Listen: Darquise Explores The Art Of The Beak Up In His Debut Single "I Say One"

Afrobeats meets Calypso, Pop, R&B and Hip-Hop in the genre blurring I Say One, the lead single for Singer/Rapper Darquise's his EP "A Date With Lucy"

The love song, transverses a desperate need for a lovers commitment, finally saying goodbye, searching for new love, expression of the failures of the relationship and reconciliation.

Produce by Flashbeats(Alex Isaak), whose credits include Trey Song and Chris Brown, I Say One, is heavily influenced by an afro-carribean theme but the Singer/Rapper mixes it up with light pop vocals, R&B harmonies and a comparable rap.

I Say One was first released in 2016 but the singer found it difficult, though he had management at the time, managing his career, grad school and dealing with management issues. It was decided that all music would be pulled and postponed for this and other business reasons.

A video was still released for I Say One.

I Say One was re-released official on April 4th to all platforms.

Darquise born, Jack Lee Darquisé Henmy IV, is a singer, songwriter, rapper, producer originating from Houston, TX currently residing on the Treasure Coast, Fort Pierce, Florida.

https://www.facebook.com/darquise
http://audiomack.com/song/darquis/i-say-one-1

Soul Music Legend Charles Wright's A Million $ Worth Of Memories Presents New Year's Eve

FEATURING SPECIAL MUSICAL GUESTS
CHARLES WRIGHT &
THE WATTS 103RD STREET RHYTHM BAND
("Express Yourself" / "Loveland")
Sultry R&B Singer CHANTÉ MOORE
("Chante's Got A Man" / "R&B Divas: LA")
R&B / Funk Soul Bands
THE ORIGINAL LAKESIDE
("Fantastic Voyage" / "All the Way Live") &
BLOODSTONE ("Natural High" / "You're Still A Young Man")

(Los Angeles, CA) Join us at the Saban Theater in Beverly Hills, CA at 8pm for the funky grooves of headliner Charles Wright & The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band! Special musical guests include The Original Lakeside, Bloodstone and Chanté Moore will keep the stage hot until the ball drops. A champagne toast and party favors help you bring in 2016 with fireworks, fun and soul music from many decades.

Charles Wright, the multitalented musician, singer and leader of The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band has made good use of his of his decades in the business. With a career that spans from the band's formation in the '60s to the continual sampling of hit song, "Express Yourself" in today's media, Charles Wright and the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band's legacies are stronger than ever. "Express Yourself" has been covered and sampled by the biggest names in Hip Hop and R&B, appearing in national television commercials and major movie soundtracks including "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" and the N.W.A. movie: "Straight Out of Compton."

Proving that good music and artistry can withstand the test of time, Charles Wright has had an active solo career – releasing twenty-nine albums for independent and major labels. His latest single "I'll Give You Time" https://youtu.be/3wZrYWA7V2k is a sweet and playful throwback to the days of torch songs and perfectly syncopated background singers. Wright's music appeals to listeners of all ages and this upcoming New Year's Eve performance will definitely increase his loyal listeners and adoring fans. Though highly regarded for expert musicality, creativity and an unmatched Soul, Funk, Pop and Blues sound, Charles has a habit of defying expectations.

Charles will be spending the evening celebrating his many accomplishments in 2015 not only the release of the new album – Let's Make Love Tonight but also the November publication of his first autobiography, "UP From Where We've Come," (currently available as an e-book and audiobook – online and in bookstores). UP From Where We've Come is a firsthand account of the struggles and triumphs that generations of Wright's family faced. It is an insight-filled journey of a sharecropper's son from Mississippi who picked cotton, grew up in abject poverty but rises to the top as a Hollywood Soul Music Legend. The 56-chapter book is a chronicle of historical significance, cultural importance and evident inspiration. (The hardcover version of the book will be released in time for Black History Month in February 2016).

This New Year's Eve concert's special musical guests are sure to pack the dance floor and make the last great night of 2015 fly by! The celebration continues with The Original Lakeside the Midwest-formed R&B funk band responsible for hits such as "It's All The Way Live," "Your Wish Is My Command" and their biggest hit, "Fantastic Voyage". Genre-crossing chameleons known as Bloodstone ("Natural High" & "You're Still A Young Man") are set to bring their soul, funk and funky rock sound to the evening's eager audience. Vocal powerhouse Chanté Moore – one of the stars of "R&B Divas: LA" will be performing her own signature brand of quintessential quiet storm jams like, "It's Alright" and "Chanté's Got A Man". Moore's recent "Unsung" episode was one of TV One's highest rated episodes for 2015.

THESE LIVE PERFORMANCES ARE GUARANTEED TO SPICE UP THE NIGHT AND BRIGHTEN THE NEW YEAR!

NEW YEAR'S EVE TICKET INFORMATION:
Ticketmaster Phone: 800.653.8000
Online: www.ticketmaster.com
Saban Box Office
8440 Wilshire Boulevard – Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Phone: 888.645.5006
Online: www.sabantheatre.org / www.canyonclub.net

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CHARLES WRIGHT, PLEASE CONTACT:
J'ai St. Laurent-Smyth / Inque Public Relations 732.254.0607 / 609.228.8600
inquepr@comcast.net / inquepr@gmail.com

KEEP UP WITH CHARLES BY VISITING: expressyourself.net
Facebook: facebook.com/Charleswright103
Twitter: @Charles_Wright Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/charles-wright-66762533
Youtube: youtube.com/charleswrightz1
Reverbnation: reverbnation.com/Charlesexpressyourselfwright

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=188431

Jann Klose Signs With Merrill Artists Group

Contact:
Merrill Artists Group
8209 Melrose Ave, 2nd Fl
Los Angeles, CA 90046
+1 310-437-8199
tommy@merrillartistsgroup.com

New York, NY: Jann Klose has announced a partnership with LA-based agency Merrill Artists Group. CEO/founder Tommy Merrill and his team will be setting up shows and promoting Jann's next album, which is scheduled for a 2016 release. A crowd funding campaign to finance the album will begin in the fall of 2015 with subsequent recording to commence thereafter.

Jann Klose is an award-winning pop singer-songwriter, who has released four albums and two EPs as a solo artist. Klose was raised in Kenya, South Africa, Germany, and the United States and now resides in New York City. His most recent album, MOSAIC (2013) entered the Roots Rock charts at #22 and won three 2014 Independent Music Awards. The record also made the first round of the 2014 Grammys® in the categories Pop Vocal Album and Album Of The Year.

Jann's voice is featured in the movie "Greetings From Tim Buckley" (Focus/Tribeca/Universal) starring Penn Badgley and Imogen Poots. His songs have been heard on the Grammy-nominated "Healthy Food For Thought" compilation as well as MTV Cribs and movies "Dead Broke" (Warner Bros) featuring Paul Sorvino and "A Venue For The End Of The World" featuring Dick Cavett and Ian Anderson.

He has performed as an actor and singer in touring companies of Broadway musicals, including "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Jekyll & Hyde," and "The Who's Tommy." In 2005, the off-Broadway production "Moonlight Interior," a musical based on Klose's music, premiered in New York City.

Jann Klose has periodically collaborated with members of classical rock group Renaissance and tours regularly in the U.S., Europe, Africa and Asia. He has opened for or performed with a wide range of artists including Pat Benatar, John Oates of Hall and Oates, Suzanne Vega, Paula Cole, Annie Haslam, Brett Dennen, Rusted Root, Vonda Shepard, Ben Taylor, Gary Hoey, Jeffrey Gaines, Bret Michaels, Willy Porter, Rosanne Cash, The Byrds' Roger McGuinn, Marty Stuart, The Yardbirds' Jim McCarty, Elliott Murphy, Pete Seeger and Les Paul.

Currently, Jann is finishing up work on an album with guitarist Gary Lucas and lyricist Dan Beck.

Jann will be crowd-funding his new solo record this fall and touring in South Africa this September.

ABOUT MERRILL ARTISTS GROUP: Merrill Artists Group is a leading global music company based in Los Angeles, singularly focused on the creative and commercial success of emerging world-class artists. Incorporating a full-service record label, national and international tour booking, publicity, and front-line physical and digital distribution in 110 countries around the globe, Merrill Artists Group is uniquely positioned in the music world, tailoring consistent winning strategies for its artists.

http://jannklose.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/01-Make-It-Better.mp3
http://www.jannklose.com

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=184912

Deadline Looms For 20th Annual USA Songwriting Competition

In it's landmark 20th year, USA Songwriting Competition deadline is fast approaching. Win a top prize of $50,000 worth of cash and merchandise such as cool gear from PRS Guitars, Sony, D'Addario Strings, PreSonus, Audio-Technica and more. Also, have your winning songs played on a syndicated radio program that airs in 65 different cities in North America. Enter your songs in Pop, Rock/Alt, Folk, R&B, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Instrumental, etc.

USA Songwriting Competition has been honoring songwriters from all over the world. Winners came from Australia, Japan, Canada, UK, Germany, Brazil, South Africa, USA, etc. Past winners have gotten recording contracts, getting their songs on film, TV as well as getting cuts with major artists. The 2013 Top winner hit #1 on the Billboard Charts and went Double Platinum, sold over 2 million copies.

Last years top winners were sister duo Justine Dorsey, 19 years old and Kerris Dorsey, 16 years old wrote their song “Best Worst Day Ever”. The song was signed to Walt Disney Music and appeared in the box office hit movie "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" starring Steve Carell and Jennifer Garner. The 2005 winner of the Pop category was signed by Interscope Records; she went on to hit Top 10 on the Billboard 200 Album charts. Our 2008 winner appeared on David Letterman TV show and was signed to a record label.

USA Songwriting Competition is sponsored by: Sony, D'Addario Strings, Acoustic Guitar Magazine, New Music Weekly, Loggins Promotion, Airplay Access, D'Addario strings, PRS Guitars, Audio-Technica, Full Compass Music Stores, Propellerheads, Presonus, Notion Software, Sonoma Wireworks, IK Multimedia, Alfred Music, Sonicbids, etc.

The music industry experts have said USA Songwriting Competition is the best song contest around.

"This is a great place for talent to be found", said Monte Lipman, President & CEO of Universal Records

"A healthy and important competition, good outlet for creative people", said Andy Karp, Executive VP/Head of A&R, Atlantic Records

"My Name is Jennifer Adan and I used to enter this contest all the time back in the day. I am proud to say that I am now a HIT songwriter who lives in Nashville and travels back and forth to LA to write. I had a two week #1 hit with Blake Shelton "She Wouldn't Be Gone" and I just released my first children’s book. You guys were a big part of my early career!", said Jennifer Adan, Hit Songwriter with #1 Billboard Hits and BMI Award Winning Songwriter.

Deadline to enter is May 29th. Entry forms are available in 10 different Languages. For more information, visit:
http://www.songwriting.net/enter

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=183658

KAJ Brothers To Premiere Music Video For New Single "Lady" On YouTube For Valentine's Day

(NASHVILLE, TN) February 12, 2015 – The KAJ Brothers, the pop/R&B trio whose mission is to 'make chivalry cool again' announced the world premiere of their new music video "Lady" on YouTube for Valentine's Day.

The music video, created by directors Kenny and Kyle Saylor, is for their new single release "Lady", which is currently available on iTunes and Google Play. The music video will premiere on the KAJ Brothers YouTube Channel on Friday, February 13, 2015 at 11am Eastern.

"Lady" is the popular boy band's follow-up single to "Hello" released in 2014, and is produced by Grammy-winning producer Bryan Lenox (Elton John, Garth Brooks, Amy Grant, Wynonna Judd, Sara Bareillis, Bruce Springsteen, Michael Bolton, Sir Cliff Richard, Michael W. Smith). "Lady" is a new interpretation of the multiple charts topping Kenny Rogers #1 hit song written by Lionel Ritchie.

The KAJ Brothers are an amazing, talented trio of young male artists who have crafted a unique style of harmonies and sophisticated Pop/R&B sound that distinguishes itself by its reinvention of romance filled orchestral sounds similar to Michael Buble', Harry Connick, Jr., Frank Sinatra, N'Sync, Boyz II Men, and Kenny Rogers. The multi-talented Orlando based trio consists of 20-year old Kyle Craichy, vocals, piano, guitar, and dance; 18-year old sibling Austin Craichy, vocals, piano, guitar, drums, and dance; and 28-year old Johnny Atys, vocalist and national dance champion, who rounds out the group. Kyle and Austin were born in Tampa and raised in Orlando, while Johnny is originally from Paris, France.

The KAJ Brothers regularly work with Orlando's renowned producer/vocal coach Gerry Williams who crafted the boy band sound for N'Sync and The Back Street Boys.

Weblinks: www.kajbrothers.com / www.twitter.com/kajbrothers / www.instagram.com/kajbrothers / https://www.facebook.com/kajbrothers /
www.youtube.com/channel/UCUccwcWjvy7pkhp9cydqZ1A

To arrange press interviews with the KAJ Brothers, contact Publicist Liz Motley at (615) 574-3398 or LizMotley(at)me(dot)com.

Suggested Tweet:
.@kajbrothers will premiere the MUSIC VIDEO for new single #Lady on YouTube for Valentine's Day! www.kajbrothers.com


http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=181353

Robert Kramer Releases "Branded" For Valentines Day

The new Robert Kramer single "Branded", a sultry,erotic pop tune destined to become a favorite, is already steaming up the airwaves ahead of Valentines Day.

Its' steady moving rhythm and sensual minimalist approach is a departure from Kramers' usual fare, and much removed from his last single "Place In My Heart", a tender R & B track featuring Frank Zappa vocalist Napoleon Murphy Brock. The new tune is getting heavy rotation on internet and terrestrial radio worldwide.

This time out, Kramer seems at ease with a new, direct vocal ethic, "Branded" being the first in a series of a whole string of all new material being characterized as "Kramer 3.0"

"It's a total 180 for me.." he comments. "You reach a certain point as a composer where you need to start taking more risks..I've felt the frustration of playing it safe..this new batch of material is a complete departure from the early tunes."

Stating this is the first in a series of new songs slated for a new concept album titled "Shadow Logic", Kramer is choosing to take a reverse approach in compiling the tracks for this next album.

"Each song is going to be completely different." says Kramer, who claims in bygone eras, the pop music charts weren't just all "rock n roll" or "pop music".

Pop charts used to offer the listener a variety of genres. Kramers' approach is a return to that method of delivering music to the public.

"We're releasing each song individually over a period of time, allowing the listener to compile the order for themselves. There's progressive rock, acoustic piano power ballads, some pop, a bit of jazz/fusion..something for everyone. Why lock yourself into one type of music?"

With the advent of the individual mp3 digital download, the record industry has, in effect, returned to the concept of the "single".

Kramer claims he's releasing each song to let it stand on its' own instead of having to buy a whole album just to get the one or two songs you really want from an artist.

"That's why we're calling the album "Shadow Logic". There's 14 or 15 songs we've got marked for release in the next few months. It will be interesting to observe the reaction as each song is revealed over a period of time, kind of like waiting for the next episode of your favorite tv drama. And there might be videos or special tv events connected to some songs..you never know what will happen next.."

http://www.robertkramermusic.com

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=181284

KAJ Brothers Set To Release New Single "Lady" In Time For Valentine's Day

(NASHVILLE, TN) February 2, 2015 – Pop/R&B trio the KAJ Brothers who are on a mission to 'make chivalry cool again' announced a Valentine's release of their second single "Lady" to be released via iTunes on Tuesday, February 10, 2015.

"Lady" is the popular boy band's follow-up single to "Hello" released in 2014, and is produced by Grammy winning producer Bryan Lenox (Elton John, Garth Brooks, Amy Grant, Wynonna Judd, Sara Bareillis, Bruce Springsteen, Michael Bolton, Sir Cliff Richard, Michael W. Smith). "Lady" is a new interpretation of the Kenny Rogers #1 hit song written by Lionel Ritchie.

"We felt 'Lady' was the perfect follow up single for us," says KAJ Brother Kyle Craichy. "It's a beautiful, chivalrous song that totally represents the kind of music that elevates women and girls with complete respect, which is what we're all about."

"Getting to work again with Producer Bryan Lenox in Nashville with Music City's top musicians and a wonderful musical arrangement was an incredible opportunity," enthused Austin Craichy of the KAJ Brothers.

"I loved the opportunity to sing part of the song in my native language – French," added fellow KAJ Brother Johnny Atys. "French is known for being such a romantic language which added to the romance of this beautiful song."

The KAJ Brothers are an amazing, talented trio of young male artists who have crafted a unique style of harmonies and sophisticated Pop/R&B sound that distinguishes itself by its reinvention of romance filled orchestral sounds similar to Michael Buble', Harry Connick, Jr., Frank Sinatra, N'Sync, Boyz II Men, and Kenny Rogers. The multi-talented Orlando based trio consists of 20-year old Kyle Craichy, vocals, piano, guitar, and dance; 18-year old sibling Austin Craichy, vocals, piano, guitar, drums, and dance; and 28-year old Johnny Atys, vocalist and national dance champion, who rounds out the group. Kyle and Austin were born in Tampa and raised in Orlando, while Johnny is originally from Paris, France.

The KAJ Brothers regularly work with Orlando's renowned producer/vocal coach Gerry Williams who crafted the boy band sound for N'Sync and The Back Street Boys.

The new KAJ Brothers single, "Lady" will be available for purchase on iTunes on Tuesday, February 10, 2015.

http://www.kajbrothers.com/
http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=181075

MusicDish Review: Rhea Francani Debut Single "Dizzy"

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=180703

"I'm following my heart's highway from NY to Nashville. My fans know me as a city girl with a country heart. I'm thriving in two completely different worlds!" This is how Country artist Rhea Francani describes herself. She will be releasing her first single "Dizzy" on January 20, 2015 and it perfectly represents the dichotomy Rhea feels deep down for all to listen. A New York attitude with with the soul of Nashville.

The song is about a girls night out drinking together, and that all too familiar feeling of having drunk a little too much is the result leading Rhea to be feeling 'Dizzy'. The fact that the lyrics are so relatable… at least to a fellow millennials, adds to the experience. It is one thing to listen to a song, it is another to understand it.

The song starts off very intensely, with gospel organs building up to Rhea's eloquently sweet voice, and soon the chorus is cheerfully blasting. The melodic song melds seamlessly between chorus and verse, leading the listener to yearn to sing along. Listening to Dizzy before knowing more about Rhea, one would assume she was part of the Nashville Country scene since childhood. But she is actually a New Yorker (Buffalo, NY native) who left to record with the talents of Nashville, the home of her heart. The result is a fresh wake up call to an otherwise stale NYC country scene.

Rhea Francani readily admits she's not your typical country music artist and we quite agree. Dizzy has overtones of Michael Jackson-like Pop and Light Rock. "I am drawn to the southern charm of country music's heartfelt lyrics - songs about love, life and good times," Rhea explains. "I wanted to create an authentic country album drawing on the talents of the Nashville music industry, and those seasoned professionals that could bring my music to life." After listening to the song one would have to agree that she has succeeded in this.

Her debut EP "I Want You To Know" will be due out in February 2015.

MarilynMusic Welcomes You To A Creative And Fruitful 2015

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=180679

Latest recording projects include three new tracks featuring Australian top ten singer songwriter Thom Crawford. "No Reason No Rhyme," "Smoke and Mirrors," and "Just Say Yes" are all available on MarilynMusic.net.

"It's been a privilege to work with and feature Sony recording artist Sera Burus, whom Michael Bolton has called the best singer he's ever heard," said MarilynMusics' Casey Conrad from The Vertical Room studio in NYC. "You Loved Me Best" is a powerful pop country crossover."It's the perfect match for Sera's incredible vocal chops," Conrad explained.

A unique opportunity to create a "State song" for California was the genesis of "Golden State," a rock anthem that evokes the power of Springsteen and Seger. Showcasing the talents of NYC based studio legend and Blues Brother's lead singer Jonny Rosch, the song is like a trip along the California coast including a cool homage to the Beach Boys.

Continuing a longstanding working relationship with New York producer/writer Gary Haase, Conrad is currently in the studio using his engineering and mixing skills on projects for various artists including Paul Mcartney and Chaka Khan.

MarilynMusics' Michael Gaines is busy in L.A. writing songs while also working on several film endeavors including "The Auctioneer," a drama set in the early 60's dealing with the seamy underbelly of the auction business.

Gaines and Conrad remain committed to their belief in the power of music to affect positive change.

You can access all of MarilynMusics'songs for licensing and purchase at MARILYNMUSIC.NET

I'm The King Of Alternative Pop Music The Ugly Superstar Announces As If He Was Leo Standing At The Tip Of The Titantic

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=180597

"I know the statement I made was bold, but I feel I am onto something awesome" said the singer, songwriter, music producer, screenwriter, author, poet and human Michael Blaney. "Before CHRONICLES OF AN UGLY SUPERSTAR part one of five, I had done four albums that were folk rock/punk rock oriented. I had some success with songs like WHATS WRONG WITH YOU, WHY, TOMATO, DON'T CALL ME AN ANGEL, RAINSTORM, LITTLE BOY LOST and then a series of personal issues stemming from a stupid attempted suicide, major robberies, i.d. theft, police senseless acts and stupidity to a whole domino effect kept me from music and writing all together, then one day I sat back and created the UGLY SUPERSTAR character, a kids franchise named FROGUEY, three autobiographies and a soon vampire graphic novel franchise all from the situations that occurred," Blaney blurts out. Then why all yourself the king of alternative pop music? "Everything you hear I did alone, and everything from music to the vocals were done in one take, often no lyrics in front of me. But, that's where the beauty of part one of five comes from and songs like I'M A ROBOT,CHRONICLES, PICK UP THE TEMPO, WE ARE ONE, MACHINE, I'M A PROUD AMERICAN And DEVIL KNOWS MY NAME have already found an audience with no marketing. There are lots of flaws and I Do go against the grain to me that's alternative. And I am just getting started." Blaney says. You can check his stuff at amazon http://buff.ly/1C6o0ET or his personal link below.

Third Time Is The Charm For Singer-Songwriter Raquel Aurilia With 'Long Way Home' - New Album Set For Release January 27th

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=180317

Singer-Songwriter Raquel Aurilia returns to her storytelling roots with the release of her new album, "Long Way Home", recorded in Nashville with Producer Billy Smiley. "Long Way Home" will be released in the U.S. on Tuesday, January 27, 2015.

Recording Artist Raquel Aurilia is an amazing singer-songwriter who has toured opening for John Waite, B.B. King, Gin Blossoms, Eddie Money and Pat Benatar... and has worked with Grammy Award winning producer Tony Papa (James Brown, Willie Nelson, John Denver) and Gardner Cole (Madonna, Jodi Whatley), as well as Grammy nominated Billy Smiley (Johnny Cash, Bebe and Cece Winans) on her latest project, "Long Way Home".

"It was such an exciting time to be back in the recording studio," says Raquel Aurilia. "Working with Producer Billy Smiley in Nashville at Dark Horse Studios with such an incredibly talented line up of Music City's finest session players to bring my latest songs and stories to life was a wonderful experience."

"Long Way Home" is Aurilia's third album and highlights her authentic, powerful talent as a storyteller. It offers a Country/Pop style and features some of Nashville's top studio musicians including: Steve Brewster (drums), Ken Lewis (drums), Byron House (upright bass), Brennan Smiley (guitars), Blair Masters (keyboards), Sal Oliveri (keyboards), and Andy Leftwich (violin) who have recorded with icons such as Kenny Rogers, Garth Brooks, Brett Eldridge, Amy Grant, Dierks Bentley, Peter Frampton, Robert Plant, Emmylou Harris, and Dolly Parton.

"Long Way Home" offers an authentic next chapter for Raquel Aurilia with her heartfelt original self-penned songs including: Shattered; Little Things I Love; Reach for the Stars; and the title track Long Way Home.

Aurilia's music has been featured on MTV's hit series "The Hills," "The City" and "Taking the Stage." Her hit single "Feels Like" from her debut record, "Finding My Way," cracked the ultra-competitive R&R Top 30 AC and Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary charts at #28, and is still receiving national air play today.

"Long Way Home" (Shea Records) track listing includes:
I'll Be Here; Long Way Home; One of Us; Shattered; There's Still Time; He Said, She Said; Dreams; Little Things I Love; I Don't Wanna Fight; Reach for the Stars; *Shattered-Acoustic Version (bonus track).

Musicians on "Long Way Home" include:

Raquel Aurilia, Lead Vocals
Drums: Steve Brewster, Ken Lewis
Acoustic Guitars: Billy Smiley, Scott Dente
Bass: Matt Pierson, Anthony Sallee
Upright Bass: Byron House
Electric Guitar: Brennan Smiley, George Cocchini
Keyboards: Blair Masters, Sal Oliveri, and Billy Smiley
Violin: Andy Leftwich
Background Vocals: Raquel Aurilia, Billy Smiley, and Michelle Swift

The Inspiration Behind The Versions Of "Santa Baby" Remakes... Hint, Never Marilyn Monroe!

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=180106

Sultry Jazz Pop singer, actress, Nobel Nominated Cynthia Basinet whose iconic version of "Santa Baby", that has often been mistaken for Marilyn Monroe; although Marilyn never sang the song, has been the inspiration behind the versions of "Santa Baby" recorded to date since 2000, whether well-known or not.

Cynthia's one off of Eartha Kitt's renowned Holiday Tune is a true homage to the famous Cat Woman herself also a lyrical gift to a very special person in Cynthia's life: "I recorded Santa Baby as a gift for a very special person in my life, Jack Nicholson. Have always loved that song, as so many do, thanks to Eartha.' She recorded it and another, "Someone To Watch Over” Me, as gifts that went on a Christmas card CD. That was 1997. She then launched Santa Baby via the Internet and it went viral in 2000. This version, perhaps because it was sung from the heart, has oft credited to Marilyn Monroe. (Well, that and illegal file sharing. ;-).) Ironically, this version has become the standard for today's artists from pop to R&B to country, worldwide.

Watch the OFFICIAL Music Video:
http://vevo.ly/O9nQbl

A bit more on the leggy, statuesque, strawberry blonde who has been seen in over 200 commercials and films, on magazine covers and whose image has been retributed: The quirky natural beauty with sparkling versatility as an entertainer, Cynthia Basinet was born in Van Nuys (Los Angeles), California. A single mom she is a resilient star, a rare inspirational gem of entertainment, combining her experience as an actress, a sought after American fashion model in Europe during the rise of the supermodel, as well as being recognized as a remarkable humanitarian¸ She was nominated in 2005 for a shared Nobel and has addressed the UN on numerous occasion of issues facing the Saharwian peoples living in self-determination. Her quote "Displaced societies are of value. Their issues are our issues." has become an anthem worldwide for the UN and refugees.

With crowning distinctions as a classically trained vocalist and musician (she learnt opera, the saxophone and flute as a child), Cynthia is one of the best jazz singers in the world today and is capable of conjuring up Hollywood's golden era of glamour from American history with her critically acclaimed performances and sultry jazz recordings. The artist has 10 releases from pop to electronic but it's her exquisite, speak-easy singing style smouldering with elegant mastery has ensconced Basinet as a cultural living treasure of the American jazz canon comparing her to the likes of Ella, Frank, Billie and others.

Her songs have been heard in soundtracks as varied indie cult film, "Party Monster" and the very popular CBS show "NCIS Los Angeles".

Cynthia's limited releases including her latest, "The Christmas Song" with Lee Musiker from "The Standard" on @iTunes:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/cynthia-basinet/id193221514

Follow Cynthia on social media @cynthiabasinet, Google+ and more

MusicDish*China Top 10 Songs Gives Insight Into Chinese Online Fans

http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=179758

In 2014, MusicDish*China (独立小炒) featured over 150 songs from Western indie musicians to Chinese music platform Ximalaya since July as part of its Song Blast promotional service. Covering genres from pop, R&B, jazz, electronic and rock, many songs have generated thousands of plays on the Chinese platform, with the most listened surpassing 30,000. So what appeals to Chinese online listeners?
 
Pop and EDM Find Favor With Chinese Online Fans
We listed our top ten most played songs on Ximalaya below. Without a doubt, one thing they share in common is that all ten of them are enjoyable to the ears --- Chinese ears to be precise. One of the trends we have discovered is that Chinese indie listeners on Ximalaya buy more into pop and electronic music, with pop being most popular. Another pattern that drew our attention is that all of our top fours have frighteningly beautiful, melodic, yet powerful female vocals. We hope our top ten songs can give a glimpse into the style of Western acts appealing to online Chinese fans this year. So here we go:
 
1. "Close Your Eyes" by Roxanna
Plays: 31,427
Genre: pop, jazz
Canadian music sensation Roxanna was born in wartime Iran. Her music always has an amazing power to heal broken hearts and inspire lost souls. Resounding melody, emotional lyrics, powerful voice, and a strong accompaniment of string orchestration all together make it the most touching song. This is why Close Your Eyes managed to touch our hearts and became our top one in the list of most played songs in 2014.

2. "Run" by Marina V
Plays: 19,175
Genre: pop
Marina V has this "hauntingly beautiful voice" (LA Times) that could intoxicate us. Run is a melodic and emotional pop song that would catch your ears very easily, and probably would linger in your head for days to come. As the songwriter and producer for her own music, Marina V always integrates her childhood experiences in Russia and teenage life in America into her songs. This song won her LA Music Critic Award in 2013.

3. "Falling 4 U" by Devyn Rose
Plays: 12,673
Genre: R&B, electronic
Talented musician Devyn Rose has been producing R&B, hip-pop and remixing tapes with her unique style that combines different music genres together. This Falling 4 U is sexy, edgy, yet hits you with an attitude. Beautiful and clean melody with a strong beat-driven rhythm all together make this song a number three on our most played songs list in 2014.

4. "Tomorrow" by We Are Catalyst
Plays: 10,716
Genre: rock, electronic
Heavy metal, alternative rock and electronic, "Tomorrow" is like a standard millennial type of thing. Leading vocal has a pure and simple female voice, which adds a sense of innocence to this dark, hopeless world that was created in the song.

5. "Stuck in My Head" by Sam Ebako
Plays: 10,080
Genre: EDM
After four stunning, female voices taking over the top four spots in our chart, finally we are here with some strong, male vocal expression. Sam Ebako is a Cameroon-born singer and songwriter. Stuck in My Head actually came out after his horrible breakup with his ex-girlfriend. The sad and grieved lyrics make a sharp contrast with the strong beats and hasty rhythm; and the electronic effects added to the vocal make this song very trendy and clubby.

6. "Boom" by Lina Fouro(L4O) 
Plays: 9,215
Genre: pop, electronic
L4o has always been popular among teenage girls. Her music is popping, chic and very straightforward. Catchy melodies with candid lyrics, Boom allows us to hear this simple, and maybe a little bit shy teenage girl expressing her love for her high school crush. The electronic effects and sexy vocal voice save this song from being plain, boring and too sweet.

7. "Somewhere" by Hashback Harnish
Plays: 7,343
Genre: electronic, experimental
Smoky, mysterious, and edgy. Hashback Harnish makes us enter this post-midnight world that only exists in our deep imaginations…

8. "Toxic Kisses" by SweetTooth
Plays: 6,603
Genre: rock/heavy metal
Heavy metal and electronic usually do not go along, yet Sweet Tooth surprises us by making these two comfortably compatible with each other. Toxic Kisses creates this dashingly frantic sense that would give you goose bumps from the first note.

9. "Sing Along, Sing Along" by Cookie Robinowitz
Plays: 5,803
Genre: pop
Cookie Robinowitz has successfully made this song pop-y and captivating that this song is simply enjoyable. The melody is so catchy that you would probably be singing along together right after verse one, just as the title has suggested.

10. "With You" by FM Pilots
Plays: 5,453
Genre: pop-alternative
FM Pilots is a pop-alternative band from Oklahoma. This song With You is frank, simple and clean-cut. The lead vocal has a very attractive voice, and the melody is well written and catchy. All of these make this song enjoyable and fun to listen.

MusicDish*China Song Blast
Since July 2014, MusicDish*China Song Blast service has been promoting Western acts on its branded channels on Chinese streaming platforms such as Ximalaya, Lizhi.fm and YuYin.fm as well as Chinese social sites such as Weibo, Douban, Huaban and Diandian
http://www.musicdish.com/china/music/singlepromo.php3

What Is Ximalaya?
As one of the major music platform in China, Ximalaya (ximalaya.com) is an online podcast platform and music player with mostly user-generated content. According to BaiduApp (a Chinese digital distribution platform for mobile apps, like GooglePlay and Android Market), more than 14 million people have downloaded Ximalaya app to their mobile devices since its launch in 2012.

SHMNS announces breakup // Jonas Makai Release Secret Shores Remix

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=179613

SHMNS announced their breakup on November 11, 2014. They formed in 2012 and released their debut EP 'Somewhere Between Here and There' on May 14, 2013 via Justin's record label, Think Thought Records. The four pieced announced they had actually broken up back in June but haven't made an official announcement until November 11. The front man Justin Romanos was quoted saying "We are all still very good friends but after me (justin) and Isaac graduated college it was hard to keep things together." He also added that he has begun working on a solo album, but didn't go into any detail.

The announcement was made in part with a link to the soundcloud of Jonas Makai who remixed SHMNS' debut single 'Secret Shores'. The song can be streamed here - https://soundcloud.com/jonasmakai/secret-shores-jonasmakai-remix

"The Young Lioness of Africa" Releases Debut Album

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=179532

Wiyaala, the young lioness, leads the pride towards peace and unity with her new self-titled album, out worldwide on November 24th.

Following success with her singles "Make Me Dance", "Rock My Body", "Africa", and the World Cup anthem "Go Go Black Stars..Goal!", Wiyaala announces her self-titled album. The new LP, "Wiyaala", is distributed on the Djimba World Records label under exclusive license to JTV Digital. It is officially released worldwide on November 24th through all major digital retailers: http://wiyaala.lnk.to/lp

The album, sung in a mix of English and local tribal dialects of Sissali and Wale is an update on the "clash of civilizations" between the cultural traditions, social order and practices of West Africa and the impact of the "West". Wiyaala does not seek confrontation. She has a positive message.

In the songs Siiko, Bunsun and Sun & Moon, Wiyaala gently chides, that in the haste to acquire the benefits of the digital life, her people should not forget their roots: "Come, lets go back! Embrace the things we left behind, and add them to what we have now."


ABOUT WIYAALA:
Wiyaala, from the Upper West of Ghana, is a personification of modern Africa: creative, brave, strong and beautiful. Her name, literally translates to "the doer" in Sissala, her tribal language and perfectly describes her approach to life. Frequently compared to Angelique Kidjo and Grace Jones, Wiyaala’s music is truly Afro-Pop fusing her African roots with contemporary world Pop music.

Wiyaala has four nominations at the 2014 All Africa Music Awards (AFIMA), Revelation of the African Continent, Best Reggae, Ragga, Dancehall Song for Rock My Body, Best Female Artist West Africa and Most Promising African Artist of the Continent. The ceremony is expected to take place in Lagos in December.


LINKS:
• http://wiyaala.lnk.to/lp
• http://wiyaala.com
• http://www.facebook.com/wiyaala
• http://www.youtube.com/noellawiyaala
• http://twitter.com/wiyaala

To celebrate Noël À l’Africaine (Christmas In Africa's way)!

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=179462

Herléo Muntu announces the release of a new single for the holidays.

In studio for a new album in 2015, Herléo Muntu launches Noël À l’Africaine. A digital title for the holiday season.

Festive and joyful, Noël À l’Africaine is ideal for family gatherings year-end.

Written and performed by the artist, Muntu Herléo offers us a song with Hip-Pop World accents, as he likes to say. He invites us this year, through his song, to travel and celebrate Christmas in the African's way!

__________________________

Since the launch of his album Reflexions in 2013, Muntu Herléo toured Ontario-Quebec, two African tours and two shows in France and Belgium. www.herleo.com


Writer/Author : Raymond Kashiba
ISRC : CA2P91400001
UPC: 889211185481
Genre: World (African)
Label: Groupe Grio

International Sensation Finds Artistic Freedom and Gives Hope to Youth of a Nation

http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=179375

Myanmar's #1 Pop artist is now making her presence known in the United States. Ah Moon (Lung Sitt Ja Moon) grew up in the terribly poor and conflicted Burma. She found her spirit to survive in singing, playing piano, violin and acting at an early age. Through the years of brutal military rule, to now a (somewhat) democratic society, she never stopped pursuing her dream to become an international artist.

Her first project, the Me N Ma Girls, attracted scores of international press stories, and even a critically acclaimed documentary film (Nikki and the Tiger Girls). Now her focus is on her solo career. Her recently released, solo album 'Min Pay Tae A Chit," is comprised of both Burmese and English songs. In a matter of weeks, the album is selling out across the country of Myanmar. Her most recent video release, "Cheap Sunglasses" has received over 11,000 YouTube plays in a little over a week.

Ah Moon's is an affable young woman of 23 years, speaks 5 languages, and is extremely active in charity organizations. Specifically admirable are her efforts with the World Wide Orphans Foundation, support for Myanmar's Orphans, and the homeless shelters throughout her country. Ah Moon can be looked at as a true role model to the young women of Myanmar.

Giovannie Pierre-Louise's Inspirational Song "Reaching For The Stars"

The new single and video, "Reaching For The Stars", from Giovannie Pierre-Louise, known professionally as Gio, is a slow tempo number that is beautifully inspirational, encouraging, and reaches its goal of being serene, with soft but lyrically strong vocals connecting well with listeners. Fans of any music genre will be easily able to get into this song, because it has a style that simply defies categorization. In the video, Gio is sitting on a beautiful cloud, singing and reaching for her star. If she keeps producing songs like this, it's definitely not far out of reach.

One's inspiration doesn't always have to come from somewhere else; if you don't look too far you'll see it within. From Gio, "as a child I always imagined that I was in this land of make believe, with this ever lasting beauty and always used this hairbrush as my microphone. I looked up to the ceiling as if it was beautiful stars while I was singing in my own imaginary world." That was what inspired her to do this song and video, the scene just as she imagined, by herself in the snow.
http://www.itsgiovannie.com

MusicDishTV Presents "Dance With You" By Jazz-Pop Duo Miss 600

UK Based jazz-pop duo Miss 600 recently released their new video, "Dance With You". Nothing but listening with your own two ears will do this song justice. The beat is an up tempo cut that has plenty of spunk, passion and a powerhouse vocal performance from Miss 600, which includes singer-songwriter Hannah Garner and multi-instrumentalist David Amar. This is feel good music at its best! In many ways, Garner's vocal style reminds me of Beyonce, and yet it remains extraordinarily unique. This lady doesn't fit into anyone's shadow or mold. The music has a full orchestra sound, with horns and an arrangement that just doesn't quit! Amar also shows his prowess, flexing his musical muscles, and believe me, he's much more Superman in that respect than he is Clark Kent. You just can't listen to this without it impacting your mood. The duo is on a supersonic flight to stardom, and as a reviewer, I have to say that "this is a pair of artists to keep your eye on." Whether you've ever heard of them before or not, you will without a doubt find them on your radar, probably sooner than later. One can tell easily that they enjoy what they're doing, and when you have that along with the cohesiveness and brilliance the team exudes, along with raw talent and songs that transport and allow you to feel like you're at a show instead of just listening to a record, that's a winning combination.
http://www.miss600.com

GRAMMY-Nominee ARUN SHENOY Makes History as the First Singaporean nominated for a GRAMMY Award

Earlier this month, Arun Shenoy Music Publishing (ASMP), Singapore, announced a GRAMMY® Award nomination for Singaporean artist, producer and composer, Arun Shenoy, and his album titled Rumbadoodle in the Best Pop Intrumental Album field. Soon after, the artist was surprised with a second honor, as the local media confirmed he was the first Singaporean ever nominated for a GRAMMY® Award.

Shenoy released Rumbadoodle, a Flamenco-flavoured instrumental album and accompanying video, in August 2012. Throughout the large scale production process that was recorded across the globe, he shared the project’s progress from afar with industry contacts around the world, which garnered critical acclaim for his work, and eventually landed him in company with fellow Pop Instrumental nominees Chris Botti, Larry Carlton, Dave Koz and Gerald Albright & Norman Brown.

The album is a labor of love, Shenoy says, recorded over several years from Spain to Pakistan, from the UK to Canada, India to LA and New York, and of course in Singapore. Combining elements of the traditional Gypsy Rumba Flamenco with a myriad of popular music forms across the aesthetics of pop, rock and jazz, Shenoy describes the record as an exploratory journey, doodling across genre boundaries as we know it today, creating a unique and true masterpiece along the way.

"I am delighted that Rumbadoodle has been embraced by the music community and recognized at this pinnacle of excellence. I am humbled by this recognition for my work,” says Arun Shenoy soonafter the results were announced.

Shenoy is one of three Indian-born artists to be nominated this year, joining Anoushka Shankar and her recently-deceased father, Ravi Shankar, who were both nominated in the Best World Music Album category. Shenoy recently paid homage to the elder Shankar in several media outlets, stating, "To say Pandit Ravi Shankar is merely an ‘influence’ would be trivializing the importance of him. Thinking back, the sound of the Sitar was always around me growing up, and it was almost always him playing it. There are two things for which I admire him: First of all, that he was unique and original. He never tried to be someone else, he developed a style which was unique from his contemporaries, and -- whether it was influencing The Beatles or even playing at Woodstock -- he never lost his own aesthetic. And, secondly, the fact that he lived and breathed music ‘til the end is inspiring. He was 92, the oldest nominee on this year’s list, quite possibly. Seeing myself on the same nominee list as him put me into a sense of disbelief. He dedicated his life to music, and I hope I can do the same. It’s a great loss to music and to the world. May his soul rest in peace, and his music continue ringing in our ears."

While Singapore is his adopted home, Shenoy stays connected with his birthplace, dedicating 100% of album sales to Milaap.org, a micro-loan organization serving India. He notes, “The funds raised with this campaign will be put towards an education fund setup for under-privileged in India. Folks say the truth will set you free. We like to believe that education will. So please join us and make a difference.”

Shenoy says he will make the long journey from Singapore for a round of L.A.-based meetings and The Grammy Awards at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Sunday, the 10th of Feb 2013, broadcast on CBS at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

One can stream the full album and watch Rumbadoodle’s animated music video - produced in conjunction with NY-based Actuality Films - online at www.arunshenoy.com.

Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vz0TU_d3Oc

Recent Media:
http://www.tnp.sg/content/singaporean-gets-grammy-nomination
http://indiawest.com/news/8084-ravi-and-anoushka-shankar-arun-shenoy-up-for-grammys.html

About Arun Shenoy
Arun Shenoy is a Singaporean songwriter and record producer originally from Bangalore, India. His production style weaves through the genres of rock n roll, worldbeat and new age music. Arun writes and produces music released as solo productions under his own name, as well as for other bands and solo artists. He broke into the limelight in 2010 with the debut EP of American rockers Tanadra that was co-written and produced by him and that yielded the hit single "Danny". This was followed in 2012 by Rumbadoodle, a solo production under his own name. He is currently busy with his follow up record slated for release in the summer of 2013. He is a showcase artist of SONY for their audio production suite and endorses PreSonus, the premier American manufacturer of live and studio sound equipment. Visit http://www.ArunShenoy.com