DAVE IT FWD

New Music Monday - Jameisha Trice "On Loud"

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:47:00 +0000

Definitely no rookie to the music industry, Pop/R&B songstress Jameisha Trice is back with a brand new heater that will have people talking. This St. Louis native/Chicago-bred vocalist takes the edgy approach on the risque "On Loud" which is backed by a hard-hitting, relentless track that goes in at the club. The songwriting also takes center stage with clever quotables like "you got that Bin Laden, I know you're gonna kill it". Trice keeps the sex appeal on this record while keeping the party going. Check out "On Loud" and hit the download link to bang in the system.

Trailer Debuts For Christopher Nolen's "The Good Life"

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:06:00 +0000

The first teaser trailer for Chicago filmmaker Christopher Nolen's new dramatic film "The Good Life" has made it's debut. The film which stars Tangi Miller ("Madea's Family Reunion", "Felicity") and Richard Gallion ("Black Butterfly", "The Ideal Husband") deals with a well-to-do couple who's "good life" comes into jeopardy when infidelity and other dark secrets invade their marriage. The film which was shot entirely in Chicago in 2011 also stars Christian Keyes, Maya Gilbert, Mari Morrow, Ray Grady, Christopher Nolen, Christina DeLeon, and Ari Khatib. Release date is TBA.

DJ Skip's "Show Me U Love Me" Closes In On 2 Million Views

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:33:00 +0000

Chances are if you've been around the world and danced in a club, you've sweated yourself into frenzy moving to the sounds of DJ Skip. Shannon "DJ Skip" Syas has quietly gained worldwide notoriety as a dance music producer, remixer, promoter and DJ while working with the likes of notables such as Kanye West, Common, Justin Timberlake, Fantasia, Paul Oakenfold, Felix Da Housecat and the legendary Jam Master Jay just to name a few. In 2007, DJ Skip joined forces with legendary House music producer and four-time GRAMMY-nominated producer Steve "Silk" Hurley to form the premiere dance music label S&S Records, based in their native Chicago.

Now DJ Skip is stepping out from the turntables to delve into the world of Pop/Dance with his latest single release, "Show Me U Love Me". The infectious Top 40 hit features Donnie Cash and has recieved an overwhelming public response within just two weeks of it's release. The music video has received nearly 2 million views on YouTube and has surpassed the likes of artists such as Diddy, Keri Hilson, and Trina. "Show Me U Love Me" is also featured on several prominent dance music compilations and has received several hundred thousand downloads.

In the clip, the magnificent Chicago skyline provides the backdrop for a Summer-time "boy meets girl" love story. Celebrity cameos are throughout the video including hip-hop legend Big Daddy Kane, comedian Damon Williams, music retailer/mogul George Daniels and the aforementioned Steve "Silk" Hurley.

Demond Stylz Visits Edward Ark Denim

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 16:04:00 +0000

R&B artist Demond Stylz visits Chicago clothing designer Edwark Ark Denim to get styled for his upcoming photoshoot to promote his forthcoming album, "Naked Photographs". As we travel to the South Side with Demond in this clip, he gives us some his fashion taste and talks about working with his favorite photographer Ven Sherrod.

Edwark Ark Denim is located on the South Side of Chicago at 11856 S. Western. For more information on this expanding brand, check out their website at www.eajeans.com

www.twitter.com/demondstylz
www.twitter.com/EdwardArkDenim
www.facebook.com/DemondStylz
www.facebook.com/EdwardArkDenim

New Music Monday - Tugun Cannon feat. Kentrell "Take Flight" (Official Video)

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 15:25:00 +0000

The long-awaited video for "Take Flight" from Tugun Cannon has finally arrived. Tugun is joined on this track by Chicago's Kentrell and the Windy City serves as the cinematic backdrop in the visually stunning clip that was directed by Da Visionaryz.

This is the first single from Tugun's album "American Way" now available on iTunes. Part of the proceeds from the album goes to benefit the Wings Program (www.wingsprogram.com) benefitting abused women and children.

Demond Stylz Develops "Naked Photographs"

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:36:00 +0000

Check out R&B vocalist Demond Stylz in the studio lacing the finishing touches on his upcoming album, "Naked Photographs" which drops in early 2012. In this clip he plays a few snippets of some of his favorite songs off the album and goes in the booth to drop a few adlibs.

Follow Demond Stylz on Twitter at www.twitter.com/demondstylz or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/DemondStylz

Rotimi Drops "While You Wait"

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 06:23:00 +0000

R&B singer/actor Rotimi finally drops his highly-anticipated mixtape "While You Wait" in the midnight hour for his fans. The soulful compilation is a collaborative effort with DJ SussOne and DJ Trauma and is the follow-up to Rotimi's impressive debut, "The Resume". Rotimi's heart and soul was poured into this project and you can tell on each of the 12 tracks he delivers. Standout songs include "She Know It", "Rollercoaster", "For Your Love" and Rotimi's spin on Lil Wayne's hit song "How To Love" which is a fan favorite.

"While You Wait" also comes fresh on the heels of Rotimi's acting/co-starring debut on the brand new, critically-acclaimed drama series "Boss" which recently launched on the STARZ Network and stars Kelsey Grammer. Rotimi even crafts an ode to the show on the mixtape which is also another solid record.

This is definitely a crowd pleaser that the ladies will love and the fellas can play for their ladies. Do yourself a favor and go to
http://rotimimusic.com/music/ and download this one ASAP!

While You Wait by Rotimi_WhileYouWait

New Music Monday - Tugun Cannon "My Way" (Official Video)

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 20:29:00 +0000

Cleveland's own Tugun Cannon returns with a visual for his single "My Way" off of his new album "American Way" which was released on iTunes on September 11th. The video was directed by 1913 Films.

M.E.D.I.A. Girls Foundation Presents "True Beauties" Brunch

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 13:41:00 +0000

M.E.D.I.A. Girls Foundation in Association with FLAIR TV will host its fall brunch and panel discussion entitled "True Beauties" with special celebrity guest speaker, actress/singer Naturi Naughton ("The Playboy Club", "Notorious"). The event will take place on Sunday, November 6th, from 11am-1:30pm at the Lighthouse Youth Center located on the Southside of Chicago at 4338 S. Prairie.

Guest panelists for the "True Beauty" event include: Sukmeke Rainey Watkins (Producer, WCIU), Cassandra Gaddo (Today’s Chicago Woman Magazine, Editor), CeCe Gonzales & Melinda Joseph (Dynamic Event Planners), Anita Rechell Vaughn (WVON, Executive Producer), Tisha Lewis (FOX News), Nikeya Young (Plus Size Model), Maisha Wynn (Word Wynn- CEO & Uptown Media Group- Regional Advertising Director), Natalie King (Model), Jill Mitchell (fashion make-up artist) and Tammie Souza (FOX News Meteorologist).

The M.E.D.I.A. Girls Foundation has dedicated itself to the empowerment of young girls to achieve and maintain success through hard work and dedication and educate them through various media arts platforms. Following that mantra, the topics of discussion for the "True Beauties" panel will include "the defining of beauty"; "advice on personal insecurities young women face"; "levels of confidence to achieve success" and more.

For more info on The M.E.D.I.A. Girls Foundation and to pre-register for this free event, go to www.mediagirls.org

New Music Monday - Tugun Cannon "Take Flight"

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 13:27:00 +0000

Cleveland, Ohio's own Tugun Cannon is our featured artist this week for "New Music Monday" with a new single "Take Flight" which features Chi-town R&B artist Kentrell. "Take Flight" is the hard-hitting second single from Tugun's new album, "American Way" which dropped on September 11th on iTunes and other distribution outlets. Tugun rides this track with a confident swagger and a playful cadence while Kentrell provides just the right vibe on the hook. Look for this one to make a huge impact at radio and in the mix. Hit the link below to download the radio single and sit back, buckle up, and "Take Flight".

Download - Tugun Cannon feat. Kentrell - "Take Flight" (Radio Edit)

New Music Monday - Mars "Wake Up"

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 14:56:00 +0000

Straight from the Windy City comes the colorful rap duo of Ayo Kid & London, better known as M.A.R.S. (Music Always Reigns Supreme) who have released the visuals for their high energy single, "Wake Up". The alternative, fashion forward group injects a new and fresh energy into the ever changing hip-hop landscape that caters to true hip-hop fans and the new age hipsters alike.

"Wake Up" is a gritty and fun video which is the first offering from their forthcoming mixtape, "Never Come Down" slated to drop around Halloween.

To get a taste of the M.A.R.S. vibe, check out their initial release, the critically-acclaimed mixtape "Out Of This World" at:
http://www.zshare.net/download/9148114136ef65c5/ or http://musicalwaysreignsupreme.bandcamp.com

For more info on M.A.R.S. click on any of the following links:

www.wix.com/emardot/mars
www.facebook.com/ayolondon
www.twitter.com/TheREALMARS
www.myspace.com/ayolondon

New Music Monday - Syleena Johnson's "Chapter V: Underrated" Drops Tomorrow!

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 13:53:00 +0000

The long-awaited new album from Chicago's own "best kept secret", Syleena Johnson, finally drops this Tuesday, August 27th everywhere. "Chapter V: Underrated" is Syleena's fifth major release, but her second independent effort. The majority of the album was produced by fellow Chicago producer Toxic (Twista, Keyshia Cole, Monica) and features guest appearances from AK of Do Or Die on the title track and newcomer Malone on the soulful "Little Things".

"Boss", which is the first single from "Underrated" has been getting rave reviews since its release and accompanying video. The follow-up single is the powerful "Angry Girl" which features Tweet and is already garnering a lot of internet buzz. True Syleena Johnson fans will love this new album as she delivers another classic with her signature soulful sound while experimenting on a few of the tracks that will also gain new followers.

Make sure you grab your copy of "Chapter V: Underrated" at iTunes, Amazon, and your local music retailers:

iTunes link -
http://itunes.apple.com/us/preorder/chapter-v-underrated/id460054082

Amazon link -
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005EYP8IG/ref=cm_sw_r_fa_dp_xbdAob1BCPQKC

Tyrese Debuts New Video for "Stay"

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:40:00 +0000

The multi-talented Tyrese takes a break from being a movie star and NY Times best selling author to return to his R&B roots with the new video "Stay" from his upcoming album, "Open Invitation".

The highly anticipated clip reunites Tyrese with his "Baby Boy" co-star, 2 time Academy Award winner, Taraji P. Henson. The video was directed by longtime video director Matt Alonzo.

"Open Invitation" will be the first independent release from Tyrese on his own label, Voltron Recordz. Look for it to be released on November 1, 2011.

Download "Stay" and Tyrese's other new single, "Too Easy", at iTunes at the links below:

-STAY- ….. iTunes-Link
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/stay-single/id453850714

-Too Easy- feat Ludacris
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/too-easy-feat.-ludacris-single/id458852112

"Get A Job" Now Available on iTunes

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:28:00 +0000

The hilarious comedy "Get A Job" starring Corey Hendrix and comedian Lil' Rel is now available for rent and purchase on iTunes. This independent feature film was directed by James Reed and tells the story of a down on his luck comedian and his best friend who hatch a scheme to open up a comedy club. Yours truly is also featured in the film as a nerdy rookie cop.

Download your copy of "Get A Job" here

"Get A Job" Trailer:

Common...The Author

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 13:39:00 +0000

Rapper Common who is currently hard at work on his ninth studio album, "The Dreamer, The Believer" as well as a few upcoming films, can now also add author to his already abundant resume.

Today Common releases his new book, "One Day It'll All Make Sense", named after his critically-acclaimed third LP of the same title. The book is a memoir of sorts recanting Common's humble beginnings on the South Side of Chicago and his rise to stardom while balancing fame, love and fatherhood.

"One Day It'll All Make Sense" is available at Amazon , Barnes & Noble , and iTunes

http://www.thinkcommon.com/

Tha Carter IV Does "A Milli"

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 23:08:00 +0000

In case you've been under a rock, Lil' Wayne dropped his long-awaited ninth album, "Tha Carter IV" two weeks ago which features the hit singles "How To Love" and "She Will" featuring his YMCMB co-hort Drake. Rumors swirled around the music industry that "Tha Carter IV" pulled a coup by selling 1 million copies in its first week which in this current hip-hop climate is virtually unheard of. Well, "Weezy" fell slightly short of those numbers, but it was close enough to push him over this week.

"Tha Carter IV" held the #1 spot again this week by moving another 219,000 units, down 77% from its debut, but impressive nonetheless. Elsewhere on the charts, Jay-Z & Kanye West's "Watch The Throne", who had an initial great debut drops from #4-6 selling 49,000 units while Beyonce's "4" slips from #7-9 moving another 25,000 units.

The great numbers that "Tha Carter IV" brought in are a welcome feat for a struggling music industry. In celebration of Weezy doing "a milli", check out the hilarious parody video of "How To Love" from "Young Wayne" on his ode to Lebron James...

New Music Monday - Precise "It's On Me"

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 19:19:00 +0000

With the mundane and cookie-cutter music that society gets inundated with, sometimes it's nice to get a "breath of fresh air" and new energy in the music mix. That breath of fresh air comes in the form of Precise. Precise, born Eddy Lamarre, got his start as a local DJ in Chicago and competed in his first rap competition at Olive Harvey College during that time. The chance opportunity was electric and Precise began honing his craft with a rap group and later went solo opening for the likes of artists like fellow Chi-town native Common.

Precise wanted to utilize his music to stimulate the minds of the youth so he studied the hip-hop legends that embodied this movement such as KRS-One, Rakim, Black Thought, Guru, Slick Rick and many others. After his work being featured on a children's educational CD entitled "Mind Games", Precise began working on his debut solo effort, "My Life" which features the hard-hitting single, "It's On Me".

"It's On Me" is an unflinching song that puts the listener in front of the mirror and says that we as a society can longer blame the issues of the world on the youth without taking some type of responsibility ourselves. Precise's clever wordplay and playful delivery gives this song a great underground hip-hop feel that is fun, but also doesn't lose the message. Check out the video for "It's On Me" below. For more info on Precise and his upcoming shows, music, and more go to: http://www.reverbnation.com/c./rpk/127936?access_code=f5dc2916dce1354b9daf&auto_play=true

Mobb Deep Goes RED

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 04:13:00 +0000

Legendary rap duo Mobb Deep recently announced that they have inked a brand new label deal with national distribution company RED Distribution (a division of Sony Entertainment) for their imprint Infamous Records. The New York based label will be run by the duo with the assistance of executives and industry veterans with more than two decades of record industry experience.

Under the new deal, Mobb Deep's Havoc and Prodigy will be releasing their self-titled ninth album along with upcoming solo projects and music from emerging and established acts. “After almost twenty years in this industry, it was inevitable for us to take matters into our own hands. We feel that RED is the perfect home for our brand,” says Prodigy, who’s been enjoying outstanding reviews and critical acclaim for his candid, controversial autobiography My Infamous Life. “We’re ready to work and build our own structure.”

Bob Morelli, President of RED adds, “Mobb Deep is an iconic act, having been on the cutting edge of music and social commentary for years. We are happy and excited to distribute the next chapter in their musical career.”

New Music Monday - Syleena Johnson & Tee Jay

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 02:16:00 +0000

A few weeks back I posted the new single from Syleena Johnson called "Boss". Now comes the long-awaited video to the smash single. The video is in classic black & white and features cameos from NFL superstar Chad Ochocinco and R&B songstress Keke Wyatt. Syleena is rumored to be currently filming a reality show with the latter. Syleena's new album "Chapter V: Underrated" drops in September. You can download the single here at iTunes.

Keeping it Chi-town, "Mr. Windy City" himself, Tee Jay, is back with a new banger which is a slight departure from his usual radio hits that sometimes cater to the ladies. On "You Hate Me" Tee Jay addresses the haters who watch his every move and try to bring him down. Welcome to "Haterville"...

Kelly Rowland Drops "Here I Am" July 26th

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 20:33:00 +0000

Hot on the heels of her #1 single, "Motivation", which features Lil' Wayne, Kelly Rowland is set to drop her highly anticipated third solo album, "Here I Am" on July 26th.

"Here I Am" will feature a host of A-List talent on the producer and songwriter side including Dr. Luke, Salaam Remi, Ne-Yo, Rico Love, Jim Jonsin, RedOne, Tricky Stewart, Esther Dean, Rodney Jerkins and David Guetta who she re-teams with on the dance-inspired, "Commander" which leaked earlier this year. In addition to "Motivation" and "Commander", other standout tracks from "Here I Am" include the rapturous ballad "Heaven & Earth" penned by Grammy-Award winning R&B artist Ne-Yo and the follow-up radio smash, "Lay It On Me" featuring Kanye West's new "golden boy" Big Sean.

2011 is definitely shaping up to be Rowland's year with a #1 single, 25million views of the "Motivation" video on YouTube/VEVO and a brand new album set to drop. Look for "Here I Am" to solidify her spot as one of the top R&B female artists in the game.

To learn more about KELLY ROWLAND, please visit:
Official Website: http://kellyrowland.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/kellyrowland
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kellyrowland
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/kellyrowland

Syleena Johnson Drops New Single "Boss"

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 19:07:00 +0000

Chicago's own Syleena Johnson drops her highly anticipated new single from her forthcoming album, Chapter 5: Underrated. The single entitled "Boss" is a certified radio smash and will serve as a ladies anthem for 2011.

Syleena's new album will be released in September of this year, but you can check out the new single now by clicking on the download link below.

Syleena Johnson - Boss

BET Networks Announces Exclusive Partnership With The Akils

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Thu, 12 May 2011 19:31:00 +0000

BET Networks just recently announced a huge multi-year partnership with the executive producers of "The Game"/husband and wife team, Salim and Mara Brock Akil. In addition to their current roles as executive producer and director of the record-breaking series, they will develop new shows for BET Networks.

"We're thrilled to build on the very important relationship between our network and the Hollywood creative community, especially with two proven powerhouses in entertainment – Salim and Mara Brock Akil," said Loretha Jones, President of Original Programming at BET Networks. "Through this partnership we hope to continue to bring our audience high quality content that reflects their lives and our communities."

Mara Brock Akil also known for her work on successful shows such as "Girlfriends" and "The Jamie Foxx Show" created "The Game" and executive produced the series with her husband Salim, who also directed. This powerhouse couple is on a roll while also celebrating the success of Salim's new #1 theatrical comedy release, "Jumping The Broom" which stars Laz Alonso, Paula Patton, Mike Epps, Loretta Devine, Meagan Good and Deray Davis.

Common Shows L.U.V.

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 17:49:00 +0000

Chicago Rapper/Actor Common is keeping busy these days with his different business ventures. He recently focused on his philanthropic efforts on his Common Ground Foundation, which empowers urban youth development at a star studded fundraising gala in Chicago at the Intercontinental Hotel.

Common has simultaneously been hard at work on several film projects and next up for him is the independent production, "L.U.V." "L.U.V." tells the story of William "Woody" Watson (played by actor Michael Rainey, Jr.), a shy and somewhat timid 13 year-old who dreams of a stable family and a better life for himself. He looks to his ex-con Uncle Vincent (played by Common) to be the father figure that he's never had. Drama ensues when Uncle Vincent's desire to create a legitimate life for himself clashes with his past demons. Woody gets caught in the middle and must decide where to stand...with his beloved uncle, or against him.

"Vincent is a uniquely conflicted character," says Common. "I found an appeal in his desire to move past his failures and on to the right track, and the challenges it presents."

"L.U.V." is Sheldon Candis' directorial debut and will begin production in Baltimore starting this week. The film also stars Dennis Haysbert ("24", "Love & Basketball"), Danny Glover ("Death At A Funeral", "The Color Purple"), Charles S. Dutton ("R.O.C.", "Fame"), Meagan Good ("Jumping The Broom", BET's "The Game"), Michael K. Williams (HBO's "Boardwalk Empire" & "The Wire"), Russell Hornsby ("Lincoln Heights", "In Treatment"), and Lonette McKee ("Honey", "Malcolm X").

Common can also be seen in the upcoming Disney feature "The Odd Life of Timothy Green" and AMC's "Hell On Wheels".

For more information on the Common Ground Foundation go to http://www.commongroundfoundation.org/

Tupac Biopic Begins Its Search For Lead Online

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 03:08:00 +0000

Ever since the critically-acclaimed motion picture biopic "Notorious" which chronicled the life of the late hip-hop star, The Notorious B.I.G. was released in theaters, everyone wondered when a film about another hip-hop legend would see its debut. It looks like that is finally becoming a reality as the search for someone to play the embattled rap star Tupac Shakur has begun.

Morgan Creek Productions in conjunction with Skee.TV/Karmaloop.TV are hosting an online casting call for "Tupac", the highly-anticipated motion picture based on the legendary icon which will be directed by famed director Antoine Fuqua ("Training Day", "Brooklyn's Finest").

Today marks the start of the online casting call where individuals and Hollywood hopefuls can upload their video audition to InSearchOfTupac.com . Criteria for those entering should exemplify the overall character of Tupac Shakur with "the right mix of charm and charisma". Of course it doesn't hurt if you also resemble the late rapper. Entrants and fans are encouraged to visit the website daily for important announcements and additional opportunities over the month long casting call.

Universal Pictures in association with Morgan Creek Productions will be distributing the film which chronicles the life and legacy of Tupac Shakur, including his rise to hip-hop super stardom, his numerous brushes with the law and imprisonment, and his controversial time with Death Row Records that put him right at the heart of the East Coast/West Coast rap beef that included his former friend and rival, The Notorious B.I.G. "Tupac" will be produced by James G. Robinson, David Robinson, LT Hutton, and executive produced by his mother Afeni Shakur.

Lupe Fiasco Gives Back

noreply@blogger.com (Dave) — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 17:54:00 +0000

Chicago hip-hop artist Lupe Fiasco who just dropped his long-awaited third LP, "Lasers" this week is staying focused on the future with his philanthropic endeavors as well. Today marks the launch of Lupe Fiasco's Lupe Fiasco Foundation whose primary goal is to encourage inner-city youth to reach their highest potential by providing opportunities for artistic expression and empowerment. However, community outreach isn't a new thing for the Grammy award-winning artist. For the past 8 years, Lupe has provided warm meals and clothing to underprivileged families throughout Chicago. Most recently The Lupe Fiasco Foundation partnered up with New Birth Christian Center, The South Austin Community Coalition, and West Englewood Methodist Church to feed 200 Austin community residents and provide groceries to families in the Austin and Englewood areas.

Today's launch event for The Lupe Fiasco Foundation takes place at House of Blues Foundation Room in Chicago (located at 329 North Dearborn) from 9p-12p. Targeting the youth ages 10-24, The Lupe Fiasco Foundation will focus on youth development through several initiatives including The Little Man Project, The Youth Committee, Sensei Jacob Scholarship Fund, and Off The Block. The charitable event will host a silent auction with exclusive giveaways and gift certificates provided by several donors along with sounds from DJ Timbuktu and a special appearance by Lupe Fiasco himself.

Tickets can be purchased at the House of Blues Will Call box office for a $40 donation price.