Artist Of The Month

February 2, 2012

Fun

A long road of artistic soul searching, growth and development is paying off for Nate Ruess, Andrew Dost, and Jack Antonoff.  The trio of dedicated musicians is enjoying recently achieved success after they formed their Indie Pop band, Fun in 2008. New fans will credit that success to their infectiously catchy tune “We Are Young” featuring Clizbeats Featured Artist, Janelle Monae, and while in many ways this is true, die hard fans know that, it is the well deserved reward after years of hard work.

Now based in New York, New York , Fun was born out of the wake of Arizona Indie/Pop band The Format’s decision to break up, after the excitement of their grass roots following wasn’t matched with mainstream label support. Nate Russes then moved to New York leaving a band he had been a part of since he was a teenager. To make the best of a new situation in New York, Russess actively sought out the help of his music industry friends in order to help him make a new start.

While on that journey of rediscovery Ruess began collaborating with fellow displaced indie rocker formerly of Anathallo, Andrew Dost, and Jack, Antonoff, front man of Drive Thru Records, band Steel Train.   The collaborating trio became Fun. They partnered up with former Format producer, Steve McDonald to make their debut, Aim And Ignite. Canadian based Nettwerk Records released it in 2009.

Over all, Aim And Ignite was warmly received in the exclusive Indie Rock community that bands like The Format, and Steel Train were born out of. Much of the praised however, appeared to stem most from already familiar Steel Train and Format fans and critics that were infatuated with the novelty of Fun being an experimental twist on something from guys they already knew, and less from a newly exposed audience.

Deeper reasons for Aim And Ignite’s reception, and what it actually meant to the band would be debated amongst critics, but the best way we’ve seen it summed up was by Dave de Sylvia of spunkimusic.com, who recognized that their immense was there, it simply needed time to grow into itself.
“Aim And Ignite isn’t the most consistent pop album around,” but ultimately commended the album as “a superbly mixed and arranged album made by musicians who clearly understand the limits and potential of pop music.”

Ken Shane of Popdose.com also felt like there was defiantly something there, but they needed to find a presentation that better fit the quality of their talent. Shane called the album “an interesting and unusual listen.” He applauded the album’s songwriting and said “many of the songs are really good,” but thought the album’s production was too “cute”, and wondered if a shift in production’s presentation would make a bigger impact for the band.

To Fun’s credit, criticisms didn’t appear to deter them at all.  They continued to tour and network in the industry until they were ready to make their second album called Some Nights.  For the Some Nights production approach, Fun enlisted the help of Jeff Bhasker.  This was an important difference to note for the band.  Prior to working with Fun , Bhasker built a name for himself producing popular Hip Hop, and R&B acts like Kanye West, Alicia Keys, Bruno Mars, Drake, Brandy, and Birdman. Through that work, he has shown a keen ability to layer very dominate procession, key, and string sounds in a way that melodically surrounds, props up, and often thickens the vocal delivery of the performer.  It’s hard to say how much of that same stylistic influence found its way on to Some Nights, because Nate himself is a fantastic songwriter. That being said, after studying all of the available music from Fun, The Format, and Steel Train, he seems to have helped them find the consistency that they have been searching for, and hone it into a more powerful and direct musical statement.

The completion of Some Nights, then clicked with the major promotional efforts of their new label Fueled By Ramen Records. Fun’s lead single “We Are Young” struck a chord with the mainstream public very fast.  Within a matter of months it rose from tastemaker buzz, to being featured through the blockbuster promotion of a Chevy Sonic commercial and Fox shows Glee and American Idol. The best part of all of this is that it will give this truly talented band a chance to grow and effect the direction of the Pop mainstream while maintaining an artistic depth that will hopefully continue to enrich the Rock genre. Some Nights will be hitting stores February 21st.

Fun Featuring Janelle Monae

“We Are Young”

From Some Nights

Fueled By Ramen Records

Glee Cast Performing Fun’s “We Are Young”

Ryan Murphy Productions/20th Century Fox/Columbia Records

Fun

“Carry On”

From Some Nights

Fueled By Ramen Records

People Are Talking About Fun!

“Baroque indie-popsters make a counterintuitive play for the big time, slowing down for the massive sing-along chorus.”

USA Today

“This is the ultimate uplifting anthem to bring you into the weekend.”

Teen Vogue

“With their bold new video and bombastic new single, Fun. serve notice that 2012 may very well be their breakout year.”

MTV

“With a name like fun, how can you resist? More importantly, why would you want to?  Bubbly, pop-synth songs are nothing but pure, unadulterated fun.”

Paste

“Nate Ruess’ voice is legendary… [fun.’s] music is special.  To watch fun. is to perhaps watch the renaissance of Queen mixed with their own fresh approach to music.”

Janelle Monáe (Atlantic Records)

“Indie pop band fun. is irresistible.”

944 Magazine

“The band pays homage to ’60s and ’70s rock…. Ruess’ soaring, impassioned vocals easily draw comparisons to Freddie Mercury… [and fun.] should be commended for their infectious enthusiasm…”

Metromix

“…Awesome hook!!! FUN”

Bruno Mars (Elektra Records)

“Song of the Day: Fun ft. Janelle Monae: We Are Young”

Samantha Ronson (DJ)

Artist Of The Month

January 3, 2012

“If I don’t feel it, I can’t do it.

Music is everything to me.”

Luke James "Who Is Luke James" NARS/Mercury Records/Island Def Jam Music Group

When a new artist hits the scene, adjectives like fresh and honest frequently get thrown around when, in many instances, it’s more hype than truth. But that’s definitely not the case when it comes to Luke James.

And just who is Luke James?

He’s a singer/songwriter who truly embodies the honesty and fresh, organic soulfulness that’s been in relatively short supply of late in contemporary music. Now that sounds like a pretty tall order for a newcomer to fulfill. However, the New Orleans native is very much up to the task. In fact, you’ve no doubt heard his work: he co-wrote Chris Brown’s “Crawl” and has penned songs for Justin Bieber (“That Should Be Me”) and Britney Spears (“Kill The Lights”), among others. And his growing fan base includes none other than Beyoncé, who selected James to appear in her “Run the World” video.

James’ real-deal approach to music and—more important—the craft of singing are the main attractions on his upcoming pre album and album of the same name: “Made to Love.” Both mark the singer/songwriter’s debut on Mercury/Island Def Jam via New Age Rock Star Records (NARS), the label helmed by award-winning producer Danja (Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake, Keri Hilson) and long-time collaborator / mixing engineer Marcella “Ms Lago” Araica (Madonna, Pink, Timbaland).

“This isn’t a fad for me,” declares James. “I’m willing to go wherever with this because music is everything to me. This is my world and how I see it. My music speaks for me in a way that’s relatable and truthful.”

“Honest is the best word to describe Luke,” adds Danja, who began working with James nearly four years ago. “Every message in his songs is sincere. And Luke’s voice is another obvious factor. Putting all of that together, he possesses a universal connection that touches everyone. He’s an undeniable force.”

That connection hits home on James’ lead single, “I Want You.” Packed with interesting breaks and tempo shifts, the sparse yet bright track pulsates with an infectious, hip-hop-influenced beat. That foundation provides the perfect complement to James’ pure, arresting falsetto as he sings: “I was just a broken record of one-night stands /Til you came along with your beautiful song …”

“It’s all about the voice,” says Danja. “And that’s what he’s captured on every record. Production doesn’t matter. No matter how sparse or grand I make it, he takes control and makes it about him.”

James’ innate talent as a singer/songwriter was nurtured in one of music’s legendary outposts, New Orleans. An only child, he grew up listening to a wide array of influences thanks to his single mother: everyone from Marvin Gaye and Harold Melvin & the Bluenotes to Willie Nelson and Alabama. James’ oh wow moment occurred when he was 11 years old and watching the amateur talent segment on TV’s “Showtime at the Apollo.” One of the contestants began singing Donny Hathaway’s version of writer Leon Russell’s “A Song For You.”

“I got chills,” recalls James. “And I get that feeling all over again whenever I think about that performance. At the time, I’d never said I wanted to be a singer; I just knew I wanted to entertain. And I’d never heard of Donny. But when my mother found her copy of one of his records, I knew then that I wanted to reach people that way.”

While in high school in 2001, James joined a trio that started performing around New Orleans, opening for such acts as Brian McKnight. When things with the trio didn’t work out, James moved to Los Angeles after graduation and began singing background for R&B singer Tyrese. It was through the singer that James met production duo the Underdogs and signed with their label as part of a singing duo: Luke & Q.

When Luke & Q decided to go their separate ways, James began honing his skills as a songwriter after hooking up with producer Danja nearly four years ago. Since then, he has collaborated on songs for Brown, Bieber, Spears, Keri Hilson and Brandy and worked alongside such other producers as Kadis and Sean and the Messengers. Inspired by those collaborations, he rediscovered his footing as a singer in his own right.

“I found the feeling again where I felt something fresh could come out,” says James. “Writing songs helped me figure out what my lane was as far as being a solo artist. And I’ve also learned something else: If I don’t feel it, I can’t do it.

Who Is Luke James

Bio Interview Video

NARS/Mercury Records/Island Def Jam Music Group

Luke James

“I Want You”

NARS/Mercury Records/Island Def Jam Music Group

Luke James’

#Luke Pre-Album Trailer

NARS/Mercury/Island Def Jam Music Group

Songs Co Written By Luke James

Britney Speaes

“Kill The Lights”

From Circus

Jive Records/JLG

Chris Brown

“Crawl”

From Graffiti

CBE/Jive Records/JLG

Justin Bieber Featuring Rascal Flatts

?That Should Be Me”

From My World 2.0/Never Say Never: The Remixes

RBMG/Island Records/IDJMG

Music Video Featuring Luke James

Beyonce

“Run The World (Girls)”

From 4

Columbia Records

Artist Of The Month

December 1, 2011

Freesol

 

FreeSol Anderson – MC
E. Ives – Guitar / Vocals
Mo D’Anger – Bass
Kickman Teddy – Drums
DJ Charlie White

Memphis is America’s musical heart and soul. It’s the birthplace of rock, the spiritual home of the blues, and more recently, host to some of the best rappers of the past decade.

Fittingly, FreeSol has synthesized Memphis’ myriad of influences – seemingly via osmosis – and has crafted a fresh sound that is electrifying fans from Atlanta to Los Angeles.

“We’re bringing it back to Memphis,” says FreeSol Anderson, ringleader of the 5-piece hip-hop/rock hybrid. “Just being around so many musicians is part of what makes this city great.”

Comprised of FreeSol Anderson aka Free (MC), Kickman Teddy (drums), E. Ives (guitar/vocals), Mo D’Anger (bass), and DJ Charlie White, FreeSol has been winning over fans all around the South, the Midwest and the Northeast since 2003, via a live show that bridges the gap between rap, rock, funk and soul.

“What we do is present rap music live,” Free explains. “I love to listen to hip-hop in the car, but I don’t really run off and go see rap concerts. What we do is try to keep hip-hop entertaining live.”

The act’s energetic sets caught the attention of Memphis native Justin Timberlake, who not only became a fan, but also signed the band to his label, Tennman/Interscope.

“We were on our way to Atlanta to sign a deal [with another label],” Free reveals.
“Justin caught wind of it and immediately called us.”

The rest, as they say, is history. FreeSol did stay in Memphis, and they’ve recorded a stellar album that showcases the crushing power of the genre-hopping collective.

From the breakneck, militaristic beats of “Role Model,” punctuated with bursts of guitar (and a guest rap turn from Timberlake), to the sizzling, sensual, extended-metaphor of a coy rap track called “Audition” (which features Memphis rap legend, 8Ball), “No Rules” is a dizzying tour through Tennessee’s musical soul right now.

“It’s a little bit of everything,” says Free of the mélange of styles present on the set, which leans more urban than rock, yet contains elements that will appeal to fans of bands such as Franz Ferdinand and the likes.

“We make something that has all of the elements and make it pop,” he continues.
True enough, tracks such as “Hoodies On, Hats Low” sway with a confidence rarely seen in bands pursuing the type of music FreeSol excels at.

“It’s a generation song,” Free declares. “You put your hoodie on and it’s a hip-hop thing. People relate to the culture of it…even if you’re a lawyer or accountant out jogging. You put your headphones on, you put your hoodie on, you pull your hat down low…everyone can relate to that moment when you just kinda zone out.  It’s automatic.”

Indeed, the entire band seems set on “automatic” when it comes to magnificent musicianship (this is Memphis, after all), coming across as the house band “Hustle & Flow” never had; yet would have welcomed with open arms.

FreeSol’s debut offering, produced by Timbaland, Jim Jonsin, Mike Elizondo, Printz Board, Dave Tozer, Greg Gordon and The Y’s, and executive produced by Justin Timberlake, unquestionably captures the sound of the South today – which is to say soulful, danceable, edgy, fun and with a heart so large fans know it could only come out of a city at the center of America’s evolving musical journey: Memphis, Tennessee.

Freesol Featuring Justin Timberlake

“Role Model” (Explicit)

From No Rules

Tennman/Interscope Records

Freesol Featuring Justin Timberlake & Timbaland

“Fascinated”

From No Rules

Tennman/Interscope Records

Freesol

“Fascinated”/”Role Model”

Live On Late Night With David Letterman

Woldwide Pants/CBS

Freesol

“Hoodies On, Hats Low”

Tennman/Interscope Records

Freesol

“RocknRolla”

Tennman/Interscope Records

 

Artist Of The Month

November 1, 2011

Anjulie

Anjulie makes fearless pop music.

 On her debut album for Universal Republic Records, the sultry and sassy singer-songwriter speaks her mind over irresistible electro beats and R&B grooves with a healthy dose of rock ‘n’ roll attitude. She’s far from your average musical vixen. Rather than relying on hit-makers, she personally wrote every song on her debut and hand-picked the producers.  As a result, her album is locked and loaded with unbridled, in-your-face lyrics, seductive come-ons, and swagger to spare. Meet your new favorite provocateur…

 Growing up in suburban Toronto, Anjulie knew what she wanted to do from a very young age. Upon getting a VHS of Janet Jackson’s Velvet Rope tour, she became obsessed with music. That obsession led to her discovery of Michael Jackson, Prince, Madonna, Annie Lennox, and Missy Elliot. However, it was a fellow Canadian who proved most influential for the starlet-in-training.

 ”When Alanis Morrissette’s Jagged Little Pill came out, that was my shit,” she exclaims with a smile. “She was writing her own songs, and I related to her so much. That was extremely inspirational. Now, I’m being confessional from my own perspective as a writer.”

 She first tapped into some of that energy while fronting a punk band in high school. However, her vision became refined upon relocating to Los Angeles in 2009.  Becoming exposed to the city’s burgeoning club scene, Anjulie embraced the sounds of electronic music and incorporated them into her very own style.

 She goes on, “My music is like global alternative pop. It’s up-tempo, but it’s aggressive. I seamlessly transition from electro to techno to rock, but it all comes from the same place. It’s a new beginning.”

 As she cultivated this sound, Anjulie signed to Universal Republic Records and found a home to be completely creative and uninhibited. While working on her album, she cemented a career as an in-demand songwriter, penning tunes for the likes of Chris Brown, Laidback Luke, Fefe Dobson, and

Cassie. She also landed high-profile song placements on The Vampire Diaries, Air Canada flights, and MTV’s The Hills and The City.  At the same time, Anjulie properly invaded the pop culture landscape with her anthemic debut single, “Brand New Bitch” in spring 2011.

 Over slippery synths and production from Laidback Luke, her declaration of independence sizzles with hyper-infectious flavor. “It’s partly about this guy I broke up with, but it’s really about taking control of your own life,” reveals the singer. “I got some backlash about the word ‘bitch’, but I feel like women can reclaim that word. I mean it in a very empowering way.”

 Another empowering effort is the song’s follow-up, “Stand Behind the Music”. It’s a mega-catchy dance floor firestarter that’s bound to get audiences worldwide moving and singing along.

 ”It’s an autobiographical call-to-arms,” affirms Anjulie. “It’s not just about music. Stand behind whatever you believe in and stay true to who you are. I’ve fought my way through the industry. I’ve gone through a lot to get here, and in the end it’s all about the music. This song epitomizes that.”

 Elsewhere on the album, she gets even rawer with the fiery and fun “Sex Electric”, while “Last Night” is a revealing narrative where our heroine “broke into your Range Rover and set fire all in the name of love.” It’s a rousing and raucous rollercoaster of a record.

 Anjulie enlisted talent from every corner of the globe to realize this vision. A-list producers Swedish House Mafia, Benny Benassi and Swizz Beats also provide their stamp to different tracks. However, this is decidedly Anjulie’s vision.

 ”I’m always interested in being disarming,” she declares. “I want to find the truth and draw it out in other people. I think that’s what separates me… I’m not afraid to go there.”

 Once you go there with Anjulie, you may never want to come back.

Anjulie

“Brand New Bitch”

Universal Republic Records Group

Artist Of The Month

October 3, 2011

 New York NY – Wind-up Records is pleased to announce that it has signed season 10 American Idol fan-favorite and resident-rocker, James Durbin to a recording contract. Durbin will continue to be managed by 19 Entertainment’s President, Iain Pirie, GM Josh Klemme (formerly manager of Buckcherry and one of the managers of Steven Tyler) and Red Light Management’s Mark DiDia.Of the signing, Durbin states, “Wind-up Records isn’t a label, it’s a family and I wanted to be a part of that. They are true music fans that want to see me have a long career as an artist. I couldn’t have asked for more when signing a record deal.”

Santa Cruz CA native, James Durbin, 22, rocked the stage of Idol every week with his signature high-pitched scream and touched the hearts of America throughout the season as he opened up about his Asperger and Tourette syndrome. Fans and critics alike flocked to Durbin in praise and inspiration as his love of rock prevailed. Durbin continues to showcase his inner rock-star as he brings arenas to their feet on the American Idol Live tour with his energetic performances. He is also mid-way through recording his debut album with Grammy nominated producer, famed rock producer Howard Benson (Daughtry, P.O.D, My Chemical Romance, 3 Doors Down). Wind-up will release Durbin’s debut album this fall.

Artist Of The Month

September 1, 2011

Lil Playy

The rapper, known for his quick-witted freestyle rhymes, began writing raps when he was 15. His mother, after having warmed up to the idea of his becoming a rapper, built him a makeshift studio in the house. Lil Playy found early success in rap competitions at the Royal Peacock, Atlanta’s 18 and over nightclub, under the guidance of his father, Rick Davidson of Racer Entertainment. It was at the Peacock that music, TV and film executive Madison Jones discovered him–later linking him with co-manager Larry Layfield. In 2008, he gained notoriety as a promising contestant in the BET Hot 16 Challenge with Jermaine Dupri.

After graduating from high school, Lil Playy’s years of grinding on the underground scene in Houston and Atlanta paid off. His managers, introduced him to the Legendary Traxster who worked with Lil Playy to create “My Chick Bad.” The song caught the attention of Ludacris, who made a bid to purchase the record for use on his “Battle Of The Sexes” album. Lil Playy’s decision to sell the song proved to be a genius business move. Within months, Ludacris’ version, featuring Nicki Minaj, peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop chart. The song was also nominated for a Grammy Award in 2011.

The success of “My Chick Bad” put Lil Playy on the national map. Soon after, Madison introduced Lil Playy to his business partner Suzanne de Passe and, together, they signed Lil Playy to the de Passe Jones Entertainment roster. The duo introduced their new artist to super producer Rodney Jerkins, with whom he connected immediately, recording more than 30 songs. The works impressed Interscope Geffen A&M head Jimmy Iovine, who brought Lil Playy into the label home of superstar acts such as the Black Eyed Peas, Lady Gaga, and Eminem.

Not wasting any time, Lil Playy is currently working on an EP which will be released later this year. Its lead single, “Birthday Dress” (featuring Koma), will serve as the perfect summer anthem. In addition, he is preparing to release his “Tour Bus Muzik” mixtape this summer, helmed by Jerkins’ Darkchild Productions.

And let’s not forget, “entrepreneur” in Lil Playy’s list of endeavors. He has launched a multi-media company with Suzanne de Passe and Madison Jones called Stunny Moneyy Entertainment.

Now that Lil Playy’s exceptional talent is backed by the support of the biggest forces in music and television, it’s only a matter of time before he will become a household name.

Artist Of The Month

August 1, 2011

Joe Jonas "See No More" Hollywood Records

BURBANK, Calif., May 16 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Joe Jonas will release his debut single as a solo artist, “See No More,” on June 3rd.  The highly anticipated debut solo album on Hollywood Records will be in stores on September 6, 2011 and will feature production by Danja, Rob Knox and Brian Kennedy.  “See No More” was co-written by Joe Jonas and Chris Brown and produced by Brian Kennedy.  The song will be available digitally for sale on June 13th.

“Working on this album has been a rewarding but intense experience.  ‘See No More’ especially carries a lot of personal emotions with it and I am hoping people listening to it will get a sense of where I’m coming from with this new sound,” says Joe Jonas.  “I’ve had an awesome team working with me on the music and I am excited, anxious, but more importantly… ready… to share it all with my fans.  It’s as much for them as it is for me.”

Joe Jonas is a member of the multi-platinum selling award winning band the Jonas Brothers.  He began his career as a performer at an early age appearing on Broadway in the acclaimed production of La Boheme.  Since then, Joe and his brothers have gone on to sell over 8 million albums worldwide and have performed to sold-out stadiums and arenas across three continents.  Joe is actively involved with both the Special Olympics and his own charity, Change For The Children.

Joe has recently been on the cover of Details Magazine and featured in Entertainment Weekly and Rolling Stone.  For more information on Joe Jonas, please visit his official website www.JoeJonasMusic.com.

Joe Jonas

“See No More”

From Fast Life

Hollywood Records

Artist Of The Month

July 1, 2011

INVINSIBLE

Skylar Grey

Skylar Grey is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who is responsible for co-writing some of the most memorable songs of the past year. With hits such as Eminem‟s “Love The Way You Lie” (which earned Grey two GRAMMY Award nominations, including Song and Record of the Year), Dr. Dre‟s “I Need A Doctor” (which Grey performed alongside Dre and Eminem at this year‟s GRAMMY ceremony), Diddy-Dirty Money‟s “Coming Home” (which she performed with the Sean Combs-fronted group on American Idol this season), Lupe Fiasco‟s “Words I Never Said,” and T.I.‟s “Castle Walls,” her work lit up the Billboard Hot 100 and iTunes sales charts.

The fact that “Love The Way You Lie” — for which Grey penned the Rihanna-sung chorus — has sold nearly 10 million downloads globally and spent seven weeks atop the U.S. pop chart is a clear message to the 25-year-old Grey: “It shows me that the world is hungry for emotionally driven music,” she says. “I want to start a revolution and open doors for myself and for other like-minded artists to bring passion and vulnerability back to pop radio, because I think it‟s an element that‟s been missing in recent years.”

Grey will get her chance this fall with the release of INVINSIBLE, the upcoming album she‟s recorded with British songwriter and producer Alex Da Kid (Nicki Minaj, B.o.B, U2). Da Kid signed Grey to a production deal with his company KIDinaKORNER and is responsible for her connections to Eminem, Rihanna, Dr. Dre, Sean Combs, Lupe Fiasco, and T.I. The music the two have cooked up for INVINSIBLE is cinematic, hip-hop-influenced alternative-pop that showcases Grey‟s dusky, ethereal voice and gift for haunting melodies, which Da Kid has set to inventive, percussive beats.

Lyrically, the album‟s songs, such as “Invisible,” “Weirdo,” “Building A Monster,” and “Dance Without You,” chronicle the transformation Grey has made over the past few years as she‟s struggled to find her place in the world:

“Before I started writing this album, I felt like I had lost control of my life and didn‟t know who I was anymore,” she explains. “I needed to ground myself so I decided to spend some time in solitude, and in the process discovered my inner super hero. The album tells that story starting with „Invisible,‟ which is how I used to feel. „Building A Monster‟ describes the whole process of going from being invisible to invincible. That is why I‟m calling the album INVINSIBLE; a combined spelling of the two words.”

Indeed, Grey‟s journey to this point has been studded with highs and lows. She was born Holly Brook Hafermann in the village of Mazomanie, Wisconsin, a town so tiny it does not have a stoplight. “You have to drive 45 minutes to Madison to buy groceries,” she says. Grey began performing professionally at age six with her mother as a folk duo, and by the age of 14 had released three independent albums. “I got teased by the other kids because the music wasn‟t „cool‟ and everyone was into pop radio,” she says. “When I was in seventh grade I kind of lost it because I couldn‟t handle my peers making fun of me, so I told my mom I didn‟t want to do it anymore. That‟s when I started writing my own music, which is what got me through.” Grey quit high school during her junior year to move to Los Angeles and devote herself to becoming a serious artist.

In 2004, when Grey was 17, she signed a publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group and a recording contract with Linkin Park‟s Warner Bros. Records‟ imprint Machine Shop Recordings. As Holly Brook, she appeared on Fort Minor‟s “Where‟d You Go,” and released her debut album Like Blood Like Honey. The album crumbled and Grey asked to be let out of her deal — a process that took a year and a half, during which time she was legally prevented from releasing any new music. The only way she could express herself musically and artistically was through other people, so Grey hit the road with Duncan Sheik, playing keyboards in his band to earn a living. “I was in a holding pattern and it sent me into a depression,” she says. “For the first time in my life I was questioning whether or not I’d made the right decision doing music. So suddenly I was just a 23-year-old girl who didn’t have her s**t together. It made me feel bad about myself, because I felt like I had been ahead of the game knowing what I wanted to do my whole life.”

Grey decided to figure out her future by traveling north up the coast, stopping for a spell in Ventura, CA, and winding up in a small coastal town in Southern Oregon. Between Ventura and Oregon, she slept on a yoga mat since she didn‟t own a bed and took part-time jobs. “I worked at Barnes & Noble, I taught gymnastics, I even edited porn,” she says. “There were times when I was so broke that I couldn’t even fill my car up with gas, so I was stuck at home.” Grey resorted to wandering around near her apartment to find food, living off the oranges and grapefruits she picked from nearby trees. “I was afraid to ask my parents for money, because they’d done so much for me, and they had believed in my music career,” she says. “I felt like I had failed them.”

Grey eventually made her way to Oregon, and was accepted for residency at an artist‟s retreat where she traded odd jobs for room and board. “I lived in a shack in the woods in the middle of nowhere,” she says. “I had to go outside to use the bathroom, but it enabled me to feel truly independent and know that I could survive on just the basics.” In a fortuitous turn of events, a wealthy fan contacted her through MySpace asking her to perform at a private party in Los Angeles, and after hearing her story, gave her a sizable check to fund the creation of her own recording studio, which she built at her home in the woods. “I started creating every day and began to feel so much stronger,” she says. The songs began pouring out and, heartened by the progress, Grey flew out to New York to play them for her publisher, Jennifer Blakeman, who liked what she heard and thought UMPG‟s new signee, Alex Da Kid, would be a perfect musical match. “Jennifer played me B.o.B‟s “Airplanes,” before it came out, which Alex produced, and I said, „Yes, that‟s the guy,‟” Grey recalled. “It was totally commercial but it had this alternative element that didn‟t sound like anything else on pop radio. I thought he‟d understand where I was coming from as an artist. I sent him an email insisting that we work together. He sent me a beat, and I sent him back the hook that became „Love The Way You Lie.‟” A few weeks later, Grey found out that Eminem was going to record verses for it, with featured vocals from Rihanna, and include it on his album Recovery.

Following the success of “Love the Way You Lie,” Eminem invited Grey and Da Kid to work on Detox, Dr. Dre‟s long awaited album. The result of that collaboration is the hit, “I Need A Doctor.” “The first time I heard Marshall spit his verses, I started crying. And Marshall was actually the one who fought to keep my vocals on the song instead of getting a pop star.” Grey says. “Coming from such a low place in my life and ending up with that…wow.”

These days, with credits on several major hits, the forthcoming release of her first single, “Invisible,” followed by INVINSIBLE (due from KIDinaKORNER/Interscope Records in Fall 2011), Grey is certainly glad she made the decision to stick with music. “I had no other choice,” she says. “This is what I do. And any time I see someone in the audience cry or get emotional from hearing my music, even if it‟s just one person, I know I‟m on the right path. It makes all the hard times well worth it.”

Skylar Grey

“Invisible”

From  Invinsible

KIDinaKORNER/Interscope Records

Skylar Grey

“Dance Without You”

From  Invinsible

KIDinaKORNER/Interscope Records

Skylar Grey

“Hook Medley”

Skylar Grey

“Love The Way You Lie” (Original Demo)

Songs Featuring Skylar Grey

Diddy-Dirty Money Featuring Skylar Grey

“Coming Home” (Explicit)

From Last Train To Paris

Bad Boy/Interscope Records

Dr. Dre Featuring Eminem & Skylar Grey

“I Need A Doctor” (Explicit)

From Detox

Aftermath/Interscope Records

Lupe Fiasco Featuring Skylar Grey

“Words I Never Said”

From Lasers

1st & 15th/Atlantic Records

Songs Written With Skylar Grey For Other Artists

B.O.B. Featuring Hayley Williams of Paramore

“Airplanes”

From B.O.B. Presents: The Adventures Of Bobby Ray

Rebel Rock/Grand Hustle/Atlantic Records

Eminem Featuring Rihanna

“Love The Way You Lie” (Explicit)

From Recovery

Shady/Aftermath/Interscope Records

Rihanna Featuring Eminem

“Love The Way You Lie (Part 2)” (Explicit)

From Loud

SRP/Def Jam Records/IDJMG

T.I. Featuring Christina Aguilera

“Castle Walls” (Explicit)

From No Mercy

Grand Hustle/Atlantic Records

Fort Minor Featuring Holly Brook (Skylar Grey)

From The Rising Tied

Machine Shop/Warner Bros. Records

Artist Of The Month

June 2, 2011

Big Sean

Sean Anderson, p.k.a. Big Sean, is the newest artist signed to G.O.O.D. Music/Island Def Jam at the young age of 20. Sean was born in Santa Monica, CA and relocated to the west side of Detroit, MI when he was 2 months old. He was raised by his mother and grandparents who worked steadfastly to instill in him the principles of hard work and determination. Sean attended the Detroit Waldorf School, a school of art, from Kindergarten to 8th Grade where he was introduced to a spectrum of art and culture. He later attended Cass Technical High School where he furthered his music career, met life long friends, and gained the support of fans and peers as he independently sold copies of his music. Sean gained a strong relationship with 102.7FM, a local radio station in Detroit where he displayed his rhyming skills weekly. There, he met Kanye West after a radio interview in 2005 and got a chance to display his talent by freestyling for Mr. West, giving him a copy of his music and sending numerous tracks for him to critique. After months of submitting songs and numerous meetings, Sean finally got the call from Kanye West himself saying that he wanted to sign him. Big Sean officially signed to G.O.O.D. Music in 2007 and then signed to Island Def Jam in 2008. Sean has two mixtapes under his belt starting with “Finally Famous–The Mixtape” [Nov. 2007] and “U Know Big Sean–Finally Famous Vol. 2” [Nov. 2008].

To stay connected to Big Sean check out his official MySpace at WWW.MYSPACE.COM/UKNOWBIGSEAN for exclusive updates that you wont see anywhere else.

Big Sean Featuring Chris Brown

“My Last”

From Finally Famous

G.O.O,D. Music/Def Jam Records

Artist Of The Month

May 1, 2011

Nick Carter – I’m Taking Off

Nick Carter "I'm Taking Off" Kaotic Records/Sony Music Entertainment

Nick Carter is taking off, both literally and figuratively, with his appropriately titled new album I’m Taking Off.

The album’s title is representative of Nick’s philosophy. “I felt like this was my moment. I’m rising to the occasion and taking off,” he says with conviction.

The album, according to Nick, who co-wrote every song on the record, is diverse. “It has songs about love, happiness, the sad parts of love—it’s got some dance tracks on it. You can play it for your loved one or you can play it in the club.”

The first single, “Just One Kiss,” is an uptempo hit about a struggling relationship. “There are probably a lot of people in this world that have had this situation,” says Nick, who wrote the song with Dan Muckala and Jason Ingram. “Someone has fallen out of love with them and they want that one last try, even though they’ve messed up. The guy in the song is basically admitting his faults and asking for that one last chance.”

The album’s title track tells quite the opposite story. “The song is about a relationship and how this guy is having a realization about the person he’s with and so he wants to leave,” Nick explains.

While the album includes an impressive array of writers, it was important to Nick that he be part of the process. “I wanted to make sure my input was in there and that all of me was in those songs,” he says.

The album’s producers include some notable names that reinforce its diversity: Muckala (Backstreet Boys), Toby Gad (Beyonce), Brent Kutzle (OneRepublic), Noel Zancanella (Rashaan Ahmad), Carl Falk (Gavin DeGraw), Rami (Celine Dion), Matthew Gerrard (Jesse McCartney) and MIDI Mafia (50 Cent).

That the album—his second as a solo artist after his enormous successes with Backstreet Boys—includes such an impressive roster of producers is not by chance. “I’m very picky of who I work with,” says Nick. “I look at a producer as a coach. If they can’t pull the best out of you, then you might not go to that championship game.”

The album is a labor of love. “Nothing great is ever easy,” Nick says. “You have to work for it.”

An accomplished writer, producer and director, Nick created the short film The Pendant in 2010. He also directed the music video for “Just One Kiss.”

Passionate about the health of the environment and the world’s oceans (as a water enthusiast who loves diving, waterskiing, boating and surfing), Nick continues to devote his time and celebrity toward the cause. He has worked with UNEP (the United Nations Environmental Program) and the International Coral Reef Action Network (ICRAN), and has even gone to Capitol Hill to lobby for environmental issues.

Nick Carter

“Just One Kiss”

From I’m Taking Off

Kaotic Records/Sony Music Entertainment

NKOTBSB (New Kids On The Block & Backstreet Boys)

“Don’t Turn Out The Lights”

Columbia/Jive Records/Sony Legacy

Jennifer Paige Featuring Nick Carter

“Beautiful Lie”

From Best Kept Secret

Glor Music Production

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Some Backstreet Boys Classics

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“Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)”

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“The One”

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“The Call”

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“Incomplete”

From Never Gone

Jive Records/Zomba Label Group

Backstreet Boys

“Helpless When She Smiles”

From Unbreakable

Jive Records/Zomba Label Group

Backstreet Boys

“Straight Through My Heart”

From This Is Us

Jive Records/JIVE LABEL GROUP

Backstreet Boys

“Bigger”

From This Is Us

Jive Records/JIVE LABEL GROUP