The International Music Summit, Gran Hotel, Ibiza – May 27th – 29, 2009

With just three weeks to go till the biggest names in the dance industry, from the DJ booth to the boardroom, descend on Ibiza for the second International Music Summit, the organisers have revealed full details of the panels, interviews and events taking place over the conferences three days.

The IMS has rapidly set a new standard for conference content giving delegates a unique opportunity to debate and shape the future of their industry. Thoughtful and provocative panel discussions will include topics such as “Managers – Managing the Downturn” with managers of Robbie Williams, Simian Mobile Disco, Paul Oakenfold and David Guetta speaking; “Brands – Bullet Proof Dancing, Surviving the Brand” with Cocoon, Cream and Wall of Sound; and “Festivals – Feast or Famine” with Sonar, Exit Festival and Bestival.

Taking the baton from Tom Middleton and The Soul Avengerz; Dirty Vegas and Above & Beyond have stepped up to the plate to create the IMS:09 Anthem. Dirty Vegas will produce the anthem live, and then will hand it over to Above & Beyond who will remix the anthem live. A fantastic platform to showcase the innovations in electronic music, and definitely a highlight of the IMS…

Taking place from May 27 – 29, 2009 at the island’s luxurious new five-star Gran Hotel, the essential high-profile music gathering has swiftly eclipsed other music conferences to establish itself as the single most important destination for the global dance industry, artists and executives, to do business.

IMS: 09 – BACK TO BUSINESS: THE FULL AGENDA (THE SECOND IBIZA INTERNATIONAL MUSIC SUMMIT)

(Dates and information subject to change.)

WEDNESDAY MAY 27TH 2009

13.00-13.05. Welcome to IMS:09 by the Consell Insular d’Eivissa

13.05-13.15. IMS:09 Introduction & Announcements by IMS Partners
Ben Turner, Danny Whittle, Mark Netto, Pete Tong, Simeon Friend

13.15-13.30. Keynote Introduction. Marc Marot, SEG International, UK.

13.30-14.30. Panel 1: Digital – Do or Die.
Moderator: Ted Cohen, TAG Strategic, USA.
1. David Morgan, Juno Download, UK.
2- Dr Achim Illner, DJ Tunes, Germany.
3- Justin Pearse, DJ Download, UK.
4- Kevin Green, Beatport, USA.
5- Mark Grotefeld, Pioneer, UK.
6- Ray Smith, Be-At.TV, UK.

14.30-15.30. Networking Lunch. Music by Alfredo, Spain.

15.30-16.30. Panel 2: Brands – Bullet Proof Dancing: Surviving The Brand
Moderator: Rhys Hughes, BBC Radio 1.
1- Cathy Guetta, Fuck Me I’m Famous, France.
2- Danny Whittle, Pacha, Spain.
3- James Barton, Cream, UK.
4- Johannes Goller, Cocoon, Germany.
5- Mark Jones, Wall Of Sound, UK.
6- Mar-T, Amnesia, Ibiza.

16.45-17.30. Future Generation – Teenage Dreams with Callum Negus-Fancey, Let’s Go Crazy, UK.
Interviewed by Ben Turner, IMS / Graphite Media.

17.30-18.15. The IMS Anthem 2009 in conjunction with Dance4Life. Created by Dirty Vegas, UK.

18.30-19.30. Panel 3: Managers – Managing The Downturn
Moderator: Marc Marot, SEG Int. Manager of Paul Oakenfold, UK.
1- Caroline Prothero, Prohibition DJ. Manager of David Guetta, UK.
2- David Enthoven, IE Music – Manager of Robbie Williams, UK.
3- Eric Harle, D-E-F. Manager of Moby, Mylo, Roysksopp, UK.
4- Lynn Cosgrave, Safehouse. Manager of Carl Cox, UK.
5- Oli Isaacs, This Is Music. Manager of Simian Mobile Disco, UK.
6- Olga Heinjs, Unmanageable. Manager of Roger Sanchez, Holland.

19.30-21.30. Drinks Reception at the Pioneer Networking Bar, Ibiza Gran Hotel – DJs Tom Middleton and Dan Tait.

20.00-03.00. Danish Dance Music Export Showcase, El Hotel.
Featuring: Steen Thottrup. Soulmagic (Morten Trust & Mikkel Wendelboe). LP Stoevring. Camille Jones – Live. The Montanas (Morjac & Michael Parsberg). Fagget Fairys – Live & DJ set. Kenneth Bager.

23.00-03.00. IMS:09 – IMS Label Showcase, Grial. Rekids Vs Barraca Music
Featuring: Radio Slave (Rekids), Germany. Andrew Grant (Barraca Music), Spain. AFFKT – Live (Barraca Music), Spain.

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THURSDAY MAY 28TH 2009

08.30-10.00. Networking Breakfast

10.00-11.00. Panel 4: A&R International Rescue – Patchworking The World
Moderator: Steve Hulme, Pacha Recordings, Spain.
1- Juan Vandervoort, !K7 Records, Germany.
2- Kenneth Bager, Music For Dreams, Denmark.
3- Mark Knight, Toolroom, UK.
4- David Waxman, Ultra Records, USA.
5- Pauli Steinbach, Cocoon, Germany.
6- Tim Binns, New State, UK.

11.15-12.00. Key Note Address: John Niven, Kill Your Friends, UK.

Interviewed by Pete Tong, IMS.

12.15-13.00. The IMS Anthem 2009 in conjunction with Dance4Life.
Remixed by Above & Beyond, UK.

13.15-14.00. Presidential Debate: Digital Dreams
Moderator: Kurosh Nasseri, Nasseri Music Business Solutions, USA.
- Ted Cohen, TAG Strategic, USA.
- Rudy Tambala, Ministry of Sound, UK.

14.00-15.30. Networking Lunch. Music by DJ Pippi, Spain.

15.30-16.30. Panel 5: Brands – Anatomy Of A Brand Deal.
Moderator: Ted Cohen, TAG Strategic, USA.
1- Alex Vlassopulos, Sony Music, UK. The Label.
2- Cliff Fluet, Lewis Silkin, UK. The Lawyer.
3- Eric Karsenty, Blackberry / RIM, France. The Brand.
4- Jason Van-Haeften, Bugle Communications, UK. The Executioner
5- Marc Marot, SEG Int. Manager of Paul Oakenfold, UK. The Manager.
6- Matt Glover, AEG, UK. The Broker.

16.45-17.00. The IMS Vote. Help Shape The Future Of Electronic Music

17.10-18.00. Panel 6: 360 Degree Dancing – Doing It For Themselves
Moderator: Kurosh Nasseri, Nasseri Music Business Solutions, USA.
1- Amy Thomson, X-Ray Touring. UK.
2- Emma Hoser, AM Only, USA.
3- Matt Edwards, Radio Slave / Rekids, Germany.
4- Peter Koepke, USA
5- Richard Marshall, Gulp Marketing, UK.
6- Stephen Kempner, Sheridans – Solicitor, UK.

18.15-20.00. Consell Insular d’Eivissa’s presentation to IMS

20.00-20.15. Speech from Xico Tarrés, President of Ibiza

20.15-21.45. Drinks Reception for Consell Insular d’Eivissa at the Pioneer Networking Bar, Ibiza Gran Hotel
Featuring the Get Tested Charity Auction. DJ Sarah Main.

23.00-03.00. IMS:09 – IMS Label Showcase, Grial. Toolroom Vs Pacha Recordings Vs CR2 Records.
Featuring: Mark Knight (Toolroom), Funkagenda (Toolroom), Sarah Main (Pacha), MYNC aka Mark Brown & Nick Correlli (CR2 Records).

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FRIDAY MAY 29TH 2009

08.30-10.00. Networking Breakfast

10.00-11.00. IMS Think Tank.
Chairman: Bobby Simms. Popshop Ents / Univeral Music, UK. EMAIL
1- Mark Dowling, Absolute Marketing, UK.
2- Mark Selby, Nokia, UK.
3- Paul Bedford, Ingenious Media, UK.
4- Pete Koepke, USA
5- Sander Kleinenberg, Little Mountain Recordings, Holland.
6- Ted Cohen, TAG Strategic, USA.

11.15-12.00 Presidential Debate. MiamIbiza: Club Tourism. Where to Now?
Moderator: Samuel Guetta, Ibiza Voice, Spain.
- Louis Puig, Club Space, USA.
- Francisco Ferrer, Pacha, Ibiza.

12.15-13.15. Panel 7. Festivals – Feast or Famine
Moderator: Cris Hearn, Primary Talent – Agent, UK.
1- Bojan Boskovic, Exit Festival, Serbia.
2- Chris Greenwood, Big Chill, UK.
3- Enric Palau, Sonar, Spain.
4- Jose Cadahia, Summercase / Sinnamon, Spain.
5- Martin Gontad, 2 Net Producciones, Argentina.
6- Rob da Bank, Bestival, UK.

13.30-14.15 The Pete Tong Interview: Basement Jaxx, UK.

14.15-15.30. Networking Lunch. Music by George from Nightmares On Wax, Spain.

15.30-16.30. Panel 8. Synchronisation & Visualistion – Seeing Is Believing
Moderator: Jason Bentley, KCRW, USA.
1- Jason Alexander, Hit The Ground Running, USA.
2- Lol Hammond, Vertigo Films, UK.
3- Martin Morales, Disney Music Group, Europe Middle East Africa.
4- Natasha Baldwin, Boosey & Hawkes, UK.
5- PJ Bloom, Neophonic, USA.
6- Sanne Hagelsten, Zync Music, USA.

16.45-17.45. Key Note Interview: Richie Hawtin, M-nus, Germany.
Interviewed by Ben Turner, IMS / Graphite Media, UK.

17.45-18.00. Closing Speech by IMS Partners
Ben Turner, Danny Whittle, Mark Netto, Pete Tong, Simeon Friend.

19.00-00.00. IMS Grand Finale in association with Pioneer. Drinks courtesy of Sol
19.00-19.10. Introduction by Tony Andrews from Funktion 1
19.10-20.40. Rob da Bank
20.40-21.15. Filthy Dukes – Live
21.15-22.45. Pete Tong
22.45-00.00. Basement Jaxx – Live

For the most up to date information and more, please go to:

International Music Summit Official Website

Check out these amazing Weezer performances filmed recently for Yahoo!’s “Nissan Live Sets”.

The session features a packed house of participants who lend a collective musical hand to hits off the new album such as “Pork and Beans” and “Automatic.” Other performances include the classics “Say it Ain’t So” and “Beverly Hills,” as well as an interesting cover of Radiohead’s “Creep.”

Watch video on Yahoo! Weezer – Nissan Live Sets

Also, do you or anyone you know think you have what it takes to create the next talked-about dance move a la Soulja Boy? Well, Weezer and DanceJam are on the hunt for the next big internet star to develop a signature dance for “Pork and Beans.” Some great prizes are being offered so take a look at the Dancejam page for information and instructions on how to enter:

Weezer on DanceJam

Weezer (The Red Album) on amazon.co.uk

Weezer (Red Album) on amazon.com

Myspace
Weezer

1975: “Love Is The Drug”; 2008: “Everything Is A Drug”

Vienna: Mysterious Viennese electric trancedance upstarts Pharmacarma want to make one thing clear with their debut single on Accompong Records: “Everything is a Drug”. And the message is spreading across Europe and around the world, where ever people get together for the twin drugs of music and dancing.

Born in the basements and ‘burbs of Austria, Pharmacarma features the amazing, versatile voice of Martina Eory, a classically trained singer who would be dealing with the decadence of Mozart if she’d been born 300 years earlier.

Her voice embraces jazz, blues, soul, and even chanson, and has taken her to China and beyond, in addition to gracing a barrage of great Austrian dance records. In Pharmacarma, she has teamed up with a mysterious, MIDI monster and beat meister, who put together this dark, dangerous, and decidedly timely slice of modern life.

Buy “Everything is a Drug” on iTunes

The song is available in three mixes – the original electro single, a funky house remix by Shroombab of Junglistic Sistaz fame, and a tech house remix by Remote, who is already spinning the song in the abandoned warehouses and streets across Europe, where he and his Kurbelwave Crew throw their exclusive mobile parties.

All three mixes are available on Accompong Records’ website and via iTunes, Amazon.mp3, eMusic and Rhapsody. DeeJays can download lossless wav files at Juno Download.

On your favorite music website, just keep your eyes open for the cover that looks like a package of anti-depressants. Then open your ears.

Pharmacarma Official Website

Legendary singer songwriter, Donna Summer and OurStage.com invite you to enter the “Stamp Your Feet” dance routine contest.

“Stamp Your Feet” is the single from Donna Summer’s brand new album ‘Crayons.’ The track has been burning up the dance floors at clubs and pumping up the crowds at stadiums…now’s your turn to show the Queen of Dance, Donna Summer, how you shake it!

All cheerleading squads, dance troops and dance enthusiasts should choreograph a dance routine to “Stamp Your Feet” and upload the video onto http://www.Ourstage.com/go/stampyourfeet.

Online votes from fans will determine the finalists. The winner will be chosen by Donna Summer and will win $5000.00!

Don’t worry if you are not a professional. Everyone is invited to enter. All you need is a team of at least three dancers, a little rhythm, a lot of energy and the ability to Stamp Your Feet!

For end date and full contest details go to: http://www.ourstage.com/go/stampyourfeet

Watch video:

Direct Video Link

About OurStage, Inc.

OurStage is a leading website for new music lovers to discover and promote new artists, and for artists to connect with fans and earn valuable industry support to aid their career development. The site, which is free to fans and artists, enables fans to choose the best emerging talent in multiple music genres by using a tamper-proof judging process. Top-ranked artists receive significant career-building promotion and support from established artists, industry professionals, and a broad assortment of partners, including AOL Music, Bonnaroo, Bumbershoot, PLUG Awards, Newport Folk Festival, JVC Jazz Festival Newport, Paste Magazine, CMJ, Noise Pop, and many others. Founded in early 2007, OurStage delivers music and related content to over a million fans in 140 countries each month, filtered and ranked by OurStage members for the pleasure of the listening public.

Donna Summer will kick off her US tour on July 5th!

Donna Summer – Crayons on amazon.com

Crayons on amazon.co.uk

Donna Summer

I’ve been listening to the Denise Lopez “Don’t You Wanna Be Mine” dance single and remixes set for release 16th June, 2008 on House Trained Records. I don’t recall hearing the track when it was originally released in the US in 1990, but that was awhile ago…and it hasn’t really received much airplay since then.

Apparently, though, “Don’t You Wanna Be Mine” was an underground dance anthem here in the UK. I’m actually quite surprised that it only reached #86 on the Billboard Dance Chart. Even with the help from famous production duo Robert Clivilles and (the late) David Cole from C&C Music Factory – which was a BIG name back then – it still didn’t come anywhere near top 10 or even top 20.

“Don’t You Wanna Be Mine” is a great dance track and Denise Lopez’s vocals are top notch. It’s good to see that it’s getting another chance with the release of a fresh modern remix in June, and is sure to be a huge hit in the clubs this summer.

Denise Lopez on amazon.co.uk

House Trained Records

Denise Lopez Myspace appreciation

By: Jenny May – BandWeblogs.com

Dancers from Thriller LIVE perform Michael Jackson’s Thriller dance in front of unsuspecting members of the public to celebrate 25th year anniversary of Thriller.

The biggest selling album of all time went underground when London commuters were taken by storm with a filmed performance of the famous Thriller Dance on the London district line tube.

Already an instant hit on YouTube, the video shows passengers looking flabbergasted as the impromptu performance by fellow commuters kicks off. One viewer said: “This is amazing!!! Slick as hell. I love the people who pretend they’re not interested.” Another Internet watcher said: “The polite applause at the end is the best bit – very British.”

The video has been picked up across the world with the Metro paper running a huge feature together with TV coverage on ITV London Tonight. This has clearly captured the imagination of the London commuters with a serious debate across blogs, websites and YouTube about this dance extravaganza.

The dance was performed by professional dancers from Thriller LIVE which is a full budget mega-show celebrating the music of the World’s Greatest Entertainer.

Kicking off its UK tour on March 27th, 2008 the dance crew got together with Sony BMG to plan the 25th anniversary of the release of Thriller and thought it would be fun to perform the Thriller dance in various locations around London.

The first “tube” video has been hugely popular…where might they appear next?

Watch video – Thriller Dance on the London Tube:

Upcoming:

Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller – 25th Anniversary Edition’ – Release Date 11th February, 2008 (UK)

“The Girl Is Mine” – Physical Release date – 4th February 2008

Thriller LIVE UK Tour 27th March – 25th May 2008

Michael Jackson Official Website UK

Thriller Live Official Website

One of the most successful hip-hop acts to emerge from the UK, Stereo MCs’ line-up revolved around three women and three men: Rob Birch (vocals), Nick ‘The Head’ Hallam (synths/computers/scratching) Owen If (percussion) plus Cath Coffey, Andrea Bedassie and Verona David (backing vocals).

Hailing from Nottingham, where they had been friends since the age of six, Rob Birch and Nick Hallam originally formed a rock duo there called Dogman And Head, before moving to London in 1985 when they were both 17 years old. Once in London they started recording rap music and, together with John Baker and DJ Richie Rich, formed the Gee Street label as a means of promoting their music. Gee Street soon signed a distribution deal with the New York-based 4th & Broadway label and a series of singles followed before Stereo MCs’ debut album 33, 45, 78 surfaced in 1989. This was followed by the 1990 album ‘Supernatural’ and the group’s 1991 single “Elevate My Mind” gave them a US Top 40 hit that year, which was a first for a UK hip-hop outfit.

Although their first two albums had been well received it was their powerful third album, ‘Connected’, which really brought them serious recognition when it crashed into the album charts in 1992. When the single to the title track and the brilliantly rhythmic “Step It Up” were released, the Stereo MCs finally gained the wider audience that they truly deserved. In 1994 the Stereo MCs picked up the awards Best Album for ‘Connected’ and for Best Group at the BRITs. ‘Connected’ was also short listed for a Mercury Prize.

This 20 track disc features the best of their studio recordings and concerts that were recorded for and broadcast by the BBC and charts their rise to multi-platinum album sellers. All of the tracks here were hand picked by the group and feature exclusive versions of some of their biggest hits. This is a wonderful alternative ‘best of’ and, just as they are about to release their latest album, it serves as a fantastic reminder of Stereo MCs at their commercial peak. Stereo MCs Live at the BBC is set for UK release January 28th, 2008.

Stereo MCs Live at the BBC track listing:

Elevate My Mind (Town and Country) 08/05/1993
Sofisticated Lamacq Live 09/04/2001
Deep Down & Dirty Lamacq Live 09/04/2001
Fade Away T&C 08/05/1993
Graffiti Part 1 Lamacq Live 09/04/2001
Graffiti Part 2 Lamacq 09/04/2001
Connected Town and Country 08/05/1993
Pressure Town and Country 08/05/1993
Playing With Fire Town and Country 08/05/1993
Lost In Music T&C 08/05/1993
Ground Level T&C 08/05/1993
Breeze Lamacq Live 09/04/2001
Step It Up (Version) Evening Session 26/09/1992
Creation Evening Session 26/09/1992
Set It Off Janice Long 18/8/05
What Is Soul Liz Kershaw 24/04/1988
Toe To Toe Andy Kershaw 05/01/1989
Gee Street Liz Kershaw 24/04/1988

The Stereo MCs are currently on a DJ tour throughout the UK and Europe.

Stereo MCs show dates:

Dates could change! Go to Stereo MCs Official Website for the latest tour dates and information.

25 Jan 2008 CDQ Club (DJ SET) Warsaw
26 Jan 2008 Sfinks Club (DJ SET) Sopot, Poland
1 Feb 2008 Club Low (DJ SET) Madrid
8 Feb 2008 Maria am Ostbahnof (DJ SET) Berlin, Germany
9 Feb 2008 Ubel and Gefahrlich (DJ SET) Hamburg, Germany
29 Feb 2008 Fabric (DJ SET) London
15 Mar 2008 Lagerhof (DJ SET) Leipzig, Germany
20 Mar 2008 Toni Molkerei (DJ SET) Zurich
28 Mar 2008 Moles Club (DJ SET) Bath

Stereo MCs – Live at the BBC on amazon.co.uk

Stereo MCs on Myspace

The release of Crank That (Soulja Boy), the debut single by Soulja Boy Tell’em, has been moved forward a week to 10 December 2007, due to public demand. The single entered the Top 20 this week on downloads alone and is rated 5-1 by Ladbrokes for the UK Christmas No. 1, so get yer bets in now!

Furthermore, The Official UK Crank That Competition was launched this week. Fans are invited to upload videos of themselves ‘Cranking da Soulja Boy’. The best, chosen by Soulja Boy himself, will get to meet (and maybe dance with) the US hip hop sensation at his UK shows in early 2008.

For more information about the competition, go to: Crank That UK – YouTube link

Soulja Boy Tellem Official Website

For some, it’s not cool to like Justin Timberlake. For others, he’s the one. The Prince of Pop. The ‘it’ guy.

The more singles that Justin Timberlake releases, the more he’s growing on me. His voice, the harmonies, the feel of the mix and the production on his songs are quality. When I first heard “Cry Me A River” I thought, “What is this?” It’s got to be one of the best pop songs that I’ve heard so far in the 21st century.

Also, people want to work with him. His collaborations with other singers, producers and musicians confirms to me that there is ’something there’ when it comes to not only his music, but his character as well. Established names in the music industry like 50 Cent, Missy Elliott, Beyonce, Nelly Furtado, Timbaland, Rick Rubin, Reba McEntire, Duran Duran and Snoop Dog are just a few of the names that he’s already worked with.

On November 25th, 2007 Channel 4 in England aired FutureSex/LoveShow, Justin Timberlake’s August 2007 concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City. I just happened to turn on the TV just a few minutes into the 2-hour show. I didn’t plan on watching the whole thing, but that’s what I ended up doing.

I can’t recall ever seeing live footage of a Justin Timberlake concert like the FutureSex/LoveShow before. I was impressed. The concert came across as a great party atmosphere that included a spectacular light show with songs from the ‘FutureSex/LoveSounds’ album and more. The dancers were fun to watch – dressed in casual clothes most of the time – with the exception of the strippers/dancers for one of the songs!

At times Justin would dance on his own, which takes some nerve and a lot of confidence. The backup singers sounded and looked good. Timbaland made a guest appearance and for some songs, Justin played the piano/keyboard. His voice sounded great when he was dancing and he seems to be at the top of his game.

The word Future in both the title of his show and his album seems appropriate. With all that he’s done so far, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for Justin Timberlake. It seems for him, the sky is the limit.

The FutureSex/LoveShow that aired on TV didn’t include all that is available on the DVD that has just been released. It mainly showed the live performances with just some backstage footage.

Here’s a track listing that I found for the Australian DVD release…not sure if this is the same track listing for the US and UK release:

(Unconfirmed Track Listing)

Disk 1
1. DVD1: Opening Conversation
2. FutureSex/LoveSounds
3. Like I Love You
4. My Love
5. Senorita
6. Sexy Ladies
7. Until The End Of Time
8. What Goes Around…/…COMES Around
9. Chop Me Up
10. Intermission – Jt & Timbaland
11. Rock Your Body
12. Gone
13. Take It From Here
14. Last Night
15. Damn Girl
16. Summer Love
17. Losing My Way
18. Cry Me A River
19. Lovestoned / I Think She Knows
20. Sexyback
21. (Another Song) All Over Again
22. Goodnights & Credits

Disk 2
1. DVD2: 1 On 1 With Jt
2. The Making Of FutureSex/LoveShow
3. Open Mic
4. Under The Stage
5. Lovestoned/I Think She Knows (Justice Remix)

Futuresex/Loveshow – Live from Madison Square Garden DVD on amazon.com

FutureSex/LoveShow DVD on amazon.co.uk

For more information go to:

Justin Timberlake Official Website

By: Jenny May – Band Weblogs

Nigerian born singer Nayo (pronounced “Nigh-O”), has come on to the scene here in the UK in refreshing style. Nayo is slowly but surely bubbling up from the underground and something tells me that it won’t be long before she’s a household name. Her silky smooth and soulful vocals, reminiscent of Sade, have certainly caught the attention of not only the industry but her growing fanbase as well.

Having spent time in the US, Nayo graduated from Pepperdine University with a degree in Business Administration. She’s performed at shows in Los Angeles and independently released her single, “Party Fever” which made it onto the Billboard Club Play Charts and dance charts in Europe by late 2005.

Now based in the UK, her latest single, “Desert Storm”, was co-written by KK (Dido, Kylie Minogue) and features jazz, trip hop and bossanova influences. I can understand why some of the top DJs like Eric Smax, Thomas Gold and Grammy award winning Paul Harris along with Julian Peake would want to sink their teeth into “Desert Storm”, or anything that Nayo is involved in, for that matter. The single has been receiving airplay on Radio 1 and is currently making it’s way up the UK Club Charts.

Nayo interview with BandWeblogs.com
By: Jenny May

Jenny May: You’ve been writing music since a young age. What is your songwriting process like?

Nayo: It varies, but I mostly write with the piano and I tend to fine-tune my lyrics at a later stage.

When you moved to the US, how did you establish your music career? Did you form a band?

I was mostly trying to find my voice in the US, particularly when I was signed to Sony Music. I have always been a solo act but I did have a band support me for most of my shows.

How did your independent release of “Party Fever” come about?

It wasn’t planned at all. Luck sort of found me, I guess.

Where are you currently living, and do you have a favorite place to live?

I currently live in the UK, London to be specific. I don’t think I have a favorite place yet. I live opposite the EMI building so that I continue to be motivated.

Do you go to Nigeria often?

Yes, that’s one of the great things about living in London I can go home as often as I want or need to.

So far, where has been your favorite live music experience/gig to date and why?

It will have to be London as Los Angeles the only other city I have lived in was mostly geared towards indie bands and the film industry.

How do you see yourself in the future and do you have other interests outside of music that you would like to explore?

I will always be involved in music and within the media industry. Lately, I have been nurturing a growing interest in theatre as well and would love to work with some production companies years to come. But, music and touring is my primary focus.

Have you attended many live shows by other bands/artists? If so, what has been a memorable show and why?

The most memorable show has been the African Express which featured Damon Albarn, The Good, The Bad and The Queen, Amadou & Mariam a diverse group of artists both from Africa and the West.

What inspires you?

My mother, women across the world who are able to stand for their values and beliefs when faced against the odds or ills of all kinds.

Are there any particular artists and/or musicians that you would like to work with someday?

I would love to work with Damon Albarn, Bob Dylan, Seal, Youssou N’Dour and Tony Allen to name a few.

Has the internet effected your music career? If so, in what way?

The internet has positively affected my music career by empowering independent artists, like myself and allowing us to reach our fanbase directly across the globe.

Your latest single, “Desert Storm” has been doing very well in the UK charts. As your fanbase continues to grow, have there been many changes in your day to day life?

Yes, Thanks. Its currently Number 11 on the UK Charts. I guess the only change is that I have to work harder and do more, a lot more shows in various parts of the country, which is expected of any artist.

What music have you been listening to lately?

Asa, a Nigerian singer-songwriter based in France.

Nayo’s single, “Desert Storm”, with club remixes, is available as a digital release in the UK and across Europe.

For more information, go to:

Nayo Official Website
Nayo on Myspace

Sergey Lazarev is without a doubt one of the most successful singers in Russia today. Before going solo, Sergey, a multi-talented singer, dancer and actor, started out in a band called Neposedi which also included Julia and Lena who later formed Tatu.

He then went on to form pop duo, Smash!! with childhood friend Vlad Topalov. They were signed by Universal Music Russia, had five Number 1 hits, airplay on MTV Russia, numerous awards and millions of copies were sold in Russia, CIS and South East Asia.

Sergey’s debut solo album ‘Don’t Be Fake’, released in Russia, instantly sold more than 300,000 copies which led to the prestigious Russian National Music TV Channel’s MUZ TV Award as “Best New Act” in 2006.

After having recent success in the UK club charts, Sergey is now set to release his latest single, “Everytime” on December 3rd, 2007 in the UK.

Sergey was gracious enough to take some time out for this exclusive interview with me for BandWeblogs.com.

Jenny May: Can you tell us about your latest single, “Everytime”? How it came to be your next UK release?

Sergey: “Everytime” is the second single from my new album. The first single “Shattered Dreams” is very dynamic, so I wanted the next one to be kind of sad, and especially the fall is the time of the year that has something melancholic about it in the air. But the remixes of “Everytime” will make everyone jump up.

Do you write your songs? If so, what is your song writing process like? Or if not – how do you select your songs?

I have lots of ideas about music, the ways it should sound, its concepts and creativity, but as for writing music it’s kind of difficult for me so far…that’s why the songs for me are written by professionals. But I always take an active part in the process.

Who are your musical influences?

There are many artists whose work I respect and I listen to their songs a lot. I have over 100 cds of different artists and music styles in my car. What I really like are the artists who make an incredible and bright show out of their performance on stage. I respect and admire artists who have a lot to say by their work, real leaders, artists who are not afraid of experiments and radical changes…

What are your views on western music?

I think that Russian music and show business in general have a lot to learn and to look up at…I think there’s such a massive stream of new music coming and it’s very hard for young artists to make their ways without the support of a serious big label. And the audience is becoming very picky – it’s very hard to surprise it with something.

Have you toured the UK and/or the US? Do you have any plans for a large scale tour?

I have this idea in my future plans. But there’s so much to be done before I go on a big tour. So far I have a lot of concerts around Russia and other neighboring countries. I have a perfect team of dancers and musicians from Britain with me. And of course my dream is to perform with my new show in Britain.

Do you keep in touch with your old Neposedi band mates, Julia and Lena (who went on to form Tatu)?

Of course we do. We are good old friends. Julia and I are very close…always supporting and helping each other. She is like a sister to me.

What is your favorite style of music?

As for me, the right style of music is the one which is best to your mood and situation at a specific moment…

Do you have plans to act in more projects in the future? If so, what?

I have taken part in many projects in my life – different TV projects as well as contests. The last two of them were Dancing on Ice, where I took the 2nd prize and Circus with the Stars, where I was the winner. I used to spend lots of time training and as you can see the results speak for themselves. But at the moment I am 100% in music.

Do you prefer to act or sing?

I just love being on stage…I feel totally comfortable there. I remember myself singing since childhood and I can’t imagine my life without music at all. Music under my skin…by the way, the song with the same title is in my new album.

How and/or why did you start singing and performing?

Since childhood I was a very energetic kid: was doing something, jumping, running around all the time – and never had a minute of rest. When I turned 6 years old my parents took me to a sports school, but because of the injury I got, I had to leave professional sport at the age of 8. But except for being a very sportive child I was good at singing, that’s why after I had to quit gymnastics, I started taking vocal classes…and since then I have been singing…

Since you started in the music business at a young age, what are your feelings about child stars and do you think you’ve coped well in the business?

It is obvious that it is very hard to be in the centre of everybody’s attention since a very young age. At a certain point you are getting used to being very successful and it’s hard to surprise you with anything, and you start to want more and more, which you don’t get all the time, as success is a very unsteady thing, so sooner or later you start lacking it. Then the panic starts, sometimes you get depressed, you don’t know what to do and which way to go. I have been through that. At a moment like that, it is very important that your close friends and your family are with you – they can always help you to go through hard times.

Do you prefer the recording process or performing live?

I really enjoy recording songs at the studio. But there’s nothing compared to a live concert. I love touring. And now when I have an incredible team of dancers and musicians that I work together with – it is even more exciting!!!

For music, news, tour dates and more, go to Sergey Lazarev Official Website and Sergey on Myspace.

In-the-know Premiership players, Beyonce and, erm, SpongeBob SquarePants all have one thing in common – they know how to do the ‘Crank That’ Dance. The infectious dance has spawned numerous remixes and encouraged a staggering 16 million people to view the ‘How to Crank That – Instructional video’ on YouTube. The man behind this furore is Soulja Boy Tell’em and his hot debut single “Crank That (Soulja Boy)”.

Soulja Boy Tell’em is the hottest rapper in the States. His debut single “Crank That (Soulja Boy)” has been #1 for seven weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, Hot Airplay, Digital and Ringtone charts. That’s quite an achievement for a 17 year old who has only been signed to Interscope Records for a year.

The track “Crank That (Soulja Boy)” is ready to make its mark in the UK, when it is released on December 10th, 2007 through Collipark Music/Interscope Records. The track will also be digitally available from November 5th exclusively on iTunes. The single includes a remix from Travis Barker (Blink 182/+44).

Part of Soulja Boy Tell’em’s magic is what he brings to the scene as an entertainer. With his personalized Soulja Boy Sunglasses and unique dance routines, he’s putting the fun back into hip hop. Along with putting his own shows and songs together plus producing all his own music, Soulja Boy Tell’em is a rare breed.

Watch Soulja Boy Tell’em How to Crank That – Instructional Video:

Not surprisingly, www.souljaboytellem.com has become the most viewed artist site on the web. It’s quite fitting then that his debut album should be called ’souljaboytellem.com’, which is released on November 19th.

Soulja Boy Tell’em How to Crank That – Instructional Video link

Soulja Boy Tell’em Official Website
Soulja Boy Tell’em on Myspace

Innerpartysystem is one of the newest signings to NYC label Stolen Transmission (The Oohlas, The Horrors, The Photo Atlas, etc).

Stolen Transmission is re-releasing the band’s debut entitled The Download EP, which features two additional previously unreleased tracks, “Don’t Stop” and “Lovers Dancing Remix”.

Listen: “Don’t Stop” MP3

Innerpartysystem has been quickly gaining notoriety, a fact that is evident through the presence of “Heart of Fire” on the MTV VMA’s playlist, and the band has also licensed its music for 2 EA video games. The song “Don’t Stop” will appear in FIFA, and “Heart of Fire” in Burnout.

Innerpartysystem is composed of four guys who were reared in the bleak small towns that surround Reading, Pennsylvania. The weathered houses, rusted factories and sprawling farms make this the landscape of true America. These environments are stark, urban and mechanical, and they are pregnant with dark and anxious hope – sentiments that Patrick Nissley, Innerpartysystem’s main songwriter, carries in his writing.

Nissley captures this blue collar and proletariat aggression of small town America, no doubt a product of his past singing in hardcore punk bands, but he synthesizes this with influences from electronica music. Other band members Kris Barman (keyboards, guitar, programming), Jared Piccone (drums, beats, programming) and Jesse Cronan (keyboards, programming) follow cue and add textures, electronics, keyboard lines and traditional rock instrumentation to each song. It’s this intermingling of styles and instruments that gives Innerpartysystem a distinctive vision, as its songs incorporate throbbing electronic beats that nod towards Autechre or Squarepusher but also the melodic aggression that’s not far from what you’d find in Nine Inch Nails or Nirvana.

However, don’t be mislead. Despite Innerpartysystem’s darker leanings its vision is coiled in music to which you can dance. Let that be rephrased, it does not create music to which you can dance, but to which you must dance. This is what makes Innerpartysystem special. There is a depth to the dance beat. There is a lingering emotion in the lyrics. There is an undeniable energy that will make you move.

Just as any great artist can reveal their minds eye to the listener in a three minute song, Innerpartysystem somehow finds a way to do more – it takes your hand, places something important inside it, walks you through the seedy and desolate alleys of its home-town and then it holds the door for you as you gape the dark and familiar. But don’t be afraid, it’s just entertainment.

Innerpartysystem 2007 tour dates:

Dates could be added or changed! Go to Innerpartysystem’s Official Website for the latest tour dates and information.

26 October – Boston, MA – Harper’s Ferry (Paper Party)
30 November 2007 M Room Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
5 December 2007 The Orchard NYC New York, New York
12 December 2007 Piano’s New York, New York
20 December 2007 Legend’s Reading

The Download EP Tracklisting:

Don’t Stop
Heart of Fire
The Way We Move
Night is Alive
The Lovers Dancing
Lovers Dancing Remix

Innerpartysystem Official Website
Innerpartysystem on Myspace

Seattle based “party rock super group” United State Of Electronica (or U.S.E.) has been creating quite a buzz around their live shows – and on the dance floor. They’ve toured the US and internationally including shows at clubs and festivals in Tokyo and Osaka, Japan. Now U.S.E. is releasing their latest single, “Open Your Eyes” on Concept Music in the UK. With electronica pulses and disco beats, their infamous vocoder and party attitude, U.S.E. is sure to continue to win over the hearts of pop music fans from around the world.

United State Of Electronica (U.S.E.) interview with BandWeblogs.com
Compiled by Dave Tommo

Dave Tommo: How many people are in your band and who does what?

U.S.E.: There are anywhere from 7 (core musicians) to about 100 people on stage. The other 89 are dancing robots w/ healthy, human hearts. Jon e. “Blades” Rock – drums, Lightweight Luva, rice pilaf Derek “Shadowz” Chan – bass, death stare, vice grip Carly “Skullz” Nicklaus – Diva vocals, Mexi-fresh-seeker-outer Amanda “Eaglez” Khanjian – Diva vocals, tempo adjusta, Make-it-in-the-Big-Apple-well-wisher Peter “Danger Zone” Sali – Guitar, bloody murder screams Jason “Snake” Holstrom – Guitar, fist pumper, gun slinga Noah “Legendz” Weaver – Keys, robots, world hugger.

Are you looking for world domination or are you after something bigger?

If by world domination you mean for everyone to like us and to follow our commands, that would be a bit too much responsibility, because the old adage “absolute power corrupts absolutely” kind of scares us; we would just end up ordering people to get us things like macadamia nut ice cream and back massages w/ cloud blossom and cherub b.o. scented lotion. But from an empyreal point of view, we could just get the world together for one big party and leave our negative beliefs outside of the party grounds and perhaps something that changes the course of history for the better might take place. That may be more appropriate than world dominatrix.

Why would it be good if it was the 70’s again?

People would dance in many different ways, there would only be really huge carphones for the super rich, no Bush regime, cheaper cereal, no SUV’s except cool looking range rovers, vista lite drumsets were easier to find, and Led Zeppelin didn’t wear pleated slacks and flowery silk shirts (until 1979).

Is ABBA the best pop band ever? If not who?

ABBA is one of the best of course, but they have plenty of good company. Jamiroquai, Daft Punk, Barry White, George McRea, Autograph, Snake Lion, Al B. Sure, Steely Dan, Jungle Toa Toa and his Rubber band, Weezer, Refreshments, Garrison Starr, Dolour, Oasis, Hurricane Chris, this list is getting too long.

Where would your ideal gig be?

On top of the World on a large oak platform surrounded by marshmallows and lollipops.

Where would you be without your vocoder?

Somewhere in Lichtenstein opening a restaurant called “Delish Lichtenstish”.

What is the best thing about Seattle?

The landscape. Being able to see snow capped mountains, oceans and forests from one vantage point – then deciding to go record music at these landmarks which are all only an hour away in most any direction.

What was it like playing in Japan?

It was as amazing as you can imagine it to be. The people, food, and architecture are truly awe-inspiring.

Did you go to any good parties there?

Yes, but what goes on in Japan stays in Japan. Though it can be said that what their drug culture lacks, they more than make up for in raw food and rice wine.

How do you record in the studio?

As mentioned earlier, we find a cabin on a mountain lake, a barn, in the woods, or in our guitar players basement studio, or even a pro set up, and knock out the riffs after pressing the red record button.

What would you say is the most important tool in your box?

The hi hat. And the floor thomas.

Where do you like to unwind?

Usually in fields, lakes, and/or helicopters or stress factories.

What movies (if any) inspire U.S.E.?

Weekend at Bernie’s part II and Cool Runnings.

What’s on your rider?

Red Bull, water and towels. If you want to know the miscellaneous you can throw us a party.

Will you be at Glastonbury in 2008?

We would love to be at this historic, magnanimous event. Will you be at our barn raising in 2009?

We would love to.

For more information:

United State Of Electronica Official Website
U.S.E. on Myspace

I almost didn’t write this review. I’m hesitant to even mention who the review is about. However, I’m now going to strip away my pride and just spit it out. It’s the Bee Gees. It took awhile to actually put the CD in and press play. But you know, when I did, all I could do was sing along to the familiar songs and move to the funky rhythms.

As cool or not cool as they may be, the Bee Gees knew how to create hit songs. Falsetto vocal and all. Songs like “Jive Talkin’”, “Night Fever”, “Tragedy”, “You Should Be Dancin’”, “More Than A Woman” and of course “Stayin’ Alive” still sound great in the 21st century. The production is quality and the instrumentation and the songwriting talent stands out from some of the lackluster “hits” of today. I bet you could hear the melodies to the songs when you read the titles listed here. Didn’t you?

If you want jam packed filled CDs with familiar songs that do in fact groove, then the Bee Gees Greatest, which includes 2 discs, would be good for a house party or to brighten up a gloomy day now that summer’s over. Mind you, there are a couple questionable songs that I hadn’t heard before (“Love Me”) and there are a few ballads like “How Deep Is Your Love” and “Love So Right”, but again, depending on your mood, they could be perfect for a romantic night in.

Buy Bee Gees Greatest on amazon.com.

Bee Gees Official Website

By: Jenny May