Design) – “Bottleneck”
2007 MTV Movie Awards
Total Number of Combined Category Nominations
300 5
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest 4
Blades of Glory 3
Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Kazakhstan 3
The Devil Wears Prada 3
Dreamgirls 2
Little Miss Sunshine 2
The Pursuit of Happyness 2
Stomp the Yard 2
Alpha Dog 1
Click 1
The Departed 1
Evan Almighty 1
Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer 1
Hairspray 1
Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix 1
The Holiday 1
Invincible 1
Little Man 1
My Super Ex-Girlfriend 1
Nacho Libre 1
Night at the Museum 1
Rush Hour 3 1
Saw III 1
Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby 1
Transformers 1
* Nominees are chosen through a national poll of MTV and MTV2 viewers.
Mark Burnett serves as Executive Producer for the “2007 MTV Movie Awards.” Salli Frattini is Executive Producer for MTV. Audrey Morrisey and Ted Smith are Producers, Joe DeMaio is the Director and Kathy Flynn serves as Event Producer.
Official sponsors of “The 2007 MTV MOVIE AWARDS” are GM, glacéau vitaminwater, Old Navy, Orbit, Secret, Sprint and Taco Bell Corp.®.
About MTV Networks
MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 120 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services – MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 95 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.
About Mark Burnett Productions
Mark Burnett Productions (MBP) is a leading production company in content for both primetime television and the internet. MBP revolutionized television with hits such as Eco-Challenge, Survivor, The Apprentice, The Contender, Rock Star: INXS, Rock Star: Supernova and its upcoming co-production with Steven Spielberg and DreamWorks Television, On The Lot (FOX). Other upcoming MBP projects include: Pirate Master (CBS) and Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader (FOX). MBP also partnered with AOL on the highly successful adventure Gold Rush, the first-ever unscripted project to be produced exclusively for the internet. MBP also successfully reintroduced product placement as an integral part of each of its shows and has garnered a total of 42 Emmy nominations since 2001.
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