JUSTIN MOORE INKS EXCLUSIVE DEAL WITH CABELA’S 
 

Star Receives Multi-Year Endorsement & Sponsorship
 

 

Photo Courtesy of Valory Music Co.
 

Nashville, TN (June 28, 2012) Cabela’s -- the World’s Foremost Outfitter of hunting, fishing and outdoor gear -- is kicking off the summer with the announcement of a multi-year endorsement and sponsorship of Valory Music Co. recording artist Justin Moore.  As one of today's most promising stars, the "Bait A Hook" crooner has already toured with some of the hottest names in music, including Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker and Blake Shelton.  The 2011 release of Outlaws Like Me garnered critical success and his second #1 hit with “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away,” the fastest rising single of his career.This straight-talking country powerhouse has grown to become the voice of small town America and prides himself on writing and recording music that reflects his simple upbringing in rural Arkansas.

The announcement marks Cabela’s first ever partnership with an artist. As part of the endorsement, Cabela’s will be the official outdoor apparel and gear retailer for Justin’s tour throughout 2012 and 2013. With his life-long passion for fishing, hunting and all things outdoors this partnership will serve as a natural fit for his ever-expanding brand.

“I’ve always tried to partner with people and companies that I respect,” says Moore. “I couldn’t be happier to be associated with a company like Cabela’s. The lifestyle that they promote and embrace is an exact reflection of how I grew up and how I intend to raise my family. I respect and admire the folks from Cabela’s immensely. It should be a lot of fun and hopefully, together, we can reach the next goals we each have in place.”

“Justin embodies the Cabela’s lifestyle, which he is able to communicate through his songs,” said Scott Williams, Cabela’s EVP and Chief Marketing and E-Commerce Officer.  “He is true to the outdoorsman who simply loves – and appreciates—hunting and fishing. It was clear from Day 1 Justin shares our passion for the Great Outdoors. He is a down-to-earth Cabela’s kind of guy and Cabela’s is honored to have him aboard.”

Moore has never shied away from proudly honoring his country roots. When his sophomore album Outlaws Like Me was released last summer, his team choose to take an innovative approach in the promotion. Live from the middle of New York City’s Central Park lake, he conducted his radio, television, online and print interviews aboard a bass boat. For this small town boy who has had the opportunity to travel all across the country, no place felt more natural for him than the outdoors to promote the release of an album that celebrates the lifestyle he leads.

Cabela’s stores showcase thousands of quality outdoor products, including hunting, fishing, camping and hiking, as well clothing and outdoor-themed gifts and furnishings. Cabela’s, which has been in business since 1961, is famous for its strong brand and legendary customer service. The company’s retail locations are designed to surround customers in an outdoor-like experience, featuring museum-quality wildlife displays. Additionally, the cabelas.com website provides convenient access to all Cabela’s merchandise, and Cabela’s world-famous catalog is distributed to millions of customers in all 50 states and more than 175 countries.

Moore will be appearing this summer at the grand opening for Cabela’s new store location in Rogers, Arkansas.

ABOUT JUSTIN MOORE:  Justin Moore’s star has grown significantly since he was named Billboard's “Top New Country Artist of 2009.” This Southern Country stylist has sold over 3.1 million digital downloads to date and his sophomore album OUTLAWS LIKE ME hit the #1 spot the week it was released. OUTLAWS LIKE ME includes the fastest-rising single of Moore’s career, “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away,” which ascended to the #1 spot and the fan favorite, “Bait A Hook.” His debut album scored three consecutive smash singles (the #1 “Small Town USA” as well as the hits “Backwoods” and “How I Got To Be This Way”). He has been profiled by publications from The Washington Post, People Country and Billboard to USA Today. Additionally, his debut was recognized by the New York Times as one of the best albums of 2009. National TV appearances have included The Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson, NPR, WGN Midday News, FOX, Associated Press and Better TV while his music has been featured on Hannity & Colmes and NFL Rewind.

Moore began this year on Blake Shelton’s Well Lit and Amplified tour that ran through early spring. He is currently out headlining his own shows across the country until he joins Eric Church's Blood, Sweat and Beers tour this September. Visit www.moorejustinmusic.com  for complete dates.

ABOUT CABELA’S INCORPORATED:  Cabela’s Incorporated, headquartered in Sidney, Nebraska, is a leading specialty retailer, and the world’s largest direct marketer of hunting, fishing, camping and related outdoor merchandise. Since the Company’s founding in 1961, Cabela’s® has grown to become one of the most well-known outdoor recreation brands in the world, and has long been recognized as the World’s Foremost Outfitter®. Through Cabela’s growing number of retail stores and its well-established direct business, it offers a wide and distinctive selection of high-quality outdoor products at competitive prices while providing superior customer service. Cabela’s also issues the Cabela’s CLUB® Visa credit card, which serves as its primary customer loyalty rewards program. Cabela’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “CAB”. www.Cabelas.com.
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Twenty-Time GRAMMY® Winner Bruce Springsteen To Be Honored As 2013 MusiCares® Person of the Year

Annual Gala Benefiting the MusiCares Foundation® And Its Health And Human Services Programs For Music People Will Be Held During GRAMMY® Week

SANTA MONICA, Calif., June 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Bruce Springsteen will be honored as the 2013 MusiCares® Person of the Year on Friday, Feb. 8 , 2013, it was announced today by Neil Portnow, President/CEO of the MusiCares Foundation ® and The Recording Academy ® , and Scott Pascucci, Chair of the MusiCares Foundation Board. Proceeds from the 23rd annual benefit gala dinner and concert — to be held in Los Angeles during GRAMMY ® Week two days prior to the 55th Annual GRAMMY Awards ® — will provide essential support for MusiCares ( www.musicares.org ), which ensures that music people have a place to turn in times of financial, medical, and personal need. Arranger/composer and nationally renowned music producer Rob Mathes will be the evening's musical director.

Springsteen is being honored as the 2013 MusiCares Person of the Year in recognition of his extraordinary creative accomplishments as well as his significant charitable work, which has included an impressive range of philanthropic activities over the years.
"Bruce Springsteen is a truly gifted and Renaissance artist of our time, a national treasure, and an exemplary humanitarian," said Portnow. "His career is a testament to the power of creative excellence, and his contributions as a philanthropist speak to the tenacity of the human spirit. We are privileged and honored to pay tribute to Bruce this year as our MusiCares Person of the Year."
"Bruce is synonymous with artistic independence and a passion for causes that are close to his heart," said Pascucci. "His career seamlessly combines inspiration and charity, and it's a reminder that we can all do our part to make the world a better place."
The 2013 MusiCares Person of the Year gala will begin with a reception and silent auction offering an exclusive and unparalleled selection of luxury items, VIP experiences and one-of-a-kind celebrity memorabilia for bidding guests. The reception and silent auction will be followed by a dinner, the award presentation and a star-studded tribute concert. The MusiCares Person of the Year tribute ceremony is one of the most prestigious events held during GRAMMY Week. The celebration culminates with the 55th Annual GRAMMY Awards at STAPLES Center on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2013. The telecast will be broadcast live on the CBS Television Network at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
Springsteen's recording career spans nearly 40 years, beginning with his 1973 Columbia Records release Greetings From Asbury Park, N.J . By 1975, the covers of both Time and Newsweek declared Springsteen's music a national phenomenon. He has released 17 studio albums, garnered 20 GRAMMY Awards and won an Oscar (for "Streets Of Philadelphia" from 1993's Philadelphia ). He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and in 2009 he was a recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors. His albums Born To Run and Born In The U.S.A. have been inducted into the GRAMMY Hall Of Fame®. Springsteen's latest album, Wrecking Ball, was released in March. Springsteen has supported a wide range of charitable causes including organizations that work to alleviate homelessness and hunger.
The MusiCares Foundation offers programs and services to members of the music community including emergency financial assistance for basic living expenses such as rent, utilities and car payments; medical expenses including doctor, dentist and hospital bills; psychotherapy; and treatment for HIV/AIDS, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, hepatitis C, and other critical illnesses. MusiCares offers nationwide educational workshops covering a variety of subjects, including financial, legal, medical, and substance abuse issues, and programs in collaboration with healthcare professionals that provide services such as flu shots, hearing tests, and medical/dental screenings. The MusiCares MAP Fund® allows access to addiction recovery treatment and sober living resources for members of the music community. Staffed by qualified chemical dependency and intervention specialists, MusiCares Safe Harbor Rooms, supported by the Bohemian Foundation, offer a support network to those in recovery while they are participating in the production of televised music shows and other major music events. MusiCares holds weekly addiction support groups for people to discuss how to best cope with the issues surrounding the recovery process. The MusiCares Sober Touring Network is a database of individuals across the United States who can take music people to recovery support meetings while on the road.
Established in 1989 by The Recording Academy, MusiCares provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need. MusiCares' services and resources cover a wide range of financial, medical and personal emergencies, and each case is treated with integrity and confidentiality. MusiCares also focuses the resources and attention of the music industry on human service issues that directly impact the health and welfare of the music community. For more information, please visit www.musicares.org . For breaking news and exclusive content, please like "MusiCares" on Facebook at www.facebook.com/musicares and follow @MusiCares on Twitter at www.twitter.com/musicares .
Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com . For breaking news and exclusive content, follow @TheGRAMMYs on Twitter, like "The GRAMMYs" on Facebook, and join The GRAMMYs' social communities on YouTube, Tumblr, Foursquare, GetGlue, and Instagram.
For information on purchasing tables and tickets to the event, please contact Dana Tomarken at MusiCares, 310.392.3777.
SOURCE MusiCares

Born This Way Foundation Unveils 'Born Brave' Groups

Lady Gaga's foundation to launch community-based youth organizations nationwide

Supporters asked to help "Name That Club"

NEW YORK, June 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Lady Gaga and her mother, Cynthia Germanotta, announced today that Born This Way Foundation (BTWF) is preparing to launch an unprecedented youth-led initiative that will begin with empowering youth to name their own movement. These localized groups of supporters will be dedicated to affecting change in their homes, schools, and local communities. In addition to connecting BTWF supporters, this grassroots effort will serve as the perfect tool for anyone who wants to bring the Foundation's pillars of safety, skills and opportunity to their own community.
"I don't have the answer," Lady Gaga said to a group of youth during the BTWF launch event at Harvard University. "You are the answer; know that, and go home, and take with you that you are the future."
Beginning at the start of the back-to-school season, youth throughout the country will work together to impact the world around them in ways that work best for each individual community. The Foundation will supply youth with a toolkit outlining activities and events to help provide infrastructure while also empowering them to identify and solve issues that are unique to their local groups. Further details and actions will be announced throughout the summer.
"Through these youth-driven organizations, we can continue building the kind of world my daughter and I dreamed of when we started Born This Way Foundation, and we are excited to continue to engage youth to help shape their movement," said President and Co-Founder Cynthia Germanotta. "Together, with our youth, we can create a kinder, braver world where everyone is accepted for the person they were born to be."
BTWF is asking supporters to help decide on a name for the groups by voting online for one of the following names or suggesting their own:

• Born Brave Hubs
  A more modern take on the word 'clubs,' groups are youth-led with youth at the center of each 'Hub.'
• Born Brave Nation
  This name reflects the fact that we are creating a brand new, borderless nation that celebrates kindness and bravery.
• Born Brave [City]:[personalization] (e.g. Born Brave Chicago: Superstars)
  Allows each group to personalize their name to make it uniquely their own.
• Born Brave ______
  Don't like any of these suggestions? Let us know if you have a more appropriate name that's in line with BTWF's mission and we'll take it into account.

To sign up to become a founding member of a group in your area, please visit http://bornthiswayfoundation.org/namethatclub. Additional details about the clubs will be announced in the months ahead.
About Born This Way Foundation
Led by Lady Gaga and her mother Cynthia Germanotta, Born This Way Foundation was founded in 2011 to foster a more accepting society. The Foundation is dedicated to creating a safe community where individuality is celebrated by connecting youth with the skills, resources and opportunities they need to build a braver, kinder world.  BTWF, a non-profit charitable organization, will address issues like self-confidence, well-being, anti-bullying, mentoring and career development through research, education and advocacy. Please Visit www.bornthiswayfoundation.org and join the youth-powered movement to build a braver, kinder world.

BLASTER RECORDS TO RELEASE AARON LEWIS’ NEW ALBUM
“THE ROAD” ON SEPTEMBER 11TH

Lewis Takes the Music of The Road on the Road for National Concert Tour

Nashville, Tenn. (June 28, 2012) -- Blaster Records has announced that the highly anticipated new album from multi-platinum selling artist Aaron Lewis, “The Road”, will be released on September 11th and will be available for pre-sale along with exclusive merchandise beginning mid-July at www.aaronlewismusic.com.

Co-produced by Lewis and legendary Nashville hit-maker James Stroud (Toby Keith, Tim McGraw, Willie Nelson, Chris Young), "The Road" follows Lewis' debut solo EP, "Town Line," which bowed at #1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart last year.   The forthcoming album contains ten brand-new songs, including first single "Endless Summer," which CMT has hailed as "the anthem of the Summer of 2012."  It also contains the Rhett Akins/Dallas Davidson/Bobby Pinson-penned "Granddaddy's Gun," marking the first time in Lewis' entire career that he has cut a song he didn't have a hand in writing.

The songs that make up "The Road" mirror the country roots of Lewis' childhood.  “This music and these songs represent who I am and where I come from,” says Lewis, who still resides in rural western Massachusetts.  

Released in March of 2011, Lewis’ inaugural solo project was met with resounding acclaim from both critics and his passionate, dedicated fan base.  His debut solo single, “Country Boy,” featured contributions from country stalwarts George Jones and Charlie Daniels and achieved Gold certification.  The song and video also garnered Lewis multiple CMA, ACM and CMT Music Awards nominations.  And though he has toured extensively in a solo and acoustic fashion for the last eight years, Lewis is about to embark on his first full-band tour as a solo artist this summer.

Fans can catch Aaron Lewis on tour here:

6/30/12 San Antonio, TX Majestic Theatre
7/01/12 Pharr, TX Pharr Entertainment Center
7/03/12 Odessa, TX Dos Amigos
7/05/12 Lake Charles, LA L’Auberge Du Lac Casino
7/06/12 Bossier City, LA Horseshoe Casino
7/07/12 Duluth, GA Wild Bill’s
7/08/12 New Orleans, LA Mahalia Jackson Theater
7/09/12 Dallas, TX House of Blues
7/12/12 Anaheim, CA House of Blues
7/13/12 Las Vegas, NV Hard Rock Casino
7/14/12 Wendover, NV Peppermill Casino
7/15/12 Scottsdale, AZ Talking Stick Resort
7/18/12 Chicago, IL Joe’s
7/20/12 Belmont, OH Jamboree in the Hills
7/21/12 Twin Lakes, WI Country Thunder Festival
7/22/12 Royal Oak, MI Royal Oak Music Theatre
7/24/12 Alexandria, VA The Birchmere
7/25/12 Baltimore, MD Rams Head Live
7/26/12 Huntington, NY Paramount Theater
7/28/12 Chester, PA Harrah’s Chester Downs
7/29/12 Boston, MA House of Blues
7/31/12 Hampton Beach, NH Hampton Beach Casino
8/08/12 Sturgis, SD Buffalo Chip – with Eric Church
8/10/12 Springfield, IL Illinois State Fairground – with Eric Church

Ticket information, on-sale dates, and fan club promotions will be available at www.aaronlewismusic.com. 

"I hope people hear the record and realize that this is all me," Lewis says of the songs on "The Road."  "I'm writing songs about who I am and where I am, just like I've done my whole career. The setting for the songs might be different but they're as honest as anything I've ever done."

Track Listing:

1. 75
2. The Road
3. Endless Summer
4. Red, White & Blue
5. Lessons Learned
6. Forever
7. Granddaddy’s Gun
8. State Lines
9. Anywhere But Here
10. Party in Hell

Aaron Lewis joined Hank Williams, Jr., Neal McCoy and Brother Trouble as part of the Blaster Records family earlier this year.  Blaster Records is distributed by Warner Music Nashville.

ABOUT BLASTER ENTERTAINMENT:
Founded in 2007 by Blaster Corp’s CEO Tom Porter, Blaster Entertainment has set the stage for a new and innovative approach to music and sports entertainment management and marketing. Blaster Entertainment is made up of four key divisions: Blaster Music, Blaster Sports and Media, Blaster Marketing and Blaster Merchandise. The company is dedicated to being the leader in artist development and management. Made up of a young, energetic and passionate staff, Blaster Entertainment is unmatched in its diversity of clients, creativity in marketing and drive for success. The client roster includes multi-platinum selling artists, sports legends and broadcast personalities. Blaster Entertainment’s parent company Blaster Corp., set the standard in manufacturing and top selling products. For more information on Blaster products go to www.blastercorp.com. For information on Blaster Entertainment go to www.blasterentertainment.com.

RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS PREMIERE VIDEO FOR "BRENDAN'S DEATH SONG" ON ROLLINGSTONE.COM 

LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 28, 2012 - Red Hot Chili Peppers today announced they are premiering the video for their single "Brendan's Death Song" on  RollingStone.com.  

 WATCH "BRENDAN'S DEATH SONG" MUSIC VIDEO

 

"Brendan's Death Song" is the fourth single from the band's album I'm With You, which was released by Warner Bros. Records on August 29, 2011.  The video, directed by Marc Klasfeld (Foo Fighters, Jay-Z) was shot in New Orleans, Louisiana and is homage to the band's long time friend Brendan Mullen.

Mullen is best known as the founder of the Hollywood punk rock club The Masque that he set up and ran from 1977 until it was shut down in 1978 due to the city's refusal to issue the necessary permits to run it as a legal nightclub.  After it's closure, Mullen spent many years booking shows for Club Lingerie.   It was during this time he met Anthony Kiedis and Flea and after hearing their demo, Mullen offered them an opening slot on a Bad Brains show.  The Red Hot Chili Peppers credit him as one of their first major supports and giving them their start.   Through his support and the many nightclubs he worked out the scene gave birth to not only the Red Hot Chili Peppers but bands like The Go-Go's, X, The Weirdos and The Germs.  To Read More about Brendan Mullen written by Flea for The Los Angeles Times, please visit:  HERE

   

ABOUT RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS

One of the most successful acts in rock history, Red Hot Chili Peppers, which is singer Anthony Kiedis, bassist Flea, drummer, Chad Smith, and guitarist Josh Klinghoffer, have sold more than 60 million albums, including five multi-platinum LPs, and won six Grammy Awards, including "Best Rock Album" for Stadium Arcadium, "Best Rock Performance By a Duo or Group" for "Dani California," "Best Rock Song" for "Scar Tissue," and "Best Hard Rock Performance With Vocal" for "Give It Away."  The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in April 2012. The Red Hot Chili Peppers are currently on a world tour and selling out arenas around the global in support of I'm With You.  

 

www.redhotchilipeppers.com

     

CRAIG MORGAN SETS SUMMER TV APPEARANCES

Outdoor Channel, Fox News and TNT to Feature Morgan in July

 

Nashville, Tenn. – June 2012 – Country music star and award-winning TV host Craig Morgan’s summer is sizzling with a full slate of TV appearances in the month of July! The list reads like a day in the life of the high-energy entertainer with adventure, performance and scripted acting appearances lined up this summer.

July 1 at 11:00 p.m ET – “Craig Morgan All Access Outdoors” (Outdoor Channel): In this third season opener, Craig Morgan is joined by his father and three uncles on tour. It’s a busy week between concerts and other commitments, but Craig still finds time to fit in adventures in the whitetail woods of the Bluegrass state. The third season airs every Sunday at 11p.m. ET on Outdoor Channel. Learn more at www.craigmorgan.com and watch the trailer HERE.

July 13 at 6:00 a.m. ET – “Fox & Friends” (Fox News): Craig Morgan will headline Fox & Friends’ All American Summer concert series, performing songs from his recently released album This Ole Boy. Learn more at http://www.foxnews.com/on-air/fox-friends/index.html.

July 17 at 9:00 p.m. ET – “Rizzoli & Isles” (TNT): Craig Morgan makes his scripted acting debut as Dr. Billy Ray Higgins, a medical examiner who comes to Boston for the Bullet and Blast Injuries Symposium. While visiting, he helps Jane Rizzoli (Angie Harmon) and Maura Isles (Sasha Alexander) with a murder case. Learn more at http://www.tntdrama.com/series/rizzoliandisles/ and view exclusive photos from the set at www.countryweekly.com.

In addition to a full concert touring and TV production schedule, Craig Morgan’s new CD THIS OLE BOY, featuring the latest single “Corn Star,” is available now everywhere music is sold.

ABOUT CRAIG MORGAN: One of country music’s best-loved artists, Craig Morgan has made a name for himself with massive radio airplay of his signature hits:  “Bonfire,” “Almost Home,” “Redneck Yacht Club,” “That’s What I Love About Sunday” and “International Harvester.”  His latest single “Corn Star” is the follow up to Morgan’s Top 15 hit and title track “This Ole Boy.” The new album, his first release on Black River Entertainment, boasted a Top 5 debut on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart when it released on February 28, 2012. Craig received one of country music’s highest honors when he was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 2008. Prior to becoming a country music and TV sensation, Craig Morgan spent over 10 years of active duty in the Army and an additional nine years in the Army Reserves.  He is an avid supporter of America’s military personnel and a recipient of the 2006 USO Merit Award. In addition to a prolific country music career, he hosts the award-winning show “Craig Morgan: All Access Outdoors” on The Outdoor Channel with season 3 set to debut July 1. For more information on Craig Morgan, please visit www.craigmorgan.com or follow him on Twitter @CMorganmusic.

Country Super Trio performs in St. Louis

Lady Antebellum burns up the night at Verizon

by Scott Kiefer

If it wasnt the record-setting mercury readings on Friday night, it would have been the hot musical entertainment coming from the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre stage that overheated fans as Lady Antebellum brought their "Own the Night Tour" to St. Louis. Opening for the super-trio were bonafide  country star Darius Rucker, and newcomers Thompson Square.

The extreme heat conditions seemed not to inhibit any of the performers on the stage as each act stepped up to the plate and entertained as if they were performing inside an air-conditioned venue. However, Lady A singer Charles Kelley mentioned how extreme the heat was, and instructed crew members to bring out a couple coolers of water to pass out to fans standing in the pit area in front of the stage immediately after the second song was finished.
"It's hot up here, and I know its hot for these guys right up front," Kelley said. "Get me a cooler full of water right away, they need it."
An approximate ten minute event called the "LADP- Lady A Dance Party" preceded the group's show that featured dance music from all genres to get the audience pumped up for the trio's arrival that included numerous camera focusing in on the audience members dancing and having a good time. At one point the party included a "Just A Kiss Cam" (a play on the group's hit single), where couples in the audience were zoomed in.

Lady A's female vocalist Hillary Scott (who happens to be the daughter of country singer Linda Davis) and David Haywood held up to the level of performance set by Kelley with Scott's smooth, yet powerhouse vocals, and instrumental expertise of Haywood culminating the trio into what has become a country music phenomenon in the past six years the group has been together. Add to the fact that the North American tour would be over after just one more performance Saturday night, the audience at St. Louis got a well-polished show that seemed just as fresh as the first day the bus rolled out of Nashville.

As the group set sail with "We Owned the Night" to open the show, it was a smooth sailing as the trio leaped through hits as "Just a Kiss," "Love Don't Live Here," and "American Honey," it wasn't until the encore where the group performed their monster hit "Need You Now," that the audience went into overdrive, and some possible overheating, one might expect.
Rucker pleased the audience with a near hour-long set that included his country hits "Alright," and "Come Back Song," among others, and closing his show with his version of Prince's "Purple Rain." Given the fact that the temperature tossed between the 104 to 106 degree marks during his set, any kind of rain would have been welcome, but Rucker delivered a shower of a good time to his fans.
Opening act Thompson Square (husband and wife duo) set the upbeat tone for the evening, and
performed their latest hit single, "Glass" (co-written by Southern Illinois native David Lee Murphy) and their breakthrough single "Kiss Me or Not."

After Saturday's show in Milwaukee, Rucker and Thompson Square head out on the road in their own respective directions (with Thompson Square set to perform at the Du Quoin State Fair), as Lady Antebellum takes about ten days off before playing their first gig in Ireland on July 10 that will keep them abroad until finishing their Australian tour in October before returning stateside.

Justin Bieber's BELIEVE (RBMG/Island Records) Debuts #1 In 30 Countries!!!

BELIEVE IS JUSTIN'S 4th #1 ALBUM DEBUT AND THE HIGHEST DEBUT OF THE YEAR

Makes chart history with 4 singles from BELIEVE storming charts prior to album release: "Boyfriend," "All Around the World" featuring Ludacris, "Die In Your Arms," and second single "As Long As You Love Me" featuring Big Sean

NEW YORK, June 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- In the wake of global superstar Justin Bieber 's seven-country "All Around the World " tour, witnessed by over a half-million fans and seen by countless millions more on television and the web, his brand new studio album BELIEVE has exploded to #1 in 30 countries, including top markets the U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, Brazil and more.  Released in the U.S. on June 19th, BELIEVE  takes the #1 Soundscan position this week and is the highest Billboard soundscan debut of the year!

"Justin has exceeded our expectations once again. He delivered an amazing body of work, and I am so proud of him," said Steve Bartels, President & COO, Island Def Jam Music Group. "The reaction toBELIEVE clearly shows that as Justin grows as an artist, he expands his fanbase every step of the way. The worldwide sales of BELIEVE confirm his status as one of the biggest male superstars in the world."

In 2009, Justin became the first solo artist in history to send four songs from a debut album into theBillboard Hot 100's Top 40 prior to the album's release: "One Time," "One Less Lonely Girl," "Love Me," and "Favorite Girl."  Three years later, history bests itself, as BELIEVE is buoyed by four Justin Bieber hit singles inside the Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 this week: "Boyfriend,"  "All Around the World" featuring Ludacris, "Die In Your Arms," and second single "As Long As You Love Me"featuring Big Sean.

BELIEVE 's premiere worldwide smash single, "Boyfriend," hit #1 at iTunes the second it was released (on March 26th), and has not left the iTunes Top 10 ever since. While the single gained immediate critical-acclaim, the album has received accolades for Justin's artistic growth and more mature sound. The"Boyfriend" video has shattered all YouTube records since its MTV premiere (on May 3rd).  The clip generated 8 million views in its first 24 hours and has built up to over 86 million views.

With worldwide album sales in excess of 15 million units, Justin has dominated pop culture and social media for more than two years.  He has over 44 million Facebook fans, more than 23 million Twitter followers, and over 3 billion YouTube views – he is far and away the most popular YouTube artist of all time.

BELIEVE follows Justin's #1 Christmas album,  Under The Mistletoe , which was his third #1 Soundscan debut in just 18 months, making him the first solo artist in Billboard history to chart three #1 albums before his 18th birthday (on March 1st).  Prior to Under The Mistletoe , My World 2.0 entered Soundscan at #1 in 2010 (containing "Baby," ranked the #1 most viewed YouTube video, currently over 750 million views); and Never Say Never: The Remixes entered at #1 in 2011, the soundtrack to the highest domestic-grossing concert film in U.S. history.

www.justinbiebermusic.com

SOURCE Island Def Jam Music Group

Iconic Artist Rod Stewart Inks Worldwide Recording Agreement With Universal Music Group (UMG)

LOS ANGELES, June 2012 -- Expanding its creative investment further, Universal Music Group has signed iconic artist Rod Stewart to a long-term worldwide recording agreement, it was announced today by Lucian Grainge, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr. Stewart and his manager, Arnold Stiefel.

As part of this multi-album deal, the two-time Hall of Famer has teamed with Grammy award-winning producer, songwriter and Verve Music Group Chairman David Foster to record his first Christmas album.  Stewart's warm, expressive and distinctively raspy voice is proving a perfect fit for the holiday classics. The album will also feature a handful of star-studded vocal duets and is scheduled for release this fall via Verve Music Group. 

"I've known Rod and Arnold for many years and have been wanting to work with them for some time," stated Mr. Grainge. "Rod possesses one of pop music's most inventive and memorable voices; and we're delighted to be part of the next great chapter in his already storied career."

"UMG remains committed to artistic creativity and expanding opportunities for artists in the marketplace," continued Mr. Grainge. "And nowhere is this more evident than in our new partnership with an artist of Rod's caliber."

Rod Stewart commented, "I'm confident that by partnering with my fellow CBE, Lucian, and his cracking, top-notch company, we have the best team in the business. And the chance to work again with David Foster makes it that much sweeter." 

"This is a match made in heaven," Arnold Stiefel declared.  "Rod's writing spirit has been rekindled and Universal is the perfect keeper of the flame."

With his soulful and singular voice, narrative songwriting and passionate live performances, Rod Stewarthas paved one of the most iconic and successful musical careers of all time.  In July, he will reunite withStevie Nicks to reprise their acclaimed Heart & Soul tour and in September he will return to his Las Vegasresidency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. All on the heels of his hotly anticipated first memoir and Christmas album, which are both, scheduled for U.S. release this fall.

During Stewart's iconic five decade-long career, he has sold more than 150 million albums worldwide, scored countless charting hits, 18 Grammy nominations and two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  He is a Grammy Living Legend and in 2007 was bestowed the prestigious CBE (Commander of The British Empire) title by the Queen of England. For more information, visit www.rodstewart.com.

About Universal Music Group

Universal Music Group is the world's leading music company with wholly owned operations in 60 territories. Its businesses also include Universal Music Publishing Group, the industry's leading global music publishing operation. Universal Music Group's record labels include A&M/Octone, Decca, Def Jam Recordings, Deutsche Grammophon, Disa, Emarcy, Fonovisa, Geffen Records, Interscope Records, Island Records, Lost Highway Records, Machete Music, MCA Nashville, Mercury Nashville, Mercury Records, Motown Records, Polydor Records, Universal Music Latino, Universal Republic and Verve Music Group as well as a multitude of record labels owned or distributed by its record company subsidiaries around the world. The Universal Music Group owns the most extensive catalogue of music in the industry, which includes the last 100 years of the world's most popular artists and their recordings. UMG's catalogue is marketed through two distinct divisions, Universal Music Enterprises (in the U.S.) and Universal Strategic Marketing (outside the U.S.). Universal Music Group also includes Global Digital Business, its new media and technologies division and Bravado, its merchandising company.

Universal Music Group is a unit of Vivendi, a global media and communications company.

SOURCE Universal Music Group

'Road to the Ram® Jam' Announces Zac Brown Band as the Fourth Artist in the All-Star Country Music Series

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., JUNE 2012

• 'Road to the Ram Jam' provides the ultimate fan experience leading up to the invitation-only Ram Jam concert in Nashville, Tenn., Dec. 29

Multiplatinum-album selling Zac Brown Band will join previously announced artists Kellie Pickler, Brantley Gilbert and Easton Corbin for the "Road to the Ram® Jam" series and sweepstakes.

The Road to the Ram Jam, presented by the Ram Truck brand, features five of today's best country music artists and provides fans the opportunity to win prizes, including trips for two to an invitation-only 2012 Ram Jam concert event Dec. 29 in Nashville, Tenn., where all five artists will perform.

The Road to the Ram Jam series and sweepstakes helps bring country music fans closer to some of their favorite artists with exclusive video content, the opportunity to win prizes -- including collectible posters and vinyl records through participating country radio stations nationwide -- and free music downloads. Fans can enter the sweepstakes for a chance to win trips for two to the invitation-only 2012 Ram Jam concert event at www.RamTrucks.com/RoadtoRamJam or on the Ram Trucks Facebook page atwww.ramjamsweeps.com. 

When fans enter the Road to the Ram Jam concert sweepstakes, the Zac Brown Band will offer them a chance to win a free download of their new single, "The Wind," from the forthcoming album "Uncaged," set for release on July 10 on Atlantic Records/Southern Ground Artists. The last Road to the Ram Jam artist will be announced in August and all five will receive a lease on a 2012 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn truck. The trucks will be auctioned off in early 2013 with all proceeds going to benefit a charity of each artist's choice.

Proceeds from Zac Brown Band's Ram truck will be donated to Camp Southern Ground, set to open in 2014, which is the passion project of Grammy Award-winning musician Zac Brown. Brown donated this 500-acre property, set in the farmlands of Georgia, to open the camp that will be a state-of-the-art facility with programs that will serve children ages 7-17 with both typical and special needs.

The camp will have activities that will challenge, educate and inspire children with diverse abilities and from all socioeconomic backgrounds, races and religions. A number of traditional camp activities will foster youth development and create teachable moments for campers. Plans are in place to align certain elements of the facility with the latest innovative therapies and technology for those children affected by neurobehavioral disorders. For more information on Camp Southern Ground, go tohttp://www.campsouthernground.org/. 

"To me, there's nothing more important than helping kids, and it's great to know that with support from our friends and fans, this camp is going to make a huge difference in the lives of each and every camper," Zac Brown said.

The Ram Truck brand and Zac Brown Band first worked together in 2010 on "Letters to Lyrics," a national appreciation letter-writing campaign aimed at U.S. soldiers deployed around the world.

"Ram is excited to continue partnering with Zac Brown Band," said Fred Diaz, President and CEO - Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico. "The Ram Truck brand and Zac Brown Band both have a unifying can-do attitude and a character filled with authenticity, care, passion and pride. It is very fitting for the band to donate their Ram 1500 Laramie auction proceeds to Camp Southern Ground, as it will be a wonderful place for children." 

The two-time Grammy Award winning and multiplatinum-album selling band has become one of music's most heralded acts. With a historic nine consecutive No. 1 hit singles, awe-inspiring musicianship and dynamic live shows, the Georgia six-piece is definitely built to last. Zac Brown Band's double-platinum major label debut "The Foundation" (Atlantic Records/Home Grown/Big Picture) was named one of Billboard's Top 20 albums of 2009, and the platinum follow-up, "You Get What You Give" (Atlantic/Southern Ground Artists), debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart in 2010. 

Since 2009, the band has garnered more than 50 combined Grammy, Academy of Country Music (ACM), American Music Award (AMA), Country Music Association (CMA), and CMT award nominations with wins including their 2010 Grammy win for "Best New Artist," 2010 CMA win for "New Artist of the Year," and 2011 ACM Top Vocal Event of the Year for "As She's Walking Away" with Alan Jackson. 

The band's first major label release, "The Foundation," was the first major label debut album in 18 years to yield five No. 1's, including "Chicken Fried" and "Free." Released on Nov. 18, 2008, on Atlantic Records, "The Foundation" debuted at No. 17 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart and No. 3 on the Top Country Albums Chart.

Contest RulesThe Road to the Ram Jam sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the 48 contiguous United States and the District of Columbia, 18 years or older at the time of entry. Residents of Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico are ineligible. No purchase or payment of money is necessary to win. The sweepstakes started Feb. 1, and ends Sept. 30. Official rules and complete details are found atwww.RamTrucks.com/RoadtoRamJam.

About Ram Truck BrandThe Ram Truck brand continues to establish its own identity and clearly define its customer since its launch as a standalone vehicle brand. Creating a distinct brand for Ram trucks has allowed the brand to concentrate on how core customers use their trucks and what new features they'd like to see. Whether focusing on a family that uses its half-ton truck day in and day out, a hard-working Ram Heavy Duty owner or a business that depends on its commercial vehicles every day, Ram has the truck market covered.

The Ram Truck brand has the most innovative lineup of full-size trucks on the market. Ram Truck has emerged as a full-size truck leader by investing substantially in new products, infusing them with great looks, refined interiors, durable engines and features that further enhance their capabilities. Truck customers, from half-ton to commercial, have a demanding range of needs and require their vehicles to provide high levels of capability. Ram trucks are designed to deliver a total package.

For more information on Road to the Ram Jam and to enter the sweepstakes, go towww.RamTrucks.com/RoadtoRamJam. 

SOURCE Chrysler Group LLC

KELLIE PICKLER ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH CONAGRA FOODS FOUNDATION® AND FEEDING AMERICA TO FIGHT CHILD HUNGER

Kellie Pickler and other local volunteers participate in food-fulfillment activities at the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee on Tuesday, July 26, for the launch of ConAgra Foods Foundation's Hunger-Free Summer program.

Credit: Dean Dixon/ConAgra Foods 

 

Pickler Visited the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee Yesterday to Help Fill Boxes with Canned Goods and Other Food Items for Children in Need

 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Upon learning one in five children in the U.S. have to worry with the stress of not having enough to eat on a daily basis, country music artist Kellie Pickler was bound and determined to do something about it. Yesterday, she announced her partnership with ConAgra Foods Foundation®'sHunger-Free Summer program at the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee. There, she and other local volunteers filled boxes with canned goods and other food items to be delivered to many of the 400,000 children who are in need across Middle Tennessee alone.

 

The Hunger-Free Summer program invites everyone with access to a computer and a Facebook account to download a free children's activity book, The Hunger Avengers, atFacebook.com/ConAgraFoods. For every download or "share," one meal will be donated to a child in need. Pickler, ConAgra Foods® Foundation and Feeding America hope to reach their goal of 500,000 meals provided by the swiftly approaching deadline of  September 3, 2012. To participate, go towww.Facebook.com/ConAgraFoods today.

 

Also touring in support of her new album 100 Proof, fans can catch Pickler out on the road performing new music and talking about how to become a part of ConAgra Foods Foundation®'s Hunger-Free Summer program. For a full list of tour dates and events visit www.KelliePickler.com.

 

For more information on ConAgra Foods Foundation® and Hunger-Free Summer program, visitwww.ConAgraFoodsFoundation.org.

photo by Danny Clinch.

 

RETURNS TO THE FABULOUS FOX THEATRE ON JULY 19^th!

St. Louis, MO – Long-standing live powerhouse O.A.R. will bring their Summer Crush Tour 2012 to the Fabulous Fox Theatre on July 19 at 8 p.m. with special guest Rebelution. Tickets are on sale now through MetroTix and all seats are just $36.50! Presented by Fox Concerts.

The Summer Crush Tour follows the release of King, the widely-praised seventh studio album from "a self-assured band at the height of its creative powers" (M Magazine). The album was the highest chart debut of their career, grabbing the #12 spot on the Billboard 200 chart.

King earned rave reviews from fans, radio, and journalists alike. “O.A.R. transcends, with a blend of chilled out melodies and poetic lyrics,” – Entertainment Weekly. “Bottom line, fans will dig it,” - OK Magazine. “King, is the crowning jewel of their musicality to date.” – Examiner.com. “O.A.R.’s music remains full of character,” – Boston Globe. “O.A.R. built a thematically-based album of songs with plenty of high points from start to finish,” – The Republican.

King is O.A.R.’s follow-up to their 2008 studio album All Sides, which debuted at #13 on the Billboard Top 200 and #3 on the Digital Album chart. The album provided many firsts for the band including their first Certified Platinum single “Shattered,” which in 2009 was the #6 best-selling Rock Song at iTunes and earned them an ASCAP Award as one of the Most Performed Pop Songs of the Year. With All Sides, the band’s cumulative album sales reached close to 2 million and they received the honor of being on Performing Songwriter's list of the 100 Most Influential Independent Artists of the Past 15 Years.

Joining O.A.R. on their summer tour is reggae band REBELUTION. The band recently released the album Peace of Mind, which debuted at #13 on the Billboard Top 200, #1 Reggae and #1 Independent albums as well as #4 on the iTunes overall album chart. The band previously had four top 10 albums on the Reggae chart and their 2009 release Bright Side of Life debuted at No. 54 on the Top 200 and #1 Reggae.

Tickets for O.A.R.’s 2012 Summer Crush Tour are on sale now at the Fox Theatre box office. To charge by phone call MetroTix at             314/534-1111       or online at www.metrotix.com. For more information on O.A.R. please visit, www.ofarevolution.com.

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